A former mining town, Park City, Utah is now known for its world-class ski resorts and the one and only Sundance Film Festival. Consequently, the city can be pricey at times, but there are several fun things to do in Park City that are worth a visit!
Park City is a short drive with a rental car from downtown Salt Lake City, and people fly from all over the world to experience her beauty. Use Skyscanner or Scott’s Cheap Flights to find the best flight deals from your city of origin.
While you may think of winter when you imagine Park City, she is something special in any season. December is a favorite time to visit when the town’s trees are decorated with sparkling lights, giving the city a magical essence. Yet, the other seasons can hold their own as well.
In the fall, you can see the green leaves giving way to a sea of golden and orange hues. Spring will hold on to some snowy days a bit longer in the mountains, but you will start to see wildlife stirring from their slumber.
Summer will bring with her long, sunny days and multi-colored meadows populated with sweet wildflowers.
You can still see remnants of its silver mining days from the 19th Century when workers flocked for a chance at fortune shortly after the US Civil War. Like some western cities, Park City almost succumbed to being another forgotten city or “ghost town”.
Yet, as skiing started gaining traction as a popular sport, the city’s beautiful mountains attracted skiers from around the world and helped revive the town.
Park City is the perfect spot for a family vacation, romantic getaway, friends trip, or solo exploring. If you are wondering what to do in Park City, then check out the extensive list below!
TLDR
Need the gen on the top tourist attractions in Park City right flipping now?! No worries, sport; here are the best bits of Park City, Utah.
- Most significant landmark – Utah Olympic Park
- Best park – City Park
- Best free activity – Hiking Trails
- Best activity for kids – Woodward Park City
- Best activity for adults – Mines and Wines Tour
- Best food – Five5eeds
- Best nightlife – Downstairs
- Best all-round accommodation – Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley
Best Park City Things to do
I have a lot of time for Park City – particularly if my breaks there include the following:
1. Mines and Wines Tour
Address: 268 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060
If you’re still interested in the mining history, but ready for a more relaxing activity than hiking then check out the Mines and Wines Tour.
The Fox School of Wine leads the tour and it takes about three hours. With five stops in total, you will sip a new wine and eat a small snack at each stop while learning about Park City’s rich silver mining history. Private tours are available for groups of 12 or more and include a luxury transportation vehicle.
2. Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter
Address: 1258 Center Drive, Park City, UT 84098
Utah State University created the center in 1914 to continue research and nature preservation. The Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter has over 1,200 acres and 10 miles of walking trails and puts on several events and camps throughout the year.
Some of their past offerings included events such as bird watching for beginners and dark sky stargazing. Utah has a significant number of parks designated as “Dark Sky Park”.
The parks receive the certification based on the criteria that “Parks are publicly- or privately-owned spaces protected for natural conservation that implement good outdoor lighting and provide dark sky programs for visitors” according to the International Dark Sky Places Program (IDSP).
The University also recognizes the eight native tribes of Utah to honor the rich Native American history in the area and those still living today.
See Related: Amazing Southwestern Vacation Destinations
3. Sundance Film Festival
Addresses: 136 Heber Avenue #102, Park City, UT 84060 (Box Office)
7815 Royal Street East, Deer Valley, Park City, UT 84060 (Chateau Deer Valley)
Since 1985, the Sundance Film Festival has used Park City as a hub. Creatives, independent filmmakers, and attendees interested in the arts flock to the city for two weeks each year for the festival.
Every year there is a new theme and some of the past themes covered Native American artists, the digital age at the turn of the century, and “Powerhouse Women”. Traditionally held in January, anyone can buy a ticket or package to see film screenings and attend panels and workshops.
This time of year is a busy one of course, so book early at one of the many Park City hotels like the Chateau Deer Valley!
Cozy up next to the fireplace located in each of their rooms. Additional amenities include a spa, heated pool, and hot tub, so you can fully relax after a long day at the festival. The hotel also has a shuttle to take guests around popular Park City locations.
See Related: Best Day Trips from Salt Lake City, Utah
Outdoor Things to do in Park City
Whether it’s ski jumping and snow tubing in winter or wandering around the Park Silly Sunday Market and Street Festival in the summer months, there are tons of outdoor excursions to enjoy in Park City!
4. Resort Skiing/Snowboarding
Park City boasts two major ski resorts called Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort. These resorts can get more than 300 inches of annual snow, so you can see why it is a snow sports haven.
Though the Park City Mountain Ski Resort allows skiers and snowboarders alike and it has its own ski and snowboard school for novices.
Only skiers can access the peaks at Deer Valley Resort. Snowboarders need not fret because Park City Mountain Resort will inspire you to tap into your inner Shaun White!
The resort has half-pipes and terrain parks to practice those new tricks you learned. There are spots to practice for first-timers as well, and you can book lessons and equipment rentals.
See Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Utah
5. Cross-Country Skiing or Snowshoeing
Do you want to get a great workout in the snow that does not involve going downhill at super-fast speeds? Consider trying cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Park City has several groomed trails where you can work up a sweat, but if this is your first time then check out this guided tour.
Certain trails do allow dogs like Basin Recreation (always check the latest rules). So leash up your furry friend and explore the beauty of Park City nature.
6. Biking/Snow Biking
Did you know there are many different kinds of biking you can enjoy? Depending on the type of activity you enjoy, you can try out a mountain bike, snow bike, road bike, city bike, or gravel bike. Each bike uses different frames, and tires, and takes a different skill level.
Try out snow biking for a true winter Utah experience. Fat tires allow the bike to have enough traction for a smoother snow biking ride.
The right shoes and clothing are imperative to keep you comfortable. When snow biking, the recommendation is to wear water-resistant hiking shoes, a water-resistant jacket, light pants, gloves, and ear protection.
To be a cognizant trail user, be sure to avoid the ski tracks on trials as others use these for cross-country skiing. Check out Round Valley, McLeod and Willow Creek, Historic Rail trail, or Glenwild as some options for bike-friendly trails.
Check out this urban e-bike-guided tour where you can learn about the town’s history and artwork. Snacks are included and the tour is about 2.5 hours long. And join Private Guided Snowshoe Excursion.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Hurricane, Utah
7. Snowmobiling
Want to experience the mountains without the crowds, but still with the thrill of speed? Take a Park City day trip and book a snowmobiling excursion.
Companies like Thousand Peaks, Backcountry, and North Forty Escapes have various packages that will let you rent snow vehicles to explore the vast terrain around Park City. You can even ride in three different states (Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming) due to the large acreage some of the companies own.
8. Hiking
Park City offers trails for the beginner and experienced, but either way, you will get some photo-worthy landscapes! Spend the summer hiking Park City mountains through alpine meadows and taking a dip in the natural lakes.
With the right footwear, you can still hike the snowy trails for a view of snow-capped peaks and enjoy the quiet. You may even spot a deer or moose!
To add a little mining history to your outdoor time, check out hiking trails like Bonanza Mine Trail or Armstrong trail. The McPolin Farm Trail is a great family-friendly hike perfect for beginners not looking for significant inclines.
Both provide views of abandoned mining structures to remind hikers of Park City’s heyday when the town was more of a mining community.
See Related: Best Hiking Trails in America
9. Sleigh Rides
Have you ever envisioned yourself riding through snow in a carriage, with horses and bells, warm blankets, and your special person by your side?
Dinner and entertainment could also be waiting for you after a delightful winter wonderland ride.
There is the option to make this adventure as fancy, rustic, or low-key as you want. Check out Rocky Mountain Outfitters or Park City Mountain Resort for the latest on guided tours. To add to the experience, go in December when you can see the pine trees lit up with twinkling lights for the holiday season!
If you’re visiting in summer, worry not, as horseback riding excursions are available!
10. Hot Air Ballooning
If the views from the top of the mountains aren’t high enough, consider seeing Utah from the air during a hot air balloon tour. Be warned, the tours do start early (sunrise) with this being the best conditions in the atmosphere.
While some may consider this a summer activity, you can book a trip at any time of the year. Each season in the air will feel like you are experiencing a different Utah each time.
See Related: Best Hot Air Balloon Rides Around the World
Park City with Kids
Traveling with the fam in tow? Well, you’ll be pleased to know that Park City has more than enough to keep young kids and teens entertained!
11. Dog Sledding
Fun in the snow while getting to hang out with cute dogs?
Sign me up!
Park City offers a unique experience to those wanting to feel the rush of dog sledding while yelling “Mush! Mush!”
Make it a fun family outing and learn how the dogs and their owners came to be in this profession and what makes a good sled dog. Enjoy dinner or hot refreshments while the kids play with the frisky pups!
12. Utah Olympic Park
Address: 3419 Olympic Parkway, Park City, UT 84098
Utah Olympic Park was built for the 2002 Winter Olympics. Events included bobsledding, skeleton, luge, and Nordic combined. Today, this winter sports park lets customers take part in some of the activities that made it famous. It also has the terrific Alf Engen Ski Museum.
While you may think of bobsledding as a winter sport, you can experience the same Olympic tracks during the Summer Bobsled Experience.
A professional guides the bobsled, which can fit up to three passengers down the concrete course. Riders must be at least 16 years of age and weigh 100 pounds or more for safety purposes.
Watch the Flying Ace Team entertain and train in the freestyle aerial jump training pool. Visitors can also try it out if they have the courage! The park also has an alpine slide, obstacle course, and ziplining trails to keep the family busy all day.
See Related: Tips for Traveling with Toddlers and Kids
13. Woodward Park City
Address: 3863 Kilby Road, Park City, UT 84098
Looking for a place that’s going to wear your kids out without having to bounce all over town? Take your kids to Woodward Park City. The park has 125 acres of indoor/outdoor space. Kids can take part in activities like advancing their snowboarding/skiing skills, skating, BMX, mountain biking, cheering, jumping on trampolines, parkour, scootering, and tubing.
Summer/winter camps and group/private lessons are also offered to those wanting a more curated experience. Make sure you rent a Subaru; because Woodward is a partner of the popular outdoor car company, here Subarus get VIP, front-row parking!
14. Water Sports
Summer in Park City, Utah is a must if you love doing any water sports. After hiking the scenic trails, take the family to cool off with several water activity options.
Park City has the Provo River, which spans 80 miles and connects to the city of Provo. Explore Provo River’s waters through guided rafting tours, kayak tours, and tubing. The Jordanelle State Park Reservoir is a great spot for swimming, boating, jet-skiing, and paddleboarding.
Some rental companies even offer paddle-boarding yoga if you want to test out your balance skills! What else makes the Jordanelle State Park Reservoir a prime spot?
They have AQUA x ZONE to help tire out the kiddos by providing an inflatable jungle gym to jump, slide, swing, and climb to their heart’s content. Adults are welcome, but children must be at least 6 years of age and 48′ tall or more.
If a quiet morning of fishing is more your speed, then Park City offers the best fishing around, depending on your style.
There are plenty of tackle boxes and rod rental spots, so you don’t have to tackle how to fly with your fishing gear. You can also book a guided fly fishing excursion to learn the art of casting your line.
See Related: Best Fishing Spots in America to Visit
15. Ziplining
Want a unique way to experience the scenery?
Then check out the many ziplining companies that will take you through courses that overlook the uncovered ski trails and rivers.
Flying Eagle is a seated version, which is great for kids not ready to soar the skies with a traditional zipline course. Zipline Utah is a company with the longest course in the country but has shorter courses if you prefer only testing out the activity.
See Related: Best Ways to Zipline in the Philippines: What’s Longest?
16. City Park
Address: 1400 Sullivan Road, Park City, UT 84060
City Park has a little bit of everything for a family-fun day that does not cost anything. Located near Park City Mountain and downtown, the park has plenty of lawn space, a BBQ area, a softball diamond, volleyball court, tennis courts, basketball courts, skate park, and playground.
The pavilions can be rented out, so on nice weather days, they may be occupied. Borrow a racket hit the courts or set up a picnic in the shade while taking in the mountain air and views!
What To Do in Park City at Night
With the setting of the sun, you might be thinking the fun in Park City is done for the day – but that just ain’t true! Park City has a hopping nightlife scene that will keep you going until the wee hours.
17. Ghost Tour
Address: 415 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060
Looking for something different from your historical tours?
Explore Main Street while learning about her hauntings!
The operators are retired history teachers and gathered the local ghost stories over the years. Originally wanting to write a book, Erik Hutchins and Rob Newey decided to share the stories in person.
With the rough, dangerous conditions during the mining era, it is no surprise there could be spirits lurking in the dark corners of the historic buildings.
The tour occurs every evening, but reservations are required 24 hours in advance. Bring your camera because you may capture an orb or an extra visitor in the crowd!
See Related: Most Haunted Hotels in Colorado to Visit
18. Downstairs
Address: 625 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060
While Park City seems like it would be a sleepy town with everything closing down at 9 pm like other areas of God-fearing Utah, there are some spots that will bring out the party animal in you, and Downstairs is one of them.
Downstairs is a nightclub that prides itself in booking national up-and-coming music artists and DJs to give locals and visitors a place to dance the night away.
Sometimes celebrities will even make an appearance as a guest artist and the club is known as one of the key bachelor and bachelorette spots in Park City.
If you want to feel like a local, go on Industry Night where snowboard, ski, and service industry workers get in for free! Book a VIP table or try one of their special cocktails at the bar.
Park City Indoor Activities
If it’s too wet or cold, or you just loathe being outside, Park City has got your back!
19. Park City Museum
Addresses: 528 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060 (Park City Museum)
401 Silver King Drive, Park City, UT 84060 (Glenwood Cemetery)
Open daily, the Park City Museum is committed to keeping the town’s history alive and protecting the historical sites around town.
A group of volunteers called the Friends of Ski Mountain Mining History, work to educate visitors about their conservation efforts, as the passing winter conditions continue to wear down the mining structures.
The museum took over the Glenwood Cemetery in 2016, which was established as a burial ground for several fraternal organizations from the mining days.
During the summer, you can pay to go on a tour of the cemetery (outdoors), but September is when you want to visit the location. Each year, re-enactors dress up as certain members of the Park City community that were buried in Glenwood and educate visitors on their life and death storylines.
The Park City Museum hosts several permanent exhibits like “Mega Mine and the Days of Ore” where you can envision yourself in a mining tunnel and learn about the dangerous conditions and tools used.
You can also learn about the “Great Fire of 1898” that ravaged the downtown area and took until the 1920s to completely rebuild Park City.
The Tozer Gallery houses the temporary exhibits, including other national exhibits on loan. The temporary exhibits range in topics and a couple of past exhibits included “Patios, Pools & the Invention of the American Backyard” and “Park City Pets: Our Lives with Animals”.
20. Kimball Art Center
Address: 1251 Kearns Boulevard, Park City, UT 84060
With picturesque views and active wildlife, art museums are popping up all over the town to show off the beauty of Utah.
The Kimball Art Center has been a staple since 1969 and hosts free art exhibits that are carefully curated to encourage critical thought and conversations about our world today.
Some past featured artists and photographers included Niki de Saint Phalle, Sue Flood, and Jiyoun Lee-Lodge.
Each year, the museum also hosts a student art show allowing students from elementary, middle, and high schools in the Summit and Wasatch counties to present their artwork based on a theme like “Family” or “Art and the Environment” and such.
If the exhibits inspire you to try making something beautiful and interesting from your own two hands, then the Kimball Art Center is the perfect place to start. The art center offers over 300 art classes, workshops, and summer camps throughout the year and there is a class for every skill level and age!
In the summer, the annual Kimball Arts Festival sets up tents for over 200 selected local and international artists to showcase their talent along historic Main Street. It is a do-not-miss event and perfect for the whole family!
See Related: Best Museums in the US You Need to Visit
21. Egyptian Theater
Address: 328 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060
If you need a break from the outdoors or it’s a rare rainy day, there are still fun Park City activities to do indoors. Consider a show at the historical Egyptian Theater off of Main Street.
The historic theater opened on Christmas Day in 1926 as a revamped Egyptian version of the Dewey Theater.
The previous owners decorated it in an Egyptian theme based on inspiration from the discovery of King Tut’s tomb. While the theater has had many names, it continues to be a cultural meeting spot for the community, a stage for live performances, and a place for great films.
What to do in Downtown Park City, Utah
On top of admiring the surrounding views and quaint architecture, there’s plenty to do in the city center.
22. Historic Main Street
Historic Main Street consists of only five or so blocks but includes enough stores, restaurants, and coffee shops to spend a day exploring the town.
You will find me in the coffee shops and bookstores when I visit a city, but Main Street includes stores where you can find your next winter clothes, shop for a unique chair, and pick out a sweet toy for your nephew in a children’s boutique.
For outdoor gear, check out name-brand retailers like North Face or local stores like Canyon Mountain Sports & One Sweet Ride.
Take your time shopping your way through the quaint town during the day and then enjoy the Park City nightlife with a cocktail. Hop on the free Main Street trolley to go up and down as a fun transportation option.
23. Atticus Books, Coffee, and Teahouse
Address: 738 Main Street, Park City, UT 84060
Ah, my favorite!
The store has been around since 2010 and is named for the famous character, Atticus Finch, from To Kill a Mockingbird. The owners are passionate about giving back to their Park City community and track their donations since opening.
The charming coffee shop stays busy and can get a bit crowded inside, but take a few minutes to shop the trinkets and used books while you wait for your latte.
Even if coffee is your preferred go-to drink, it is hard to not try one of their tea blends with names like “Climber’s High Chai” and “Goblet of Fire”. You can also buy the tea blends to take home with you to remember your Park City trip!
See Related: Best Coffee Shops in Minnesota
Where to Eat & Drink in Park City, Utah
Feeling peckish?
Park City has a wealth of superb eateries where you can rest and refuel or enjoy a romantic dinner for two!
24. Five5eeds
Address: 1609 Snow Creek Drive EF, Park City, UT 84060
Do not leave Park City without trying brunch at Five5eeds.
Given the restaurant is located in an inconspicuous shopping center, the inside decor is a pleasant surprise. The Australian owners chose a modern, minimalist style with lots of wood features, gray stone tables, and greenery.
Five5eeds carries that creative style to their plating as well with dishes like fruit-covered hotcakes marked with dainty flowers and avocado toast topped with Australian feta and chili jam.
The waitress even asked if I like my bacon crispy or not, which shows the care for service they have!
This spot is great for vegans and those that are gluten-free, as they note which dishes can be modified as such on their menu. Trust me and buy their in-house granola to take home with you because it is the best I have ever had.
If you do not have time to sit down for the full experience, they do have a separate coffee shop area where you can grab an “Aussie-style iced coffee” (made with ice cream) and other beverages.
25. Edge Steakhouse
Address: 3000 Canyons Resort Drive, Park City, UT 84098
Located in the Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, this fine dining steakhouse offers a next-level experience where you can enjoy Wagyu beef and daily flown-in seafood.
The restaurant takes pride in the quality of its beef and provides a description of the origin of each type of steak. Edge also offers a four-course tasting menu if you want to try a variety of dishes.
I recommend a reservation and while most ski towns support casual attire, Edge does follow a strict dress code. What makes this restaurant special are the two Alpenglobe outdoor pods, which include 360 mountain views while you eat. The globes are available each evening and include an extra fee.
26. High West Distillery and Saloon
Addresses: 703 Park Avenue, Park City, UT 84060 (High West Saloon)
David Perkins was inspired to blend his interests in biochemistry, alcohol, and the Old West by opening a whiskey distillery in 2007. The tasting room is located in nearby Wanship and tours are offered, but reservations are recommended due to the popularity.
The Wanship location also includes a general store, and a restaurant, and can be booked for events.
Perkins did not stop there and two years later opened the High West Saloon in the downtown area of Park City, which looks like you stepped back into a modern version of the Old West saloons. The Saloon offers a full menu as well.
Nelson Cottage rounds out the High West empire in Utah where a prix-fixe menu is offered with optional whiskey pairings in a charming, blue cottage. Reservations are required for this location.
See Related: Best Minnesota Distilleries to Visit
Park City Accommodations
With all that in mind, you’re probably looking for a place to stay. Well, it just so happens that I’ve come across these fancy joints…
Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley
Address: 7700 Stein Way, Park City, UT 84060
Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley is a luxury lodge that is perfect for something like an anniversary trip. The lodge has four on-site dining options, a coffee bar, and Alpenglobes to book as an extra treat as well.
You will not be lacking in views while you eat, as they have a wrap-around deck for guests.
Craving a late-night snack after a night out Downstairs?
Room service is available at all hours.
Book services at their five-star spa after a day of strenuous activity and relax in their heated pools and hot tubs. When you book a treatment, you will have access to a relaxation room, fitness center, plunge pools, steam rooms, and a dry sauna.
The Stein Eriksen Lodge rooms and suites are beautifully decorated in a modern, ski lodge style and most will have a fireplace, though it may be an additional cost if you book a deluxe room. The suites can be up to almost 5,000 square feet with a private deck and five bedrooms for the larger ones.
See Related: Best Weekend Getaways in Utah | Top Vacation Ideas
Luxury Ski-in/Out Deer Valley Ski Valet
Address: 7715 Village Way, Park City, UT 84060 (Exact address provided once booked)
Past guests have continuously given this Deer Valley condo a five-star rating. The location allows you to ski-in and ski-out to Deer Valley’s Silver Strike Express chairlift, giving you a headstart before the crowds.
Enjoy the amazing views with floor-to-ceiling windows or step out onto the communal spa deck, which includes a pool, hot tub, and hammock garden. The condo can sleep eight and has two full-bathrooms and one half-bathroom.
Rustic Condo Close to Main Street
Address: Woodside Avenue, Park City, UT 84060
This VRBO townhome is perfect for those that want to be near the ski slopes, and hiking trails, but also close to town. The location is a short five-minute walk to all of it!
The property includes a private deck, a private garage, and a cozy fireplace in the living room. It can sleep up to six and includes two full bathrooms. Past guests have given this townhome a handsome 4.9-star rating.
FAQ
Where can I get an adult beverage near the ski runs?
Hop off the Town Lift chairlift or ski down ParkCity Mountain’s Quit’ N Time, Creole, and Town ski runs to have a drink at the High West Saloon. The Saloon is the world’s only ski-in gastro distillery and Utah’s first legal distillery since 1870.
How many mines did Park City operate and when did the last one close?
Park City once had 300 mines in operation and the last one closed in 1982.
Where do I fly to get to Park City, Utah?
Salt Lake City is the closest major airport to Park City. The drive is only 35-40 minutes away and you can rent a car, book a shuttle, or taxi service.
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