“I didn’t expect Switzerland… but here we were.” That was my first thought wandering through downtown Midway, Utah, where flower boxes spilled over wood-carved railings and murals of alpine scenes adorned cheerful shopfronts. Nestled in the Heber Valley, this little town carried its Swiss heritage with quiet pride. The air felt cooler here—maybe from the mountains, maybe from the slowed-down pace. Either way, I breathed a little deeper.
Best Things to Do in Midway, UT
Swiss-Themed Boutiques Downtown
Downtown Midway was dotted with quaint boutiques selling hand-knit scarves, wooden ornaments, and rich cheeses. I browsed shelves filled with lavender soaps and painted ceramics. One shopkeeper offered a free chocolate sample. “This town believes in small delights,” I thought, nibbling slowly. Everything smelled faintly of pine, cinnamon, and something freshly baked.
Wasatch Mountain State Park
At Wasatch Mountain State Park, I took the Dutch Hollow trail, winding through sagebrush and quaking aspens. The wind here whispered rather than howled. From higher up, the mountains opened into a dramatic bowl—layers of green, gold, and blue. It smelled of dirt, sun, and wildflowers. I sat on a rock and listened to the hush that only places like this seem to know.
Homestead Crater
Homestead Crater surprised me—literally a geothermal hot spring tucked inside a 55-foot-tall limestone dome. I swam in the warm, mineral-rich water, light pouring through the opening above like a spotlight. “This feels like nature’s secret spa,” I thought. The air was humid and earthy, and the echo inside the crater made it feel like I was whispering into the past.
Heber Valley Railroad
I boarded the Heber Valley Railroad for a slow, scenic ride through farmland and foothills. The vintage train clacked along as kids pressed their faces to the windows and couples leaned in close. At one bend, a herd of deer stood watching us pass. “No rush. Just ride,” I noted in my head, sipping cocoa from a paper cup as the sun hit the snow-dusted fields just right.
Memorial Hill
Memorial Hill stands as both lookout and tribute. I drove to the top just before sunset. From there, Midway rolled out below in shades of gold and green, the mountains hemming it in like a painted border. Wind tugged at my jacket. “This view holds more than just scenery,” I thought, reading the plaques etched with names of local heroes.
Ice Castles
In winter, Ice Castles appears like something dreamed up by fairytales. Walls of ice glowed blue and silver, with tunnels and spires lit from within. Kids squealed as they slid down frozen chutes. I walked slowly, brushing my gloved hand against textured walls, watching icicles catch the light like chandeliers. It smelled like snow and cold air—crisp and alive.
Soldier Hollow Nordic Center
At Soldier Hollow, I strapped on cross-country skis for a gentle glide through Olympic-level trails. Snow muffled every sound. Occasionally, another skier would nod silently, a kind of quiet camaraderie. The snow sparkled in the sun, and I kept thinking, “I can’t believe how peaceful fast can feel.”
Dinner at Cafe Galleria
I warmed up with dinner at Café Galleria, nestled in a cozy historic home. The wood-fired pizza—thin crust with pesto, mozzarella, and sun-dried tomatoes—smelled like comfort. I added a bowl of tomato basil soup and leaned back with a sigh. The dining room was soft with chatter and clinked glasses. “This is what full and happy feels like,” I thought.
Midway Corner
Next morning, I stopped at Midway Corner for breakfast. The smell of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon greeted me. I ordered the house special: pancakes with caramelized apples and cinnamon butter. The pancakes were fluffy, the apples tart-sweet, and the syrup just enough.
Midway At a Glance
- Drive Time from Salt Lake City: ~50 minutes southeast
- Vibe: Alpine-inspired charm with a cozy, quietly adventurous spirit
- Highlights: Geothermal wonders, scenic mountain trails, seasonal snow magic, Swiss-style downtown
- Best Time to Visit: Winter for skiing and ice castles; summer for hiking and hot springs
- Cost: Moderate; most outdoor activities are low-cost or free, attractions vary by season
- Hours: Parks and trails generally open daily; seasonal sites like Ice Castles have specific hours
- Base Address: Start in downtown Midway along Main Street and explore outward from there
Best Time to Visit Midway, UT
My favorite times to visit are late spring through early fall—the hiking is stunning, the wildflowers are in bloom, and there’s a festive feel in the air. That said, I’ve also visited in winter, and the snow transforms Midway into a postcard-perfect village. December especially feels like stepping into a snow globe.
How to Get to Midway, UT
- If you’re traveling by car: I usually drive from Salt Lake City—it’s about 50 minutes along scenic highways, and the drive through Heber City is beautiful any time of year.
- By Air: I fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), then rent a car. It’s an easy drive and gives you freedom to explore the area.
- By Train/Bus: There’s no direct train to Midway, but if you’re coming through Heber City (just 10 minutes away), you can connect via regional bus or ride share. I recommend driving for the most flexibility.
Where to Stay in Midway, UT
- Recommended for Families: Homestead Resort – I’ve stayed here with family and loved the easy access to Homestead Crater and all the outdoor activities. It’s casual, friendly, and fun for all ages.
- For Couples: Zermatt Utah Resort & Spa – If you’re looking for romance, this is it. I’ve enjoyed quiet mornings by the fireplace and spa afternoons here—it’s elegant without being over-the-top.
- For a Boutique Hotel Stay: Blue Boar Inn & Restaurant – This inn is pure charm. I stayed in one of their themed rooms and felt like I was in a storybook. The gourmet breakfast is the cherry on top.
Final Thoughts
Midway moves at a different rhythm—slower, more intentional. Whether I was soaking in an ancient crater or sipping coffee in a sunlit café, the feeling was the same: I could breathe here. It's a place that doesn’t rush to impress, yet somehow manages to charm you completely. “This isn’t just a stop—it’s a pause,” I thought as I packed up to leave. And for a town inspired by the Swiss Alps, it turns out Midway is also really good at making you feel right at home.
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