Whether you are visiting Utah, or if you fortunately live in the beautiful state, there is so much to do! One of the many fun activities to do is check out Park City and the Olympic Park. Park City is so much fun to visit even outside of ski/ snowboard season. And with Olympic Park being close by, you will have a full day of adventures ahead of you!

Keep reading to learn more about both of these must see landmarks!

Depending on where you are coming from, you can choose if you want to start in Park City or Olympic Park first. For us, we always started at Olympic Park- so we’ll start there on this blog!

Olympic Park

What is Olympic Park:

Olympic Park Utah, located in Park City, is a world-renowned sports complex originally built for the 2002 Winter Olympics. It served as the venue for events such as bobsled, skeleton, luge, and ski jumping. Today, Olympic Park remains a premier training facility for athletes and a popular destination for visitors seeking adventure and education.

The park offers thrilling activities like bobsledding on the Olympic track, zip-lining, and navigating a challenging ropes course. Additionally, it houses museums and exhibits that provide fascinating insights into the history of the Olympics and the evolution of winter sports, making it a must-visit for sports enthusiasts and families alike.

History of Olympic Park:

Like stated above, the park was built for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. The decision to build Olympic Park was part of a broader vision to create a world-class sports complex that would not only serve the immediate needs of the Winter Olympics but also provide a lasting legacy for winter sports in the region.

The park’s design incorporated cutting-edge technology and facilities to accommodate both athletes and spectators, making it one of the premier venues of the 2002 games. After the Olympics, Olympic Park transitioned from a temporary event venue to a year-round training and recreational facility. The park continued to support Olympic-level athletes, offering state-of-the-art training grounds and resources.

What to do at Olympic Park:

Beyond its role in elite sports, Olympic Park opened its doors to the public, allowing visitors to experience the thrill of winter sports firsthand. Additionally, the park’s museums and interactive exhibits educate visitors about the history and significance of the Winter Olympics, preserving the legacy of the 2002 games and inspiring future generations of athletes and enthusiasts. Olympic Park Utah offers a diverse range of activities that cater to thrill-seekers, history buffs, and families alike.

Visitors can experience the adrenaline rush of bobsledding on the same track used during the 2002 Winter Olympics or soar through the air on one of the park’s exhilarating zip lines. For those interested in testing their agility, the park features an extensive ropes course that challenges both beginners and seasoned climbers.

Olympic Park also hosts interactive exhibits and museums that delve into the history of the Olympics and the evolution of winter sports, providing educational opportunities for all ages. Guided tours offer deeper insights into the park’s significance and legacy, while seasonal activities such as tubing and freestyle skiing keep the excitement going year-round.

Whether you’re looking to push your limits or simply soak in the Olympic spirit, Olympic Park Utah is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences.

Also, if you time it up correctly, you will be able to watch qualifying rounds as the athletes train for the next winter olympics (see our pics below!)

When to visit Olympic Park:

Olympic Park Utah is a year-round destination, each season offering unique experiences that cater to a variety of interests.

During the winter months, from December to February, visitors can enjoy snow sports and activities like bobsledding, skiing, and snowboarding, taking full advantage of the park’s world-class facilities.

Spring and summer, from April to September, are ideal for those who prefer milder weather, perfect for zip-lining, navigating the ropes course, and exploring the scenic hiking trails.

Fall, from October to November, brings cooler temperatures and stunning autumn foliage, making it a great time for leisurely tours and enjoying the park’s educational exhibits.

Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of winter sports or the adventure of summer activities, Olympic Park Utah offers something special throughout the year. Devin and I visited the park in summer and fall- both were equally beautiful and fun!

Okay now that we have your trip to Olympic Park planned, now it is time to plan the rest of the day at Park City!

Park City

What is Park City:

Park City, Utah, is a picturesque mountain town renowned for its vibrant outdoor recreation, historic charm, and cultural richness. Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, Park City is home to two world-class ski resorts—Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain—which transform the town into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders from around the globe. Beyond its winter sports fame, Park City boasts a lively arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and the renowned Sundance Film Festival held annually.

Main Street, with its colorful buildings and eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and bars, offers a delightful blend of historic and modern appeal. Additionally, Park City’s extensive network of hiking and biking trails, along with activities like golfing and fishing, make it a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural experiences, Park City, Utah, provides a unique and memorable getaway.

History of Park City:

Park City, Utah, boasts a rich and varied history that dates back to the mid-19th century. Originally a small mining town, Park City was established following the discovery of silver in the surrounding mountains. In the late 1860s, prospectors flocked to the area, and the town rapidly grew into a bustling center of commerce and industry.

By the turn of the century, Park City was one of the wealthiest mining towns in the United States, producing millions of dollars worth of silver, lead, and zinc. However, like many boomtowns, Park City faced periods of decline, especially as the demand for precious metals waned and mining operations became less profitable.

The town’s fortunes took a dramatic turn in the mid-20th century with the rise of the ski industry. In 1963, the first ski resort, Treasure Mountain, opened (later renamed Park City Mountain Resort), marking the beginning of Park City’s transformation into a premier winter sports destination. This shift was further solidified when Deer Valley Resort opened in 1981, offering a more upscale skiing experience.

The 2002 Winter Olympics, which featured events held in Park City, brought international attention and investment, cementing its status as a world-class destination for both winter and summer activities. Today, Park City seamlessly blends its historic charm with modern amenities, offering visitors a unique combination of rich heritage, vibrant culture, and outdoor adventure.

What to do in Park City:

Park City, Utah, offers a diverse array of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, culture seekers, and relaxation lovers alike. In the winter, the town transforms into a snowy paradise with two world-renowned ski resorts: Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain. These resorts provide excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities, along with amenities like fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and vibrant après-ski scenes.

Beyond skiing, visitors can explore snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and even take a thrilling ride on the Alpine Coaster. For a unique experience, the historic Main Street is a must-visit, where you can stroll through art galleries, boutique shops, and enjoy the variety of restaurants and bars housed in beautifully preserved buildings from the town’s mining days.

During the warmer months, Park City’s mountain trails offer spectacular hiking and mountain biking adventures, showcasing stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains. The town’s extensive trail system caters to all levels, from leisurely nature walks to challenging mountain ascents. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy pristine courses with panoramic mountain backdrops, while Jordanelle Reservoir offers water sports such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing.

Cultural events and festivals, including the renowned Sundance Film Festival in January, bring a vibrant arts scene to life, drawing filmmakers and movie buffs from around the globe. Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the mountains, indulging in the local cuisine, or participating in one of the many seasonal events, Park City provides a rich and varied experience that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

When to go to Park City:

Park City, Utah, is a year-round destination with something to offer in every season.

Winter, from December to February, is ideal for those seeking world-class skiing and snowboarding at Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort, as well as other winter activities like snowshoeing and snowmobiling.

Spring and fall, from March to May and September to November, provide milder weather and fewer crowds, perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the town’s historic Main Street.

Summer, from June to August, brings warm temperatures and a lively atmosphere, with outdoor concerts, festivals, and a plethora of water sports at nearby reservoirs.

No matter the time of year, Park City offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural events, and scenic beauty, making it a perfect destination for any season. Devin and I visited Park City in the summer and fall- both were equally beautiful and exciting!