Photo Courtesy of Sundance
Park City, Utah might be renowned for its world-class ski resorts, but this alpine destination offers luxurious experiences off the slopes as well. For travelers seeking unique memories in the mountains, Park City has something for the adventurous and leisurely alike.
The world’s largest independent film festival transforms this cozy mountain town into a cultural hot spot for 10 days every January (this year it runs from January 19-29). Whether you hope to spot a celebrity or enjoy inspiring independent film from across the globe, Sundance is a unique experience for movie buffs. Take a 'How to Fest Tour' from January 20-28 led by festival insiders down Main Street to have all your questions answered about the happenings around town. They are free and require no registration to participate. The plus for skiers? With much of the lodging secured by non-skiers, the slopes are often blissfully empty. For more festival details, visit Sundance.org. (Photo courtesy of Sundance)
Bobsledding
Luxury takes on many forms. For thrill-seekers, it can mean skydiving, bungee jumping, scuba diving or car racing. Many adventurers have crossed these activities off their bucket lists, but few can say they’ve experienced 5Gs of force while whipping around a real Olympic bobsled track at 80 miles per hour. You can give this ride a shot at the official site of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games at The Park City bobsled track at The Utah Olympic Park. Advanced reservations are usually required and while prices do vary depending upon the chosen session, they can start around $200 per person and operate from late November to mid March. Go to UtahOlympicLegacy.com for more information. (Photo courtesy of Utah Olympic Legacy)
World Cup Competition
The FIS (Fédération Internationale de Ski) Freestyle World Cup brings the best freestyle athletes in the world to Park City for a three-day competition and city-wide celebration. The 2012 event, starting on February 1, begins with an outdoor community concert on Park City’s Main Street followed by fireworks. All events are open to the public. For an enhanced experience, you can take part in the VIP Freestyle Feast, which includes dinner in a VIP tent, chairlift access for close spectator access, and a commemorative gift. To learn more, head to DeerValley.com. (Photo courtesy of FIS)
Wine School
School on vacation? When it’s the Fox School of Wine, you won’t want to be tardy. There’s a reason locals call this event, “educational happy hour.” The weekly social wine classes include tastings of five wines and discussion on grapes, regions and pairing. Classes cost $25 per person and are held every Friday and Saturday, or by private appointment in your own accommodations. Check out FoxSchoolOfWine.com to sign up. (Photo courtesy of Fox School of Wine)
Private Spa Treatments
Ski vacations need not exclude leisure-seekers. Some of Park City’s private ski homes, like Resorts West, give vacationers little reason to ever want to leave their heated decks. With saunas, steam rooms, whirling outdoor hot tubs, fitness rooms and massage areas, Park City’s ski homes can offer luxurious spa amenities. Through a private concierge, you can even schedule a professional massage, hot stone treatments, private yoga sessions, facials and other spa services in the comfort of your home. Visit ResortsWest.com to see more. (Photo courtesy of Resorts West)
