Park City, Utah, is well known for its incredible skiing, its Olympic venues, and for its stunning landscapes. What can visitors do in Park City when not skiing? This mountain town, located under an hour from Salt Lake City, offers a wide variety of one of a kind activities for every type of traveler. Here is our guide to 15 unique things to do in and around Park City Utah, whether you’re visiting in the warmer months or in the snowy winter season.
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Top 15 Unique Things to Do in Park City
- Bobsledding at the Utah Olympic Park
- Park City Ski & Snowboard Water Ramping Lessons
- Swimming in the Homestead Crater
- Yoga on the Mountain
- Paddling on Jordanelle Reservoir
- Heber Valley Railroad
- Exploring the Park City Mining Museum
- Live Shows at the Egyptian Theater
- Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
- Fly Fishing Adventures
- Slovakian Baking Class
- Take an E-Bike Tour
- Biathlon Experience at Soldier Hollow
- Enjoy a Glass Blowing Workshop
1. Bobsledding at the Utah Olympic Park
The Utah Olympic Park is an ideal destination for all visitors, offering both an olympic and ski museum, as well as active adventures throughout the year. One of the highlights is the exhilarating bobsled experience. Guests have the chance to race down the same track used during the 2002 Winter Olympics. This is the same track that they are planning to use for the 2034 Olympics.
What is the experience like? The Olympic Legacy Foundation uses recreational bobsleds for this experience, that take guests up to about 70 miles per hour. The whole ride takes approximately 1 minute, and is available to guests 16 and over and over 100 pounds. Guests receive a thorough safety briefing, and are required to wear helmets. Each group is guided by a professional pilot. Once everyone is properly seated in the bobsled, another employee gives the sled a bit of a push to get started and you’re off, racing down the track. It is an incredible experience!
In winter (typically November through mid-April), bobsleds start lower down on the track to ensure that speeds don’t get too fast. In summer, wheeled sleds are used, and the sleds start at the top of the track. For those wanting a less adrenaline filled experience, there is an alpine slide as well as tubing to participate in.
Activity | 2024 Cost |
Summer Bobsled | $100 per person |
Winter Bobsled | $225 per person |
2. Park City Ski & Snowboard Water Ramping Lessons
Park City Ski and Snowboard offers an unforgettable experience with its water ramping lessons at the Spence Eccles Olympic Freestyle Pool at the Utah Olympic Park. Participating in this unique activity in the summer months allows guests to feel the rush of Olympic ski jumping.
Participants are under the guidance of expert instructors, learning the basics of ski jumping, starting with smaller ramps and gradually progressing to bigger ones. The jumps end in a splash in a large pool designed to mimic the landing of winter jumps. It’s suitable for adventurous visitors looking to try something out of the ordinary while enjoying the scenic surroundings of the park. Contact the Utah Olympic Park directly to organize a private session.
For those who prefer to spectate, check out the Freestyle Ace Show held at the Olympic Park. Don’t miss also taking the guided tour of the Olympic Park, which includes a visit to the top of the 120 meter ski jump ramps. These ski jumps were used in 2002, and are planned to be used again in 2034, though they’ll need to be extended to 150 meters before the event.
3. Swimming in the Homestead Crater
Visiting the Homestead Crater in Midway, Utah, is a truly unique experience, typically just 30 minutes from Park City. The Crater is a geothermal spring with warm, mineral-rich waters that stay at a consistent 90-95 degrees Fahrenheit. As you descend into the beehive shaped crater through a tunnel at ground level, you’ll find yourself in a natural pool where you can swim, snorkel, scuba dive, or even do paddle board yoga. The crystal-clear, warm waters make the Homestead Crater an ideal year-round destination. Swimming prices starting at just $15 for adults.
4. Yoga on the Mountain
Guests can enjoy yoga on the mountain in Park City in both summer and winter. Stretching and posing with panoramic views is not to be missed. During the summer months, visitors can take hiking tours with a mountaintop yoga session, providing spectacular views. In the winter, the experience transforms to snowshoeing excursions leading to tranquil yoga spots. The quiet of the snow-blanketed environment enhances the yoga experience.
- Check availability of your summer hiking tour with mountaintop yoga session here.
- Book your snowshoe + yoga excursion here.
5. Paddling on Jordanelle Reservoir
Less than half an hour from Park City, kayaking on Jordanelle Reservoir offers a delightful way to explore the beautiful views of the Wasatch Range. The calm waters of Jordanelle Reservoir make it an ideal spot for paddlers of all skill levels. Kayaking not only offers a fantastic physical workout but also an opportunity to relax in the natural beauty of the outdoors. Rentals are available at Jordanelle Marina starting at $30 per hour for a single kayak. Paddle boards are also available.
For those wanting to get out on the water without leaving Park City, check out paddle boarding at Deer Valley’s pebble beach. This is easily accessible with the free public buses from Park City’s Main Street. Park City SUP rents paddle boards on the beach for $30 per hour per board, making this a convenient experience. For those preferring to explore other lakes, they also provide paddle board delivery. As you stand or kneel on your board, the views of the lush, green ski slopes and rugged mountain peaks provide a stunning backdrop. Though this is much smaller than Jordanelle Reservoir, the lake extends well beyond what is seen in the photo below.
6. Heber Valley Railroad
Embark on a nostalgic journey through the stunning landscapes of Utah aboard the historic Heber Valley Railroad. The train with vintage passenger cars chugs its way through the breathtaking Provo Canyon to Vivian Park. It offers panoramic views of the majestic Wasatch Mountains and the serene Deer Creek Reservoir. Whether it’s the magical Polar Express during the holiday season or a lively Wild West-themed adventure, the Heber Valley Railroad provides a charming and unique experience for all ages.
7. Exploring the Park City Mining Museum
Exploring the Park City Mining Museum offers a fascinating dive into the history that shaped this mountain town. The museum is in the former city hall building, which also used to houses the Territorial Jail, Police and Fire Departments. The museum provides a comprehensive look at the mining industry that thrived here from the 1860s onward. Visitors can enjoy authentic interactive displays and detailed narratives that recount the history of Park City. Admission is $15 for adults in 2024.
8. Live Shows at the Egyptian Theater
The Egyptian Theater in Park City is a beautifully restored venue, which hosts a diverse array of performances. Enjoy live concerts, stand-up comedy, and classic and contemporary theater productions in the ornate Egyptian-inspired architecture. Every seat in this intimate setting offers a close connection to the stage.
9. Sunrise Hot Air Balloon Ride
Taking a sunrise hot air balloon ride in the Park City area is a spectacular experience with panoramic views of the area’s stunning landscapes. As you gently lift off the ground at dawn, enjoy the first rays of sunlight illuminating the rugged Wasatch Mountains and the expansive valleys. This breathtaking ride not only provides spectacular photo opportunities but also moments of peace as you witness the daybreak from above.
10. Fly Fishing Adventures
A fly fishing adventure in the Park City area is an ideal outing for both beginner and experienced anglers. The Provo River is renowned for its clear waters and abundant trout populations, making for ideal conditions for fly fishing. Guides are available to help refine your technique, introduce you to the best fishing spots, or to introduce beginners to the art of fly casting.
Book your fly fishing adventure below.
11. Take a Baking Class
Join a small group cooking class in Park City and learn the art of Slovakian baking. As you learn to bake traditional Slovak breads and pastries, an experienced instructor will guide you through the techniques and stories behind each recipe. The intimate setting of the class allows for hands-on learning, where you can knead, shape, and taste your creations, making the experience both educational and delicious. It’s a perfect activity for anyone seeking a fun, interactive way to experience a new culture right in the heart of Park City.
Book your baking class here.
12. Private Photography Workshop
For all photography enthusiasts, participating in a private photography workshop in the Wasatch Mountains is an inspiring experience. This half day photography workshop is tailored to enhance your skills in landscape photography under the guidance of a professional photographer. Your instructor will provide personalized tips on composition, lighting, and technique to help you capture stunning images.
Book your private photography workshop here.
13. Take an Urban Art and Historical E-Bike Tour
Enjoy an easy e-bike tour around Park City, stopping to see urban art and learn about the history of the town. Tour in a dynamic and eco-friendly way to explore the city and its culture. As you bike through town, stop at various points of interest where your guide will share stories about the city’s heritage and the artists.
Check availability of the art and e-bike tour below:
14. Biathlon Experience at Soldier Hollow
The Biathlon Experience at Soldier Hollow offers a year-round experience in this typically winter event, involving both endurance sports and target shooting. There are a number of different biathlon experiences offered by the Utah Olympic Legacy Foundation, allowing participants to step into the shoes of an Olympic biathlete. In winter, you’ll be able to cross-country ski or snowshoe, while in summer, you’ll be on foot. Learn how to balance the demands of skiing with the calm, focused accuracy required for shooting at targets.
Soldier Hollow hosted biathlon events during the 2002 Winter Olympics, and is planned to host these events again in 2034.
15. Enjoy a Glass Blowing Workshop
For a complete change of pace, unleash your creativity with a glass blowing workshop in Park City. In this hands-on workshop at Red Flower Studios, you’ll be introduced to the basic techniques of glass blowing, including gathering, shaping, and coloring molten glass to create your own unique pieces. Not only will you make lasting memories, but you can bring home a personalized souvenir.
Another way to enjoy the arts in Park City is to attend the annual Kimball Arts Festival, typically held in early August.
Final Thoughts on Unique Things to Do in Park City
Visiting Park City, Utah, regardless of the time of year, is sure to be an enjoyable experience. Skiing and snowboarding are always a highlight! Be sure to enjoy some of these unique things to do in Park City as well to create a truly memorable experience! Check out the unique places to stay in Park City to enhance your visit. Search for additional lodging options below:
How to Get to Park City Utah
Park City, Utah, is very convenient due to its close proximity to Salt Lake City. Salt Lake City International Airport is a roughly 45-minute drive. Upon arrival at the airport, you have several transportation options to reach Park City. Public transportation to Park City from Salt Lake City is not great unfortunately.
Rent a car from one of the many agencies available at the airport, which gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding areas at your own pace. We use and recommend Discover Cars for rental car booking. Click here to check car availability of pricing.
Alternatively, there are numerous shuttle services, both shared and private, that offer direct transfers to Park City. Be sure to reserve well in advance, especially during ski season. Check availability of shuttle services below.
For those who just want to visit Park City and its sights for the day, the Ultimate Park City Tour includes the Olympic Park, hiking, and exploring many of the sights on Main Street.
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Travel Resources
We recommend booking through our preferred travel booking sites below.
Air Travel | SkyScanner |
Lodging | Booking.com, VRBO.com, Expedia.com, Hostelworld |
Tours and Activities | Viator.com, GetYourGuide.com |
Car rentals | Discovercars.com |
Travel insurance | Squaremouth |
Bike and scooter rentals | BikeBookings.com |
Train tickets | Trainline, RailEurope |
Bus tickets | Flixbus, Busbud |
[…] for more information. If you’re driving from Salt Lake City, we’d recommend stops in Park City, at the Utah Olympic Park, and Homestead Crater along the […]
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Park City looks like a beautiful and fun spot! Definitely skipping the ski jump!
The ski jump is fun to watch (not sure I’d do it either)
Bobsledding would be so much fun! I have a friend who just moved to Salt Lake City and we’ve been looking at Park City for a weekend, so this was helpful!
Great! Hope you have a chance to try the bobsledding.
It sounds like there are so many unique things to do in Park City! I want to try all of these! Bobsledding sounds like an especially exhilarating experience! What an amazing thing to try! Glass blowing and swimming in Homestead Crater sound unforgettable too – what an amazing place to visit!
I liked how unique these experiences are!
The bobsled looks like so much fun and then you can take a relaxing train ride. Sounds perfect to me!
Sounds like a great combination!
These activities are certainly unexpected. i would have ever imagined glass blowing workshop and Hot Air Balloon ride here.
There’s plenty of variety in activities in Park City. It makes for such a fun visit!
Looks like a fun place. I would enjoy the Egyptian Theatre, maybe even a glass blowing workshop. That would be cool.
It is a fun place!
I love Utah, but I have not been to Park City. It seems like a place with many things to see and do. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, hope you have a chance to visit.
What a rad assortment of FUN things to do! Wow!
Thanks!
What does it cost to take a hot air balloon ride? I’d love to do it!
It’s not cheap. $2000 for a private flight, $400 for one person on a shared on (as of today).
I visited Park City about 10 years ago and loved it. Next trip I will try Red Flower Studios for glass blowing. It will be a nice way to break up the day. izzy
That is a great way to balance an active day or get out of the sun a bit too!
[…] Moab, Utah, is a land of endless adventure and hidden wonders. When you head off the beaten path in Moab to avoid the crowds, you’ll find experiences that offer solitude, beauty, and a deeper connection to the natural world. Whether you’re hiking to secluded arches, sledding down sand dunes, or tracing the footsteps of dinosaurs, Moab’s off-the-beaten-path activities promise unforgettable adventures. For those flying in to Salt Lake City for their Moab visit, don’t miss a side trip to the Homestead Crater in Midway, Utah. It offers a truly one of a kind experience to swim, dive, or do paddle board yoga inside this unique crater. This is just one of the many unique things to do near Park City, Utah. […]
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