Vancouver vs Whistler- where should we stay for our first time?

Definitely Vancouver. There is so much to see, wonderful restaurants, fabulous shops and entertainment. Whistler is lovely but you could do it in a day trip.

They're both great in their own way. Ideally, spend a couple of nights in each place. In Whistler, just roam around, take a Sea To Sky Gondola ride to the top, and try dining at Araxi Restaurant + Bar and/or the Bearfoot Bistro In Vancouver, shop on Robson Street if you like shopping; walk the seawall in Stanley Park, hang out in Kitsilanoand maybe sit a while on Kitsilano Beach. Try eating at Chambar Restaurant or Vij’s or have an Aboriginal meal at Salmon n' Bannock. Have fun!

I like it in Vancouver... it's very central.
The best area to stay in Vancouver is in the Downtown area and in particular in the neighborhoods of West End, Yaletown and Gastown. In Yaletown  it's very comfortable, and in Stanley Park. In Downtown, at the intersection of Burrard St and W Georgia St is very well located.

Fairmont Pacific Rim downtown Vancouver . Great location and cool hotel! I would spend 1 night and day in Whistler. They might even have train in summer from Vancouver. You have to go to Capilano Suspension Bridge and sushi Tojo's Restaurant ( the best in North America)

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Whistler is the most beautiful hotel I have ever stayed in. Not a bad room. And it's within walking distance to the downtown area. Some great restaurants there. Araxi Restaurant + Bar is a favorite. great local cuisine. On your drive up, try to see Squamish, it's a small town between Vanc and Whistler. And if you have time out of Whistler, drive up to Pemberton (Canada). It's the tiny farm village that supplies Whistler's 5-star restaurants with their veggies!