Park City Itinerary: Explore the Best of Park City in Just a Few Days

Apr 15, 2025

Park City Itinerary: Explore the Best of Park City in Just a Few Days
By Aubrey Coats

Park City Itinerary: Explore the Best of Park City in Just a Few Days

From hiking ridgelines to exploring historic Main Street, tasting craft whiskey, hitting art galleries, or getting soaked on a wild Park City rafting trip, there are so many incredible things to do in Park City that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when planning.

I’ve been there. That’s why I created this mix of 2-, 4-, 5-, and 7-day Park City itineraries to help you hit the highlights and find those hidden gems that most visitors miss.

Over the course of a week, I hiked alpine trails, rode chairlifts, biked down mountain switchbacks, brunched like a local, and even went whitewater rafting on the Weber River (highly recommend if you like adrenaline and splash zones).

Whether you're looking for an action-packed weekend, a chill midweek escape, or a full mountain town deep dive, I’ve got you covered based on my personal experiences, local recs, and a few happy accidents along the way. So, let’s dive into your perfect Park City itinerary, one day (or seven) at a time.

When to Go & Where to Stay

Before you dive into planning your trip, it's super important to figure out when you want to visit, where you’re staying, and what kind of experiences you’re after. Park City changes a lot with the seasons, and your ideal vacation really depends on your vibe. Are you a powder chaser, summer adventurer, foodie, art lover, or a little bit of everything?

When to Visit Park City

Park City is truly a year-round destination, but each season offers something unique.

  • Winter: This is Park City’s peak season, and it’s easy to see why. Visitors can enjoy endless terrain for snow sports. And you haven’t lived until you’ve experienced Park City night skiing! Plus, Main Street turns into a snowy holiday postcard. But if you're planning a winter getaway, book everything early! Hotels, rentals, even dinner reservations.

  • Spring: Spring is underrated in Park City. You’ll find fewer crowds, lower prices, and that magical in-between where you can ski in the morning and hike in the afternoon. Trails begin to thaw, wildflowers start peeking through, and restaurants are way easier to get into.

  • Summer: The mountains are green and alive, the trails are endless, and Park City rafting, biking, hiking, fly fishing, and ziplining are in full swing. Main Street buzzes with outdoor dining, farmers markets, and music festivals. It’s sunny by day, cool by night, and never sticky-hot like other summer spots.

  • Fall: Fall is quiet and colorful. Think golden aspens, cool mornings, and wide-open trails without the crowds. It’s perfect for couples, hikers, or anyone who wants a romantic mountain retreat without snow gear. Plus, hotel and resort deals pop up everywhere before ski season kicks in.

Budget Tip: Visit in late April for shoulder-season rates and surprisingly mild days.

Where to Stay in Park City

Personally, I can’t recommend Westgate Park City Resort & Spa enough! It’s right in the heart of Canyons Village which gave me easy access to trails and lifts, had an onsite spa, several restaurants, and everything in between.

However, where you stay in Park City totally depends on what kind of trip you're planning. There are no bad choices, just better fits based on what you want to do.

  • Historic Main Street: If you're all about food, galleries, boutique shopping, and nightlife, Main Street is where it's at. You can walk to everything, and it’s a blast year-round. Just be ready to pay a premium, especially during the Sundance festival.

  • Canyons Village: More laid-back and family-friendly, Canyons Village has lift access, resort-style lodging, and plenty of space to spread out. It’s ideal if you’re planning on skiing or hiking every day and want the mountain right in your backyard.

  • Kimball Junction: Want to stay near Park City without the downtown price tag? Kimball Junction is your go-to. It’s about 10 minutes from Main Street, near outlet shopping, grocery stores, and casual dining. Perfect for families or longer stays.

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Two-Day Park City Getaway

Ready for a weekend getaway? With the right plan, you can hit the mountains, stroll Main Street, eat like a local, and even squeeze in a little adventure, all without rushing (too much).

Day 1:

Start your day with fresh mountain air by taking the Payday Express chairlift (if it’s summer) or hitting the slopes (in winter) at Park City Mountain. If you're visiting in summer or fall, head up early and walk one of the easy loop trails or explore the mountain adventure park, they’ve got an alpine coaster, ziplines, and even a mini ropes course for kids.

Pro Tip: Grab a breakfast burrito and coffee from Harvest, a cozy café just off Main Street, before heading to the lift.

Afterward, head back into town and spend a couple of hours strolling Main Street.

Pop into local shops, art galleries, and boutiques, Park City Mercantile and David Beavis Fine Art are personal favorites. The Park City Museum for a surprisingly cool deep dive into the town’s mining and ski history (spoiler alert, there’s a jail cell in the basement!).

Main Street is also a great place for an evening of dinner and drinks. High West Distillery & Saloon is a Park City must!

It has everything from high-end fine dining to casual, cozy bistros, and the best part is, most spots come with mountain views. Here are some popular (and delicious) dinner spots on Main Street to check out:

  • Firewood: Everything is cooked over a wood-burning fire, from bison to veggies. Dim lighting, artisan cocktails, and rustic-chic decor make this a top-tier date night choice.

  • The Eating Establishment: A long-standing favorite for hearty American classics. Burgers, pasta, meatloaf—there’s something for everyone, and the vibe is casual and welcoming.

  • El Chubasco: Local-favorite Mexican joint with a killer salsa bar. Fast, filling, and perfect for a casual dinner after a full day on the mountain.

  • Freshies Lobster Co.: Famous for their lobster rolls and low-key vibes. Ideal for a quick, tasty dinner that feels way fancier than it looks.

Day 2:

Kick off your second day at Utah Olympic Park, home of the 2002 Winter Olympics. You can check out the free museum, then go have a blast with activities like the extreme zipline, alpine slide, or even the summer bobsled ride (yes, it’s real and it’s fast).

If you're traveling in winter, consider snowshoeing on the trails around the park or watching ski jumpers train from the observation deck. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab lunch at Five5eeds, it’s bright, healthy, and totally Instagram-worthy.

Then, raise a glass to a successful trip with a wine tasting in Park City! Approximately a 40-minute drive from Park City, La Caille is a picturesque 20-acre estate featuring a vineyard, gardens, and a renowned restaurant.

They offer wine and cheese pairings every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday in their beautiful tasting room. The experience includes five Chateau La Caille wines paired with artisan cheeses.

Pro Tip: Dinner reservations can also be made to enjoy their French-inspired cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.

Four-Day Park City Adventure Plan

Looking for even more fun in Park City? This 4-day itinerary keeps things fresh, well-paced, and packed with adventure, flavor, and relaxation. These added days blend in scenic drives, historic stops, and off-the-beaten-path fun.

Day 3:

Start with a laid-back morning by exploring more of Park City's history.

First, start with breakfast at the Bridge Café and Grill. It’s a unique and delicious Brazilian-American fusion restaurant, where you can enjoy breakfast on a sunny patio with a view of the slopes. The eggs benedict and açaí bowl are fantastic, and the portions are huge.

Then, head over to the Park City Museum. It’s absolutely worth a visit! It’s engaging, interactive, and offers insight into how Park City grew from a silver mining town into a world-class resort destination.

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the old jail downstairs or the mine tunnel simulation.

For an afternoon adventure, pack some snacks and drinks and take a ride along Guardsman Pass. The views are absolutely incredible, twisting mountain roads, alpine forests, and panoramic overlooks that are made for Instagram. There are great pull-offs for photos or quick nature walks.

If it’s winter, opt instead for a sleigh ride or snowmobiling tour.

Keep it casual and satisfying with dinner at Twisted Fern! It has creative dishes like its Malfadine pasta, made with local ingredients and tons of flavor. It’s a hidden gem that hits the sweet spot between upscale and approachable.

If you're still up for more, swing by The Spur Bar & Grill for live music and a nightcap. It’s got a great local vibe and often features local bands, DJs, or acoustic sets depending on the night.

Day 4:

Start your day at Atticus Coffee & Teahouse, a cozy local favorite with great lattes, breakfast burritos, and shelves full of books. It’s the perfect slow start before a day of exploring.

Then check out a few art galleries along Main Street. Julie Nester Gallery and Meyer Gallery are personal favorites. If you're visiting in summer, look out for Park Silly Sunday Market, a lively outdoor event with local art, crafts, food trucks, and music.

Next, enjoy some of the one-of-a-kind Park City views! Depending on the season, here are some killer options for mid-day fun:

  • Summer/Fall: Go mountain biking on the Mid-Mountain Trail or take a guided e-bike tour.

  • Winter: Try snowshoeing or take a backcountry ski lesson for something off the main resort paths.

  • Year-round: Visit the Swaner Preserve and EcoCenter for wildlife spotting and low-key trails.

Tonight, treat yourself to something unforgettable. Head over to Edge Steakhouse for a refined, mountain-luxe meal. The Wagyu filet, truffle mac & cheese, and seafood tower are all show-stoppers. Service is top-notch, and it’s one of the best dining experiences in the area.

Pro Tip: Make reservations! Edge fills up very quickly, especially on weekends.

Five Days in Park City: Outdoor Fun and Relaxation Combined

Day 5:

It’s time for a change of scenery! Start your day with a beautiful 25-minute drive to Midway, Utah. Here, you’ll find a Swiss-inspired town nestled in the Heber Valley and Homestead Crater, a geothermal hot spring inside a 55-foot limestone dome. The water stays at a relaxing 95°F so you can soak or even scuba dive year-round.

Pro Tip: Book your soak time in advance! They limit capacity, especially during weekends.

After your soak, hang around and check out Midway’s European-themed shops and bakeries. I recommend stopping by Heber Valley Artisan Cheese to sample locally made cheeses and snag some souvenirs for your charcuterie board back home.

For dinner, head up to Deer Valley Resort and take the Silver Lake Express or drive to Royal Street Café or The Brass Tag for a relaxing dinner tucked into the mountainside.

Wrap up your day with a sunset walk along the McPolin Farm trail. It’s flat, quiet, and gorgeous at dusk, with a white barn backdrop and golden-hour lighting.

Seven-Day Park City Travel Guide

Day 6:

One of the reasons I love Westgate Park City is because I can have an activity-packed day without even leaving the resort! And after several fun-filled days of experiencing everything that Park City has to offer, I like to spend some time truly relaxing on my vacation.

So, start your day with a slow wake-up. Brew a cup of coffee, step out on your balcony, and take in the crisp alpine air. No rushing. Today is all about being intentionally relaxed.

If you're feeling active, take a light morning walk on one of the nearby trails like Canyons Resort Village Loop, a gentle trail with beautiful mountain views.

Then, make your way to Serenity Spa by Westgate, one of the most luxurious spas in Park City. Book a Swedish massage, deep tissue, or signature mountain stone therapy, or opt for a custom facial if you’re looking to refresh.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush out. After your treatment, relax in the steam room or tranquility lounge with infused water and chill music.

For lunch head to Drafts Burger Bar, located right onsite. Even if you don’t want a burger, they’ve got delicious salads, sweet potato fries, and great cocktails. Sit outside if the weather’s nice and take in the view of Canyons Village.

Afterward, get into full vacation mode with time at the heated indoor/outdoor pool. It's beautiful in any season, you can float beneath the skylights in winter or catch sun on the pool deck in summer. There’s also a hot tub to melt away any lingering stress. If you're visiting in winter, don’t skip out because of the weather, there's nothing cooler than swimming from inside to the outside portion while snow is falling!

End your Westgate day in true style with a reservation for the Edge 360 Private Dining Experience. This is no ordinary meal, it’s a private, luxury dinner in a 360-degree glass enclosure with panoramic mountain views.

Expect custom tasting menus, wine pairings, and incredible dishes like Wagyu, lobster, and truffle butter everything. This is the way to celebrate a big trip or special moment.

Day 7:

Morning Option 1: Guided Fly Fishing Trip

Book a half-day fly fishing excursion with a local outfitter like Park City Fly Fishing Guides. They’ll take you to the Provo or Weber River, where you’ll learn casting techniques and (hopefully) catch a rainbow or brown trout in gorgeous alpine waters. The best part? No experience necessary! They provided gear and instruction, so it was peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly fun.

Morning Option 2: Scenic Horseback Ride

Prefer to stay on land? Go horseback riding in Park City with Red Pine Adventures. It’s a great way to see backcountry terrain, wildflowers, and maybe even a moose if you’re lucky.

Before your final activity, stop for lunch at Midway Mercantile. Housed in a charming 19th-century building, this cozy spot has big flavors like wood-fired sandwiches, hearty grain bowls, fresh salads, and mountain-town ambiance.

End your Park City trip with a ride on the historic Heber Valley Railroad, often called the “Heber Creeper.” The 90-minute Deer Creek Express or 2-hour Provo Canyon Limited takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes in Utah including its rolling farmland, alpine lakes, and dramatic canyon views. It’s laid-back, beautiful, and a great way to slow down and reflect on your trip.

Bonus Tips: Rainy Days, Activities for Kids, and More!

Before you zip up your suitcase and hit the mountains, here are a few extra planning tips that made my trip smoother, easier, and way more fun. These little details can seriously level up your Park City experience, especially if it’s your first time visiting.

Back-Up Plans for Bad Weather Days

  • Kimball Art Center: Free admission, rotating exhibits, and hands-on workshops. A great place to spark some creativity.

  • Egyptian Theatre: Catch a live performance, comedy show, or indie film in this beautifully restored historic theater.

  • Woodward Park City: An indoor action sports facility with trampolines, foam pits, and skateparks. Great for burning energy.

  • High West Saloon: Whiskey tastings, hot cocktails, and a full menu of hearty mountain fare. It's a classic après-ski stop—even if you never hit the slopes.

Activities for the Little Adventurers

  • Ride the Town Lift or Scenic Chairlifts: Even if they’re too young to ski, kids love riding the gondolas and chairlifts. They’re great for sightseeing, spotting wildlife, and snapping that perfect family photo.

  • Visit Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter: There are interactive exhibits, live critters, and easy boardwalk trails where littles can look for birds, bugs, and even moose!

  • Go Snow Tubing or Summer Sliding: At Woodward Park City, kids as young as four can ride the snow tubing hill in winter. In summer, they’ve got mini ramps, trampolines, and beginner-friendly training zones that are perfect for little legs and high energy. They also offer indoor play zones and "drop-in" family sessions that are weatherproof and fun year-round.

Final Planning Tips

  • Altitude is real: Drink tons of water and take it easy your first day.

  • Layer up: Even summer nights can get chilly, so bring a jacket!

  • Book early for ski season: Or Sundance. Lodging fills up fast.

  • Don’t skip the food scene: From food trucks to fine dining Park City has incredible dining for every budget.

  • Use the free Park City Transit system: It’s easy, eco-friendly, and gets you to almost every neighborhood.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Park City, Utah

Park City is a year-round destination, but winter (Dec–Mar) is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, while summer (Jun–Aug) is amazing for hiking, biking, festivals, and Park City rafting. For fewer crowds and lower prices, spring and fall are perfect shoulder-season options.

Some of the best things to do in Park City include:

  • Riding the scenic chairlifts

  • Visiting the Park City Museum

  • Enjoying a spa day

  • Exploring the Arts District

  • Wine tasting at Old Town Cellars

  • Taking a ride on the Heber Valley Railroad

  • Hiking, biking, and yes—even Park City rafting in summer

Absolutely! Kids will love activities like snow tubing at Woodward, the alpine coaster at Park City Mountain, wildlife spotting at Swaner Preserve, and visiting interactive spots like the Park City Museum or Kimball Art Center. Many resorts also offer pools, games, and kid-friendly amenities.

It depends on your trip style:

  • Main Street for walkability and nightlife

  • Canyons Village for ski-in/ski-out convenience and resort vibes

  • Deer Valley for upscale luxury and quiet

  • Kimball Junction for budget-friendliness and shopping access

Not necessarily. Park City has an excellent free public transit system that serves Main Street, ski resorts, and popular neighborhoods. If you're staying central and not planning to explore beyond town, you can skip the rental. For day trips to Midway or Heber, a car is helpful.

Layers are key! No matter the season, bring:

  • A warm base layer or fleece

  • A waterproof jacket

  • Comfortable hiking or snow boots

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle

  • Swimsuit for hot tubs or spas

  • A daypack for hiking, biking, or exploring Main Street

Rainy day ideas include:

  • A spa session at Serenity Spa

  • Whiskey tasting at High West Distillery

  • Shopping or gallery hopping on Main Street

  • Visiting the Park City Museum or catching a film at the Jim Santy Auditorium

  • Cozying up with coffee and a book at Atticus Coffee & Teahouse

Park City can be pricey, especially during ski season, but there are plenty of ways to save—like riding the free trolley, visiting in the off-season, hiking free trails, and taking advantage of happy hour specials or free events like art strolls and summer concerts.

For a quick taste of Park City, 2–3 days is perfect. To explore more deeply—including spa time, rafting, day trips to Midway or Heber, and downtime—a 5- to 7-day itinerary gives you the best balance of adventure and relaxation.

Many visitors miss out on:

  • Park City rafting in summer

  • Scenic drives like Guardsman Pass

  • The Heber Valley Railroad

  • Gallery stroll nights and local art studios

  • Hidden gems like the Homestead Crater or McPolin Farm Trail

Ready for Your Park City Adventure?!

Whether you’ve got just two days to escape or an entire week to slow down and soak it all in, Park City is the kind of place that meets you where you are offering adventure when you want it, relaxation when you need it, and unforgettable moments around every corner.

From alpine coasters and scenic hikes to world-class dining, family fun, wine tastings, and even a peaceful ride on the Heber Valley Railroad, this mountain town is so much more than a ski destination, it’s a year-round experience built for memory-making.

Hopefully, these itineraries, tips, and insider insights help you plan your perfect Park City getaway! But if you're still looking for more inspiration, hidden gems, or seasonal guides, don’t forget to check out the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog!


RELATED ARTICLE:

50 Things To Do in Park City All Year Around

At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there's a LOT to CheckOut! Your Park City vacation awaits! Explore our Park City hotel today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690

* Aside from activities at Westgate Park City Resort & Spa, Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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