Nestled in the charming town of Midway, Utah, lies a winter wonderland like no other: Ice Castles. A whimsical creation of ice and snow, Ice Castles Utah offers visitors a chance to step into a fairy tale, where towering ice formations, shimmering tunnels, and intricate sculptures await at every turn. In this blog post, I'll take you on a journey through our recent visit to Ice Castles Utah, sharing our experiences and insights along the way.
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Planning the Adventure: Getting Ready for Ice Castles Utah
Before embarking on a journey to Ice Castles Utah, it's important to plan. Midway's proximity to major cities like Salt Lake City makes it a convenient destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. Checking the Ice Castles Utah website for current information on opening hours and ticket prices ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit.
As you approach Ice Castles Utah, the sight of its towering ice structures and the sound of music create an atmosphere of anticipation and wonder. Stepping inside, you'll find yourself immersed in a maze of ice tunnels, slides, and towers, each more mesmerizing than the last.
Whether you're a winter enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, Ice Castles Utah promises to enchant and delight visitors of all ages.
The Basics & Ticketing Information
When planning your visit to Ice Castles Utah, it's essential to understand the basics and have the right ticketing information to make your experience smooth and enjoyable. Ice Castles Utah is typically open seasonally, usually from late December to early March, depending on weather conditions. It's advisable to check the official Ice Castles Utah website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on opening dates and hours.
Ticketing for Ice Castles Utah is usually available both online and at the entrance, but purchasing tickets in advance online is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure your preferred date and time slot. Ticket prices vary depending on the day of the week and time of day, with discounted rates often available for children and seniors. Monday through Thursday is considered off-peak and Friday through Sunday are considered peak periods. During peak days, tickets are typically $25 per adult and $17 per child. Off-peak prices are $19 per adult and $12 per child. When we went in February, we were able to reserve an entrance time online between 6:30 and 10:30 pm.
Upon arrival at Ice Castles Utah, be prepared for cold temperatures and dress warmly. We recommend wearing clothing and accessories you would pack to ski, as temperatures in Utah can drop to 0 degrees Fahrenheit at night. The ice structures can be slippery, so wearing sturdy, winter-appropriate footwear is advised. Ice Castles Utah is a family-friendly attraction, suitable for all ages, but it's important to supervise children closely, especially in areas with ice slides or tunnels.
Getting to Midway, Utah
Getting to Midway, Utah, to experience Ice Castles Utah is a straightforward and scenic journey. Midway is conveniently located within driving distance of Salt Lake City, making it a popular day trip destination for locals and visitors alike. The drive from Salt Lake City to Midway takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic and weather conditions. We visited Midway from Park City during our black ski weekend at Park City Mountain Village. The drive from Park City to Midway is approximately 35 - 45 minutes.
If you're flying into Utah, the closest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which offers a range of rental car options for your convenience. We rented our SUV from the Avis Salt Lake City Airport location. From the airport, you can easily access the Interstate 15 (I-15) highway, which will take you directly to Midway.
For those traveling by public transportation, there are also bus services available from Salt Lake City to Midway, although schedules may vary. It's advisable to check the latest bus schedules and availability before your trip.
Parking at Ice Castles Utah
Parking at Ice Castles Utah is convenient and accessible, with ample parking available on-site. Visitors can park in designated parking at the attraction, and parking is no additional fee. Additionally, accessible parking spaces are available for visitors with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of Ice Castles Utah.
Exploring Ice Castles Utah
Arriving at Ice Castles Utah at night offers a stunning first impression. The ice structures are illuminated with colorful lights, creating a mesmerizing display against the dark sky. The twinkling lights reflect off the icy surfaces, casting a magical glow over the entire area. The sound of music adds to the enchantment, setting the stage for a memorable experience. As you approach the entrance, you'll be greeted by the sight of towering ice formations and intricate sculptures, hinting at the wonders that lie ahead.
The layout of Ice Castles Utah at night is a maze of icy tunnels, slides, and towers. The layout is designed to guide visitors through the different sections of the attraction, with each section offering unique experiences.
Here is a list of our favorite things to do at Ice Castles Utah:
1. Adventure on the Ice Slides
One of the highlights of Ice Castles Utah is the ice slides, which offer visitors a unique experience. The ice slides are suitable for all ages, but are most popular among children, so this activity is perfect for families. Safety is a top priority, with staff ensuring that the slides are in good condition and that visitors slide safely. The slides are at a pretty minimal incline, so they’re ideal for small children.
2. Embark on a Sleigh Ride
At Ice Castles Utah, visitors have the opportunity to enjoy a magical sleigh ride through the snowy landscape. The sleigh rides offer a unique way to experience the beauty of Ice Castles Utah on a clearly marked, lighted trail. Visitors can sit back and relax as the sleigh is pulled by a horse, taking in the stunning views of the ice structures and the surrounding winter scenery. The sleigh rides are a popular attraction, especially for families and couples looking for a romantic winter experience. The experience is offered to guests over the age of three, and it is typically offered for an additional fee. The price for the added sleigh ride experience was $14 per person when we went. Rides are typically 10 - 15 minutes.
3. Get professional photos at Ice Castles Utah
Visitors to Ice Castles Utah have the opportunity to capture their memories with professional photos. A professional photographer is available on-site at the entrance to capture your experience amidst the stunning ice structures. Whether you're looking for a solo portrait, a family photo, or a romantic shot with your loved one, the photographers at Ice Castles Utah can help you create beautiful, lasting memories. We opted to purchase the souvenir photo package for an additional cost of $19.00. The photo package includes four digital downloads and one printed photo in a souvenir frame. Whether you're visiting during the day or at night, professional photos at Ice Castles Utah are a great way to commemorate your experience.
4. Indulge at the concessions
At Ice Castles Utah, visitors can indulge in a variety of delicious treats and warm beverages at the concessions. The Quench It food truck offers a range of options to satisfy your cravings and warm you up during your visit. Choose from comforting classics like chili and mac and cheese, or treat yourself to sweet delights like cookies and s'mores. In addition to these tasty treats, the concessions also offer a variety of hot and cold beverages at the soda bar. Whether you're in the mood for something savory or sweet, the concessions at Ice Castles Utah have something for everyone to enjoy. So take a break from exploring the ice structures and treat yourself to a delicious snack or beverage at the concessions.
Final Thoughts:
Visiting Ice Castles Utah in Midway is truly a magical experience that offers something for everyone. From the stunning ice structures to the thrilling ice slides and enchanting sleigh rides, there's no shortage of excitement and wonder to be found at Ice Castles Utah.
One of the most memorable aspects of our visit was the beauty of the ice structures illuminated at night. The colorful lights created a mesmerizing display that made us feel like we had stepped into a winter fairy tale. The atmosphere was truly enchanting, and we found ourselves captivated by the beauty of Ice Castles Utah.
We also appreciated the attention to detail in the layout of Ice Castles Utah. Each section offered something unique to explore, from intricate ice sculptures to hidden tunnels and caves. It was clear that a lot of thought and effort went into creating this winter wonderland, and it made for an unforgettable experience.
Overall, our visit to Ice Castles Utah was a magical adventure that we will never forget. Whether you're a winter enthusiast or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, Ice Castles Utah is sure to enchant and delight. I highly recommend adding it to your list of must-visit destinations in Utah.
Additional Information: Ice Castles Utah Details:
Address and Contact Information: Ice Castles Utah is located at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, 2002 Olympic Drive, Midway, Utah 84049.
Links to Official Website and Social Media:
Ice Castles Utah Official Website
Ice Castles Utah on Facebook
Ice Castles Utah on Instagram
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SO COOL! I swore you were going to say this is located in New England or the Pacific Northwest..but Utah?!?! So unqiue... adding it to the bucket list.
I did not know that they have professional photographers onsite! I really wanted to visit solo but didn't know how I would get good photos. Thanks for the tips :)