Whether you’re headed to the world-renowned Sundance Film Festival or bundling up for an epic ski weekend, there’s snow doubt about it — Park City, Utah is a real-life winter wonderland. (P.S. It has been named one of Forbes Traveler Magazine’s 20 “prettiest towns,” so get ready for some super Instagrammable moments.)
From picture-perfect Main Street to stunning ski in/ski out hotels, here are some must-do’s when planning your next vay-k.
Stay at Grand Summit Hotel, A RockResort
Boasting a brand new $15 million renovation, the Grand Summit Hotel located in Canyons Village provides elevated mountain luxury with right-out-your-door access to the largest ski resort in the United States. We’re talking cozy luxe furnishings, nature-inspired artwork and design, and all of the comfort you find in a log cabin mixed with unbeatable hospitality from the second you pull up to valet to the moment you check out. With 212 newly renovated suites featuring new interior finishes, updated technology, super soft pillow top beds, and views to write home about (OK — text a pic about), you’ll wish you never had to leave.
Channel your inner ski bunny
Whether you’re a regular Lindsey Vonn or a total ski newbie, Park City Mountain Resorts have something for every level skiier. At the Park City Base Area you’ll find a new, enclosed surface lift and designated beginner trail just for entry-level skiers and snowboarders who want to learn in a comfortable environment. Of course, with over 348 trails, one super pipe, and one mini pipe, those looking for more of a challenge will find just what they’re after.
Get a massage
Long days on the slopes (especially if you’re new) mean that you’re likely to be sore from all that action! Treat yourself to some me-time at the newly renovated RockResorts Spa at the Grand Summit Hotel. Indulge in one of the spa’s many relaxing treatments including the RockResort Custom Massage to get even your worst kinks out, hot stone therapy to relieve tension, or a Hot Honey Foot Massage also known as the “Instant Pedicure.”
Attend the Sundance Film Festival
Celebs and movie fans alike flock to Park City every January for the world’s largest independent film festival. In 2018 the festival boasts more than one hundred documentaries, feature films, and short films representing 29 countries and 47 first-time filmmakers. The famous Egyptian Theater is only one of the many venues within the city, which screens flicks from filmmakers hoping to make their mark and maybe even take home a coveted award. Packages and individual tickets go on sale in October and sell out quick, so be sure to snag them while you can.
Visit Utah Olympic Park
See how the pros do it by visiting the home to the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. This 400 acre venue features one of only four sliding tracks in North America, six Nordic ski jumps, a 2002 Winter Games museum, and tons of adventure activities for you to get into or simply watch as future Olympic hopefuls train.
Try out The Farm
Just one bite of the Herbed Spätzle and you’ll have no questions about why The Farm was named one of Utah’s 25 top restaurants. Located in Canyons Village, the award-winning restaurant debuts seasonal menus celebrating locally-sourced, sustainable, and innovative cuisine that will make your mouth water. Plus, you can enjoy your meal with a spectacular view of the mountain base from the restaurant’s indoor-outdoor gazebo. Not sure what to order? We suggest starting with the Braised Oxtail Onion Soup before diving into your main dish (our faves include the Beef Tenderloin, Steelhead Trout, and TheFarmBurger — Yum!) And, of course, ask your server for wine pairing recommendations.
Grab some Pink Elephant Coffee
Chilly days are made better with java in hand. Pink Elephant Coffee Shop is a go-to for small batch artisan coffee located right on Main Street (along with having the best name ever). To find it, enter through Prospect clothing store and follow the scent of fresh roasted coffee beans right up the stairs to this hidden gem. We recommend ordering the Flat White or Hot Cocoa.
Sip on some beers at Wasatch Brew Pub
Throw back a few in Park City’s very first brewery! Established in 1988 at a time when drinking was all but forbidden in the state, this brew pub (situated at the top of Main Street) is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Try the fifty cent taster beers to find your favorite — we suggest the Jalapeño Cream Ale.
xx, The FabFitFun Team