Park City has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking world-class skiing. Locals happen to know the town’s best moments can go well beyond the slopes. This Park City travel guide will highlight places residents love, like quiet cafes, off-the-beaten-path trails, and unique cultural gems to check out the next time you’re here.
Gems Kept Secret by the Locals
All good things take time, and finding Park City’s many hidden gem destinations is no exception to the rule. There are a variety of places that you might not have yet heard of here that are well worth taking time to explore!
Hiking Trails Not Many People Know About
When visitors are putting together a list of Park City activities to enjoy in the great outdoors, hiking is often at the top. While there are many well-known trails here, it’s the quieter routes that locals love. Rob’s Trail is a terrific choice in the fall, when the many surrounding aspens turn gold. This quiet trail is made up of shaded forest sections, and it’s pet-friendly, as long as your canine companion remains leashed. Plan to set aside around 4.5 hours to complete this trail in its entirety.
Length: 8.9 miles out-and-back
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,876 feet
Trail Map
Another terrific route to consider is the Glenwild Loop. This is a 3.5- to 4-hour hike that’s suitable for experienced hikers looking to hone their skills while enjoying open views of wildflowers. Plan your outing around sunset for an even more scenic experience.
Length: 8.5 miles
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation Gain: 1,102 feet
Trail Map
Peaceful Coffee Shops
Everyone needs a pick-me-up once in a while. When you’re looking for a quiet café further from Main Street in Park City, Lucky Ones Coffee is a must-visit. Here, the menu is packed with delicious coffee options, and the setting is decidedly cozy. Located right inside the Park City Library, this coffee shop employs individuals with disabilities and is frequently praised for its world-class, friendly service. Drop by for a seasonal beverage like a lavender latte, a pastry, a panini, or an espresso, and leave feeling ready to take on the day.
Address: 1255 Park Avenue, Park City, Utah, 84060
Hours: 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily
Phone: 435-666-0129
Menu
A few other peaceful coffee shops to check out during your stay include:
- Pink Elephant Coffee Roasters – For small-batch roasting, pastries, cozy seating, and specialty espresso
- Ritual Chocolate & Mocha Café – In nearby Heber City, known for its peaceful atmosphere, rich espresso, decadent baked goods, and hot chocolate
Local Shops and Boutiques
Park City is known and loved for its great shopping. When you’re looking to browse a few hidden gem shops and boutiques, make sure to swing by Root’d Home Décor at least once. Located in Newpark Town Center, this design studio and shop is a locally loved destination for artisan pieces, home décor, and hand-crafted gifts. Make an appointment to browse the showroom.
Address: 1122 Center Drive, Suite D-320, Park City, Utah, 84098
Showroom Hours: Monday through Saturday by appointment only
Phone: 435-214-7791
Portfolio
If you’re looking for a local boutique where you can find great women’s apparel, we recommend Flight Boutique. Here, visitors can browse a two-story mountain-inspired collection of dresses, shoes, accessories, tops, and pants. This boutique also stocks fun gifts and apparel for little ones.
Address: 545 Main Street, Park City, Utah, 84060
Hours: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Monday & Tuesday, Thursday through Saturday
10:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Wednesdays
11:00 am to 7:00 PM on Sundays
Phone: 435-604-0806
Browse Online
Fun Things to Do Other Than Skiing
Park City’s slopes are worth experiencing when you’re traveling this way in the wintertime. However, those who are looking for even more adventure beyond skiing won’t have trouble finding it.
Scenic Mountain Rides
A ride on one of Park City Mountain Resort’s chairlifts isn’t an activity that’s exclusive to ski season. In fact, travelers can enjoy panoramic views from a bird’s eye vantage point here in the warmer months as well.
Address: 1345 Lowell Avenue, Park City, Utah, 84060
Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM seasonally
Amenities: Family-friendly rides, trail access, and photo opportunities
Alpine Hiking
Beyond the slopes, experienced hikers can check out Park City’s hidden gem alpine trails while they’re in town. Many of these are accessible from Guardsman Pass. The benefit of trekking a high-elevation trail is that you can savor crisp mountain air, sweeping views, and routes that are typically isolated. Many trails off Guardsman Pass are best enjoyed in late spring and early fall.
Water Sports
Don’t miss out on spending time at the Jordanelle Reservoir when you travel to Park City in the summertime. This scenic stop is a great place to paddleboard, linger on the shoreline, or work on your landscape photography.
Live Like a Local, Eat Like a Local
No matter what you add to your lineup, eventually cravings come calling. There are many locally loved eateries to try during your stay.
Farm-to-Table Dining
Handle showcases local ingredients and regional flavors. Patrons love the seasonal menus and craft cocktails. Be sure to try the mushroom bolognese if it’s available!
Address: 136 Heber Avenue, Park City, Utah, 84060
Hours: 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM Wednesday and Thursday
5:00 PM to 10:00 PM Friday and Saturday
Menu
Iconic Breakfast and Brunch Spots
Locals will tell you that a hearty breakfast in Park City is always within easy reach at Five5eeds. This Australian-inspired brunch stop is a family-friendly place to enjoy rich coffee, acai bowls, and banana bread with espresso cream.
Address: 1600 Snow Creek Drive EF, Park City, Utah, 84060
Hours: 7:30 AM to 3:00 PM
Menu
Bars and Craft Cocktails
Park City’s cocktail scene is exciting, and when you know where locals go, it’s an even more flavorful experience. The following are a few to include on your list:
- High West Saloon – For whiskey flights and craft cocktails served up in a fun, Western-inspired setting.
- Downstairs – When you’re looking for an underground nightclub-meets-speakeasy where you can listen to DJS mix tracks while sipping the night away.
- The Spur Bar & Grill – A daytime eatery that transitions into a hub for beverages and dancing when the sun goes down.
Cultural Experiences
When you’re looking to dive into Park City’s authentic arts and culture scene, there are some places locals would always recommend adding to your list.
Art Galleries
While the Kimball Art Center is a fan-favorite stop in town for creative inspiration, there are lesser-known destinations that are equally intriguing. Consider making your way to:
- Gallery MAR on Main Street – to admire contemporary art by an impressive lineup of nationally-recognized artists.
- Meyer Gallery – where a combination of Western art and contemporary pieces is showcased year-round.
Summer Concerts
Summer in Park City marks the arrival of some terrific music series that are well worth enjoying during your stay. Among them is Concerts on the Slopes at Canyons Village. Enjoy a varied lineup of artists throughout the summer, including Allen Stone, Sawyer Brown, Lonestar, and more.
Historical Walking Tours
When you’re looking to learn more about Park City’s history, sign up for a historical walking tour when you’re in town. These are offered through the Park City Museum and only cost $10 per person. Tours are offered between July and September and typically last around an hour and a half.
Day Trips Locals Love
Travelers looking to expand their itinerary will find many day trips worth their time.
Scenic Drives
If you prefer to explore from the comfort of your car, hop behind the wheel and take a day trip along Mirror Lake Scenic Byway. Stretching 42 miles along Route 150, the winding mountain road offers lake access, overlooks, and picnic areas to enjoy along the way.
Hot Springs and Nature Spots
Soak your worries away at Homestead Crater when you want to take full advantage of Utah’s incredible landscapes. The warm mineral water stays around 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit, and there are opportunities to book SUP yoga sessions or guided tours within the otherworldly cavern.
Hidden Picnic Spots
There are great places to picnic across Park City, but the Bloods Lake Trail Picnic Area is favored among locals. A short hike to your destination is all it takes to dine al fresco while surrounded by quiet meadows and beautiful lakeside clearings.
Insider Tips for Visiting Park City
A trip to Park City is always a treat, but knowing what to expect when you arrive can make your getaway even more memorable.
Best Times to Visit Park City
Many locals would agree that late September is a prime time of year to visit Park City for hiking and biking. This is when the weather is relatively mild, and you’ll encounter fewer visitors than in the summertime. If your passion lies firmly with downhill thrills, winter is always going to be the best time to travel this way, as ski season gets underway.
Transportation
Many visitors choose to rent a car when they’re in town, but it’s good to note that Park City’s transit system is efficient and free. If you want to leave your vehicle behind, the transit system offers multiple routes, free buses, and bike racks as an added convenience to passengers.
Seasonal Events
Park City is a destination where there’s always a celebration happening. It’s a good idea to check the local event calendar before you arrive to see if any events align with your travel plans. Whether you come for Savor the Summit in the summer, the Park Silly Sunday Market in the fall, or to celebrate Halloween on Main Street, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.
Book Your Luxury Vacation Rental in Park City
At Summit Luxury Vacations, we provide travelers with beautifully curated rentals close to the best Park City attractions. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute vacation rental for a large group or you need a 2-bedroom retreat for a romantic getaway, we have you covered. Reach out today to learn more about our Park City vacation rentals with an unwavering focus on privacy, comfort, and convenience.
