The holiday season is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for holiday experiences in Park City, Utah, we’ve got just the guide for you. Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains, this charming town is renowned for its stunning winter scenery, world-class ski resorts, and welcoming community. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or enjoying the festive atmosphere, Park City offers a variety of holiday events that are sure to create lasting memories for you and your family. Here’s a glimpse into some of the best holiday happenings that will make this season truly magical.
Snow Globe Stroll: A Winter Wonderland in Downtown Park City
Park City transforms into a holiday wonderland each season, and one of the most unique attractions is the Snow Globe Stroll. This festive walk along Historic Main Street features seven life-sized snow globes, each one themed around a beloved holiday song, such as “Let It Snow!” and “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” The entire street is adorned with sparkling lights and holiday decorations, including a giant Christmas tree and Santa’s mailbox. Whether you’re window shopping or simply enjoying the twinkling lights, the Snow Globe Stroll is a must-see event that runs from Thanksgiving through New Year’s.
Park City Holiday Spectacular and Sing-A-Long
If you’re in the mood for some holiday cheer and toe-tapping music, make sure to check out the Park City Holiday Spectacular and Sing-A-Long! Held annually at the historic Egyptian Theatre, this event features a showcase of local talent, including heartwarming choir performances and special sing-along sessions. Santa Claus himself often makes an appearance, adding to the festive fun. With several performances scheduled throughout the holiday season, it’s an event that’s perfect for families and holiday enthusiasts alike. Tickets are affordable, with prices starting at just $12 for children and $15 for adults, so be sure to secure your spot early for this beloved Park City tradition!
Santa Comes Down Town Lift: A Magical Arrival
What could be more exciting for kids (and adults) than Santa Claus arriving by ski lift? Santa Comes Down Town Lift is a fun and unique holiday event that takes place at Park City Mountain Resort. On December 21st, Santa will descend from the slopes, arriving at Town Lift Plaza at 5:00 PM. The best part? You and your family can take photos with Santa and enjoy complimentary cookies while listening to cheerful holiday tunes. It’s a magical way to kick off the final countdown to Christmas, so make sure to arrive early to grab a good spot!
Park City’s Festive Charm Awaits You
The holidays in Park City are something truly special. From the stunning winter landscapes to the cozy mountain town atmosphere, there’s no shortage of festive cheer around every corner. Whether you’re indulging in outdoor adventures or attending one of these unforgettable holiday events, Park City offers the perfect blend of winter fun and holiday spirit.
So, why not make this holiday season unforgettable? Reserve one of our vacation rentals in Park City today and experience the magic of the season in a way that only this charming mountain town can offer.
Want to purchase a rental investment property in Park City? Check out part 3 of our analysis below highlighting The Canyons. Looking for part 1 on Old Town Park City? Click here! Looking for part 2 on Deer Valley? Click here!
Looking for a property manager to support your rental investment property in Park City? Check out our free rental evaluation to get an estimate of the income you could earn!
- Lower Deer Valley – Just a quarter mile from historic Main Street, this area surrounds the Snow Park Base Lodge and offers a more accessible option for visitors. It’s a family-friendly spot with a mix of residences, ideal for those who want to be close to both ski slopes and the vibrant town life.
- Mid-Mountain Deer Valley – Located around Silver Lake Village, this neighborhood offers a balance of seclusion and accessibility, providing convenient ski access along with serene mountain views. It’s a favorite among vacationers seeking a quieter retreat.
- Upper Deer Valley – Known for its exclusive ski-in/ski-out properties, Upper Deer Valley offers some of the most luxurious and expansive real estate on the mountain. These homes are typically larger in size, with extensive interior and exterior living spaces, making them perfect for multi-generational groups.
Want to purchase a rental investment property in Park City, but don’t know where to start? Look no further! Our comprehensive guide lays out the pros and cons of each area to help you determine the best location to meet your needs.
Part 1: Old Town Park City – The Heart of Downtown
Park City is unique among ski towns for a number of reasons, but one of its standout features is its three world-class ski resorts. Each of these resorts offers its own set of pros and cons making Park City a highly desirable destination for all varieties of visitor types. However, for those considering purchasing a vacation rental property, it’s important to evaluate the nuances of each of Park City’s three core neighborhoods: Old Town Park City, Deer Valley, and The Canyons. Each offers different benefits, but also presents certain challenges when it comes to occupancy, guest convenience, and long-term investment value.
Old Town Park City: The Heart of Downtown
Old Town Park City is the historic heart of the city and offers a wealth of benefits for vacation rental owners. Its proximity to the iconic Main Street, with its abundance of shops, restaurants, and nightlife, makes it an attractive option for guests seeking a lively, walkable environment. The convenience of being able to stroll to all the best dining and entertainment is a major selling point and can contribute significantly to high occupancy rates and guest satisfaction.
However, there are some drawbacks to investing in this prime location. Firstly, property prices in Old Town are typically higher due to its popularity making it a more expensive area in which to buy. Additionally, much of the available inventory consists of older homes or smaller condos which may not meet the needs of larger groups or families. The downtown area’s architectural style also tends to be more vertical with multi-level floor plans due to the space constraints of the historic district. This can create challenges for families with young children or elderly travelers who may find it difficult to navigate multiple levels. Furthermore, the size of the bedrooms in many properties is often tight which can limit the flexibility of bedding configurations and reduce the property’s overall rental potential. In addition to all these factors, one should also consider the high cost of homeownership, especially in prime locations near Main Street and the slopes. Homeowners can face hefty fixed costs, such as high HOA dues and property taxes, which can make it challenging to maintain positive cash flow during the off-season months.
One commonly employed strategy for success in this area is purchasing a newly-remodeled, smaller condo. By offering the same location with first-rate amenities at a lower price point than a single-family homes, one utilizing this strategy can expect to achieve an above average ROI. To further maximize rental income potential, one should also prioritize floor plans that feature larger bedrooms capable of accommodating a mix of bed types—such as king and queen beds, bunk beds, and pull-out sofas. In addition, properties with multiple living spaces are also ideal as they can better cater to groups of varying ages and interests.
In summary, while Old Town Park City is an attractive area for both guests and property owners, it requires careful consideration. For the best return on investment, look for properties that are within walking distance to both skiing and downtown, and prioritize those with a lateral floor plan, spacious bedrooms, and manageable fixed costs. Such properties will provide the best combination of strong rental demand, equity growth potential, and long-term family enjoyment.
Upcoming Analyses: Deer Valley and The Canyons
In parts 2 and 3, we will dive into the rental investment dynamics of the Deer Valley and Canyons neighborhoods, offering a more detailed comparison to help guide your decision. Stay tuned!
Looking for a property manager to support your rental investment property in Park City? Check out our free rental evaluation to get an estimate of the income you could earn!
Are you dreaming of a relaxing mountain getaway to a vacation rental in Park City with a private hot tub? Look no further! Our curated selection of vacation rentals in Park City, complete with private hot tubs, promises an unforgettable experience. After a day on the slopes or exploring the charming downtown area, unwind in your own private oasis.
Why Choose a Vacation Rental with a Private Hot Tub?
Imagine soaking in a bubbling hot tub, surrounded by stunning mountain views, as the stars twinkle above. Here are a few reasons why choosing a rental with a private hot tub enhances your Park City experience:
- Ultimate Relaxation: After a long day of skiing, hiking, or biking, there’s nothing better than soaking in warm, soothing water.
- Privacy: Enjoy the tranquility of your own space, away from the crowds.
- Romantic Getaway: A hot tub adds a touch of romance to any vacation, making it perfect for couples looking to reconnect.
Featured Vacation Rentals with Private Hot Tubs
Here are some of our top picks for vacation rentals in Park City that come with the added luxury of a private hot tub:
Description:
Truly in the best location downtown, Norfolk Ski Escape 21 offers immediate ski trail access just steps from Quit ’n Time run and Town Lift at Park City Mountain Resort. One of the most unique locations on Norfolk Avenue, this estate is positioned at the top of the hill and nestled back into the trees, perched over downtown with a majestic mountain panorama and 5 fireplaces!
A mountain ski access oasis coupled with ideal walking access to downtown, this 6 bedroom residence offers an open space floor plan perfect for entertaining, a diverse bedding dynamic ideal for multi-generational family groups or corporate retreats alike, and offers lodging for 16 discerning travelers looking for the best of historic Old Town Park City.
Description:
A true mountain masterpiece in the heart of historic downtown Park City, Deer Valley Luxury Urban Lofts 03 is a super luxury ski residence just a block off historic Main Street on the lower section of Deer Valley Drive with a short and easy walk to skiing, restaurants, shopping, nightlife, and Sundance festivities.
This mountain modern masterpiece offers luxury lodging accommodations, state of the art technologies, a diverse bedding configuration for various group types, a roof top hot tub, radiant heated outdoor spaces and multiple entertaining areas for families and corporate stays.
Description:
By far one of our most stunning offerings, Main Street Luxury Retreat is a modern luxury ski residence on the corner of historic Main Street and Deer Valley Drive in the heart of Park City! Walk to skiing, shopping, restaurants, and Sundance festivities and everything historic Main Street has to offer.
This mountain modern retreat offers luxury lodging accommodations complete with a private roof top hot tub, radiant heated outdoor spaces, and a lower level media / entertainment room perfect for the whole family or corporate getaways alike.
Book Your Dream Park City Escape Today!
Don’t miss out on the chance to indulge in a relaxing vacation with a hot tub in one of our beautiful Park City rentals. Whether you’re planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, an adventure with friends, or a corporate retreat, we have the perfect unit for you.
Explore our complete list of vacation rentals in Park City with hot tubs and start planning your dream getaway today. Click here to check availability and book your stay!
Park City, Utah, is renowned for its stunning slopes and breathtaking mountain views. However, when the sun sets, the city transforms into a lively hub of nightlife. From cozy pubs to vibrant dance spots, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best bars in Park City that you won’t want to miss.
Starting off our list is the iconic No Name Saloon, a local favorite that embodies the spirit of Park City. With its rustic décor and vibrant atmosphere, this saloon is perfect for unwinding after a day on the slopes. Grab a seat on the patio to enjoy the stunning views while sipping on a cold beer or a craft cocktail. Don’t miss their famous buffalo burgers, which are a must-try for hungry patrons!
Downstairs
If you’re in the mood for something more energetic, Downstairs is the place to be. This multi-level bar and nightclub features a sleek design, top-notch DJs, and a dance floor that comes alive as the night progresses. The bar serves a variety of cocktails and an excellent selection of craft beers. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or enjoy an evening with friends, Downstairs has it all.
The Spur
For those seeking a mix of live music and great drinks, The Spur is a fantastic choice. This bar offers a cozy Western atmosphere with live music every night, featuring both local talent and touring bands. The extensive drink menu includes everything from classic cocktails to unique creations. Plus, their delicious bar bites make it a perfect spot for a casual dinner before hitting the dance floor. Enjoy the backroom with live music, or retreat to the rooftop! The Spur has all the variety you crave.
The Cabin
Nestled in the heart of Park City, The Cabin offers a warm and inviting ambiance that feels like a home away from home. With an upstairs casual modern environment and a downstairs that exudes an old-school bar vibe, this charming spot has something for everyone. Their seasonal specials and comfort food options make it a great place to unwind and savor the local flavors.
Flanagan’s Irish Pub
Last but certainly not least, Flanagan’s Irish Pub adds a touch of Ireland to Park City’s nightlife scene. The upstairs offers traditional Irish fare and a wide selection of beers and spirits, while the downstairs pub frequently hosts live music or karaoke nights in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a pint of Guinness and sit back as the Irish vibe takes you away. If you’re in Park City on spring break near St. Patrick’s Day, Flanagan’s is a must-visit!
Park City’s nightlife is as diverse as its landscape, offering a little something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual night out with friends or a lively party atmosphere, these top bars in Park City are sure to deliver an unforgettable experience. So, after a day of adventure, make sure to explore the vibrant nightlife scene that the town has to offer!
Looking for a place to stay to experience Park City nightlife? Check out our vacation rentals near Main Street!
Planning a last minute ski trip to Park City, Utah? With its breathtaking slopes and vibrant après-ski scene, there’s no better place for a last-minute adventure. However, given the last-minute nature of the trip, we understand the process can overwhelming, so we’re here to help you make the most of your trip! Here are some tips to ensure a seamless and enjoyable ski vacation.
1. Choose the Right Accommodations
Finding the perfect place to stay is key to an unforgettable ski trip. Our vacation rentals offer convenient access to the slopes and local attractions, making it easy to hit the ground running. Many of our properties have flexible booking options and last-minute deals, so you can find the ideal home away from home without breaking the bank.
2. Rent Gear Locally
Don’t worry about bringing your ski equipment! Park City boasts several local shops that offer high-quality rentals including plenty of options for ski valet and at home boot fitting service and delivery. We recommend securing your gear in advance online, ensuring you’ll have everything you need upon arrival. Check out our partner, Ski Valet Park City, at the link here for a 15% discount on ski rentals!
3. Buy Lift Tickets Ahead of Time
Make your experience smoother by purchasing lift tickets online. This allows you to skip the ticket lines at the resort and head straight to the slopes. Look for deals on multi-day passes to maximize your time on the mountain—more skiing means more fun! Both the Epic Pass and Ikon Pass are great choices to explore the mountains near Park City.
4. Transportation Made Easy
If you’re flying into Salt Lake City, consider our tips for stress-free transportation. Airport shuttles and car rentals are readily available, making it simple to reach Park City. Enjoy the scenic drive and get ready for an unforgettable getaway! You may want to avoid ridesharing (Uber and Lyft) in the winter as many drivers do not want to venture into the mountains, and they can often be unreliable options for return trips to the airport from Park City.
5. Be Open to Spontaneity
Embrace the excitement of a last-minute trip! Allow for flexibility in your itinerary, whether it’s discovering new trails, trying out snowshoeing, or indulging in delicious local cuisine. Our rental team is happy to provide recommendations for nearby restaurants and activities to enhance your stay.
6. Book Your Stay Today!
Ready to hit the slopes? Browse our collection of vacation rentals in Park City and secure your ideal getaway today. Whether you’re looking for a cozy condo or a spacious lodge, we have options that cater to every need. Your adventure awaits, and we can’t wait to welcome you to Park City!
Start planning your last-minute ski vacation now and experience all the magic this winter wonderland has to offer!
Looking for the best Park City trick-or-treat spots? Look no further! We have you covered. Exploring Park City during the fall season offers a delightful array of experiences: stunning autumn colors, refreshing weather, and festive celebrations, but if you’re traveling with kids, they’ll assuredly want to keep their Halloween traditions alive, especially the excitement of trick-or-treating. Fortunately, Park City has some fantastic spots for your family to enjoy this spooky season. Here are the top places for trick-or-treating in Park City:
Howl O Ween
One of the standout Halloween events in the area is Howl O Ween, which takes over Historic Main Street. This beloved event transforms the street into a haven for costumed children and their furry friends, as it’s not just kids who get to dress up! Main Street is closed off to traffic, making it safe and fun for families to stroll and gather treats from local shops. Taking place on Halloween Day, participating businesses will be giving out candy to all the little ghouls and goblins. Plus, it’s a dog-friendly event, so you can expect to see plenty of adorable pets in costume, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Howl O Ween occurs on October 31st from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and the event is free for everyone. Since traffic is restricted, parking can be tricky. We suggest using public transportation or parking at the free satellite lots near Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain. Otherwise, there are a few paid parking structures dotted throughout downtown.
Neighborhood Trick-or-Treating
Park City is known for its picturesque scenery, and exploring the neighborhoods while trick-or-treating can be a memorable experience. Many of our vacation rentals are conveniently located near Historic Main Street, making it easy to walk to events like Howl O Ween. Alternatively, if you choose a rental at Deer Valley Resort, you might find friendly neighbors eager to hand out treats. Keep an eye out for homes with their lights on, as those are typically participating in trick-or-treating. If you have any questions about the safest neighborhoods, feel free to reach out to our team for guidance.
Celebrate the Spirits 2024
Another family-friendly event to check out is Celebrate the Spirits, a delightful celebration of Halloween held at Willow Creek Park. This annual event features two hours of fun, including daytime trick-or-treating for kids in costume. Organized by Basin Recreation, this celebration is perfect for families with children of all ages. Along with trick-or-treating, attendees can enjoy activities like costume contests and festive fall games. Participation in the trick-or-treating costs $15 per child, with little ones aged 2 and under attending for free. Those just interested in the costume contest and other activities can join in at no charge! Mark your calendars for Celebrate the Spirits on October 26th from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Willow Creek Park.
More Halloween Adventures
Trick-or-treating isn’t the only way to enjoy Halloween in Park City. There are numerous family-oriented activities that promise fun for everyone. For a spooky experience, check out the Haunted Forest at Park City Gardens throughout October. The gardens are beautifully decorated for the season, ensuring a memorable outing that will create lasting memories of your time in Park City.
Plan Your Halloween Getaway
With all these exciting trick-or-treating spots in Park City, it’s the perfect time to plan your Halloween adventure. Be sure to book one of our vacation rentals early to secure the best accommodations for your family!
As fall sets in, it’s an ideal time to start preparing your ski property for the colder months ahead with fall maintenance for your vacation rental. Proactive maintenance is crucial for ensuring a smooth experience for guests which will lead to positive reviews and repeat bookings in future seasons.
For those who have recently acquired a property in a ski town, it’s important to note that overnight temperatures in high elevations frequently drop below freezing while daytime highs may still reach the 70s. This temperature fluctuation can lead to issues that might not be apparent until they become visible problems.
Here’s a list of common proactive maintenance tasks to evaluate each year:
- Replace Batteries: Smoke detectors, remote controls, front door locks, and garage keypads
- Appliances: Refrigerator and appliance filter replacements
- HVAC System: Safety evaluations and filter replacements
- Boiler System: Evaluations for radiant boilers
- Air Conditioning & Heating: Shut down of A/C and testing of heating systems
- Heat Tape: Activate for roofs and water lines
- Water Heater: Flushing and evaluations
- Water Softener: Evaluations and salt refills
- Sprinkler System: Blowouts and fall exterior cleanup
- Fireplace: Safety evaluations
- Wood-Burning Fireplace: Chimney sweeping
- Firewood: Restock in advance of season
- Other Bulk Supplies: Restock in advance of season (e.g., paper towels, toilet paper, etc.)
- Grill: Condition check and cleaning
- Exhaust Fans and Dryer Vents: Cleaning
- Dishwasher and Laundry Machines: Cleaning
- Faucets and Drains: Inspection and cleaning of aerators, sinks, tubs, and showers
- Garage Door: Lubrication and inspection
- Outdoor Furniture: Store for winter
- Windows: Cleaning
- Heating Vents and Ducts: Cleaning
- Carpets: Deep cleaning
- Hot Tub: Cover integrity check and replacement as needed
It’s essential for your property manager to stay on top of these tasks as cold temperatures and the busy revenue season approach. The key to a successful ski season lies in thorough preparation and proactive problem prevention. Need someone to look after your ski home? Consider us as your property manager of choice. We’re always thinking ahead to ensure your vacation rental is season ready year-round!
What is the best vacation rental marketing strategy for listing your property? Many property managers claim that technology and tools like dynamic pricing are the keys to success. But what happens when everyone uses the same tools and technologies? You may find yourself lost in a sea of similar listings, making it difficult for your property to stand out. To understand the Vacuum Approach to your vacation rental marketing strategy, it’s important to first grasp the key drivers of property visibility. These include:
Competitive Pricing: This is the number one factor for gaining visibility in search results. Guests often sort and filter by price first, so maintaining competitive pricing is critical, especially when a property is new to the rental market.
Number of Reviews: Second only to price, the number of reviews your property has across various marketing channels drives visibility in vacation rental algorithms and directly influences how often your property appears at the top of search results.
Diverse Exposure: Listing your property on multiple well-trafficked platforms is essential for standing out in a competitive rental market.
To best leverage these algorithms and maximize listing visibility, the Vacuum Approach suggests starting with competitive rates to “suck” in views from your competitors. This leads to more bookings and more reviews. After accumulating reviews and a successful booking history, you can gradually raise your rates, ensuring your position remains stable in search results even as you adjust pricing.
Many property managers today employ an inverse strategy to the Vacuum Approach by starting prices at a maximum and discounting to fill gaps in their booking calendars. The issue with this strategy is that it often takes a year or more for a property to gain credibility in the market, as it gets buried under older, higher-ranking listings. As a result, the Vacuum Approach can often be the better choice for launching a new vacation rental property successfully.
Considering a property manager switch for the ’24-’25 ski season? Give us a try! We’d love to hear from you.