Salt Lake City is a vibrant and growing city nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Utah. As the capital city of Utah, Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of modern city amenities, outdoor adventure opportunities, and rich cultural experiences. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Salt Lake City.

Things to Do in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City offers a wide range of activities for visitors, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Here are some of the best things to do in Salt Lake City:

  1. Visit Temple Square: Temple Square is the heart of Salt Lake City and is home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple, as well as the Tabernacle and Conference Center. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Temple Square or attend a performance by the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
  2. Hike in the Wasatch Mountains: Salt Lake City is surrounded by the stunning Wasatch Mountains, which offer a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Some of the most popular trails include Mount Timpanogos, Mount Olympus, and Big Cottonwood Canyon.
  3. Explore the Utah State Capitol: The Utah State Capitol is an architectural masterpiece and is open to the public for guided tours. Visitors can also explore the grounds and take in the stunning views of the city from the Capitol Hill.
  4. Experience the Natural History Museum of Utah: The Natural History Museum of Utah offers visitors a chance to explore the natural wonders of Utah, including dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, and interactive exhibits.
  5. Enjoy the Great Salt Lake: The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and is a unique natural wonder. Visitors can swim in the lake, hike along the shoreline, or take a boat tour.
  6. Take a tour of the Red Butte Garden and Arboretum: The Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is a beautiful botanical garden that features over 21 acres of gardens and natural areas. Visitors can take a self-guided tour or attend a guided tour.
  7. Visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts: The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is a world-class museum that features a collection of over 18,000 works of art from around the world. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and attend special exhibitions and events.

Places to Visit in Salt Lake City

In addition to the top tourist attractions, there are many hidden gems and local experiences to be had in Salt Lake City. Here are some places to visit in Salt Lake City:

  1. The Avenues: The Avenues is a historic neighborhood in Salt Lake City that is known for its beautiful Victorian-era homes and tree-lined streets. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour of the neighborhood and enjoy the local restaurants and shops.
  2. Liberty Park: Liberty Park is the largest park in Salt Lake City and is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The park features a lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a variety of sports fields and courts.
  3. Sugar House: Sugar House is a trendy neighborhood in Salt Lake City that is known for its local restaurants, boutique shops, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy a night out on the town or explore the local art galleries and street murals.
  4. The Leonardo Museum: The Leonardo Museum is a unique museum that explores the intersection of art, science, and technology. Visitors can participate in hands-on exhibits and attend special events and workshops.
  5. The City Creek Center: The City Creek Center is a premier shopping destination in Salt Lake City that features over 100 stores and restaurants, as well as a retractable roof and an outdoor creek.

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City offers a variety of accommodations to suit any traveler’s needs and budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Salt Lake City:

  1. The Grand America Hotel: The Grand America Hotel is a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, as well as a full-service spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and several on-site restaurants.
  2. Little America Hotel: Little America Hotel is a popular choice for visitors to Salt Lake City. The hotel features comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and outdoor pool.
  3. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco: The Kimpton Hotel Monaco is a boutique hotel located in downtown Salt Lake City. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant, fitness center, and pet-friendly amenities.
  4. The Peery Hotel: The Peery Hotel is a historic hotel located in downtown Salt Lake City. The hotel features beautiful rooms and suites, as well as an on-site restaurant and bar.
  5. The Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek: The Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek is a modern hotel located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. The hotel features comfortable rooms and suites, as well as an indoor pool, fitness center, and several on-site dining options.

How to Get Around Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City offers several transportation options for visitors, including public transportation, rental cars, and walking tours. Here are some of the best ways to get around Salt Lake City:

  1. Public Transportation: Salt Lake City offers a robust public transportation system that includes buses and light rail trains. Visitors can purchase day passes or individual tickets to get around the city.
  2. Rental Cars: Visitors can rent cars from several rental car companies located at the Salt Lake City International Airport or throughout the city.
  3. Walking Tours: Walking tours are a great way to explore Salt Lake City’s historic neighborhoods and landmarks. Visitors can take self-guided tours or book guided tours through local tour companies.

Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City

The best time to visit Salt Lake City depends on the traveler’s preferences and interests. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Salt Lake City:

  1. Summer: Summer is the peak tourist season in Salt Lake City, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities and events. However, hotel rates and crowds can be high during this time.
  2. Fall: Fall is a great time to visit Salt Lake City for those who enjoy cooler weather and fall foliage. Visitors can also attend local events like Oktoberfest and the Utah State Fair.
  3. Winter: Winter is the perfect time to visit Salt Lake City for skiers and snowboarders, as the city is home to several world-class ski resorts. However, visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures and snow.
  4. Spring: Spring is a great time to visit Salt Lake City for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Visitors can also attend local events like the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point.

Conclusion

Salt Lake City is a unique and vibrant destination that offers a wide range of activities, attractions, and accommodations for visitors. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or just relaxing and enjoying the city’s amenities, Salt Lake City has something for everyone. With this guide, you can plan the perfect trip to this amazing city and create memories that will last a lifetime.