A Perfect Day Trip from Sundance: Discovering the Charm of Midway, Utah

Midway, Utah holds a beautiful Swiss Days fesitval just 30 mins from Sundance, Utah

Tucked into the Heber Valley and just a 30-minute scenic drive from Sundance, Utah - Midway, Utah is a hidden gem brimming with small-town charm, rich heritage, and year-round attractions. Known for its Swiss-inspired architecture, soothing hot springs, and artistic community, Midway offers a refreshing contrast to the forested slopes of Sundance — making it the perfect day trip destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, culture, and culinary delights.

Historic Sites and Heritage

Midway proudly celebrates its Swiss immigrant roots. The town’s Alps-inspired buildings and alpine backdrops create a picturesque setting, especially in the summer and fall months. For a step back in time, visit the Town Hall and Midway Historic District, where restored buildings offer a window into pioneer life. Just outside town, the Homestead Crater is a geothermal spring inside a beehive-shaped limestone rock — it’s the only warm-water scuba diving destination in the continental U.S. and a must-see natural wonder.

Iconic Local Restaurants

Midway’s culinary scene combines cozy charm with unexpected gourmet flair. Café Galleria, located in a historic home on Main Street, is a local favorite for wood-fired pizzas, hearty breakfasts, and live music on the patio. For a more upscale dining experience, The Blue Boar Inn & Restaurant offers old-world European cuisine in an elegant, Tudor-style lodge setting. Midway Mercantile, housed in a restored 1870s building, is a beloved spot for wood-fired meats, fresh seafood, and local produce — blending mountain comfort food with modern sensibility.

Art, Antiques, and Boutique Shopping

Midway is home to several charming art galleries, antique stores, and boutique shops. Stroll along Main Street and you’ll find Creative Edge Studio, offering pottery and workshops, and Midway Art Company, showcasing works by local Utah artists. Antique lovers shouldn’t miss Farmhouse Frocks and The Nest on Main, where rustic furniture, vintage treasures, and mountain-chic décor make for the perfect souvenir or home accent. Each shop offers a distinctly curated experience, making Midway a haven for art collectors and design lovers.

Events and Festivals All Year Long

Midway shines during its annual Swiss Days Festival, held each Labor Day weekend. This beloved event draws thousands of visitors for traditional Swiss food, music, folk dancing, and more than 180 artisan booths. In winter, the town transforms into a snowy wonderland with the Ice Castles, a magical, walk-through sculpture park made entirely of ice and lit with vibrant LED lights. Other seasonal attractions include Heber Valley Railroad's North Pole Express, Soldier Hollow’s Sheepdog Classic, and summer concerts at Town Square.

Why It’s Worth the Drive from Sundance

What makes Midway such a rewarding day trip from Sundance is the contrast it offers. While Sundance is serene, forested, and intimate, Midway brings a bright splash of heritage, activity, and alpine charm. Whether you’re soaking in the Crater, sipping coffee while browsing local art, or enjoying a farm-to-table meal surrounded by wildflowers or snow-covered peaks, Midway invites you to slow down and savor something a little different — all without straying too far from the mountains you came to explore.

For more information contact Sundance Utah Cabin Rentals - Sundance Lodging