Where to Stay in Park City for a Memorable Summer Trip

Marriott’s MountainSide Resort: A Reliable Retreat for Families

Our family has an enduring affinity for Marriott properties, a loyalty born from their consistent quality, excellent amenities, and reliable service across various destinations. Marriott’s MountainSide Resort in Park City proved to be a fitting choice for our summer stay, embodying all the reasons we continually return to the brand. Nestled conveniently at the base of Park City Mountain Resort, its location is prime, offering quick access to the main village area, a short drive to historic Main Street, and immediate proximity to various summer activities like scenic gondola rides and trailheads.

We opted for a spacious two-bedroom suite, which truly felt like a home away from home. The highlight was undoubtedly the full kitchen, an absolute game-changer for a family trip. This amenity allowed us the flexibility to prepare hearty breakfasts – often featuring our go-to overnight oats – and pack nutritious lunches like peanut butter and banana sandwiches for our daily hikes. Not only did this significantly cut down on dining expenses, but it also offered a relaxed start to our mornings, free from the rush of restaurant schedules. The suite itself was generously sized, providing ample room for everyone to spread out, unwind, and recharge after active days exploring the mountains, equipped with all the necessary comforts one would expect from a quality resort.

While the resort’s design and offerings are undeniably tailored to the bustling winter ski season, its summer appeal is still significant. During our visit, the atmosphere was pleasant, albeit with a noticeable presence of families with small children enjoying the inviting outdoor pool and recreational areas. This created a lively, family-friendly environment. Our only minor critique was the absence of a balcony in our particular suite. While not a deal-breaker, having a private outdoor space to sip coffee and take in the crisp mountain air would have been a lovely addition. Despite this small point, Marriott’s MountainSide remains a highly recommended choice for families and groups seeking comfort, convenience, and excellent amenities for their Park City summer adventure, especially if the benefits of a full kitchen and spacious living areas are a priority.

Where to Go and What to Do in Park City: Summer Adventures Await

Our Park City itinerary was heavily weighted towards embracing the great outdoors, with hiking at the forefront of our activities. I’ll humorously admit, we started as what one might call “terrible hikers,” often finding ourselves delightfully (or sometimes frustratingly) off the beaten path. However, with each new trail conquered and every misstep corrected, we significantly improved our navigation skills and endurance, truly embodying the spirit of mountain adventure. For fellow aspiring hikers, remember to always bring plenty of water, check weather conditions, and perhaps download an offline map! Here are some of our favorite and most memorable activities from the week:

Mirror Lake and the Highline Trail: Serenity in the Uinta Mountains

This particular hike stands out as perhaps the most tranquil and picturesque experience of our entire trip. The Highline Trail, while occasionally challenging to navigate due to less-than-perfect markings, offered a truly peaceful escape into nature’s embrace. We encountered only a handful of fellow adventurers, mostly campers, along the trail, making for a predominantly solitary journey through breathtaking landscapes. The profound quietude allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the natural beauty, appreciating the stunning vistas of the Uinta Mountains, with their rugged, ancient peaks, pristine forests, and crisp alpine air. After completing a segment of the Highline Trail, we made a quick 30-second detour to Mirror Lake. This jewel-toned alpine lake, perfectly reflecting the majestic surroundings like a glass mirror, offered a truly spectacular view that felt like a serene reward after our exertions. It’s a definite must-do for anyone seeking a serene mountain experience and stunning photography opportunities near Park City.

Retail Therapy at Tanger Outlet Mall: A Welcome Break

For those times when a break from the invigorating mountain trails is desired, or if you’re simply in the mood for some fantastic deals, the Tanger Outlet Mall provides a superb alternative. My wallet certainly felt the pleasurable impact, but I managed to snag some incredible steals and refresh my wardrobe with stylish finds! I found fantastic bargains and unique pieces at popular stores like J.Crew, Gap, and American Eagle. It’s a great destination to indulge in a bit of retail therapy, find souvenirs, or simply enjoy a different kind of adventure away from the slopes, especially on a day with less-than-ideal hiking weather.

Bald Mountain Trail: A Challenging Ascent with Unforgettable Views

The Bald Mountain Trail is widely celebrated as offering access to the highest peak in the Uinta Range and promises some of the most spectacular vistas in Northern Utah. I can unequivocally confirm that this hike lives up to its challenging reputation. The ascent is quite strenuous, a continuous climb that relentlessly tests your stamina and leg strength, and the significant elevation certainly made breathing a bit more demanding for us lowlanders. Despite the physical challenge, the views on the way up were absolutely mesmerizing, offering expansive panoramas that stretched for miles across the dramatic Uinta wilderness, truly showcasing the raw beauty of Utah’s high country.

However, our ambitious attempt to reach the very summit in mid-July was humorously thwarted by an unexpected obstacle: a significant, stubborn patch of snow blocking the trail! While it was a surprising and slightly inconvenient sight in the middle of summer, safety always comes first in the mountains. I wasn’t prepared to risk navigating potentially treacherous snow conditions at such an altitude without proper gear. Despite not reaching the absolute pinnacle, the challenging journey itself was incredibly rewarding, offering unparalleled views and a true sense of accomplishment that defines the grandeur of the Uinta wilderness.

Mountain Biking (and Hiking) at Deer Valley Resort: Know Your Limits

This activity comes with a strong, experience-based recommendation: if you possess zero mountain biking experience, proceed with extreme caution – or perhaps consider opting for hiking instead! As a decent city biker accustomed to paved paths, I thought I might fare reasonably well, but I must admit, I epically failed at mountain biking on Deer Valley’s challenging terrain. We mistakenly chose hills that offered no beginner-friendly options, leading to an eventful series of multiple falls and a dislodged bike chain. After the fifth tumble, and a clear realization of my limits and burgeoning frustration, I wisely decided to call it a day on the bike. Sometimes, knowing when to pivot is the best part of an adventure!

Instead, I took the incredibly scenic chairlift back up the mountain, soaking in the panoramic vistas. I then handed my bike over to my more experienced dad to ride down, while I enjoyed a wonderful and considerably less perilous hike down the mountain with my mom. The views from the chairlift ride and throughout our peaceful descent on foot were absolutely spectacular, showcasing Deer Valley’s pristine beauty in full summer bloom with lush greenery and vibrant wildflowers. If you’re not an experienced mountain biker, I wholeheartedly recommend taking the chairlift for the breathtaking views and then enjoying a leisurely, rewarding hike down the beautifully maintained trails. It’s an excellent way to experience the mountain’s splendor without the adrenaline (or inevitable tumbles) of extreme biking.

Sundance and Stewart Falls Hike: A Picturesque and Rewarding Journey

This particular excursion was undoubtedly one of the absolute highlights of my entire trip. Our adventure began by taking a picturesque chairlift ride up at the legendary Sundance Resort, an experience I wholeheartedly recommend. The ascent itself offered truly spectacular panoramic views of the entire property, the charming artisan village, and the surrounding verdant canyons – a breathtaking feast for the eyes and a perfect start to our day. From the top, we embarked on a delightful and moderately challenging hike down to Stewart Falls, a magnificent, multi-tiered cascade that plunges over 200 feet, creating a truly gorgeous and refreshing natural spectacle amidst the lush forest.

The most unforgettable part of the entire experience was the subsequent hike down from the falls towards the main Sundance property. As we turned back to survey the path we had traversed, we were greeted with an absolutely stunning and expansive view of Stewart Falls nestled majestically within the verdant, rolling landscape, a sight that truly captivated us and solidified this as a core memory. The combination of the tranquil chairlift ride, the invigorating hike, and the magnificent Stewart Falls makes this a quintessential Park City summer activity for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Olympic Village at Park City: Reliving Athletic History and Thrills

A visit to the Utah Olympic Park, one of the primary venues for the historic 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games, is an absolute must when exploring Park City. We embarked on an incredible and immersive tour of the sprawling site, an experience made even more special as it was led by a charismatic three-time Olympian! Hearing firsthand accounts, insightful anecdotes, and behind-the-scenes stories directly from an actual Olympian about the games and the world-class facilities was truly inspiring and immensely educational, providing a unique perspective on athletic excellence. During our visit, we had the unique opportunity to witness ski jumpers in their summer training, which involves launching off massive ramps into a refreshing pool of water – a fascinating, gravity-defying, and impressive display of year-round athleticism.

For the more adventurous souls in your group, the Olympic Park also offers incredibly thrilling activities that are open to the public, such as the summer bobsled rides (an exhilarating descent down an actual Olympic track!) and various zipline features. While I wasn’t feeling quite “sassy” enough or brave enough to attempt these heart-pounding features myself on this particular trip, I definitely recommend them for anyone looking for an unparalleled adrenaline rush and a taste of Olympic-level thrills. The park provides an engaging blend of rich history, inspiring sports, and exhilarating adventure, making it a fantastic experience for visitors of all ages and interest levels.

Where to Eat in Park City: A Delightful Culinary Journey

With the convenience of our full kitchen at Marriott’s Mountainside, we made good use of it for preparing nourishing breakfasts, often enjoying hearty bowls of overnight oats, and for packing simple yet satisfying lunches like peanut butter and banana sandwiches for our daily hikes. This strategic approach allowed us the freedom and budget to fully indulge in Park City’s diverse and exciting culinary scene for dinner without any guilt. From casual eateries to fine dining establishments, Park City offers something for every palate. Here are some of the notable dining experiences we had:

Bandits Grill & Bar: Hearty American Comfort Food

If you’re in search of an unpretentious, satisfying, and delicious meal, Bandits Grill & Bar is an excellent and reliable choice. While it’s certainly not a fine dining establishment, the quality of the classic American comfort food was consistently good, served in a relaxed, family-friendly setting that makes you feel right at home. A friendly warning to anyone considering ordering the chicken: prepare for extraordinarily generous portions! It truly felt like enough chicken to comfortably feed our entire family, making it fantastic value and perfect for sharing or enjoying delicious leftovers the next day. Bandits offers a hearty and no-frills dining experience that hits the spot after a day of mountain adventures.

Purple Sage: An Unforgettable Dining Experience on Main Street

Purple Sage easily claimed the title of one of my favorite meals of the entire trip, leaving a lasting impression. The restaurant exudes a charming, upscale-casual Western ambiance, featuring rustic-chic decor that perfectly complements its innovative and expertly crafted menu. I ordered the chimichurri steak with a side of perfectly crispy fries, and it was absolutely divine – cooked to perfection, bursting with vibrant flavors, and incredibly tender. Every member of our party wholeheartedly agreed on the exceptional quality and artistry of the food. My mom’s duck dish, pictured here, also looked incredibly appetizing and received rave reviews from her. This is undoubtedly a spot I would highly recommend for a memorable and truly exceptional dinner experience in Park City, perfect for a special evening out.

Great Harvest Bakery: A Haven for Gluten-Free Delights

Thanks to an enthusiastic recommendation from my friend C’s mom, I was introduced to the wonderful world of Great Harvest Bakery, a chain that truly shines for its exceptional gluten-free bread and an irresistible array of delightful treats. We visited this charming bakery twice during our stay, eager to sample more of their fresh offerings. Both times, I happily indulged in their delicious turkey sandwich, served on their truly fantastic gluten-free bread. It’s genuinely rare to find such high-quality, flavorful, and perfectly textured gluten-free options, and Great Harvest truly delivers on all fronts. As a testament to its quality, I sincerely wish this beloved bakery would expand its reach to Canada so I could enjoy it more often!

Squatters Roadhouse Grill: A Lively Brewpub with Diverse Options

While the food at Squatters Roadhouse Grill didn’t quite win me over with its flavor profile – I ordered a buffalo burger on a gluten-free bun with a side salad, and it felt a bit underwhelming in taste – the establishment does boast an impressively extensive array of gluten-free and vegan options, which is a significant and commendable plus for those with dietary restrictions. What truly sets Squatters apart and makes it a local institution is its identity as a bustling brewpub, making its own craft beer on-site. If you’re a connoisseur of local craft brews and enjoy sampling unique, freshly brewed flavors, this is unequivocally your spot. It offers a lively, energetic atmosphere, perfect for unwinding with a local pint and socializing after a long day of Park City adventures, even if the food might not be the absolute highlight for every diner.

Bangkok Thai on Main: Unexpected Thai Excellence in the Mountains

I was genuinely pleasantly surprised to discover such authentic and delicious Thai food nestled amidst the mountainous landscape of Park City. Bangkok Thai on Main offered a truly great meal, characterized by fresh ingredients, expertly balanced flavors, and an equally impressive wine selection to complement the cuisine. While it certainly leaned slightly towards the pricier side for Thai fare, the overall exceptional quality, inviting ambiance, and delightful dining experience more than justified every penny. Every dish we sampled was fantastic, but the sea bass stood out as particularly exquisite – perfectly cooked, incredibly flavorful, and beautifully presented. If you’re craving authentic and high-quality Asian flavors during your Park City visit, this is a highly recommended and delightful culinary stop.

Talisker on Main: Fine Dining with Inventive Flavors

Talisker on Main represented the pinnacle of our culinary journey in terms of sophistication, easily being the fanciest and most refined meal of our trip. While the service was a bit unremarkable – not overtly bad, but certainly not as attentive or polished as one might expect from an establishment of this caliber – the food itself was absolutely superb and truly compensated for any minor service lapses. I was particularly enamored with my buckwheat veggie risotto, a dish that was both inventive and deeply satisfying, showcasing a masterful blend of unique flavors, textures, and impeccable presentation. The desserts were nothing short of incredible, providing a spectacular finale to our meal; the chocolate mousse paired with pistachio ice cream was a truly decadent and unforgettable sweet treat. Talisker on Main is undoubtedly the place to go for a special occasion or if you’re seeking a refined, adventurous, and memorable fine dining experience in Park City.

Reflecting on Our Park City Summer Escape: Memories and More Adventures

Beyond the myriad thrilling activities and incredible culinary discoveries, our Park City adventure was also filled with plenty of cherished moments of relaxation and, naturally, a fair bit of enjoyable wine – it was a well-deserved vacation, after all! Sharing these experiences with my amazing and generous parents made every moment even more special. Their generosity in making this trip possible allowed for the creation of unforgettable memories, from conquering challenging hikes together to savoring delightful dinners and simply enjoying each other’s company amidst stunning scenery. It truly underscores how enriching and invaluable family travel can be, fostering stronger bonds and creating shared stories that last a lifetime.

Park City in the summer offers a unique and captivating blend of exhilarating outdoor adventure, enriching cultural experiences, and sophisticated gastronomic delights. It’s a versatile destination that caters wonderfully to diverse interests, whether you’re an avid hiker seeking breathtaking trails, a keen shopper looking for unique finds, a history buff eager to explore Olympic legacies, or a dedicated foodie on a quest for exceptional meals. We departed from this Utah gem with refreshed spirits, a deeper connection as a family, and a profound appreciation for the beauty and vibrant energy that Park City radiates in the warmer months.

But our grand Western adventure didn’t conclude in Utah; next on our exciting itinerary was the stunning and majestic Jackson, Wyoming, which quickly became my absolute favorite part of the entire trip, promising even more breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Stay tuned for a detailed guide to that extraordinary destination!