A Complete Newbie’s Guide to Park City in Wintertime
Your All-Encompassing Park City Guide for Your First Trip
Uncovering all of the secrets of Park City can take more than just a few visits. That’s why it’s so important to get a feel for the town before you visit for the very first time–so you can begin to discover all of its unique features and hidden treasures.
Rather than wasting time getting your bearings when you vacation in this gorgeous locale, follow along with us to explore everything from how to get to Park City to what activities you should enjoy once you get there. Once you finish reading our guide, you’ll have a better idea of what to prioritize and where to spend your time while you’re staying in Utah’s most popular mountain town.
How to Get to Park City
Park City is one of the most accessible ski towns in the West, located only a 35-40 minute drive from Salt Lake City International Airport. Many travelers opt to rent a car at or near the airport and drive into town as the route is fairly flat, but Uber and Lyft are popular options as well. There are also shuttle services available that will pick you up right from the airport for a fairly low price.
Ideas for In-Town Vacation Rentals in Park City
Ski In and Out of This Charming Condo
Anything that lowers the distance between you and the lifts is a great accommodation option, and you can’t get much better than this 2-bedroom ski-in/out home in Park City. In this beautifully-decorated modern condo, you’ll find amenities like a fully-enclosed fireplace, cozy furnishings, and plenty of places to sleep, and all of that is only steps away from all of Park City’s closest attractions.
Walk to the Lift from This Beautiful Home
If you want to experience all that Park City Mountain has to offer, it’s a good idea to book a vacation rental where it’s right out your backdoor, and nowhere is that more true than at this beautiful 3-bedroom condo in Park City. This colorful and modern rental is a great gateway to all of your Park City adventures, as it’s just steps away from the lift to make skiing or boarding more accessible. Relax amid the gorgeous furnishings or utilize the five-star kitchen, packed with all the essentials that you’ll need.
Best Restaurants and Casual Eateries in Park City
Where to Eat a Great Breakfast in Park City
Lucky Ones Coffee: Sometimes, all you need is a quick cup of coffee to fuel you for a day of skiing the slopes, and the one place in town that everyone agrees has the best cup of joe is Lucky Ones. This spot employs those with disabilities and is one of the beating hearts of the community, plus it’s inside the library, so you’ll always feel welcome when you enter.
The Eating Establishment: When you need breakfast at any time of the day (or night), head to The Eating Establishment. When it first opened in 1972, this diner served locals for over 30 years before it was revamped in 2017 for a more modern era. Enjoy delicious breakfast dishes like the Loaded Baked Potato Omelet or the Shakshuka Skillet.
Silver Star Cafe: For views and a breakfast you won’t soon forget, take a trip over to Silver Star Cafe. This award-winning cafe has been featured on the Food Network and in national publications for its “Roots Cuisine”, and it’s worth a visit to taste these inspired dishes.
Casual Lunch and Dinner Spots in Park City
Windy Ridge Cafe: Since 2002, this casual lunch and dinner spot has been a favorite of locals and travelers alike, offering fresh deli selections, baked goods, and other specials. Stop by the location on Iron Horse Drive to see why locals think so highly of this spot.
Nosh: For those looking to find the perfect falafel, Park City might not seem like the place. However, after taking a trip to Nosh, you’ll be a convert. Check out this Mediterranean and Middle Eastern restaurant next time you’re looking for a great lunch or dinner.
No Name Saloon: If an Old Western saloon is right up your alley, there’s only one place in town to go: No Name Saloon. Sit on the rooftop patio for a view of one of the best mountain sunsets you’ll see anywhere in the world while enjoying your tasty pub fare.
Enjoy These Activities in Park City During the Winter
Skiing and Snowboarding
If you’re headed to Park City during the winter months, chances are you are a fan of skiing or boarding fresh powder. Park City Mountain is famous for its incredible trails, with 7,300 acres of skiable terrain at your fingertips, all spread out over 330 plus trails. There’s something for every level, including the beginners in your party. For more information about the best trails on Park City Mountain, check out our blog on the subject.
Cross Country Skiing and Nordic Skiing
For those who enjoy the slower pace of cross country skiing and Nordic skiing, you’re in luck when you visit this mountain town. There are more than 70 kilometers of groomed trails surrounding Park City, many of which are free to use. If you happen to be searching for the full Nordic experience, pay a visit to the White Pine Nordic Center. Click here to find out more about the best cross country skiing trails in the area.
Attend a Winter Festival
Winter is the busy season in Park City, and for that reason, you’ll find a handful of winter events and festivals to enjoy throughout the season. Do you happen to be visiting during the holiday season? Be sure not to miss out on the annual Torchlight Parade, where Santa himself attends every year. Or, if attending a film festival is on your bucket list, grab some tickets to the Sundance Film Festival, held every January in Park City’s theaters.
Stumble Upon More Park City Travel Tips with the LocalVR Blog
Preparing yourself for a vacation to Park City is always a smart idea–not only will you save time when you figure out your itinerary in advance, but you’ll also be able to see and do more than you would’ve otherwise. From the best vacation rentals in the West to some of the most delicious eateries in the mountains, Park City truly does have it all.
Want to find out more travel tips before you go? Take a look at the LocalVR blog for more Park City guides, such as some excellent state parks within driving distance or our recommendations for the best hot spring experiences around.