DESTINATION - PARK CITY, UTAH

A few weeks back, we traveled to Park City, Utah to check out venues, enjoy the fresh powder, and ring in the New Year. This was our first time in Park City and we now fully understand why those who've gone rave about it. It's full of delicious restaurants, amazing boutiques, and some of the friendliest people we've come across (not to mention gorgeous natural surroundings everywhere you look), making it the perfect winter wedding destination or corporate retreat spot.

Whether you're coming to town for Sundance, imagined your wedding overlooking the slopes, or simply there to winter sports, we've put together a list of helpful tips, places to see, and favorite restaurants.

TRANSPORTATION:

Park City is a super close, 45 minute drive from SLC airport. It's extremely easy to get to, which is part of why it's such a destination. We chose to travel to and from the airport via Lyft XL but if you're looking to arrange transportation for your group, especially for your corporate or wedding group, we recommend Protrans - they've got a great fleet of luxury SUVs and Shuttles.

The big question is do you need a vehicle when in Park City - the answer is no. Between the free bus system, the Main St trolley, and ride share you don't need to bother getting wheels.

DINING: This list was really hard to put together because pretty much everywhere we ate we enjoyed our meals (and that's saying a lot of this group!). We strongly recommend making reservations before arriving - it was virtually impossible to get a dinner table for 4 with same week reservations (lucky we got everything booked before arriving, because we're planners - duh).

Twisted Fern - this new american restaurant was our first dinner in town and it did not disappoint. The service was great and every dish was flavorful and executed well. Our favorite app was the grilled octopus (probably top 3 we've ever had) and a tie for best entree - the gnocchi and the hamburger.

Courchevel is a bistro right on the main street in Park City. It's part of the exclusive Talisker Club and that absolutely translates to the dining ambiance. The space has an attached cafe, as well as a members only private indoor-outdoor lounge and patio. The sommelier was incredibly helpful and their duck entree was the star of the show. The desserts here are also noteworthy.

Versante Heath + Bar is a delicious italian restaurant, popular with the locals (it's slightly off the beaten path but well worth the visit). We had our NYE dinner here, and the pizzas were the bomb (as well as everything else we tried).

Lookout Cabin is great if you're on the slopes. We really enjoyed their salmon salad and the thai mussels (amazing!). And on a sunny day, enjoy their famous bloody mary's on the deck overlooking the slopes.

SHOPPING: Main Street has a fabulous selection of boutiques, everything from winter clothes to home accessories - made us wish we brought an empty suitcase to fill up with all the goodies. Park City Mercantile is the place to pick up gifts (even for yourself!), from natural clay dishes by Porter Ceramic Goods to styling products for every nook of your home.

Flight Boutique is what closet dreams are made of. The owners, Kristen Doyon + Blaire Isleib, have done an amazing job curating hip, fashion-forward, and edgy pieces. The best part? You can keep shopping with them even after leaving Park City directly on their website!

LOCAL EXPERIENCES: As you checkout different restaurants and bar menus, you'll start noticing Alpine Spirits in many of the cocktails. This Park City-based distillery opened up shop in 2011 and makes truly tasty sips. Aside from buying a few bottles to take home, you can also make a custom gin at their Alpine Pie Bar experience. They'll guide you through selecting botanical infusions and your one-of-a-kind concoction will be ready for pickup later in the day. How cool?? This would also make a great take-away for your guests or as part of welcome gift bags.

Ritual Chocolate is a small batch bean-to-bar craft chocolatier, founded in 2010 by Robbie Stout and Anna Davies. We're not only obsessed with the flavors of their creations but also the packaging. You can order online, sign up for a monthly subscription, or head directly to the source to witness the magic in person. Their cafe serves up coffee, chocolate drinks, and a small selection of food bites. And if you're thinking about what to include in your welcome bags or guest take-aways, these chocolates are the perfect addition. WEDDING + EVENT VENUES: We were excited about the variety of venues available in Park City - from modern galleries to cozy outdoor spaces with incredible views, there is a space for all your events. Below are just a few of our favorites:

Kimball Art Center is an industrial space with rotating exhibits. On warmer days, their courtyard makes the perfect entertainment space. Deer Valley Resort has many different options - whether you're looking for an indoor ballroom, a lodge, or an outdoor space. For your guests who ski, this resort is a dream - ski in and ski out, no snowboarders allowed. And for those guests less inclined to participate in skiing, they can easily head into Park City via free bus system, or stay in and explore the various restaurants onsite.

St Regis is nestled in the Deer Park mountains, with a gondola that takes you to the main property from the valet stand. Of course any event held here comes with the impeccable St Regis service and delicious cuisine, not to mention all the outdoor spaces.

Park City proved to be a dreamy destination and we can't wait to take bring our clients here. And if you go, have an incredible time and let us know if you discover any other hidden treasures!