Last updated on July 26th, 2024 at 04:55 am
Park City is a stunning mountain town in Utah, United States, just 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport. Its endless recreation and adventure opportunities make it a great place to visit. Some of the city’s notable attractions include world-class ski resorts, miles of hiking and biking trails, a vibrant cultural scene, and much more. This guide covers 36 fun things to do in Park City, whether you are in town for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.
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Fun Things to Do in Park City in Spring and Summer
1. Try Your Hand at Fly Fishing
If you are new to fly fishing, consider a local guided experience. You will have access to the best fly fishing spots and be provided with equipment, instruction, and local knowledge to enhance your experience.
2. Attend the Park City Deer Valley Music Festival
The Deer Valley Music Festival is a summer highlight in Park City that runs from July through August. It is held at the Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater, known for its picturesque mountain views. Imagine enjoying music while surrounded by nature!
The festival is the seasonal home of the Utah Symphony and Utah Opera and features a diverse lineup of performances, spanning classical music to popular genres.
3. Go Mountain Biking on the Ski Resort Trails
Park City has over 400 miles of pristine mountain biking trails, offering riders of all skill levels an exhilarating experience.
Some popular trails you can consider include the Armstrong Trail, an uphill-only climb; the Mid Mountain Trail, known for its exciting descents; and the more challenging Wasatch Crest Trail.
Tip: Local shops like White Pine Touring offer bike rentals and guided tours if you want expert assistance or don’t have your own equipment.
4. Go Off-Roading with an ATV or Jeep Tour
You can opt for a guided tour or rent an ATV for self-led adventures through the breathtaking Wasatch Mountains.
It is a great way to explore rugged backcountry trails, enjoy spectacular mountain views, and experience the thrill of off-road driving.
For self-guided Jeep tours, you can rent a Jeep from Discover Cars.
5. Lift Off On a Hot Air Balloon Ride
Hop on a hot air balloon ride to enjoy a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of Park City’s scenic sights.
The aerial vantage point offers excellent opportunities for capturing stunning photographs of the landscape.
Most rides take place at sunrise or sunset, offering a magical start or end to your day.
Many hot air balloon operators conclude the flight with a traditional champagne toast, thereby adding a festive touch to your adventure.
6. Go Horseback Riding
Saddle up for a scenic adventure through Park City’s alpine landscapes, from wildflower meadows to panoramic vistas.
There are guided horseback riding tours available for all skill levels at Almosta Ranch, Boulder Mountain Ranch at Deer Valley, and Red Pine Adventures.
7. Dive Into Water Sports at Local Lakes
Park City has several options for water sports and activities, from thrilling adventures to more laid-back water experiences. These include white water rafting, kayaking, paddle boarding, tubing, kiteboarding, sailing, and swimming.
8. Explore Park City on an Electric Bike
Book an electric bike guided tour and explore Park City’s urban art and history. It is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore local attractions.
9. Go Camping or RVing
You can immerse yourself in the great outdoors by camping or RVing in Park City’s surroundings. Here, you can enjoy stunning mountain vistas, serene lakeside settings, and easy access to outdoor activities.
Park City RV Resort is about 7 miles from downtown Park City and offers both campground and RV facilities.
Jordanelle State Park is approximately 10 miles from Park City and has amenities like fishing, boating, paddling, and swimming.
Rockport State Park is about 20 miles from Park City, features a variety of camping options, and is a great spot for water activities.
Tip: When planning your camping or RV trip, consider factors such as the season (some campgrounds may have limited availability in winter), amenities you need, and the activities you’re interested in. It’s also advisable to make reservations in advance.
10. Visit the Swaner EcoCenter
Explore the Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter and participate in year-round activities such as hiking, birdwatching, snowshoeing, and photography.
The Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter is a 1,200-acre nature preserve created to protect the mountain ecosystem.
The conservation efforts support a variety of wildlife, including deer, elk, moose, mink, beaver, red fox, coyote, eagles, hawks, sandhill cranes, and over 90 additional bird species.
11. Tee Off at a Scenic Golf Course
Imagine playing a round of golf with the Wasatch Mountains as your backdrop and the crisp mountain air adding an extra spring to your swing. Well, this could be your reality.
Park City has an impressive array of scenic golf courses, from public to private, for an unforgettable golfing experience.
12. Hike the Day Away
Hiking is one of the most popular and fun things to do in Park City during the warmer months. There are several hundred miles of trails with options suitable for different skill levels and preferences.
The following are some of the best hiking trails:
- Mid-Mountain Trail is a 23-mile trek offering diverse scenery and views of the entire Park City area. It’s challenging but can be broken into smaller sections.
- Bloods Lake Trail is a moderate, family-friendly 4.5 km hike with beautiful views of wildflowers.
- Armstrong Trail is a 3.3-mile loop trail that’s dog-friendly (on leash) and is popular for both hiking and mountain biking.
- Silver Lake Trail is a 4.7-mile out-and-back trail with significant elevation gain (1,433 feet), offering views of Jordanelle Reservoir and the surrounding area.
- McPolin Farm Nature Trail is an easy, family-friendly trail less than 2 miles long, perfect for beginner hikers.
Tip: If you’re unfamiliar with the area or prefer expert guidance, consider joining a guided hike offered by local outfitters or resorts.
13. Zip Line Your Way Through Park City
Adding a zipline experience to your Park City adventure will undoubtedly be an adrenaline-pumping adventure as you soar through the air. You will have the added benefit of the spectacular aerial views of Park City’s landscape.
The following are some Park City ziplining options to consider:
Park City Mountain Resort
- Features the Flying Eagle zipline, a two-person ride that starts and ends at the same location.
- Offers spectacular views of the mountain ski trails.
- Reaches speeds of up to 45 mph and soars 110 feet above the ground.
Utah Olympic Park
- Offers a Zip Tour with seven towers and a zipline that reaches speeds of 40 mph.
- Flies 161 feet above the scenic Olympic Park.
- Open seven days a week during summer.
ZipRider at Park City Mountain Resort
- One of the longest ziplines, stretching 2,300 feet with a 550-foot vertical drop.
- Features four side-by-side cables, allowing friends to race each other.
- Reaches top speeds of 50 mph.
14. Attend the Park City Food & Wine Classic
If you are a food enthusiast, the Park City Wine Festival is the perfect event for you! It is an annual multi-day culinary and wine experience festival that is typically held in July.
This popular event features over 100 food artisans, wineries, distilleries, breweries, and local products spread across various venues throughout the city and surrounding mountains.
The festival combines gourmet experiences with outdoor adventures, including activities like wine tastings paired with bike rides, paddleboarding with craft beer sampling, and horseback riding followed by wine-paired lunches.
Fun Things to Do in Park City in Fall and Winter
15. Take a Scenic Drive to See Fall Foliage
Venture out on a fall foliage drive through Park City to experience golden aspens, deep red oaks, and fiery maples that make fall in this area so spectacular.
Some routes to consider are Guardsman Pass Scenic Byway, Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, and Alpine Scenic Loop.
Tip: The best time to see fall colors is typically from late September through October.
Be prepared with a full tank of gas, as some routes may not have services along the way.
16. Ski or Snowboard at a Park City Resort
Skiing and snowboarding are undoubtedly among the most fun things to do in Park City during winter. Nothing screams ski trip premier destination louder than Park City! It has world-class ski resorts offering winter sports for a wide array of skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned skier, snowboarder, or beginner looking to learn at ski school, Park City has you covered.
The following are some highly-rated ski resorts:
Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in Utah and the United States and is a versatile destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
Deer Valley Resort offers a range of ski classes, including telemarking lessons and unique opportunities like booking a former Olympian as a guide.
Woodward Park City is a year-round action sports destination that caters to all skill levels with lift-accessed snowboarding, skiing, and snow tubing.
Tip: Purchasing your lift tickets well ahead of time, especially online, can save you significant money compared to buying at the ticket window.
17. Attend the Sundance Film Festival
The world-renowned Sundance Film Festival transforms Park City into a cinematic hub each January.
If you are a film enthusiast, this is your chance to catch premieres of groundbreaking independent films, spot celebrities, and immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world.
18. Go on a Guided Snowshoeing Tour
Snowshoeing in Park City offers a unique way to explore the winter landscape on your own or on a guided snowshoe tour.
19. Give Snowmobiling Tours a Shot
Snowmobiling can be an exciting winter activity to add to your itinerary. For safety, especially if you’re new to the sport, we recommend you book a guided snowmobiling tour.
Tip: The snowmobiling season typically runs from December through March, depending on snow conditions.
20. Experience the Thrill of Dog Sledding
Dog sledding is a unique winter activity that can add an exciting dimension to your Park City visit. It combines adventure, beautiful scenery, and the opportunity to interact with energetic sled dogs as you glide through snowy landscapes.
We recommend the following guided dog sledding companies:
- Luna Lobos Dog Sledding: A family-owned business offering tours ranging from one-hour to half-day adventures.
- Destination Adventures: Offers tours with Alaskan and Siberian Huskies, some of which are Iditarod racers.
- All Seasons Adventures: Provides one-hour guided tours and supports dog rescue efforts.
21. Embark on a Sleigh Ride Dinner
Picture this: sleigh rides in a winter wonderland! Experience a magical winter evening with a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered meadows, culminating in a cozy, gourmet dinner at a rustic mountain lodge.
It is a romantic way to soak in Park City’s stunning winter landscape and savor local cuisine.
Tip: Snowed Inn Sleigh Company offers a popular sleigh ride and dinner experience.
22. Glide On Ice at the Skating Rink
Set off on an ice skating adventure at Park City’s sole outdoor skating rink. Located at Park City Mountain Resort, it offers daily skating for all ages. The setting is a festive atmosphere with Christmas trees, twinkling lights, warm drinks, and holiday music.
Tip: There are no time limits or scheduled sessions; therefore, you can skate for as long as you wish during the rink’s operating hours.
23. Try Snow Tubing
Experience snow tubing, a fun winter wonderland activity, at Woodward Park City (formerly Gorgoza Park). Here, you can zoom down groomed lanes on inflatable tubes.
Snow tubing is a fun, accessible activity that doesn’t require special skills.
24. Ride in a Gondola
Winter gondola rides are available at Park City Mountain Resort.
The Quicksilver Gondola connects Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons Village. It offers stunning panoramic views and is a convenient way to travel between the two parts of the resort.
Comparatively, Red Pine Gondola will take you up to mid-mountain, offering beautiful vistas and access to various dining and activity options.
The gondolas offer a scenic and relaxing way to take in the breathtaking views of the snow-covered Wasatch Mountains, and are a great option if you want to enjoy the beauty of the mountains without skiing or snowboarding.
Fun Things to Do in Park City Year-round
25. Zoom Down Slopes on the Alpine Coaster
The Alpine Coaster is located at Park City Mountain Resort and is Utah’s largest Mountain Coaster.
This alpine slide is a thrilling way to experience the mountain terrain. You will zoom through over a mile of loops, curves, and hairpin turns on an elevated track down the slopes of Park City Mountain Resort.
26. Explore Downtown Park City
Exploring Park City’s Historic Main Street is one of the most fun things to do in Park City any time of year. It is the heart and soul of this charming mountain town and is the perfect place to witness a vibrant blend of the past and present.
Main Street is lined with colorful Victorian-era buildings, lovingly restored and maintained. As you stroll through, you’ll find a diverse array of local shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars housed within these historic structures.
The street is a hub of activity throughout the year. During the summer months, you can experience the popular Park Silly Sunday Market, which fills the lower part of Main Street with live music, local craftsmen, and delicious food.
Main Street also plays host to various events and festivals, including the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival in the winter.
The Park City Museum is another must-visit notable attraction in the area. Its captivating displays offer an engaging journey through the town’s fascinating evolution from a silver mining boomtown to a world-class ski resort town.
27. Get Centered at a Yoga or Wellness Retreat
Park City’s beautiful mountain setting provides an ideal backdrop for rejuvenating experiences focused on health and well-being.
Eventful Yoga is a local company that offers customized yoga experiences and retreats in Park City.
For a unique experience, hiking and yoga on a mountain is a great option.
28. Attend a Concert at the Egyptian Theater
The Egyptian Theatre is a historic venue that hosts a variety of live entertainment, including musicals, comedy shows, and some Sundance Film Festival screenings.
The theater features a unique, intimate setting with excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. Check the theater’s website for upcoming events and purchase tickets in advance to attend a show.
29. Sample Local Beers at Breweries
Park City has some great opportunities for sampling local beers at breweries.
Park City Brewing is a local favorite. It offers a range of craft beers that reflect the mountain lifestyle of Park City. You can sample the brews and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere in the taproom.
30. Visit the Utah Olympic Park
The 400-acre Utah Olympic Park, originally built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, is a must-visit Park City attraction. It is still a hub for winter sports but now also offers year-round activities.
If you are a sports enthusiast, exploring this park is one of the most fun things to do in Park City. Some activities at the park include the Alpine Slide, ziplining, extreme tubing, plus the thrilling summer bobsled ride on the Olympic track.
Tip: Use the Ultimate Park City Tour Pass for access to Olympic Park, snowshoeing/ hiking, and a guided tour of the historic Main Street.
31. Unwind at a Park City Luxury Resort Spa Day
Pamper yourself with innovative wellness therapies in award-winning luxury resort spas.
Stein Eriksen Lodge in Deer Valley, Montage Deer Valley’s Spa Montage (Utah’s largest spa), The Remède Spa at St. Regis Deer Valley, and the spa at Waldorf Astoria are all elegant spas in alpine settings known for rejuvenating treatments and luxurious amenities.
32. Appreciate Art at the Kimball Art Center
Stroll through galleries at the Kimball Art Center to experience local Park City art and culture.
The art center is known for international-quality art exhibitions, dynamic educational programs, and popular events like the annual Park City Kimball Arts Festival.
33. Patronize Local Coffee Shops
We love to explore local coffee shops when we travel, so imagine our excitement when we discovered Park City’s unique coffee spots.
Atticus Coffee, Teahouse & Gifts is known for its unique atmosphere. Beyond the coffee shop, it also has a bookstore and gift shop.
Pink Elephant Coffee Shop specializes in coffee roasting and has a full espresso bar. They make their own almond milk and have cold brew and kombucha on tap.
Five5eeds is primarily known for breakfast and brunch; however, they also serve excellent coffee. They import their espresso from Melbourne, Australia, offering a taste of international coffee culture.
34. Set Off on a Park City Food Tour
Sign up for a food tour that showcases local Utah flavors and specialties. These may include locally sourced ingredients or dishes unique to the region.
Another great option is combination tours that include food along with other experiences, such as historical walks or art gallery visits.
35. Enjoy the Park City Nightlife
Park City’s nightlife is mainly concentrated around Main Street.
Bars and Saloons
Park City boasts several popular bars and saloons, each with its unique character.
- No Name Saloon is known for its quirky decor, buffalo burgers, and lively atmosphere. It features a heated rooftop patio and 17 TVs for sports fans.
- High West Distillery is the world’s only ski-in/ski-out distillery, offering craft cocktails and Western cuisine in a charming setting.
- The Spur is popular for live music, with acts ranging from local DJs to regional bands.
Live Entertainment
- Egyptian Theatre is a cultural landmark that hosts live performances and events throughout the year.
- The Cabin features both a relaxed bar area and an underground concert venue hosting DJs and live music.
36. Splurge on Retail Therapy
Park City is a shopper’s haven with excellent opportunities for retail therapy, particularly along its historic Main Street. The following are some options to consider:
Main Street is lined with a variety of boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops housed in charming, colorful Victorian-era buildings.
There are numerous locally owned-boutiques that sell
Fun Fact: We were intrigued by Sock City, a sock-only store.
Outlets Park City is known for its brand-name shopping at discounted prices.
Tip: During certain times of the year, like the Sundance Film Festival, you might find pop-up shops and special retail events.
Fun Things To Do Near Park City
Explore Salt Lake City
If you are interested in venturing out beyond Park City, Salt Lake City is a great option. Check out our Salt Lake City in a Day, and Salt Lake City Itinerary to help you plan your itinerary.
Visit Bonneville Salt Flats
The iconic Bonneville Salt Flats are a bucket list-worthy Utah attraction. The flats are a short drive away from Park City, making it a convenient day trip option.
Check out our Ultimate Bonneville Salt Flats Guide, which shares everything you need to know about the flats.
Final Thoughts About Fun Things to Do in Park City
As we wrap up our virtual guided tour of Park City, we hope you are inspired to visit and experience it firsthand. As shown, it is more than just a “only visit in winter” ski town; rather, it is a year-round destination with some of the best things to do! Park City activities are the perfect contrast of adventure and relaxation, historical and contemporary, natural beauty and modern works of art—all offering endless opportunities for a great time.
With so many fun things to do, Park City is not just worth visiting—it’s a destination that may very well capture your heart and keep you coming back for more.
Happy travels!
