Many people consider Park City Mountain one of the best ski resorts in the United States — and it’s certainly the largest! Park City is also ideal for families with younger children, thanks to a wealth of fun activities that transform this powder-packed mountain into a genuine winter wonderland for kids. Finding things to do with toddlers in Park City is easier than you might think, even for first-time visitors to the Mountain.
This resort is split over two primary areas of amenities and accommodation: Park City Mountain Village and Canyons Village. When considering where to take toddlers in Park City, remember to check out both sides of the resort for season-long activities for kids 3 years old and up.
1. Toddler Ski Lessons
Combine laughter and learning when you take a family ski lesson at PCMR. The Ski and Ride school at the resort provides classes for all ages and every ability. Group lessons start from 3 years old — and toddlers can even have a go at snowboarding! Get your kids into a group with other toddlers of similar abilities and a qualified instructor. Alternatively, set up a private, personalized lesson that will help everyone in the family come to grips with the mountain. Ski lessons are available at both Park City Mountain Village and Canyons Village.
If you’re wondering where to take toddlers in Park City for their first skiing experience, you'll want to check out High Meadow Park. The gentle terrain here is ideal for learners of all ages, and forgiving for those who might fall a few times before they find their feet.
2. Resort Center Ice Skating Rink
Ice skating is a wonderful way to make memories as a family. Park City’s only outdoor ice rink is conveniently located at the base of the resort, and is open most days during the season. This is an ideal activity for younger kids as the rink offers complimentary "ice walkers" to all children, which help them find their confidence on the ice at their own pace. In addition, there are no time limits once you’re on the ice, meaning you and the little ones can skate until the rink closes if you want. All-day pass options mean you can leave and come back, which is ideal if you need to take toddlers for a snack or lunch break.
During the winter festive season, visiting the rink becomes one of the more magical things to do with toddlers in Park City thanks to fire pits, sparkling trees and lights, and outdoor heaters to keep you cozy when you’re taking a break from skating. For the grownups, there’s the nearby Pig Pen Saloon offering refreshments, and the staff at the rink is happy to offer recommendations about other onsite food and drink vendors.
Make sure you check the schedule before booking tickets. In the event of heavy snow in the forecast, the rink closes for the day. If you’re traveling in a large family group or meeting up with others, contact the rink to find out about special group discounts.
3. Kid Friendly Retail Therapy
Shopping sprees aren't just for grown-ups! With fabulous kid-friendly stores in and around Park City, you'll find plenty of opportunities to keep the smallest family members entertained and spend some of that vacation money.
J. W. Allen & Sons Toys and Candy is a treasure trove for kids, packed to the rafters with all types of toys, puzzles, activity books, and even musical instruments. If you want to make sure the toddlers have something to do when the weather is too wild to venture out to the slopes, this is where to stock up.
You can find J. W. Allen & Sons on Redstone Center Way, just a short walk from the Swaner Ecocenter nature reserve.
Another great stop for families with preschoolers is Rocket Fizz, a soda pop and candy store like no other. Expect your little ones to go wild for the thousands of candy varieties on offer, from chocolates to lickable slime! Find Rocket Fizz right in the heart of Canyons Village on Sundial Court.
4. Snowed Inn Sleigh Experiences
Booking a family experience with Snowed Inn Sleigh Company could be one of the best things to do with toddlers in Park City, especially if your little one loves cowboys or Westerns. The adventure starts with a unique horse-drawn sleigh-ride up the slopes of the mountain to a cozy lodge. Here, guests can enjoy dinner in a “Wild West” style setting, with a roaring fireplace and live music to keep everyone entertained.
Meal options at Snowed Inn Lodge range from local trout to mac and cheese, so even the fussiest of toddlers will be satisfied! There are also veggie options available upon request. To this date, they’ve never canceled a sleigh ride due to the weather, so wrap up warm and bring extra layers for the kids. Sleigh rides take around half an hour, while the full experience with dining takes around two hours.
5. Park City Museum
Regularly included in lists of best things to do with children in Park City, this museum is a fantastic, interactive day out for the whole family. Permanent exhibits offer fascinating insights into Park City's past and heritage, and you'll find countless kid-focused regular events. Learn about nearby abandoned mines, visit the old town jail, or even climb aboard a railcar!
Park City Museum is conveniently located right on Main Street, less than a 20-minute walk from PCMR.
Which of these activities would your toddler love to do when you come to Park City? There are plenty of other exciting activities to explore across this enormous resort, and lots of options for dining and relaxing. This is your mountain, so visit the resort website and take a look at all the amenities and activities available that can make your ski vacation a truly magical family experience.