When you think of Park City, Utah, images of snowy slopes and world-class skiing probably come to mind. But let me share a little secret with you: summer in this mountain town is just as magical, if not more so, for those of us apposed to the cold winter activities.
The snow melts to reveal lush green mountains, sunny skies, and a whole new world of adventure waiting just for you. It’s a time for exploration, connection, and soaking up that incredible mountain energy.
We’re about to journey through all the incredible experiences Park City offers when the weather is warm. From lively markets and thrilling outdoor activities to relaxing concerts under the stars, there’s a perfect summer moment here for everyone. Let’s dive into all the reasons you need to put Park City on your summer travel list
1. Historic Main Street
- Address: Main Street, Park City, UT 84060
- Website: historicparkcityutah.com
With its colorful, preserved Victorian buildings, Park City’s Main Street is the heart and soul of the town.
Spend an afternoon exploring the unique collection of art galleries, charming boutiques, and world-class restaurants.
When your feet get tired, just hop on the free trolley that runs the length of the street. It’s the perfect blend of history, culture, and modern mountain charm.
If you look carefully on the sides of the buildings you might find a piece of the famous Banksy’s art!
2. Park City Farmers Market
- Address: Park City Mountain Resort, 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060
- Website: parkcityfarmersmarket.com
There’s something so grounding about starting your day at a local farmers market. Every Wednesday, during summer, Park City Mountain Resort parking area transforms into a vibrant hub of local goodness.
You can wander through stalls overflowing with fresh produce, locally raised meats, artisanal cheeses, and beautiful handcrafted goods. It’s the perfect place to grab ingredients for a picnic, find a unique souvenir, and connect with the community that makes this town so special.
3. Park Silly Sunday Market
- Address: Historic Main Street, Park City, UT 84060
- Website: parksillysundaymarket.com
This isn’t just a market; it’s a full-blown street festival. Every Sunday in the summer, a portion of Main Street closes to traffic and transforms into the Park Silly Sunday Market.
Imagine a wonderfully eclectic mix of local artists, craftspeople, gourmet food vendors, live musicians, and performers. It’s a vibrant, quirky, and joyful celebration of everything that makes Park City unique. Come with an open mind and be prepared to be delighted.
4. Resort Pool Days
- Address: Various resorts like The St. Regis Deer Valley or Waldorf Astoria Park City
Sometimes, the best adventure is simply relaxing. On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better than unwinding by a beautiful resort pool.
Many of Park City’s hotels offer stunning pools with mountain views, comfortable loungers, and poolside service.
It’s the perfect way to recharge your batteries, soak up the sunshine, and treat yourself to a little bit of pampering.
Even in a tighter budget, you’ll find pools with striking views of the mountains (inescapable really), that you can lounge comfortably at, let the kids swim, and maybe sneak your cocktail in with your water bottle.
We stayed at the Club Wyndham Park City, which had everything we needed with a large 2 bedroom, balcony with views, gorgeous pool area, BBQ area, game room, and more starting around $160/night.
5. Scenic Chair Lift Rides or Aerial Tram
- Address: Park City Mountain Resort or Deer Valley Resort for Chair Lift
- Website: parkcitymountain.com
Let the mountain lift you to new heights. A scenic chair lift ride is one of the most serene ways to experience Park City’s breathtaking summer landscape. I can’t handle the open, clearly I’m going to fall out of, chair lift experience, so below are pictures of Snowbird’s Aerial Tram, more my style.
As you glide silently up the mountain, you’ll see a patchwork of green forests and vibrant wildflower meadows spread out below.
Once you reach the top, you can simply soak in the panoramic views or embark on a stunning high-altitude hike or bike ride. It’s a moment of pure peace and perspective.
6. Park City Mountain Resort Adventure Park
- Address: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060
- Website: parkcitymountain.com
Ready for some heart-pumping fun? The Adventure Park at Park City Mountain Resort is where your inner child can come out to play.
Fly down the mountain on the alpine slide, one of the longest in the world, or feel the rush on the mountain coaster.
With zip lines, a climbing wall, and miniature golf, there is an activity for every level of adventurer in your group. It’s a day of pure, exhilarating fun against a gorgeous mountain backdrop.
We checked this one out, but found that Snobird (later in this post) is by far our personal favorite and worth the further drive. Let me know in the comments which is your favorite.
7. Deer Valley Concert Series
- Address: 2250 Deer Valley Dr S, Park City, UT 84060
- Website: deervalleymusicfestival.org
Whether I am in the Pacific Northwest, Chicago or sunny California, I always believe music sounds better while sitting on a picnic blanket outside with scenery around you.
The Deer Valley Concert Series brings world-class musicians to the beautiful Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater, and let me tell you, the surrounding views pack a punch!
You however, will pack a picnic and a blanket, find a spot on the grassy hillside, and enjoy performances from the Utah Symphony and a variety of popular artists as the sun sets behind the peaks. It’s a truly enchanting experience that blends culture with the beauty of the great outdoors.
When we went, we chose Paul Simon’s music, sung by some very talented artists in combination with the Utah Symphony.
We enjoyed it so much, that while there, we booked tickets to see Paul Simon in person for the following week in Vancouver BC for when we got home. Can you really get enough of his music? I think not.
8. McPolin Farmstead
- Address: 3100 UT-224, Park City, UT 84060
- Website: parkcity.org
The iconic white McPolin Barn is one of Park City’s most beloved landmarks, and the farmstead surrounding it is a treasure. This beautifully preserved historic farm offers a glimpse into the area’s agricultural past.
You can tour around the houseside of the farmhouse at your leisure, walk the scenic nature trails, and learn about the family who built this impressive structure. It’s a peaceful spot that feels worlds away from the bustle of town.
Bonus: Large fields and ranches full of beautiful horses frame the farmhouse on all sides, so stop and take some photos and take a moment to baby talk to the friendly horses if you are like me.
9. Trailside Park
- Address: 5715 Trailside Dr, Park City, UT 84098
- Website: basinrecreation.org
This is not your average community park. Trailside Park is an adventurer’s dream, featuring a bike park with pump tracks and jumps for all skill levels, a top-notch skate park, and sports courts.
It’s a fantastic place for the whole family to get active and try something new. It was extremely hot when we visited, but we still took a moment to let the kiddo play and run on the equipment that is mostly covered with sunshades.
The surrounding trails are also perfect for a more relaxed hike or bike ride, offering beautiful views of the Snyderville Basin.
10. Fishing and Fly Fishing
- Address: Wasatch Mountain State Park, 1281 Warm Springs Rd, Midway, UT 84049
- Website: stateparks.utah.gov
The gentle rhythm of casting a line into a calm river or stream is a form of mountain meditation. The nearby Provo and Weber rivers are legendary for their fly fishing, offering a chance to reel in beautiful trout. There are many outfits eager to loan you the equipment and teach you how to fly fish.
If you are more interested in some casual fishing from the shore, Wasatch Mountain State Park is the perfect place to start.
They have a small stocked fishing pond where you can rent fishing gear at the visitor center next door and are “almost guaranteed to catch some fish”. Lots of families gather on the grass for picnics and leisurely fishing.
Wasatch Mountain State Park is full of activities and events year round, for however you choose to take in the park’s serene setting for a perfect day of unwinding in nature.
11. Paddleboarding & Kayaking
- Address: Jordanelle Reservoir or Deer Creek Reservoir
- Website: stateparks.utah.gov
Just a short drive from Park City lie stunning alpine reservoirs perfect for a day on the water. Rent a paddleboard or kayak and glide across the crystal-clear waters of the Jordanelle or Deer Creek reservoirs. Surrounded by mountains, you’ll feel a sense of freedom and tranquility as you paddle at your own pace. It’s a refreshing way to cool off on a warm summer day and a workout with unbeatable views.
12. Horseback Riding
- Website: Multiple outfitters available like Boulder Mountain Ranch or Red Pine Adventures
There’s a timeless romance to exploring the mountains on horseback. Let a gentle guide lead you through aspen groves and wildflower-filled meadows as you connect with nature in a truly special way. Several local outfitters offer guided rides for all experience levels, from one-hour treks to half-day adventures. It’s a chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and see Park City from a different, more grounded perspective.
13. Utah Olympic Park
- Address: 3419 Olympic Pkwy, Park City, UT 84098
- Website: utaholympiclegacy.org
Experience the spirit of the Olympics long after the games are over. The Utah Olympic Park, a key venue from the 2002 Winter Games, is an active training center and an incredible place to visit. You can watch future Olympians practice their awe-inspiring aerial ski jumps into a splash pool or even try a bobsled ride for yourself (yes, even in the summer!). The park also offers zip-lining, ropes courses, and a fascinating museum detailing Utah’s Olympic history.
14. White Water Rafting
- Website: Multiple outfitters available like Park City Rafting
For a dose of adrenaline, take a guided rafting trip down the nearby Weber River. This adventure offers the perfect mix of exciting rapids and calm, scenic floats, making it ideal for families and first-timers. Your expert guide will navigate the waters while you paddle, laugh, and splash your way through a beautiful canyon. It’s a wonderful team-building adventure and a fantastic way to make some unforgettable summer memories.
15. Heber Valley Railroad
- Address: 450 S 6th W, Heber City, UT 84032
- Website: hebervalleyrr.org
All aboard for a nostalgic journey through the scenic Heber Valley! This historic railroad offers themed train rides that transport you to another era. Travel alongside the shores of Deer Creek Reservoir and the Provo River on a beautifully restored vintage train. From murder mystery rides to scenic round trips, it’s a charming and relaxing way to see the beautiful countryside just outside Park City. On Monday evenings you can see a gun-slinging live action performance – kids and adults alike will love it. This train ride experience was one of our most memorable evenings.
16. Swaner Preserve & EcoCenter
- Address: 1258 Center Dr, Park City, UT 84098
- Website: swanerecocenter.org
Discover a hidden world of wetlands and wildlife right in Park City. The Swaner Preserve is a 1,200-acre refuge with over 10 miles of easy, flat trails perfect for walking or biking. The state-of-the-art EcoCenter features interactive exhibits about the local ecosystem. Climb the observation tower for a chance to spot sandhill cranes, moose, or other wildlife. It’s a peaceful and educational escape for all ages. This space is so beautiful and peaceful. I’d be here weekly if I lived here, including letting my son play in the EcoCenter. There are even classes and camps for kids to enjoy.
17. Park City Museum
- Address: 528 Main St, Park City, UT 84060
- Website: parkcityhistory.org
Take a step back in time and uncover the stories that shaped this incredible town. Located right on historic Main Street, the Park City Museum brings the area’s rich silver mining past to life.
Explore interactive exhibits, descend into a mock-up of a mine shaft, and even step inside the original territorial jail. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the town’s roots and appreciate the resilient spirit of the people who built it.
18. Snowbird Resort Adventures
- Address: 9385 S Snowbird Center Dr, Snowbird, UT 84092
- Website: snowbird.com
Just a scenic drive away, Snowbird Resort offers a whole other mountain of summer fun. Take the iconic Aerial Tram to the 11,000-foot summit of Hidden Peak for unbelievable 360-degree views. Once there, you can hike along the ridge or simply enjoy the crisp alpine air. The resort also boasts a mountain coaster, alpine slide, ropes course, and more, making it a worthy day trip for even more high-altitude adventure.
I didn’t get a good photo of the Alpine Slide and a lot of the other activities, but I can’t even express to you how much fun this was for us!! The Aerial Tram is show earlier in the post under #5, as well as an overview photo of the snake-like winding Alpine Slide.
As you can see, a summer trip to Park City is an invitation to play, explore, and reconnect with yourself and the natural world. It’s a place where every day brings a new opportunity for adventure and renewal.
And if your travels inspire you to explore more of Utah’s unique history, be sure to check out our journey through Utah’s amazing Dinosaur Museums for your next adventure!
