The state of Utah has a sterling reputation for its eye-popping landscapes—just look to the “Mighty Five” national parks within its borders: Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef. But should one’s recreational pursuits point toward snowy slopes, Park City is truly where it’s at. Sitting at 7,000 feet in elevation within the Wasatch Mountain Range, this premiere winter destination is a pristine, powdery paradise.
The city was once a silver-mining boomtown, and over the last 150 years has gradually established itself as one of the most sought-after destinations for skiing and snowboarding. Need proof? The Olympic Games were held here in 2002, and will return in the winter of 2034. Beyond the piste, there’s a surprisingly diverse array of restaurants and bars to fill your time—from sushi and Thai spots, to steak houses and whiskey bars. The historic Main Street is a lively scene for experiencing the city’s energy, and local museums and cultural events keep travelers occupied throughout the entire year. (If you’re a cinephile, don’t miss the 2026 Sundance Film Festival for its last run in Utah. Starting in 2027, it will be held in Boulder, Colorado.)
For those planning a winter getaway to Park City, let the travel guide ahead inform your itinerary—from the best hotels to where you can find the perfect pot of gooey fondue.
Best Places to Stay
Just minutes beyond Park City, The Lodge at Blue Sky reveals a secluded escape that spans 4,000 private acres of rugged mountain wilderness. The property has 46 accommodations, ranging from creekside houses to suites with living grass roofs and outdoor fireplaces. Their impressive dining concept, Yuta, is helmed by Executive Chef Guillermo Tellez and takes farm-to-table cuisine to new heights with a wood-burning hearth and an in-house organic farmer. The Edge Spa, perched on the side of a precipice overlooking Alexander Creek, showcases ingredients grown or wild-harvested on site. Plus, the property’s Blue Sky Ski Lounge, located at the base of Park City’s Silver Star chairlift, ensures a supremely seamless experience for a day on the slopes.
This ski-in ski-out resort just 10 minutes from Park City’s Main Street offers 220 charming guest rooms, suites, and residences; plus, four snazzy restaurants and even a bowling alley. The 35,000-square-foot spa is a blissful oasis, and thanks to the property’s majestic altitude at 8,200 feet, the views are nothing short of spectacular. But don’t worry too much about that high altitude—a trip to the spa for their hyperbaric oxygen therapy and custom IV infusion for hydration and nutrients will set you straight. Other highlights include the property’s complimentary chauffeur, a mountain host to assist with everything from ski rentals to lift tickets, and privileged access to dreamy mountain experiences such as sleigh rides, dog sledding, and fly-fishing.
If your affinities lean toward boutique accommodation, this darling 12-room property occupying an 1889-era school is just the ticket. Named after George Washington, the two Michelin-key hotel has all the accoutrements of a luxurious, historic enclave: a roaring fireplace, mountain-chic rooms with antiques, and a custom-made antler chandelier (because why not?). Washington School House Hotel is located atop Park Avenue, moments from Main Street, and provides complimentary après-ski fare in the living room for outdoor enthusiasts who have worked up an appetite.
Best Restaurants Bars in Park City
For those with a hankering for farm-to-table cuisine, Handle’s menu of fresh, simple dishes will satiate the craving. On the lighter side, the kale salad with pine nuts or Hokkaido scallops will hit it out of the park. Or if you prefer something heartier, cozy up with their mushroom bolognese and a glass of Nebbiolo.
Get your caffeine fix at this small-batch artisan roaster that donates a portion of its sales to go toward open space and wildlife conservation. With its cafe conveniently located on Main Street, you can pick up a latte or flat white and enjoy a scenic stroll around the historic district.
When alpine-style dining feels in order, head for this exquisite space located within Goldener Hirsch, Auberge Collection. The restaurant feels plucked from a fairytale with its hand-carved wood details and murals depicting woodland scenes. Culinary delights like fondue and foie gras cement the mountain region atmosphere.
If you’re searching for the best steak in Park City, let the flavorful bone-in filet at Riverhorse on Main tempt the senses. For the pescatarians in the house, their selection of fresh fish is equally irresistible (particularly the Alaskan halibut), and no matter your dietary preferences, the lively energy makes for a pleasant dinner setting after a day of skiing.
Billing itself as an artisan street food purveyor, this is where you go for a flavorful, filling meal. After a shin-busting day on the slopes, reward yourself with a tri tip steak sandwich, or an order of Baja fish tacos. If you’re wanting to fuel up on protein, try their power bowl packed with nutrients like quinoa, grilled asparagus, avocado, and organic greens.
As one Vogue writer puts it, “If that brisk mountain air just makes you want to carb-load, then Cafe Terigo—a quaint Italian spot on Main Street—is just the place to do it.” Menu highlights include the house-made ricotta cheese, as well as the half-pound Wagyu cheeseburger.
This wildly popular watering hole is designed after an Old West saloon and pours its whiskey from behind a grand wood bar, surrounded by barrels and reclaimed wood-paneled walls. Always busy, always a spirited time.
When a glass of wine in a relaxed setting is more the M/O, head for this sommelier-curated bar that emphasizes making great wine affordable, welcoming, and fun. If there are beer drinkers in the group, take note of their local brews.
Some of the best sushi in Park City can be found at Yuki Yama, where fresh fish is flown in from around the world. The restaurant is situated in the heart of Old Town and serves a mix of traditional Japanese sushi and modern sashimi plates. Also, don’t miss the robust selection of sake and imported Japanese whiskies to pair with your yellowtail and tuna.
This is a go-to for sandwiches, and is located a few minutes off the city’s main drag (read: fewer crowds). When it’s warm out, enjoy your French dip or grilled chicken sandwich on the umbrella-shaded patio, and on chilly afternoons, feel free to take your comfort food to-go.
Things to Do in Park City
It wasn’t until the 1930s that locals began to ski the hillsides—and 1963 when the first ski lift was built—but the industry took off from that point on, steadily growing, and culminating with The Olympic Games held in Park City in 2002. At present, the region’s main ski resorts include: Deer Valley, Park City Mountain, Utah Olympic Park, and Woodward Park City—each with its own advantages and characteristics. New and noteworthy: This December, Park City Mountain will introduce a 10-passenger gondola to improve mountain circulation in Canyons Village. And since 2024, Deer Valley has added 100 new ski runs, 10 new chairlifts, and a 10-passenger gondola.
For the Olympics-obsessed, the Alf Engen Ski Museum invites visitors to experience the 2002 Winter Games through tours that highlight the various skiing disciplines with touchscreen displays, videos, and a VR ski theater. If you’re interested in learning more about the city’s history as a silver mining town, head for the Park City Museum, housed in the old 1885 City Hall building (don’t miss the original ore carts and mining tools).
Not a skier? Not a problem. Skip the slopes and opt for winter excursions like bobsled rides and shot ski on Main Street to embrace the holiday cheer. If you’re in town once the chill has thawed, explore 400 miles of surrounding trails, go fly fishing, or explore the local geothermal crater via scuba or stand-up paddleboard yoga.
FAQ
When is the best time to go to Park City?
Throughout the entire year and across all four seasons, Park City is a destination worth visiting. If you’re a skier or snowboarder (or simply an après enthusiast), winter will be your best bet—usually between December and March. If moderate daytime temperatures and slightly thinner crowds are your preference, plan your trip in the spring or fall. And if your objective is to hike, bike, and explore in the great outdoors as much as possible, summer is ideal thanks to weather that never gets that sweltering.
How can I get around Park City?
If you’re flying, Salt Lake City International Airport is just 35 minutes away from Park City. You can use the city’s free bus system, or rent a car for ease of travel. And if you’re looking for transport to and from the mountain and it’s not available through your hotel, an abundance of shuttles and premier transfer options can be easily booked.
How many days do you need in Park City?
If you’ve only got a long weekend, don’t sweat it: Park City can be sufficiently explored within three days. But if you can manage a bit more time away from work, five days is best for working your way through all of the dining spots, cultural sites, and outdoor excursions.
