The complete guide to Park City, Utah

Park City, Utah is a destination that beckons travelers year-round with its natural beauty, outdoor activities and cultural events. Known best for its world-class ski resorts and over 9,000 acres of skiable terrain, you won’t want to miss hitting the slopes while you’re there.

Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast, a summer adventurer or an annual attendee of the esteemed Sundance Film Festival, Park City has something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ll share the following:

• The best time to visit
• Top things to do and see
• Best restaurants in town
• Where to go for nightlife
• History and culture
• Where to stay

When is the best time to visit Park City?

The best time to visit Park City depends on your interests and what you want to experience. There are distinct attractions and activities in each season, so here is a breakdown to help you decide:

Winter (December to February)

Best for skiing and snowboarding: If you love winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, winter is the ideal time to visit. The snowfall is plentiful and the ski resorts are in full swing. At the end of a long day of skiing, you’ll want to head inside — the lodges feature cozy fireplaces and plenty of windows to admire the winter wonderland.

Spring (March to May)

Best for hiking and mountain biking: Spring offers milder temperatures and serves as an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. The melting snow turns into beautiful waterfalls and rushing streams. As always, the scenery is part of the experience.

Summer (June to August)

Warm weather adventures: Bring the whole family for a summer break to enjoy pleasant temperatures in the 70s. There are plenty of water sports, plus hiking, biking and fly fishing. Take a stroll through downtown Park City, a charming place to shop and dine. And best of all, it’s the most affordable time to visit. You’ll pay about half of what you would for hotels and dining than you will during peak ski season.

Fall (September to November)

Best for Fall Foliage: If you want to witness the stunning hues of fall foliage, September, October and November are the best months to visit. The mountains are ablaze with vibrant colors and the weather is cool and crisp. Enjoy scenic drives and plenty of hiking.

January (Sundance Film Festival)

Best for film enthusiasts: In January, film lovers, industry VIPs and celebrities descend on Park City for their annual independent film festival.

Top things to see and do in Park City

Park City offers a diverse range of activities and attractions year-round. Nature lovers will especially love all the outdoor sights to take in. Here are just a few things to do and see while you’re in town.

• Skiing/Snowboarding – Utah’s signature phrase is “the greatest snow on earth” and Park City is no exception. At an elevation of 7,000 feet, skiers and snowboarders will never run out of snowy slopes to take on. Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort, serve as two of the largest and most popular resorts of the region and attract winter sports lovers of all experience levels.
• Park City Mountain Resort Alpine Coaster – Thrill-seekers will enjoy an exhilarating ride on Utah’s biggest Alpine roller coaster. The elevated track will take you on a mile-long adventure that includes loops as well as daring turns that reach up to 30 mph. Enjoy mountain views as you coast along.
• Hiking and mountain biking – The surrounding mountains boast breathtaking views and are filled with hiking and biking trails that cater to all levels of outdoor adventurers. There are 400 miles of maintained trails that include both gentle meadows and challenging alpine hikes.
• Stroll through downtown Park City – Historic downtown boasts a thriving dining and shopping scene. From cozy mountain lodges to upscale restaurants and boutique shops, you’ll find plenty of reasons to spend a day strolling, shopping and eating.

The best restaurants in Park City

No matter what your preferred cuisine, you’ll find something you love in Park City. Reservations are recommended, and you’ll want to keep in mind that some places close in off-peak months, so be sure you check ahead.

• Tupelo: If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience focused on New American dishes, you’ll want to visit Tupelo. This restaurant has gained recognition for its commitment to using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to craft their unique menu. The ambiance includes exposed brick, leather chairs and moody lighting — perfect for a cozy dinner after a long day on the slopes.
• The Viking Yurt: If you’re looking for something truly unique and extraordinary, make plans to dine at the Viking Yurt. During the winter months, this yurt is accessible via a delightful snowcat-drawn sleigh ride or a snowshoe hike. The menu is Nordic-inspired, and the décor is a cozy Scandinavian.
• High West Saloon & Distillery: Enjoy American Western cuisine at this restaurant and distillery. High West offers a unique blend of comfort food and whiskey tastings, making it a must-visit for whiskey lovers.
• Grappa: Described as a romantic Italian farmhouse, Grappa is a three-level dining space best loved for its traditional Italian dishes and wood-fired pizzas.
• Five5eeds: For breakfast and brunch, Five5eeds is a popular choice, known for its Australian-inspired menu featuring dishes such as avocado toast with unique toppings and pancakes with fresh fruit. Be prepared for an hour-long wait on the weekends.

Park City nightlife: where to go out at night

Park City offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene that caters to a bit of everything. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening with a glass of wine, or a lively night of dancing, there is something to offer. All of these places are within walking distance of each other along Main Street — ensuring you can bar hop even in freezing temperatures.

• Drafts Park City: Looking for a night out watching your favorite sporting event on tv? Drafts is the perfect spot to catch a game on one of their many large TV screens. Enjoy a casual atmosphere with an extensive craft beer list, including many local and regional brews.
• No Name Saloon: A legend in Park City, the No Name Saloon is one of the oldest businesses in town and is known best for its bustling nightlife. Toast with your friends in family in one of four distinct bar spaces, each with their own ambiance.
• The Cabin: Enjoy the rustic mountain-inspired décor that fits perfectly with its name. Enjoy a casual American menu, plus several bars, and a concert-style stage for live bands or a DJ and an inviting dance floor.
• Park City Film: If you’re not in the mood for drinks and conversation, consider this single screen, art house cinema that offers a curated selection of independent and foreign films.

Park City history and culture

Park City’s earliest roots begin in the mid-nineteenth century when Mormon pioneers settled in nearby Salt Lake City. Those settlers soon discovered the beauty of the canyon basin, where modern day Park City is now.

By 1868, the area became a destination for silver mining and many people became wealthy because of it. Decades later, residents of the town began to realize the other valuable resource they had — recreational activity. Multiple ski resorts were developed in the 1960’s and soon after, tourism became a big driver of the local economy.

By 2002, years of investment in lodging and nightlife meant that Park City was a prime location to enjoy the nearby Salt Lake City Olympic Winter Games.

Today, Park City serves as the home to the annual Sundance Film Festival, as well as numerous ski resorts to serve visitors throughout the year.

Where to stay in Park City

Park City offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every traveler’s preferences whether you’re visiting for adventure, relaxation or both. Here are a few places to consider:

• Marriott’s Summit Watch: Situated in the heart of Historic Main Street, this hotel offers easy access to dining, shopping and entertainment, making it an ideal base for exploring the town.
• Waldorf Astoria Park City: If you’re craving luxury and pampering, the Waldorf is it. This elegant resort boasts spacious suites, a world-class spa and fine dining at Powder restaurant. It’s located in Canyons Village, which provides convenient access to skiing and other outdoor activities.
• Deer Valley Resort: This is the ultimate ski-in, ski-out experience, known for its impeccable service, gourmet dining options and pristine ski slopes. Guests enjoy a perfect combination of rustic charm and top-notch amenities — including any important ski equipment rentals you’ll need.
• Silverado Lodge Park City: If you’re coming with the whole family or a large group, this lodge offers condo-style accommodations in Canyons Village, with easy access to the slopes or any outdoors activities on your itinerary. Catch the shuttle to downtown Park City to enjoy the nightlife.

In summary

Park City is considered a year-round haven for those seeking outdoor activities among one of the most beautiful natural backdrops in the U.S. It’s casual, inviting atmosphere means you can truly relax and enjoy yourself.