If you’re looking for the perfect mountain getaway, Park City, Utah, is the place to be. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, history, or just chilling with breathtaking views, this town has it all.
Best known for its world-class ski resorts and the Sundance Film Festival, Park City isn’t just a winter destination—it’s a year-round playground! You can hike through stunning trails in the summer, hit the slopes in the winter, and explore historic Main Street any time of the year.
I’ve put together the 15 best things to do in Park City, so you don’t miss out on the magic this place has to offer.
Hit the Slopes at Park City Mountain Resort
Address: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060
| Type | Skiing & Snowboarding |
| Time to Spend | 3 to 6 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1963, Park City Mountain Resort played a major role in the 2002 Winter Olympics. It has since grown into the largest ski resort in the U.S., drawing winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.
What to Expect: The resort offers diverse slopes, world-class ski schools, and après-ski spots. Enjoy snowboarding, tubing, and scenic gondola rides. Even if you’re not a skier, the panoramic mountain views are breathtaking.
Visitor Information: The resort operates from mid-November to mid-April. Lift tickets vary based on the season, and early booking is recommended. Parking is limited, so using the free town shuttle is advisable.
Park City Mountain Resort is a paradise for ski lovers. With over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, it’s the largest ski resort in the U.S.! Whether you’re a newbie or an expert, the resort has slopes for every skill level. If skiing isn’t your thing, you can go snowboarding, tubing, or even take a scenic gondola ride for breathtaking mountain views. The resort also has cozy lodges where you can warm up with a hot chocolate after a long day on the slopes.
Explore Deer Valley Resort
Address: 2250 Deer Valley Dr. S, Park City, UT 84060
| Type | Skiing, Luxury Resort |
| Time to Spend | 4 to 6 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 1981, Deer Valley is famous for hosting events in the 2002 Winter Olympics. It is one of the few ski-only resorts in the U.S. and is known for luxury service and meticulously groomed slopes.
What to Expect: You’ll experience top-tier skiing, fine dining, and upscale accommodations. In summer, it becomes a hub for mountain biking and hiking, offering scenic chairlift rides.
Visitor Information: The resort is open from December to April for skiing and June to September for summer activities. It has limited daily tickets, so booking in advance is necessary. Free parking and shuttle services are available.
If you’re looking for a luxury skiing experience, Deer Valley Resort is the place to be. Unlike most ski resorts, this one is exclusively for skiers—so no snowboarding here! The resort is known for its perfectly groomed slopes, top-tier service, and upscale amenities. Even if you’re not into skiing, you can enjoy the breathtaking mountain views, relax in a cozy lodge, or treat yourself to gourmet dining. In the summer, the resort transforms into a haven for mountain biking and hiking.
Stroll Down Historic Main Street
Address: Main St, Park City, UT 84060
| Type | Shopping, Dining, Sightseeing |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Once a bustling mining town in the 1800s, Park City’s Main Street is now a cultural hub filled with historic architecture, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife. It’s a registered Historic District.
What to Expect: Stroll through charming galleries, cozy cafés, and local craft stores. Enjoy street performances, live music, and an inviting atmosphere, especially during winter when the street twinkles with lights.
Visitor Information: Main Street is open year-round, with shops and restaurants operating daily. Parking is metered, but a free trolley service runs along the street. Best explored on foot!
Park City’s Historic Main Street is straight out of a postcard. Lined with charming old buildings, art galleries, and boutique shops, this street has a unique small-town vibe with a touch of luxury. Grab a cup of coffee from a local café, browse handcrafted souvenirs, or explore quirky bookstores. At night, the street comes alive with twinkling lights, live music, and buzzing bars. If you visit in winter, the snow-covered buildings make it feel like a real-life holiday movie set.
Experience the Sundance Film Festival
Address: Multiple venues in Park City, UT
| Type | Film Festival, Entertainment |
| Time to Spend | 3 to 5 hours |
History and Significance: Founded in 1978 by Robert Redford, Sundance is the largest independent film festival in the U.S. It has launched careers of filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino and Christopher Nolan.
What to Expect: Watch exclusive film premieres, join panel discussions, and spot celebrities. The town buzzes with energy, making it a unique cultural experience even if you don’t attend screenings.
Visitor Information: The festival runs for 10 days in January. Tickets sell out quickly, so early booking is essential. Free shuttles run through Park City for easy access to events.
If you’re visiting Park City in January, you absolutely can’t miss the Sundance Film Festival. As the largest independent film festival in the U.S., it attracts filmmakers, celebrities, and movie lovers from around the world. Even if you’re not a film buff, the energy in the town during the festival is electric. You might even spot Hollywood A-listers walking down Main Street! From world premieres to Q&A sessions with directors, it’s an experience that blends entertainment and culture perfectly.
Ride the Alpine Coaster
Address: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060
| Type | Adventure Ride, Outdoor Fun |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: This gravity-powered coaster is one of the longest in the world, offering a thrilling ride through alpine scenery. It was built as part of Park City Mountain Resort’s expansion.
What to Expect: Speed down a winding mountain track at up to 30 mph, with stunning views all around. You control the brakes, so it’s perfect for both thrill-seekers and cautious riders.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, weather permitting. Riders must be at least 38 inches tall. Ticket prices vary, and reservations are recommended during peak seasons.
If you love thrill rides, the Alpine Coaster at Park City Mountain Resort is a must-try. This gravity-powered ride takes you twisting and turning down the mountain at speeds up to 30 mph! It’s like a roller coaster but with incredible alpine views all around you. The best part? You control the speed, so you can go as fast or slow as you like. It’s a fun activity for all ages and an absolute blast, whether you’re visiting in summer or winter.
Visit the Utah Olympic Park
Address: 3419 Olympic Pkwy, Park City, UT 84098
| Type | Adventure, Sports, Museum |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 4 hours |
History and Significance: Built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, this park remains an active training ground for athletes. It’s home to the world’s highest Nordic ski jumps and the Comet Bobsled.
What to Expect: Watch professional athletes train, try extreme activities like the zipline and bobsled, or explore the museum showcasing Olympic history. In summer, adventure courses and tubing are popular.
Visitor Information: Open daily with free entry to the museum. Adventure activities require a fee and advance reservations. Located 25 minutes from downtown Park City.
Built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, Utah Olympic Park is a must-visit for adventure lovers. You can watch professional ski jumpers train, try the extreme zipline, or even ride the Comet Bobsled at thrilling speeds of up to 70 mph! If you prefer something less intense, the park has an interactive museum showcasing Olympic history and artifacts. In the summer, you can go tubing, rope climbing, and experience an exhilarating drop tower.
Go Snowshoeing at Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter
Address: 1258 Center Dr, Park City, UT 84098
| Type | Outdoor Adventure, Nature |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Spanning 1,200 acres, Swaner Preserve protects wetlands and diverse wildlife. The EcoCenter educates visitors on sustainability and conservation.
What to Expect: Peaceful trails with chances to spot deer, foxes, and over 200 bird species. In winter, snowshoeing offers a serene experience, while summer is perfect for hiking and guided nature walks.
Visitor Information: Open year-round with guided tours available. Snowshoe rentals are offered in winter. Entry to the EcoCenter is free, but donations are encouraged.
For a peaceful outdoor experience, head to Swaner Preserve. This 1,200-acre nature preserve offers breathtaking landscapes and is home to deer, foxes, and over 200 bird species. In winter, snowshoeing is the best way to explore the untouched beauty of the area. If you visit in summer, hiking trails and guided nature walks are available. The EcoCenter features interactive exhibits about local wildlife and environmental conservation.
Try Dog Sledding with Luna Lobos
Address: 4733 W Browns Canyon Rd, Peoa, UT 84061
| Type | Outdoor Adventure, Family Activity |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Luna Lobos is a family-run dog sledding operation that rescues and trains sled dogs. It’s one of the most ethical and immersive experiences in Utah.
What to Expect: Glide through snowy trails while a team of huskies pulls your sled. Learn about the dogs, their training, and even get hands-on experience handling them.
Visitor Information: Available from December to March. Booking in advance is required. Wear warm clothing and arrive 30 minutes early for orientation.
Want a truly unique winter adventure? Try dog sledding with Luna Lobos! You’ll ride through snow-covered trails while a team of energetic huskies pulls you across the winter wonderland. The guides will introduce you to the dogs, tell you about their training, and even let you interact with them. It’s an unforgettable, family-friendly experience that makes you feel like you’re in Alaska!
Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Address: Multiple locations in Park City
| Type | Scenic Adventure |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: Hot air ballooning in Park City has been a popular attraction for decades, offering breathtaking aerial views of the Wasatch Mountains.
What to Expect: A peaceful ride at sunrise with panoramic views of forests, lakes, and valleys. Most tours end with a celebratory champagne toast.
Visitor Information: Rides operate year-round, weather permitting. Prices vary, and early morning bookings are recommended for the best experience.
Imagine floating high above the Wasatch Mountains, watching the sunrise paint the sky in shades of pink and gold. A hot air balloon ride in Park City offers a breathtaking view of valleys, forests, and snow-capped peaks. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want an unforgettable experience, this is one of the most magical things to do. Most tours include a champagne toast after landing!
Hike to Bloods Lake
Address: Guardsman Pass, Park City, UT
| Type | Hiking, Nature |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: This alpine lake is a hidden gem in the Wasatch Mountains, offering a moderate hike with stunning rewards.
What to Expect: A scenic 2.8-mile trail leading to a pristine lake surrounded by lush greenery. Summer is perfect for a refreshing swim, while fall offers golden foliage.
Visitor Information: Open May to October. The trail is dog-friendly but requires a leash. Parking is limited, so arriving early is recommended.
If you love hiking, the Bloods Lake Trail is a must. This moderate 2.8-mile round-trip hike leads you to a stunning alpine lake surrounded by lush greenery. In summer, the lake is perfect for a refreshing dip, while fall offers golden aspen trees that make for breathtaking scenery. It’s a great trail for families and beginner hikers, and dogs are allowed too!
Enjoy a Spa Day at The St. Regis Deer Valley
Address: 2300 Deer Valley Dr. E, Park City, UT 84060
| Type | Wellness, Luxury Experience |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 4 hours |
History and Significance: The St. Regis Spa is a world-renowned luxury retreat, offering premier wellness treatments in a mountain setting.
What to Expect: Relaxing massages, hydrotherapy, and a heated infinity pool overlooking snowy peaks. The perfect way to unwind after outdoor adventures.
Visitor Information: Open year-round. Reservations are required. Guests can also dine at the hotel’s gourmet restaurant after their treatment.
After all the adventure, why not pamper yourself with a luxurious spa treatment? The St. Regis Deer Valley Spa offers massages, facials, and relaxing hydrotherapy sessions in a serene mountain setting. The spa’s heated outdoor infinity pool overlooks the snowy peaks, making it the perfect place to unwind. It’s a five-star experience that will leave you feeling completely refreshed.
Take a Scenic Drive on Guardsman Pass
Address: Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway, Park City, UT
| Type | Sightseeing, Nature |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: This high-altitude mountain pass has been a scenic driving route for decades, offering unparalleled views of Utah’s landscapes.
What to Expect: A winding road with incredible alpine scenery. It’s especially stunning in fall when the aspen forests turn vibrant shades of yellow and orange.
Visitor Information: Open from late spring to early fall. Closed in winter due to heavy snowfall. No gas stations, so fuel up before the drive.
Guardsman Pass is one of the most beautiful drives in Utah. This winding mountain road takes you through alpine forests, wildflower meadows, and offers jaw-dropping panoramic views. It’s especially stunning in the fall when the aspens turn bright yellow and orange. The road is only open in summer and early fall, so plan your trip accordingly!
Go Fly Fishing in Provo River
Address: Provo River, near Park City
| Type | Outdoor Adventure, Fishing |
| Time to Spend | 3 to 5 hours |
History and Significance: Provo River is one of the top trout fishing destinations in the U.S., offering a serene escape for anglers.
What to Expect: Crystal-clear waters teeming with rainbow and brown trout. Beginners can take guided fishing tours to learn techniques from experts.
Visitor Information: Open year-round. Fishing licenses are required. Gear rental and guided tours are available from local outfitters.
For a relaxing day outdoors, try fly fishing in the scenic Provo River. Known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant trout, this river is a favorite spot for both beginners and experienced anglers. Several local outfitters offer guided fishing trips, so even if you’ve never fished before, you can learn from the pros. The peaceful surroundings make this a perfect way to enjoy nature.
Sample Local Spirits at High West Distillery
Address: 703 Park Ave, Park City, UT 84060
| Type | Distillery, Food & Drinks |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 2006, High West is Utah’s first legal distillery since Prohibition and is famous for its award-winning whiskeys.
What to Expect: Tastings of bourbon, rye, and handcrafted cocktails. The rustic setting adds to the experience, making it a cozy spot to unwind.
Visitor Information: Open daily. Reservations are recommended for tastings and dining. Must be 21+ to participate.
High West Distillery is Utah’s first legal distillery since Prohibition, and it’s a must-visit for whiskey lovers. Located in a historic saloon, this award-winning distillery offers tastings of their famous bourbons and ryes. If whiskey isn’t your thing, they also serve creative cocktails and delicious food. The rustic yet cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to relax after a day of adventure.
Experience Nightlife at No Name Saloon
Address: 447 Main St, Park City, UT 84060
| Type | Bar, Nightlife |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: This historic bar has been a local favorite for decades, known for its lively atmosphere and Western charm.
What to Expect: A fun mix of locals and tourists enjoying craft beer, delicious buffalo burgers, and live music. The rooftop patio offers great views.
Visitor Information: Open daily until late. No reservations needed. Best visited after 8 PM for a lively crowd.
End your Park City adventure with a night out at No Name Saloon, one of the town’s most iconic bars. Known for its lively atmosphere, buffalo burgers, and rooftop patio, this bar is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re sipping craft beer by the fire or enjoying live music, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Park City is a dream destination, blending adventure, history, and nightlife into one unforgettable experience. Whether you’re skiing at Park City Mountain Resort, exploring Historic Main Street, or enjoying a whiskey tasting at High West Distillery, there’s always something exciting to do.
But if you’re planning your next trip, consider Nashville for its legendary live music scene or Rapid City for its iconic landmarks like Mount Rushmore. If vibrant nightlife excites you, Las Vegas is a must-visit.
For a unique cultural experience, Fargo offers hidden gems, while Charleston is perfect for history lovers. San Antonio showcases rich Texas heritage, and Newport offers stunning coastal views and sailing adventures. Wherever you go next, each destination has its own magic waiting to be explored!