Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City Travel Guide

Salt Lake City, the capital and most populous city of Utah, is known for its stunning mountain views, outdoor recreational activities, and rich history. Here's a guide to help you make the most out of your visit.

Getting There

Getting to Salt Lake City:

• By Air: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the main gateway for travelers coming from both domestic and international destinations. The airport is conveniently located about 5 miles west of Downtown Salt Lake City. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or use the TRAX light rail system to reach the city center.

• By Car: If you're coming from nearby states or cities, you might find driving to Salt Lake City a convenient option. The city is well-connected by highways, with I-15 running north-south through the city.

• By Train: Amtrak's California Zephyr train stops in Salt Lake City, providing a scenic route from Chicago to San Francisco.

• By Bus: Several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, operate services to Salt Lake City from various locations across the United States.

Getting Around Salt Lake City:

• Public Transportation: The TRAX light rail system and buses operated by the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) are convenient and efficient ways to get around the city. The TRAX light rail has several lines that connect major parts of the city, including the airport.

• By Car: Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore the surrounding areas, such as the mountains or the Great Salt Lake. There are several car rental agencies located at the airport and around the city.

• By Bike: Salt Lake City is becoming more bike-friendly, with several dedicated bike lanes and trails in and around the city.

• On Foot: The city center is walkable, with many of the major attractions within walking distance of each other.

• Taxis and Rideshares: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available for getting around the city.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Salt Lake City is during the fall (September to October) or spring (April to May) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded.

Fall (September to October)

• Weather: The temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 45°F to 75°F, making it pleasant for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

• Scenery: The fall foliage in the nearby mountains is stunning, with vibrant shades of orange, red, and yellow.

• Events: Look out for local harvest festivals and Halloween events.

Spring (April to May)

• Weather: Similar to fall, spring in Salt Lake City has mild temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F.

• Scenery: The mountains and gardens are alive with blooming flowers and greenery.

• Events: Spring is a great time to catch the tail end of the ski season or enjoy hiking in the mountains without the summer heat.

While summer (June to August) is also a popular time to visit, the city can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F. Winter (November to March) is prime time for skiing and snowboarding in the nearby mountains, but the city itself can be cold, with temperatures often dipping below freezing.

What to See and Do

Here's a list of top attractions in Salt Lake City and the surrounding area:

In Salt Lake City:

1. Temple Square: A 10-acre complex that's home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and the Assembly Hall.

2. Utah State Capitol: The state's capitol building with its beautiful Neoclassical architecture.

3. Great Salt Lake: The largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, known for its stunning sunsets.

4. Antelope Island State Park: A state park located in the Great Salt Lake with beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and wildlife.

5. Natural History Museum of Utah: A museum that showcases the natural history and indigenous cultures of the region.

6. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum: A botanical garden with themed gardens, hiking trails, and seasonal events.

7. Clark Planetarium: A planetarium with exhibits on space and science, and an IMAX theater.

8. Discovery Gateway Children's Museum: An interactive museum for children with hands-on exhibits and activities.

In the Surrounding Area:

1. Snowbird: A ski resort located in the nearby Wasatch Mountains, known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding.

2. Park City: A picturesque town located about 30 miles east of Salt Lake City, known for its ski resorts, historic Main Street, and the Sundance Film Festival.

3. Bonneville Salt Flats: A vast salt flat located about 100 miles west of the city, known for its unique landscape and land speed racing events.

   
   

4. Timpanogos Cave National Monument: A cave system located about 30 miles south of the city with guided tours and beautiful formations.

5. Big Cottonwood Canyon: A stunning canyon located about 20 miles southeast of the city with hiking, rock climbing, and scenic drives.

6. Lagoon Amusement Park: An amusement park located about 20 miles north of the city with rides, shows, and a water park.

Top Activities to do in Salt Lake City

• Hiking: There are numerous trails in the nearby Wasatch Mountains, suitable for all levels of hikers.

• Skiing and Snowboarding: The city is famous for its "Greatest Snow on Earth". There are several world-class ski resorts within an hour's drive.

• Biking: There are several bike trails in the city and in the surrounding mountains.

• Try Local Cuisine: Sample local favorites like fry bread scones and funeral potatoes.

• Attend a Jazz Game: Cheer for the Utah Jazz at the Vivint Smart Home Arena.

• Go Antiquing: Discover vintage treasures at antique shops in the Sugarhouse area.

• Go White Water Rafting: Experience white water rafting on the Weber River or the Provo River.

• Join a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take in the breathtaking views of the Wasatch Front from a hot air balloon.

• Try Snowshoeing: Experience snowshoeing in the nearby mountains during winter.

• Participate in a Wine Tasting Tour: Explore local vineyards and wineries with a wine tasting tour.

• Go Horseback Riding: Enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the area on horseback.

• Attend an Outdoor Concert at Deer Valley: Listen to music in the beautiful mountain setting during the summer months.

Food and Drink

Salt Lake City has a vibrant and diverse food scene that reflects its cultural diversity and the creativity of its chefs. The city offers everything from high-end dining establishments to food trucks, with a focus on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Local Specialties:

Salt Lake City is also known for some unique local specialties that you won't want to miss:

• Fry Bread Scones: A delicious, fluffy bread that's fried and served with honey butter.

• Funeral Potatoes: A comforting dish made with potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce, often topped with crunchy cornflakes.

• Jell-O: Utah is famous for its love of Jell-O, and you'll often find it served at local gatherings and potlucks.

• Green Jell-O: A variation of the classic Jell-O salad, made with lime-flavored Jell-O, crushed pineapple, and whipped cream.

Whether you're in the mood for fine dining, ethnic cuisine, or local specialties, Salt Lake City has something to satisfy your taste buds.

Events and Festivals

Salt Lake City hosts a variety of annual events and festivals that celebrate the city's culture, diversity, and creativity. Here's a list of some of the most prominent ones:

• Sundance Film Festival (January-February): One of the most prestigious independent film festivals in the world, it takes place in nearby Park City, but some events are held in Salt Lake City.

• Utah Arts Festival (June): A celebration of visual and performing arts, featuring local and international artists.

• Salt Lake City International Jazz Festival (July): A weekend-long event showcasing local and national jazz musicians.

• Pioneer Day (July): A state holiday commemorating the arrival of the first group of Mormon pioneers to the Salt Lake Valley, it's marked with parades, fireworks, and other festivities.

• Days of '47 Cowboy Games & Rodeo (July): A rodeo event featuring bull riding, barrel racing, and more, as part of the Pioneer Day celebrations.

• Salt Lake City Greek Festival (September): A celebration of Greek culture, with traditional food, music, and dancing.

• Oktoberfest at Snowbird (August-October): A German-style festival held at the nearby Snowbird resort, with traditional food, music, and beer.

  
  

• Great Salt Lake Bird Festival (May): An event for bird enthusiasts, with guided bird-watching tours, workshops, and other activities.

Where to Stay

When visiting Salt Lake City, there are several great areas to consider for your stay, each offering different advantages based on your interests and preferences. Here are some of the best areas to consider:

Downtown Salt Lake City:

• Pros: Central location close to major attractions like Temple Square, Utah State Capitol, and Clark Planetarium. Plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

• Cons: Can be busy and noisy, especially during events or festivals.

Sugarhouse:

• Pros: A trendy area with a vibrant nightlife, eclectic shops, and a variety of dining options. Close to parks and recreational activities.

• Cons: Can be crowded, especially on weekends.

The Avenues:

• Pros: A quiet, residential area with beautiful historic homes and tree-lined streets. Close to downtown and major attractions.

• Cons: Limited dining and shopping options compared to other areas.

Foothill:

• Pros: A peaceful area close to the University of Utah and Research Park. Easy access to hiking and outdoor activities in the nearby mountains.

• Cons: Limited nightlife and entertainment options.

Tips

When visiting Salt Lake City, here are some important travel tips to keep in mind:

• Weather: Salt Lake City experiences all four seasons, so pack accordingly. Summers can be hot and dry, while winters can be cold and snowy, especially in the nearby mountains.

• Altitude: The city is located at an elevation of over 4,000 feet, so you may experience altitude sickness. Stay hydrated, take it easy on your first day, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.

• Public Transportation: The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses, light rail (TRAX), and commuter trains (FrontRunner). Consider purchasing a reloadable fare card for convenience.

  
  

• Alcohol Laws: Utah has strict alcohol laws, and you may find that some restaurants only serve beer and wine, not spirits. Additionally, grocery stores and convenience stores can only sell beer with an alcohol content of 5% or less.

  
  

• Local Customs: Salt Lake City has a large population of members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), and it's important to be respectful of their beliefs and customs.

  
  

• Parking: Downtown Salt Lake City has metered parking, as well as paid parking lots and garages. Be sure to read and follow all parking signs to avoid getting a ticket.