Park City Travel Guide

Explore the best of Park City, Utah with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, outdoor adventures, and more!


Introduction to Park City

Located in the Wasatch Range of Utah, Park City is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich culture. Originally a mining town, Park City has evolved to become a year-round hub for hiking, skiing, cycling, and other recreational activities. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque mountain town. So pack your bags, and get ready to explore the best of Park City!

List of Places to Visit in Park City

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Park City Museum: Learn about the city’s mining history and see artifacts from the past. There’s also a guided underground mine tour, which takes you into the old silver mines beneath the town.

  • Utah Olympic Park: Home of the 2002 Winter Olympics, this park boasts a museum with interactive exhibits, as well as a variety of outdoor activities like a zipline, bobsled, and tubing.

Natural Attractions of Park City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Park City Mountain Resort: One of the largest ski resorts in North America, this mountain offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. In the summer, it’s a great place for hiking and mountain biking.

  • Deer Valley Resort: A popular spot for skiing and snowboarding, with plenty of beginner and intermediate runs. In the summer, the resort offers outdoor concerts and events.

  • Jordanelle State Park: A beautiful state park located just east of Park City, with hiking trails, camping areas, and a reservoir perfect for swimming and boating.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Park City

  • Round Valley: A popular spot for hiking and mountain biking, with more than 20 miles of trails.

  • Iron Mountain: A challenging trail that rewards hikers with stunning views of the nearby mountains.

  • Mid Mountain Trail: A 22-mile trail that runs through the Wasatch Range and offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding area.

Best Things to Do in Park City: Activities and Tours

  • Park City Food Tours: Take a guided tour of the city’s best restaurants and local food vendors.

  • Park City Ghost Tours: Learn about the town’s supernatural past on a ghost tour of some of its most haunted sites.

  • Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest: A great place for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.

Week-Long Itinerary for Park City

Day Activity
1 Visit Park City Museum
2 Ski or snowboard at Park City Mountain Resort
3 Hike at Round Valley
4 Take a food tour of the city
5 Visit Utah Olympic Park
6 Bike at Mid Mountain Trail
7 Relax at Jordanelle State Park

Food and Drink Scene of Park City

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bison Chili: A hearty, spicy dish made with bison meat, beans, and vegetables.

  • Fry Sauce: A Utah specialty, this sauce is made with ketchup, mayonnaise, and spices. It’s perfect for dipping your fries in!

  • Pastrami Burger: A classic burger topped with thinly sliced pastrami and all the fixins.

Local Beverages

  • Squatters Chasing Tail Golden Ale: A light, refreshing beer made by a local brewery.

  • High West Whiskey: A small-batch whiskey made in nearby Park City.

  • Moab Brewery Dead Horse Amber Ale: Another local favorite, this amber ale is a great choice for beer lovers.

Where to Stay in Park City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Stein Eriksen Lodge: A luxurious mountain lodge with a heated outdoor pool and world-class spa.

  • Park City Hostel: A budget-friendly option located in the heart of downtown.

  • Washington School House: A boutique hotel with stylish, modern rooms and a cozy atmosphere.

What to Buy in Park City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Park City Apparel: Show off your love for the city with a t-shirt or hoodie.

  • Utah Honey: Made with honey from local bees, this is a sweet souvenir to bring home.

  • Park City Artisanal Chocolate: Handmade chocolates that are almost too pretty to eat!

Local Culture and Customs of Park City

  • Politeness: Utahns are known for being friendly and polite, so be sure to say “please” and “thank you” regularly.

  • Appropriate Dress: Park City is a fairly casual town, but be sure to wear something appropriate for the activity. Whether you’re hiking or going out for dinner, dress accordingly.

  • Religious Observance: Utah is heavily influenced by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, so it’s important to respect the local customs and practices.

Best Time to Visit Park City

The best time to visit Park City depends on your interests. Winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding, but summer is great for outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking. Spring and fall are quieter seasons, with fewer crowds and livelier restaurants.

Do’s and Don’ts of Park City

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine: Utah is home to some unique and delicious foods, so be sure to sample some of the local cuisine.

  • Pack appropriate outdoor gear: Whether you’re hitting the slopes or hiking the trails, make sure you pack the right gear for the activity.

  • Respect the local customs and traditions: Utah has a unique culture, so be sure to show respect and understanding.

Don’t:

  • Leave without trying the fry sauce: This Utah specialty may sound strange, but it’s a must-try!

  • Litter: Park City is known for its natural beauty, so be sure to keep it that way by properly disposing of your trash.

  • Be disrespectful to locals: Utahns are friendly and welcoming, but it’s important to show them respect as well.

Safety and Health

Safety in Park City

  • Altitude Sickness: Park City is located at a high altitude, so be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy when you first arrive to avoid altitude sickness.

  • Wildlife: There are plenty of wild animals in the area, including bears and mountain lions. Be sure to avoid them and never feed them.

  • Extreme Weather: Be prepared for extreme weather conditions, especially during the winter months.

Health in Park City

  • Sunscreen: With high altitude and plenty of sunshine, it’s important to protect your skin with sunscreen.

  • Water: Be sure to drink plenty of water, especially if you’re hiking or participating in outdoor activities.

  • Medical Facilities: In case of an emergency, there are several hospitals and urgent care clinics in the area.

Getting to Park City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Park City

  • Salt Lake City International Airport: The closest airport, located about 35 minutes away from Park City.

  • Provo Municipal Airport: Located about an hour away from Park City.

Bus Stations Near Park City

  • Park City Transit Center: The main transit center for Park City, with buses running throughout the city.

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in Salt Lake City, about 35 minutes away from Park City.

Other Options

  • Rental Car: Renting a car is a great option for exploring the area at your own pace.

  • Shuttle Service: Several shuttle services operate in the area, providing transportation to and from the airport.

How to Get Around in Park City

  • Free Public Transportation: The Park City Transit Center offers free public transportation throughout the city.

  • Biking/Walking: Park City is a very walkable and bikeable city, with plenty of bike rental options available.

  • Rental Car: Renting a car can make it easier to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Park City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Salt Lake City: Just a short drive away, Salt Lake City is a bustling city with plenty of historical attractions and cultural experiences.

  • Moab: Known for its red rock formations and outdoor activities, Moab is a perfect destination for those seeking adventure.

  • Canyonlands National Park: Located near Moab, this national park features stunning canyons, rivers, and hiking trails.

Conclusion

Park City is a unique and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Park City is the perfect place to visit. So pack your bags, and don’t forget to try the fry sauce!

Main Street in Park City Main Street in Park City Alf Engen Ski Museum Alf Engen Ski Museum Egyptian Theater during the Sundance Film Festival Egyptian Theater during the Sundance Film Festival Park City Mountain Resort Park City Mountain Resort Shops on Main Street Shops on Main Street