Insider, local knowledge is key if you’re looking to tick off all the must-do activities, see all the highlights and have an authentic experience on your next ski trip. Locals are chock full of ideas and inspiration to make your ski trip unforgettable, so who better to tap for insider guidance, than the local lodging concierges, staff members and managers? That’s why we’ve created a new Ski.com Blog series: Concierge Conversations, where you can glean great destination-based tips and recommendations and learn a bit more about some of the area’s top lodging options.

We tapped the Silver King Hotel’s Guest Care Manager, Julia Butler, who’s lived in Park City for 10 years, to answer a couple questions about her favorite aspects of her homebase and place of work.

Ski.com: What drew you to Park City originally and what has kept you there?

JB: Actually, Park City picked me. I am very grateful for it. I came here with an exchange student visa, and Park City was the contract they had for us. When I arrived in Park City, it stole my heart with its beautiful pine trees, ultra-white snow everywhere, Christmas lights, and happy smiling people all around. When I went skiing, it felt like I was flying through the clouds. I couldn’t get enough of it. This is the place I want to be forever.

Ski.com: What are your three favorite things to do at Park City in the winter?

JB: Skiing at the numerous resorts, like Deer Valley and Park City Mountain, which is now the largest ski resort in the United States. Also, Visiting Utah Olympic Park always makes me feel like I am an Olympian with its bobsleds and ski jumps. Thrilling! Dining on Historic Main Street is excellent year-round with such a wide array of delicious food.

Ski.com: In your opinion, what are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about Park City that visitors should know?

JB: I will probably have to go with Park City Ghost Tours. It’s such a fun tour, very entertaining and informative, and a bit spooky. The tour walks up and down Park City Historic Main Street and tells ghost stories that have been collected over more than a decade of research.

Ski.com: What are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about Silver King Hotel you work at?

JB: Well, Silver King Hotel is a condominium hotel, and all the rooms are individually owned. The owners of the units take great pride in updating them for our guests. We also have underground heated parking, which is a real lifesaver during the winter season. Finally, our pool, spa, and sauna areas are year-round facilities.

Ski.com: If you could only ski or ride one run at Silver King Hotel for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

JB: Daly Chutes at Deer Valley has some great steep and deep chutes that never disappoint, even when there hasn’t been a storm in a while.

Ski.com: When guests ask you for the local’s scoop on après-ski/dining/nightlife what do you recommend and why?

JB: A favorite for me, when skiing Park City Mountain, is the Legend bar. I love the chicken and nachos. At Deer Valley, the Royal Street Cafe is a great spot to kick off your boots and grab a beer while watching the late afternoon skiers. If you want to dance, I recommend Downstairs. For live music, Park City live is my favorite. At the end of the night, though, you must stop by No Name Saloon for one last pint.

Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for family experiences what’s your go-to itinerary and don’t-miss spots/restaurants and why?

JB: Besides the obvious answer of skiing, and our own pool and spa area, I like to recommend tubing at Gorgoza Park for family fun.

Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for upscale experiences what’s your go-to itinerary and don’t-miss spots/restaurants and why?

JB: Deer Valley is well known for its world class dining. For upscale dining, I recommend Handle, the River Horse, or Glitretind Restaurant at Stein Eriksen. Wonderful service and delicious food all around.

Ski.com: What winter event or time of ski season do you look forward to most and why?

JB: Christmas is my favorite part of the winter season, because the snow-covered mountains are so beautiful. The parade of lights on Main Street invigorates the town, bringing happiness and joy to everyone.

Ski.com: What do you think makes your Silver King Hotel popular?

JB: The location of the Silver King is probably the most popular reason to stay with us, being a 2-minute walk to the Park City slopes. However, a close second would be the full kitchens in every room.