Thinking about a trip to Park City, Utah?
You’re in for a treat! Any travel agent will tell you that this charming mountain town is famous for its world-class skiing, vibrant Main Street, and tons of outdoor activities year-round.
This guide will help you plan your perfect getaway, covering everything from top attractions to getting around and making the most of your visit. Consider this your ultimate travel guide for Park City attractions.
Why Visit Park City?
Park City isn’t just for skiers and snowboarders, though it certainly shines in winter. It’s a fantastic destination no matter the season, offering a unique blend of adventure, history, and culture.
A Haven for All Seasons
- Winter Wonderland: When the snow falls, Park City transforms into a prime spot for winter sports enthusiasts. With two major ski resorts and an Olympic park, there’s no shortage of snowy fun.
- Summer Adventures: Don’t underestimate Park City in the warmer months! The mountains become a playground for hikers, bikers, and those seeking water adventures on nearby reservoirs. The crisp mountain air and lush scenery are incredibly refreshing.
- Vibrant Fall & Spring: These shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds, stunning fall foliage, and the chance to enjoy a mix of activities as the weather transitions.
Rich History and Culture
Beyond the slopes, Park City boasts a fascinating history rooted in its silver mining past. Historic Main Street is a living testament to this era, filled with beautifully preserved buildings now housing boutiques, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants.
The town also has a thriving arts scene, highlighted by the famous Sundance Film Festival.
Top Park City Attractions You Can’t Miss
Ready to explore? Here’s a rundown of the must-see spots and what makes them special.
Hit the Slopes: Park City Mountain Resort & Deer Valley Resort
When it comes to skiing and snowboarding, Park City offers some of the best in the world.
Park City Mountain Resort
As North America’s largest ski resort, Park City Mountain Resort offers an incredible variety of terrain for all skill levels. You can carve down wide-open runs, navigate challenging moguls, or explore hidden glades.
- What to Do:
- Winter: Skiing and snowboarding, of course! They also have a thrilling Mountain Coaster, Flying Eagle Zipline, and scenic gondola rides. If you’re looking to learn, they offer excellent ski and snowboard lessons. For a unique dining experience, check out The Viking Yurt or enjoy a Snowed Inn Sleigh Ride.
- Summer: The fun continues with the Alpine Slide, another Mountain Coaster, scenic lift rides for breathtaking views, hiking, and world-class mountain biking.
- Operating Hours & Fees: Winter season typically runs from mid-November to mid-April. Summer activities generally run from June to September. Daily lift ticket prices are dynamic and vary based on demand, date, and how far in advance you purchase. It’s always best to check their official website directly for the most current pricing for your travel dates. Season passes, like the Epic Pass, offer great value for frequent visitors.
- Booking: You can book lodging, lessons, and rentals directly through their website. It’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Accessibility: Park City Mountain Resort offers adaptive programs for skiing and snowboarding to ensure everyone can enjoy the slopes. Accessible facilities are generally available throughout the base areas.
Deer Valley Resort
Deer Valley is renowned for its luxurious amenities, exceptional customer service, and meticulously groomed, ski-only slopes. It’s often considered one of the top ski resorts in the country.
- What to Do: Deer Valley is a skiers-only paradise, offering diverse terrain, excellent snow, and highly-rated ski schools. They are also known for their incredible on-mountain dining experiences. In summer, they offer scenic lift rides, lift-served mountain biking, and hiking.
- Operating Hours & Fees: The winter ski season typically runs from early December to mid-April, and summer operations generally from mid-June to early September (10 AM – 5 PM). Similar to Park City Mountain, daily lift ticket prices are dynamic and can be high during peak season. Purchasing in advance online usually offers the best rates. Season passes and Ikon Pass reservations are also common.
- Booking: You can purchase daily tickets and passes online. Ikon Pass holders must make reservations.
- Accessibility: Deer Valley provides adaptive ski programs and works to accommodate guests with disabilities across its facilities, though specific details vary by activity.
Thrills & History: Utah Olympic Park
Relive the excitement of the 2002 Winter Olympics at Utah Olympic Park, a working training facility and public recreation area.
- What to Do:
- Museums: Explore the Alf Engen Ski Museum and the Eccles 2002 Winter Games Museum, both free to enter.
- Adventure Activities: In summer, brave the extreme tubing hill, alpine slide, ropes courses (adventure, scenic, and extreme), and multiple zip lines (including the longest in Utah!). You can even experience a bobsled ride with a professional pilot!
- Guided Tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the park’s history and current operations.
- Operating Hours & Fees: The park itself is generally open daily. Adventure activities typically run from late May to late September, with various sessions throughout the day.
- Gold Pass: This popular option offers access to multiple activities and often costs around $95 for adults and $65 for children (prices may vary seasonally).
- Winter Bobsled: This unique experience starts from around $115 to $225 per person, depending on the season and specific offering. Individual activity pricing for summer might be available around $15-$20 per ride, but it’s best to check their website for the most current list and pricing options.
- Guided Tours: $20 for adults, $15 for youth/seniors.
- Booking: Online reservations are highly recommended for Gold Passes and winter bobsled rides due to limited availability.
Adrenaline & Progress: Woodward Park City
Woodward Park City is an all-in-one action sports destination, perfect for learning new tricks or perfecting old ones.
- What to Do: This state-of-the-art facility features an indoor action sports hub with trampolines, foam pits, and a skate park, plus an outdoor action sports area with mountain biking trails, dirt jumps, and more. In winter, they offer skiing, snowboarding, and tubing.
- Operating Hours & Fees: The indoor hub and mountain park are typically open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM during the summer.
- Ticket Types: They offer ALL-ACCESS TICKETS, INDOOR HUB TICKETS, and BIKE PARK TICKETS, along with season passes and memberships. Specific daily prices vary, so checking their official website for the most up-to-date pricing for your desired activities is essential. Tubing often has separate pricing (e.g., $40-$60 for ages 7+, $20-$30 for ages 4-6).
- Booking: It’s recommended to purchase tickets and sign waivers online in advance.
- Accessibility: The base area and main indoor facility are generally wheelchair accessible, though some terrain features for specific activities may not be.
Step Back in Time: Historic Main Street
Park City’s Historic Main Street is the charming heart of the town, offering a glimpse into its rich silver mining past. It’s a National Register of Historic Places district, making it a truly unique place to explore.
- What to Do:
- Shopping & Dining: Browse unique boutiques, art galleries (don’t miss the Last Friday Gallery Stroll), and enjoy diverse dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.
- Nightlife: Main Street comes alive in the evenings with bars and live music venues.
- Park City Museum: Located right on Main Street, this museum offers fascinating exhibits on the town’s mining and Olympic history.
- Operating Hours: Daily 10 AM – 5 PM.
- Admission Fees: $15 for adults, $11 for seniors/students/military. Children 17 and under and members are free.
- Booking: Tours, like the Guided Summer Walking Tours or Glenwood Cemetery Tour, often require advance booking.
- Egyptian Theatre: This historic landmark hosts concerts, comedy shows, and films, including a significant presence during the Sundance Film Festival.
- Operating Hours: Box office typically open 11 AM – 6 PM daily, extending to 8:30 PM on show days.
- Admission Fees: Varies by event. There are generally no general admission fees outside of specific shows.
- Booking: Tickets are available online 24/7 through their official website, by phone, or at the box office.
- Unique Features: The preserved Victorian architecture, the ski-in/ski-out access from Park City Mountain, and the free Historic Main Street Trolley make it special.
Arts & Culture
Park City has a thriving arts scene, with many galleries and cultural organizations.
Kimball Art Center
A non-profit community art center offering free public exhibitions, art classes, workshops, and camps for all ages. It’s also the host of the annual Park City Kimball Arts Festival.
- Operating Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10 AM – 6 PM, Saturday-Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM.
- Admission Fees: Exhibitions are free. Fees apply for classes and workshops.
- Booking: Enroll in classes and workshops through their website.
Nature’s Playground: Jordanelle Reservoir
Just a short drive from Park City, Jordanelle State Park offers a refreshing escape with a large reservoir perfect for water activities.
- What to Do: Enjoy picnicking, swimming, fishing, boating, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There are also hiking trails around the reservoir.
- Operating Hours: Park hours are generally 6 AM – 10 PM.
- Admission Fees: A day-use entry fee is required per vehicle, payable in-person or online. The Annual Utah State Park Pass is also accepted. During certain peak periods (e.g., April 1 – July 6 and August 28 – October 31, 2025, 7 AM – 4 PM daily), timed entry tickets (free, but with a $2 processing fee) must be booked via Recreation.gov in addition to the park pass/fee.
- Booking: Camping reservations are highly recommended, especially during summer.
Explore Beyond: Hiking, Biking & More
Park City is crisscrossed with hundreds of miles of trails for all abilities.
- Hiking & Mountain Biking: Popular trails include the scenic Mid Mountain Trail, the easily accessible Armstrong Trail, and the challenging downhill trails at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley (with lift access in summer). Always check trail conditions before heading out, especially in spring and fall.
- Fly Fishing: The Provo River and Weber River are excellent spots for fly fishing. Consider hiring a local guide for the best experience.
- Hot Air Ballooning & Paragliding: Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Wasatch Mountains. Several local companies offer these guided adventures.
- Rafting: Enjoy scenic floats or more adventurous whitewater trips on the Weber or Provo Rivers.
- Horseback Riding: Explore mountain trails on horseback for a classic Western experience.
Getting Around Park City
Park City prides itself on its efficient and free public transportation system, making it easy to navigate without a car.
Free Public Transit
- Park City Transit: The town offers a free bus system that connects major areas like Historic Main Street, Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, and various lodging areas. Buses run frequently, especially during peak seasons. You can download the Park City Transit app for real-time bus tracking and schedules.
- High Valley Transit: This is another free public transit option, offering micro-transit (on-demand rides via an app) and fixed routes, expanding coverage to areas outside the immediate Park City core, including Jeremy Ranch and Kimball Junction.
- Park & Ride: Utilize the free park-and-ride lots like Ecker Hill Park-and-Ride and Richardson Flat Park-and-Ride, then hop on a free bus to your destination.
Parking
While public transit is highly recommended, if you bring a car:
- Historic Main Street: Parking is available at meters and in lots like China Bridge Garage and various surface lots (often paid). Free parking can be found at the Upper and Lower Sandridge Lots, though these fill up quickly.
- Ski Resorts: Park City Mountain Resort offers paid parking at Canyons Upper Village Lot and Pendry Parking Garage. There is also free parking at the Cabriolet Lot in Canyons Village. Deer Valley Resort offers various parking options, some paid, some free. During peak winter, consider using resort shuttles or public transit from remote parking lots.
- Overnight Parking: Be aware of overnight parking restrictions in many areas.
Dining and Shopping in Park City
Park City offers a diverse culinary scene and unique shopping experiences.
Dining Hotspots
- Historic Main Street: This is the epicenter of dining, with options ranging from casual eateries to fine dining. Popular choices include:
- High West Distillery & Saloon: Known for its craft whiskey and delicious American pub fare.
- Riverhorse on Main: An upscale option with seasonal American cuisine.
- Handle: Focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
- Grappa: Offers rustic Italian dining.
- Firewood on Main: Modern American cooking over open flames.
- Canyons Village: Offers a range of restaurants from casual to upscale, conveniently located near lodging and slopes.
- Kimball Junction: Features a variety of casual dining spots, including national chains and local favorites.
Shopping Destinations
- Historic Main Street: Explore unique boutiques, art galleries, jewelry stores, and outdoor gear shops. You’ll find everything from high-end fashion to quirky souvenirs.
- Outlets Park City: For brand-name deals, head to this outdoor outlet mall located just off the highway.
- Kimball Junction: Offers a mix of retail stores, including grocery stores, sporting goods, and smaller shops.
Park City’s Calendar of Events
Park City is known for its vibrant events calendar, with something happening almost every season.
- Sundance Film Festival (January): The largest independent film festival in the U.S., drawing filmmakers and celebrities from around the globe. Expect crowds and higher prices during this time.
- Park City Follies (March): A comedic musical revue celebrating Park City’s unique culture and quirks.
- Savor the Summit (June): A long-table dinner experience on Main Street, featuring culinary delights from top local restaurants.
- July 4th Celebration: A massive parade, pancake breakfast, carnival, and fireworks display.
- Park Silly Sunday Market (Sundays, June-September): A lively street fair on Main Street with local artisans, food vendors, live music, and street performers.
- Deer Valley Music Festival (July-August): Classical and pops concerts performed outdoors at Deer Valley Resort.
- Park City Kimball Arts Festival (August): One of the top art festivals in the country, showcasing artists from across the nation and offering live music and food.
- Miner’s Day (Labor Day, September): A celebration of Park City’s mining heritage with a parade, mucking and drilling competitions, and festivities.
- Park City Wine Festival (October): A celebration of food and wine with tastings, seminars, and culinary events.
- Park City Shot Ski (October): An attempt to break the world record for the longest shot ski, raising money for charity.
- Halloween on Main Street (October): A family-friendly event where kids and pets parade down Main Street in costumes.
- Holiday Celebrations (November-December): Includes the Electric Parade, Tree Lighting Ceremony, Santa’s arrival down the Town Lift, and the Torchlight Parade.
Essential Park City Visitor Tips
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, keep these tips in mind.
Altitude Awareness
Park City sits at an elevation of around 7,000 feet (2,100 meters), and the ski resorts go even higher. It’s common for visitors to experience mild altitude sickness symptoms.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during your visit.
- Pace Yourself: Take it easy on your first day or two, especially with physical activity.
- Limit Alcohol & Caffeine: These can dehydrate you.
- Eat Carbs: Your body processes carbohydrates more efficiently at altitude.
- Listen to Your Body: If symptoms like headache, nausea, or dizziness persist, seek medical attention.
Weather Preparedness
Mountain weather can change quickly.
- Layer Up: Dress in layers, even in summer, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
- Waterproof Gear: Essential for winter sports and smart for summer hikes.
- Sun Protection: The sun is more intense at high altitudes. Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats year-round.
Local Etiquette: Be a Responsible Visitor
Park City is a proud community that values its natural beauty and friendly atmosphere.
- Leave No Trace: Whether hiking, biking, or just enjoying the outdoors, pack out everything you pack in. Leave natural areas as you found them.
- Trail Courtesy: On trails, uphill hikers and bikers generally have the right of way. Alert others when passing.
- Respect Wildlife: Observe animals from a distance and never feed them.
- Support Local: Embrace the local businesses and culture.
- Sustainable Practices: Park City encourages sustainable tourism. You’ll find initiatives like the ban on single-use plastic bags.
- Be Mindful of Noise: Especially in residential areas, be respectful of noise levels.
Planning Your Park City Travel with a Trusted Agency
Embarking on a Park City adventure can be seamless with the right travel agency Park City.
A dedicated agency can help you navigate the myriad of options, from finding the perfect ski-in/ski-out lodging to booking unique summer excursions and securing those hard-to-get event tickets. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your interests and budget, ensuring you get the most out of your trip without the stress of detailed planning.
For expert assistance in crafting your ideal Park City itinerary, consider working with a reputable travel agency. They can offer insights into the best times to visit, hidden gems, and local tips that go beyond a typical guide.
Ready to plan your unforgettable Park City escape? Visit Labbe Travel to explore personalized travel insurance options and ensure your trip is covered from start to finish. You can also discover more about various travel destinations and services that fit your adventurous spirit.