Ask yourself 3 questions. Why this unit? Why the Westgate? Why Park City? This condo is optimized for value. Unlike half-sized studios or other one bedrooms, it sleeps five. The decor radiates "mountain contemporary, having been refreshed in 2022 (vs rustic or ultra modern). Located in the newer, full-ownership wing, it's central to the liquor store, workout facility, two pools and lobby. And, as a Park City local, I optionally offer tours of the mountain. Ensure your vacation with value.
Why Westgate? Imagine pampered ease. Take public transport direct from the airport. If you have a car, use the valet or self-park for free (Vail now charges for parking to the general public during Winter). Services takes care of luggage and outdoor sports equipment, as well as making activity reservations. Multiple pools, hot tubs, steam rooms, free workout facility, yoga, and spa. Skis delivered direct to the gondola (no schlepping unless you want to). Plenty of activities to keep the kids busy (ping-pong, arcade, playground, tennis court and daycare). Free bus service to other Park City locations. Incredible restaurant options on-premise or within walking distance. Are there other luxury hotel resorts in the area? Sure. But, at days-end, as others tiredly trundle off to their cars, facing an hour long traffic jam, you are already home.
Why Park City? In winter, the town sports both the largest ski resort in the United States (Park City Resort), and the best rated (Skiing Magazine), Deer Valley. There are 4 groomed, cross country courses, an Adventure Sports Center (Woodward), and a couple of tubing tracks.
It's also home to the world-famous Sundance Film festival, and features national music and performance acts year-round.
In Summer, the town offers "Gold-level" rated mountain biking (only 6 in the world) , and a top-rated blue-ribbon fishery (brown, rainbow, and cutthroat trout). Over 400 miles of trails delivers easy access to phenomenal views across the Wasatch mountains. Pickleball and tennis courts, multiple golf courses (including one at the Canyons), and public swimming pools are all nearby. And for those who like music, there are free outdoor concerts in the park almost every day.
It's listed by Time Magazine as one of 50 must-visit places in the world. Located only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International airport, which offers the amenities of a major metropolis, Park City is a world-away from urban pressures. No where else in the country can vacationers travel so quickly and easily to a world-class center for outdoors luxury, including skiing, mountain biking, fishing, hiking and cultural activities. It may have started as a turn-of-the-century silver mining town, but its value is now measured in well-being and adventure.
Why spend your vacation in transit, when you can so quickly arrive in Park City? Why battle traffic and crowds when all your needs can be met at Westgate? Why overpay or underwhelm, when you can choose the best valued condo.
Other things to note
Brass tacks. No special check-in gymnastics. Just go to the lobby. During your stay, use all the hotel services. If there is a problem, call the lobby. Its that easy. Your cleaning fee covers preparation for the next guest. You want daily cleans? Call the lobby (that cost is on your dime).
The kitchen is stocked with pans, dishes, and cutlery. Stop at the local market (only 5 minutes away) for food. If you decide to rent a car, park either in free parking, or have valet take it away (tips???). Better yet, use the free hotel bus service, or the free town bus system (The Canyons is a transit center).
The unit comes equipped with 2 TV's that show standard cable. Alternatively, connect a PC (cable provided) to watch your favorite streaming services. Speaking of internet, wi-fi is free and found everywhere in the resort. There is a small business center to print documents, and make reservations.
The Westgate is structurally divided into two sections, joined by a connecting floor, with amenities shared to all. The older section (Bear/Elk) contains multi-owner time-share units, that experience higher velocity turn-over. The newer section (Moose/Bison) is where this unit is located. Quieter, lower wear and tear, and generally more up-to-date appointments. Bear/Elk is ever so slightly closer to the Canyon's Plaza, Moose/Bison is closer to the brand new Pendry Resort plaza with new restaurants.
Park City Mountain has two access points; Canyons base camp (where we are) and Mountain base camp. A ski lift joins the two, so you can start at one and move to the other. Ski/ride terrain is similar, with the Mountain offering more wide-open bowls, and the Canyons more trees. Because of proximity to Old-Town, the Mountain base receives about 30% more traffic (which is why they are now charging for parking). Less crowds is why we prefer this side. Vail offers the same services at both. Deer Valley is 15 minutes away (on the other side of Old Town), and the resorts of Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, Solitude, SnowBasin, and Powder are all within an hour drive.
What's the best time to visit Park City? Most locals came here because of the world-class skiing, but now stay for the amazing summers and autumn colors. Unlike other winter retreats, temperatures here average 25 degrees during the winter day (quite mild). In the summer that rises to 80 degrees. Absolutely no humidity (and pretty much no bugs).
The most busy time periods are Christmas/New Year, Martin Luther King and President's long weekends, Sundance film festival in late January, and spring break in March (for schools). Expect higher prices and more restricted restaurant reservations. In the Summer there are several soccer and baseball competitions, as well as the Arts Festival.
With so much going on (even the Pickleball Club is extremely active), Park City is a wonderful place to visit. I'd love to tell you more about my hometown. And maybe even show you around.
