MIDWAY

Midway in winter feels like someone mashed together every seasonal activity, forgot to shovel, and added geothermal steam for dramatic effect. It’s a quick day trip from Salt Lake City—just keep in mind the roads can turn into icy slip’n slides without warning.

We thought we were being smart by parking behind Huber Grove. Instead, we spent two hours shoveling ourselves out of the parking lot like overconfident pioneers with an emergency shovel and deep regret. Since we packed our mini skis we tried again and parked right off the road infront of Huber Grove this time and tried again. There was too much snow. Kody kept falling. It was not majestic. While all that was happening, a turkey sat in a tree above our truck and absolutely unloaded on it. Nonstop. The entire time.

But somehow, it still ended up being a fun, chaotic, very Midway day. Between the hot springs, frozen castles, and the chance to question your sanity at least twice before lunch, Midway knows how to leave a mark—both literal and emotional.

Homestead Crater

We booked the first time slot of the day during the week, assuming it would be less crowded. Spoiler: it wasn’t. The doors don’t even open until your exact slot time, which meant we got to stand outside in the snow like hopeful steamy popsicles. Once inside, we waited in line for life jackets, lost even more time, and by the time we had to get out (because yes, they kick you out of the water 15mins early), we soaked for maybe 30 minutes total.

Because I am a crazy person and always make sure to be first inline I got a couple quick pictures before the water filled with peopole. It was packed. We were first in the water an picked one of the areas with under water seats. A family brought a toddler who was either rotting from the inside or wearing a diaper that had seen things. That kid kept running past us, creating a breeze no one asked for. Eventually we had to hop into the deep water to get away from the smell. Also, it was so steamed up inside that any hope of getting a decent photo died instantly. Basically, it’s a geothermal experience and a test of patience.

  • Location: 700 North Homestead Dr, Midway, UT 84049

  • Cost: $12-$23 per person for 1-hour

  • Reservations: Required. Book online ahead of time

  • Hours: Daily, usually starting around 9:30 AM

  • Winter Tip: Doors don’t open early—expect to wait outside in the snow if you’re the first group

  • Bring: Towel and a warm change of clothes.

  • Time in Water: You get 60 minutes technically—realistically 30–40 minutes after check-in delays and getting kicked out on time

  • Life Jackets: Required and provided, but you have to wait in line to get one

midway utah

Ice Castles

After a full day of getting stuck in a parking lot, failing at mini skis, and being crop-dusted by toddlers in hot springs, we were tired and done. Thankfully, they let us in with no questions asked.

It was packed. Wall-to-wall humans packed. Getting a clean shot of the ice without someone’s head or rogue child zooming through the frame? Nearly impossible. But not totally impossible. We got a few moments of clear castle glory if we waited and dodged well.

There were food trucks. There was hot cocoa. There were also enough people to fill a stadium. But still—worth it for the brief flashes of icy fairy tale vibes and frozen tunnel weirdness.

midway utah

Places to Eat

Cafe Galleria

Café Galleria in Midway is one of those places that looks like it was designed for winter postcards and holiday rom-coms. We showed up ready to live our best snow globe life… but didn’t make a reservation in time. So no heated dome for us. Don’t be us. Click the name, make a reservation, and thank yourself later. Even without the bubble experience, the food hit the mark—and the hot chocolate? Absolutely ridiculous in the best way. It shows up like it owns the place, topped with artful foam and a crisp wafer cookie for extra flair.

What to Know Before You Go:

  • Reservations: 100% needed for outdoor snow globe seating—book early, they fill up fast

  • Hours: Daily 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. (breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus)

  • Snow globes: Heated, clear domes with private dining—perfect for winter dates or awkward family silence

  • Hot chocolate: Rich, foamy, Insta-ready—and yes, that cookie is included

  • Menu highlights: Wood-fired pizza, artisan pastas, and hearty brunch options

  • Pet-friendly: Outdoor patio only (no pets in globes, sorry Fido)

  • Location: 101 W Main St, Midway, UT 84049

  • Prices: Mid-range—worth it for the setting and quality