If you’re searching for the ultimate adventure or a serene getaway, look no further than Park City, Utah. This picturesque mountain town is packed with a myriad of activities that cater to every kind of traveler. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker ready to hit the slopes or a culture enthusiast eager to explore local history, there are countless things to do in Park City, Utah. Prepare to dive into a world where breathtaking landscapes, rich heritage, and exciting outdoor adventures await. And remember, a touch of humor and a spirit of adventure are your best companions on this journey!
1. Park City Mountain Resort
- Address: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing, summer for mountain biking and hiking
- Advice from Locals: Start early to avoid crowds, and don’t miss out on the après-ski scene.
Park City Mountain Resort is not just any ski resort; it’s one of the largest in the U.S. With over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, you’ll find everything from gentle bunny slopes to adrenaline-pumping double black diamonds. But don’t pack away your gear when the snow melts! In the summer, the resort transforms into a paradise for mountain bikers and hikers. Locals will tell you to arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful start to your adventure. And when the day winds down, the après-ski scene is the perfect way to unwind and share tales of the day’s exploits.
2. Deer Valley Resort
- Address: 2250 Deer Valley Dr S, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing, summer for concerts and hiking
- Advice from Locals: Take advantage of the ski valet service and try the famous turkey chili.
Deer Valley Resort offers a luxurious skiing experience with its impeccably groomed slopes and upscale amenities. Known for its top-notch service, including ski valets who’ll carry your gear, Deer Valley makes you feel like royalty on the slopes. In summer, the resort hosts a series of outdoor concerts and provides scenic hiking trails. Locals rave about the ski valet service and insist you try the resort’s famous turkey chili – a hearty meal that’s perfect after a day in the snow.
3. Utah Olympic Park
- Address: 3419 Olympic Parkway, Park City, UT 84098
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with special activities in summer and winter
- Advice from Locals: Don’t miss the thrilling bobsled ride and check out the interactive museum.
Utah Olympic Park is a must-see for sports enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Originally built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, the park offers visitors a chance to experience the excitement of Olympic sports. Brave the bobsled ride, which rockets down the track at 60 mph, or test your nerves on the extreme zip line. For a more relaxed visit, explore the interactive museum showcasing Olympic history and memorabilia. Locals recommend trying the bobsled for an adrenaline rush and ensuring you have time to explore the informative exhibits.
4. Historic Main Street
- Address: Main St, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but especially vibrant during summer and winter festivals
- Advice from Locals: Wear comfortable shoes and take your time exploring the unique shops and eateries.
Strolling down Historic Main Street is like stepping back in time. This charming area, lined with Victorian-era buildings, is brimming with boutique shops, art galleries, and diverse restaurants. The street is especially lively during the summer’s Park Silly Sunday Market and the winter’s Sundance Film Festival. Locals suggest wearing comfortable shoes as you’ll want to take your time wandering through the eclectic shops and savoring the delicious food at the many eateries.
5. Park City Museum
- Address: 528 Main St, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Open year-round, ideal for a rainy or snowy day
- Advice from Locals: Don’t skip the interactive exhibits and the old jail in the basement.
Dive into the rich history of Park City at the Park City Museum. This fascinating museum covers everything from the town’s mining origins to its transformation into a world-class ski destination. Interactive exhibits engage visitors of all ages, and the old jail in the basement is a hit with history buffs and kids alike. Locals recommend not skipping the basement jail for a glimpse into the town’s past and taking your time with the hands-on exhibits.
6. Kimball Art Center
- Address: 1251 Kearns Blvd, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with special exhibitions and events throughout the year
- Advice from Locals: Check out the schedule for art classes and workshops.
The Kimball Art Center is the heart of Park City’s vibrant arts community. With rotating contemporary art exhibitions, art classes, and workshops, there’s always something new to see and do. Whether you’re an art aficionado or a curious visitor, you’ll find inspiration and creativity around every corner. Locals advise checking the schedule ahead of time to catch special exhibitions or participate in one of the many art workshops.
7. Jordanelle State Park
- Address: 515 UT-319, Heber City, UT 84032
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for water activities, fall for beautiful foliage
- Advice from Locals: Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot and bring a picnic.
Jordanelle State Park, located just a short drive from Park City, offers a refreshing escape into nature. The centerpiece is the beautiful Jordanelle Reservoir, where you can enjoy boating, fishing, and paddleboarding. In the fall, the surrounding foliage transforms into a vibrant display of colors, making it a perfect time for a scenic hike or picnic. Locals suggest arriving early on weekends to snag the best spot and bringing along a picnic to enjoy by the water.
8. Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway
- Address: Guardsman Pass Road, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall, when the road is clear of snow
- Advice from Locals: Bring a camera for stunning mountain views and consider a picnic at one of the pull-offs.
Guardsman Pass Scenic Backway is a must for those seeking breathtaking views and a touch of adventure. This high-altitude road connects Park City with Brighton and offers stunning vistas of the Wasatch Mountains. It’s a favorite route for driving, biking, and even hiking. Locals recommend bringing a camera to capture the panoramic views and packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic pull-offs along the way.
9. Park City Food Tours
- Address: Various locations around Park City
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but check for seasonal specialties
- Advice from Locals: Come hungry and be prepared to discover hidden culinary gems.
Embark on a culinary adventure with Park City Food Tours. These guided tours take you through some of the best local eateries, offering a taste of Park City’s diverse food scene. From gourmet dishes to local favorites, you’ll sample a variety of delicious bites. Locals advise coming hungry and being open to discovering hidden gems that you might not find on your own. It’s a delicious way to explore the town’s vibrant culinary landscape.
10. High West Distillery & Saloon
- Address: 703 Park Ave, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but especially cozy in the winter
- Advice from Locals: Try the whiskey flight and pair it with their signature dishes.
High West Distillery & Saloon offers a unique blend of Western history and modern distilling. As Utah’s first legal distillery since Prohibition, it’s a must-visit for whiskey enthusiasts. Take a tour of the distillery to learn about the art of whiskey-making and enjoy a tasting flight in their cozy saloon. Locals recommend trying the whiskey flight to sample a range of their offerings and pairing it with their delicious signature dishes for a complete experience.
11. McPolin Farm
- Address: 3000 UT-224, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Spring to fall for the best weather and open trails
- Advice from Locals: Take a guided tour to learn about the farm’s history and bring a camera for scenic shots.
McPolin Farm, also known as the White Barn, is one of Park City’s most iconic landmarks. The historic farm sits amidst beautiful open space and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the farm’s history, including its significance in the local community. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic, and locals recommend bringing a camera to capture the picturesque scenery. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, McPolin Farm is a charming destination.
12. Park City Mountain Biking
- Address: Various trails around Park City
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall, when trails are dry and weather is mild
- Advice from Locals: Rent a bike if you don’t have one and start with beginner-friendly trails if you’re new to the sport.
Park City boasts an extensive network of mountain biking trails that cater to all skill levels. From gentle, scenic paths to challenging downhill routes, there’s something for everyone. The trails offer breathtaking views and a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty. Locals suggest renting a bike if you don’t have one and starting with the beginner-friendly trails if you’re new to mountain biking. It’s a thrilling way to explore the great outdoors and enjoy some fresh air and exercise.
13. Park Silly Sunday Market
- Address: Main St, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Sundays during the summer months
- Advice from Locals: Arrive early to find parking and bring cash for easy transactions.
The Park Silly Sunday Market is a vibrant, eco-friendly open-air market that takes place on Main Street every Sunday during the summer. It’s a lively event featuring local artisans, farmers, performers, and food vendors. The market is a great place to find unique souvenirs, fresh produce, and delicious treats. Locals recommend arriving early to secure parking and bringing cash for easy transactions with vendors. The market’s festive atmosphere makes it a fun outing for the whole family.
14. Canyons Village
- Address: 4000 Canyons Resort Dr, Park City, UT 84098
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing, summer for outdoor concerts and activities
- Advice from Locals: Take the scenic gondola ride and explore the variety of dining options.
Canyons Village is a bustling hub of activity, offering year-round entertainment and outdoor adventures. In the winter, it’s a haven for skiers and snowboarders, while the summer months bring outdoor concerts, hiking, and mountain biking. One of the highlights is the scenic gondola ride, which provides panoramic views of the area. Locals suggest taking the gondola for a bird’s-eye view and exploring the diverse dining options available. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying a summer festival, Canyons Village is a dynamic destination.
15. Gorgoza Park
- Address: 3863 W Kilby Rd, Park City, UT 84098
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for tubing, snowmobiling, and kid-friendly activities
- Advice from Locals: Dress warmly and try the mini-snowmobile rides for kids.
Gorgoza Park is the ultimate winter playground for families. It offers tubing lanes, mini-snowmobile rides for kids, and even a fort for snowball fights. It’s the perfect place to enjoy some winter fun with the whole family. Locals recommend dressing warmly, as you’ll be spending a lot of time in the snow, and making sure the kids try the mini-snowmobile rides. With its variety of activities, Gorgoza Park ensures everyone has a blast, regardless of age.
16. Alpine Coaster
- Address: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and fall for the best weather and views
- Advice from Locals: Hold on tight and be prepared for a thrilling ride through the mountains.
The Alpine Coaster at Park City Mountain Resort offers a unique and exhilarating way to experience the mountains. This gravity-powered coaster winds through the trees and hills, providing a thrilling ride with spectacular views. It’s fun for all ages and a great way to add some excitement to your visit. Locals advise holding on tight and being prepared for a fast-paced ride that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. It’s an adventure you won’t soon forget.
17. Park City Ghost Tours
- Address: Various locations around Park City
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but especially spooky during the fall
- Advice from Locals: Dress warmly for evening tours and keep an open mind.
Park City Ghost Tours offer a spine-tingling journey through the town’s haunted history. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, these tours take you to some of the most haunted locations in Park City, sharing tales of ghostly encounters and eerie happenings. It’s a fun and slightly spooky way to learn about the town’s past. Locals suggest dressing warmly, as the tours take place in the evening, and keeping an open mind to fully enjoy the experience. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories are sure to intrigue and entertain.
18. Sundance Film Festival
- Address: Various locations around Park City
- Best Time to Visit: Late January during the festival dates
- Advice from Locals: Purchase tickets in advance and be prepared for cold weather.
The Sundance Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, attracting filmmakers, celebrities, and movie buffs to Park City every year. The festival showcases independent films and provides a platform for new talent to shine. Locals recommend purchasing tickets well in advance, as screenings often sell out quickly, and dressing warmly, as January in Park City can be quite cold. Attending the Sundance Film Festival is a unique opportunity to see groundbreaking films and perhaps even spot a few celebrities.
19. Egyptian Theatre
- Address: 328 Main St, Park City, UT 84060
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with a variety of performances and events
- Advice from Locals: Check the schedule ahead of time and arrive early for the best seats.
The historic Egyptian Theatre is a cultural gem in Park City, offering a wide range of performances, including plays, concerts, and comedy shows. The theatre’s unique architecture and intimate setting make it a special place to enjoy live entertainment. Locals suggest checking the performance schedule ahead of time to find a show that interests you and arriving early to get the best seats. Whether you’re a fan of the arts or just looking for a fun night out, the Egyptian Theatre delivers an unforgettable experience.
20. Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter
- Address: 1258 Center Dr, Park City, UT 84098
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with different activities each season
- Advice from Locals: Bring binoculars for bird watching and wear comfortable walking shoes.
The Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter offers a unique opportunity to explore and learn about the local environment. The preserve features over 1,200 acres of protected wetlands and wildlife habitat, and the EcoCenter provides educational exhibits and programs. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird watching, and even guided tours to learn more about the area’s natural history. Locals recommend bringing binoculars for bird watching and wearing comfortable walking shoes for the trails. It’s a peaceful and educational way to connect with nature in Park City.
Conclusion
As you wrap up your exploration of the myriad things to do in Park City, Utah, it’s clear that this charming town offers more than just stunning views. From adrenaline-pumping activities to tranquil nature escapes, and cultural landmarks to festive markets, Park City has something for everyone. So pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create unforgettable memories. Remember, in Park City, every turn holds a new discovery, and every moment is an opportunity for fun and laughter. Happy exploring!