Salt Lake City Travel Guide

Published June 22, 2023 · Updated June 11, 2023

Salt Lake City is the bustling capital of Utah and a gateway to some of America’s most popular national parks. Salt Lake City is famous for its stunning mountain views, rich history, and outdoor pursuits. We will provide you with the complete Salt Lake City travel guide.

Where is Salt Lake City?

If you think about Where’s Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City is in north-central Utah in the United States. It is the Utah capital at the base of the Wasatch Mountains. The mountains surround the city on three sides, with the Great Salt Lake located to the northwest.

Salt Lake City is famous for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene. It is also a famous destination for outdoor activities, with world-class skiing and hiking opportunities just a short drive away.

How to go to Salt Lake City?

Salt Lake City International Airport is the primary gateway to the city, with numerous domestic and international flights arriving daily. You can go by car from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone and take the scenic route through Logan Canyon Scenic Byway and Bear Lake, which offers breathtaking surrounding mountains and forest views.

How far Salt Lake City from Yellowstone?

Salt Lake City is the closest city to Yellowstone National Park, approximately 320 miles (516 km) south of the West Entrance. The distance is 4 hours and thirty minutes from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone.

The most direct route from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone is along Interstate 15 North, then onto US-20 East at West Yellowstone. Along the way, travelers can enjoy scenic views of the rugged Wyoming landscape, including rolling hills, vast valleys, and towering mountains.

While the drive can be picturesque, it’s important to note that winter weather can significantly impact travel times and road conditions. Snow and ice can make driving more challenging, and some roads in Yellowstone National Park may be closed during the winter months.

There are also shuttle services available from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park and guided tours that offer a more immersive experience.

Best places to stay in Salt Lake City

Downtown

Downtown is an excellent location that offers cultural attractions, entertainment venues, shopping, and dining. The Salt Lake City quality inn is an excellent option for visitors looking for affordable accommodations in the city’s heart. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms with modern amenities like flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and mini-fridges. They also offer a complimentary breakfast buffet and a 24-hour fitness center, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious travelers.

For those who want luxurious accommodations, The Grand America Hotel is among the best hotels in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. This hotel offers spacious rooms with elegant decor, marble bathrooms, and high-end amenities. You can enjoy on-site dining at several restaurants, relax in the indoor pool, or indulge in a spa treatment at the luxurious spa.

The Little America Hotel is among the best resorts in Salt Lake City all inclusive. This iconic hotel has been a Salt Lake City landmark for over 65 years and features elegant rooms with plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi. You can enjoy on-site dining at one of the hotel’s four restaurants, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool.

Downtown Salt Lake City is the perfect area to stay when visiting the city for the first time, as it is centrally located and offers easy access to top attractions like Temple Square, Clark Planetarium, and the Natural History Museum of Utah. It’s also an excellent location for foodies, with numerous restaurants serving international cuisine and local favorites.

Downtown Salt Lake City is among the best areas to stay in Salt Lake City, offering a lively and exciting atmosphere with plenty of attractions and amenities. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations like the Quality Inn Downtown or luxurious all-inclusive resorts like The Little America Hotel, there is something for everyone.

Central City

Central City is another popular area in Salt Lake City, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces with plenty of attractions and amenities. It’s an excellent location for visitors who want to be close to the city’s downtown area but enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

The Carlton Hotel is among the best hotels in Salt Lake City. This renovated historic hotel offers spacious rooms with modern amenities.

Another option for lodging in Central City is The Anniversary Inn, a boutique hotel with themed rooms and suites. Each room is uniquely decorated and features amenities like Jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and comfortable bedding. The hotel also included breakfast and a game room for guests to enjoy.

Central City is a great area to stay when in Salt Lake City, as it is centrally located and offers easy access to top attractions like the Utah State Capitol, Liberty Park, and the Tracy Aviary. You can enjoy shopping and dining at Trolley Square, a historic mall with over 40 stores and restaurants.

Central City is one of the best areas to stay in Salt Lake City, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces with plenty of attractions and amenities. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history and culture or want to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere, Central City has something for everyone.

Sugar House

Sugar House is a great place to stay if you’re looking for where to stay when in Salt Lake City. This vibrant neighborhood has various restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, and Sugar House is historic.

It is known for its eclectic scene, with a mix of trendy boutiques, art galleries, and local businesses that give it a unique charm. Visitors can explore the area’s history by visiting sites like Sugar House Park or the Monument Plaza, where they can see the iconic Sugar House Monument.

In addition to its cultural attractions, Sugar House is an excellent destination for foodies. The neighborhood boasts some of Salt Lake City’s best restaurants, with diverse Salt Lake City food options. From the New American fare at the Copper Kitchen to the authentic Italian dishes at Cucina Toscana, there is something for every palate.

When it comes to accommodations, visitors to Sugar House have plenty of options. The SLC Hotel is within walking distance of local eateries, and Sugar House is among the best places to stay in Salt Lake City to experience the local culture and cuisine.

Sandy

When searching for where to stay when in Salt Lake City, Sandy is another top neighborhood offering an array of excellent accommodations and amenities. Located just south of the city, Sandy is a bustling area with fantastic restaurants, shopping centers, and outdoor activities perfect for tourists and locals.

Sandy is one of the best areas to stay in Salt Lake City because it has many attractions that offer something for everyone. The nearby mountains provide endless hiking, biking, and skiing opportunities. The nearby Rio Tinto stadium also makes it an ideal location for sports enthusiasts, as they can catch a soccer game or other events throughout the year.

Some of the best restaurants in Salt Lake City are in Sandy. The Porcupine Pub & Grille is famous for American-style comfort food and an extensive craft beer list. Another great option is Copper Kitchen, which serves New American cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. For those who enjoy sushi, Sushi Time’s fresh, delicious offerings are sure to impress.

When it comes to accommodations, visitors have plenty of options in Sandy. The Hilton Garden Inn Salt Lake City is among the best hotels offering comfortable rooms and convenient access to the area’s best attractions. Sandy is among the best places to stay in Salt Lake City. With its excellent restaurants, outdoor activities, and comfortable accommodations, Sandy is a perfect destination for travelers of all types and interests.

Avenues

Avenues is a charming and historic neighborhood to stay in during your visit to Salt Lake City. This beautiful area boasts tree-lined streets, Victorian-era homes, and stunning city views.

Avenues is at east of downtown Salt Lake City, making it an ideal location for accessing all of the city’s top attractions. Visitors can stroll through the nearby City Creek Center, which features high-end shopping, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Avenues have some of Salt Lake city’s best restaurants. Avenues Proper is a popular gastropub serving delicious pub fare and locally brewed beer. The Avenues Bistro on Third offers French-inspired cuisine, while the Tin Angel Cafe is known for its creative American dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Accommodations in Avenues range from charming bed and breakfasts to upscale hotels. The Ellerbeck Mansion Bed & Breakfast is famous for immersing itself in the history and architecture of the neighborhood. This stunning mansion was built in 1892 and featured elegant rooms, modern amenities, and a delicious daily breakfast.

Avenues is among the best places to stay in Salt Lake City to experience the city’s history, culture, and architecture. With its charming streets, stunning views, and excellent dining options, Avenues is the perfect destination for travelers who appreciate the beauty and character of a well-preserved historic neighborhood.

Best time to visit Salt Lake City

The best time for visiting Salt Lake City is in the fall, specifically September to October. During this time, the Salt Lake City weather is mild. This time of year also boasts beautiful fall foliage and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. It is also an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and exploring the city’s many parks.

Things to Do in Salt Lake City

Following are the top Salt Lake City things to do:

Natural History Museum of Utah: This state-of-the-art museum has various exhibits and interactive displays that showcase Utah’s natural history and geology. Visitors can see dinosaur skeletons, explore ancient cultures, and learn about biodiversity and ecosystems.

Red Butte Garden: This 100-acre botanical garden is home to a stunning array of plants and flowers worldwide. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, attend concerts and events, and enjoy the scenic views of the nearby mountains.

Utah State Capitol: This impressive building features stunning architecture, artwork, and a fascinating history of Utah’s government and politics. You can take a building guided tour and learn about its significance to the state.

Skiing and snowboarding: Salt Lake City has world-class ski resorts, including Park City Mountain Resort, Alta Ski Area, and Snowbird. These resorts have various slopes for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.

Hiking and biking: The nearby mountains and canyons provide endless opportunities for hiking and biking. Visitors can explore trails like the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, Mill Creek Canyon, and City Creek Canyon.

Utah Museum of Fine Arts: This museum features a diverse collection of art worldwide, including works from ancient civilizations, contemporary artists, and everything in between.

Utah Olympic Park: This park was used during the 2002 Winter Olympics and now serves as a training center for Olympic athletes. You can take a guided tour of watching athletes train and even try some activities themselves, like bobsledding and zip-lining.

Best places to visit in Salt Lake City

Temple Square: This iconic attraction is among the best places to see in Salt Lake City in the heart of Salt Lake City. You can tour the Tabernacle, see the famous organ pipes, and explore the many historic buildings and gardens on the grounds.

Red Butte Garden: This 100-acre botanical garden is home to a stunning array of plants and flowers worldwide. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, attend concerts and events, and enjoy the scenic views of the nearby mountains.

Utah State Capitol: This impressive building features stunning architecture, artwork, and a fascinating history of Utah’s government and politics. You can take a building guided tour and learn about its significance to the state.

Natural History Museum of Utah: This state-of-the-art museum offers various exhibits showcasing Utah’s natural history and geology. Visitors can see dinosaur skeletons, explore ancient cultures, and learn about biodiversity and ecosystems.

Great Salt Lake: It is a natural wonder. You can go swimming, fishing, boating, or relaxing on the shores and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Utah Museum of Fine Arts: This museum features a diverse collection of art worldwide, including works from ancient civilizations, contemporary artists, and everything in between.

Liberty Park: This beautiful park is one of Salt Lake City’s most popular outdoor recreation and relaxation destinations. You can walk along the paths and enjoy a picnic with friends and family.

Clark Planetarium: This attraction features interactive exhibits and displays that explore the mysteries of space and the universe. You can see spacesuits, touch a meteorite, and watch shows in the planetarium’s IMAX theater.

Final Words:

Salt Lake City is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone, from the rich history and culture to the stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, whether looking for adventure or relaxation.

So pack the bags and plan your trip to Salt Lake City today, where adventure awaits you.

Check out our other travel guides to explore top things to do in Utah and the Cheapest Places to Travel in the USA.