Park City, Utah

Sundance Film Festival headquarters with Victorian Main Street and Olympic legacy. 7,300+ skiable acres just 35 minutes from Salt Lake City.

Park City, Utah

Quick Facts

Population
8,500 residents
Founded
1869
Recommended Duration
3-5 days (ski vacation or Sundance)
Best Time to Visit
January to March for skiing and Sundance, or July to August for mountain biking
Climate
Humid continental (mountain)
Elevation: 7,000 ft
High elevation; abundant snow for skiing; four seasons; cool dry summers; 2002 Winter Olympics venue
Nearest Big City
Salt Lake City, UT (30 miles, 35 minutes)
Nearest Airport
Salt Lake City International (35 min)
Getting There
35 minutes from Salt Lake City, UT • 4 hours from Las Vegas, NV • 5 hours from Denver, CO

What Makes Park City Special

  • Host of the 2002 Winter Olympics alpine events
  • Sundance Film Festival every January
  • Historic Main Street with Victorian buildings and mining heritage
  • Two major ski resorts: Park City Mountain and Deer Valley
  • Utah Olympic Park with bobsled and ski jumping
  • Over 7,300 skiable acres combined
  • Vibrant dining scene with James Beard-recognized restaurants

Things to Do

Park City Mountain Resort

Outdoor

Largest ski resort in the U.S. with excellent skiing and summer activities.

1345 Lowell Avenue, Park City, UT 84060

Historic Main Street

Shopping

Preserved Victorian silver mining town street with shops, galleries, and dining.

Main Street, Park City, UT 84060

Utah Olympic Park

Outdoor

2002 Winter Olympics venue with museum, tours, and summer activities.

3419 Olympic Parkway, Park City, UT 84098

Sundance Film Festival

Arts

World-renowned independent film festival every January (seasonal).

Various venues, Park City, UT 84060

Where to Stay in Park City

The Park City Inn

Historic Inn$200-$400/night

Charming historic inn in the heart of Park City, featuring elegantly appointed rooms with period furnishings and modern amenities. Known for exceptional hospitality and locally-sourced breakfast.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Request a room with views of downtown for the best experience

Park City Bed & Breakfast

B&B$150-$300/night

Cozy bed and breakfast offering personalized service and comfortable rooms. Homemade breakfast featuring local ingredients. Perfect for couples seeking an intimate getaway.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Complimentary breakfast and evening refreshments included

Local Chain Hotel

Hotel$120-$220/night

Reliable national chain hotel with comfortable rooms, free WiFi, pool, and fitness center. Convenient location near major attractions and restaurants.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Good option for families and those seeking predictable amenities

Vacation Rentals

Vacation Homes$150-$400/night

Variety of vacation rentals available through Airbnb and VRBO, from cozy cottages to spacious homes. Great for extended stays and families wanting kitchen facilities.

Book on Booking.com ↗

💡 Book early for peak season availability

Where to Eat in Park City

Park City Bistro

Fine DiningContemporary American$$$

Upscale dining featuring seasonal menus with locally-sourced ingredients. Creative dishes showcasing regional flavors in an elegant atmosphere. Reservations recommended.

Main Street Cafe

Casual DiningAmerican$$

Popular local spot serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Known for generous portions, friendly service, and comfort food favorites. Great for families.

The Local Pub

PubPub Fare$$

Welcoming neighborhood pub with craft beers, burgers, and classic pub food. Live music on weekends. Casual atmosphere perfect for unwinding.

Downtown Coffee House

CafeCoffee & Pastries$

Cozy coffee shop serving expertly brewed coffee, fresh pastries, and light lunch options. Popular morning gathering spot for locals and visitors.

Park City Diner

DinerAmerican Diner$

Classic diner offering hearty breakfasts, homestyle cooking, and generous portions. Friendly service and nostalgic atmosphere. Cash-friendly.

Pizza Place

Casual DiningItalian/Pizza$

Local favorite for pizza, pasta, and Italian classics. Family-friendly with quick service. Great for takeout after a day of exploring.

Sample Itineraries

Perfect Day in Park City

Experience the best of Park City with this carefully planned itinerary covering local attractions, dining, and activities.

8:00 AM
Morning Coffee & Breakfast
Start your day at a local cafe with fresh coffee and breakfast. Take time to chat with locals and get insider tips for the day ahead.
9:30 AM
Explore Downtown
Walk the main street, visit local shops, galleries, and historic buildings. Take photos of the charming architecture and streetscapes.
11:30 AM
Visit Main Attraction
Spend time at one of Park City's signature attractions. Take a guided tour if available to learn about local history and culture.
1:00 PM
Lunch
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring regional cuisine. Try local specialties and seasonal dishes.
2:30 PM
Afternoon Activity
Explore nature trails, visit a museum, or enjoy outdoor recreation depending on the season and your interests.
5:00 PM
Sunset Viewing
Find a scenic viewpoint to watch the sunset. Bring your camera for golden hour photography.
7:00 PM
Dinner
Savor dinner at one of Park City's acclaimed restaurants. Make reservations in advance for popular spots.
9:00 PM
Evening Stroll
Take a leisurely walk through town to see historic buildings lit up at night. Visit a local pub or wine bar for a nightcap.

Getting Around Park City

Park City is a compact, walkable town where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within easy walking distance of each other. The downtown area is best explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate the historic architecture and discover hidden gems. For longer distances or day trips to nearby attractions, having a car is recommended. Street parking is typically available throughout town, with some areas offering free parking and others requiring meters or permits. Check posted signs carefully. During peak tourist seasons, arrive early to secure parking near popular attractions. Many accommodations offer on-site parking for guests. If you're staying downtown, consider parking once and walking everywhere to avoid the hassle of moving your car. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft may have limited availability depending on the time of day. Local taxi services are available but should be called in advance. Bike rentals are available seasonally and provide a fun way to explore the area at a relaxed pace.

When to Visit Park City: Seasonal Guide

Spring (March-May)

Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers to the area. It's a quieter time to visit with fewer crowds.

  • Mild weather perfect for hiking and outdoor activities
  • Spring flowers and fresh greenery
  • Lower accommodation rates before peak season
Events:
  • Local farmers markets begin
  • Spring festivals and events

Summer (June-August)

Peak tourist season with warm weather and long daylight hours. All attractions and restaurants operate on full schedules.

  • Warm, sunny days ideal for outdoor recreation
  • All seasonal businesses and attractions open
  • Festivals, concerts, and community events
Events:
  • Summer concert series
  • Fourth of July celebrations
  • Art fairs and markets

Fall (September-November)

Autumn is spectacular with colorful foliage and pleasant temperatures. Popular season with moderate crowds.

  • Beautiful fall foliage and crisp weather
  • Harvest festivals and seasonal activities
  • Excellent hiking conditions
Events:
  • Harvest festivals
  • Fall foliage tours
  • Halloween events

Winter (December-February)

Winter brings cold temperatures and potential snow. Quieter season with holiday charm and winter activities.

  • Peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere
  • Holiday decorations and festivities
  • Winter sports and activities nearby
Events:
  • Holiday celebrations
  • Winter festivals
  • New Year's events

Best Photography Spots

Historic Downtown

The main street and historic district offer excellent architectural photography opportunities. Best captured in early morning or late afternoon light.

📸 Best time: Golden hour (sunrise or sunset)

Town Center

The heart of Park City features charming streetscapes and local character. Look for interesting storefronts and street scenes.

📸 Best time: Morning for fewer crowds

Scenic Overlook

Find elevated vantage points for panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape. Stunning during fall foliage season.

📸 Best time: Sunset for dramatic lighting

Local Landmarks

Iconic buildings, monuments, or natural features that define Park City. Research specific landmarks before your visit.

📸 Best time: Blue hour for illuminated buildings

Day Trips from Park City

Nearby State Park

15-25 miles30-45 minutes

Explore pristine natural areas with hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Historic Town

20-30 miles30-50 minutes

Visit a neighboring historic town with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Many areas have complementary attractions worth exploring.

Salt Lake City, UT

30 miles35 minutes

Take a day trip to the nearest major city for museums, shopping, dining, and urban attractions. Provides a nice contrast to small-town charm.

Practical Tips for Visiting Park City

  • Book accommodations well in advance during peak season, especially for weekends and holidays
  • Most restaurants accept credit cards, but some local establishments may be cash-only
  • Dress in layers as weather can change throughout the day, especially in spring and fall
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring downtown and visiting attractions
  • Check attraction hours before visiting, as some locations have seasonal schedules
  • Bring a reusable water bottle - many establishments offer water refill stations
  • Download offline maps in case of spotty cell service in rural areas

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to visit Park City?

January to March for skiing and Sundance, or July to August for mountain biking

How many days should I spend in Park City?

3-5 days (ski vacation or Sundance)

Is Park City walkable?

Yes, Park City is very walkable with most downtown attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy walking distance. However, having a car is useful for reaching outlying attractions and taking day trips to nearby areas.

Are there family-friendly activities in Park City?

Absolutely! Park City offers various family-friendly activities including parks, museums, outdoor recreation, and special events throughout the year. Many restaurants and attractions cater specifically to families.

What should I pack for a trip to Park City?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, layers for changing weather, sunscreen, and a camera. Depending on the season, bring weather-appropriate clothing. The climate is humid continental (mountain) with high elevation; abundant snow for skiing; four seasons; cool dry summers; 2002 winter olympics venue.

Where is the nearest airport to Park City?

Salt Lake City International (35 min)

Are pets allowed in Park City?

Many outdoor areas and some accommodations in Park City are pet-friendly. However, policies vary by establishment, so always call ahead to confirm. Most restaurants with outdoor seating welcome well-behaved dogs.

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