Salt Lake City, United States

Salt Lake City Travel Guide

Welcome to Salt Lake City, the capital city of Utah! Located in the western United States, Salt Lake City is a vibrant metropolis surrounded by stunning natural beauty. From its rich history and culture to its outdoor recreation opportunities, Salt Lake City has something for everyone.

Places to Go

1. Temple Square

  • Address: 47 E S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
  • Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9am - 7pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm
  • Admission: Free, but donations welcome

The headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), Temple Square is a must-visit attraction in Salt Lake City. The square features beautiful gardens, a visitors’ center, and a stunning temple that’s definitely worth a photo opportunity.

2. Natural History Museum of Utah

  • Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
  • Hours: Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm
  • Admission: Adults $14.50, Seniors (65+) and Youth (3-17) $10, Children under 2 Free

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a world-class museum featuring exhibits on the natural history of Utah and the Great Basin region.

3. Red Butte Garden

  • Address: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
  • Hours: Daily: 9am - 5pm (April 1 - October 31), Monday - Saturday: 9am - 5pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm (November 1 - March 31)
  • Admission: Adults $15, Seniors (65+) and Youth (3-17) $8, Children under 2 Free

Located on the University of Utah campus, Red Butte Garden is a beautiful botanical garden featuring over 100 acres of gardens, trails, and scenic views.

4. Utah State Capitol Building

  • Address: 320 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84114
  • Hours: Monday - Friday: 8am - 5pm (self-guided tours), Guided Tours available from 9am to 3pm (Monday - Friday)
  • Admission: Free

Take a guided tour of the Utah State Capitol Building and learn about its history, architecture, and politics.

5. The Gateway Mall

  • Address: 18 W South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
  • Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10am - 9pm, Sunday: 12pm - 6pm
  • Admission: Free

The Gateway Mall is an outdoor shopping and dining complex featuring over 100 stores and restaurants.

6. The Living Planet Aquarium

  • Address: 600 W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
  • Hours: Daily: 10am - 5pm (April 1 - October 31), Monday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm (November 1 - March 31)
  • Admission: Adults $19.95, Seniors (62+) and Youth (3-17) $14.95, Children under 2 Free

The Living Planet Aquarium is a state-of-the-art aquarium featuring over 4,000 animals from around the world.

7. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts

  • Address: University of Utah campus, Salt Lake City, UT 84112
  • Hours: Monday - Saturday: 10am - 5pm, Sunday: 12pm - 5pm (June 1 - September 30), Daily: 9am - 5pm (October 1 - May 31)
  • Admission: Adults $5, Seniors (65+) and Youth (18-24) $3, Children under 17 Free

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is a museum featuring a collection of over 15,000 works of art.

Activities

1. Outdoor Recreation

Salt Lake City has plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby mountains.

  • Utah Olympic Oval: A world-class speed skating rink located just north of Salt Lake City.
  • Snowbird Ski Resort: A popular ski resort located about 30 minutes from Salt Lake City.
  • Park City Mountain Resort: A year-round resort featuring skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and more.

2. Food Tours

Salt Lake City has a vibrant food scene, with plenty of options for food tours and culinary experiences.

  • The Great Salt Lake Food Tour: A guided tour that takes you to some of the best restaurants and eateries in the city.
  • Utah Food Tour Company: Offers private food tours and culinary experiences.

3. Shopping

Salt Lake City has a variety of shopping options, from high-end boutiques to outdoor malls.

  • The Gateway Mall: An outdoor shopping complex featuring over 100 stores and restaurants.
  • City Creek Center: A luxury shopping center located in downtown Salt Lake City.
  • Trolley Square: An historic shopping district featuring unique shops and restaurants.

Where to Eat

Salt Lake City has a diverse dining scene, with plenty of options for every taste and budget. Here are some recommendations:

1. The Red Iguana

Address: Multiple locations in Salt Lake City Type: Mexican Price Range: $15 - $30 per entree

A popular spot for delicious Mexican food.

2. The Bayou Restaurant

Address: 1224 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84104 Type: Cajun/Creole Price Range: $20 - $40 per entree

A fun and lively restaurant serving up Creole cuisine.

3. Current Fish & Oyster Co.

Address: 4290 S 2300 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84109 Type: Seafood Price Range: $15 - $30 per entree

A seafood lover’s paradise with a focus on fresh and sustainable ingredients.

4. The Copper Onion

Address: 111 E Broadway, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 Type: American Bistro Price Range: $20 - $40 per entree

A modern take on classic comfort food.

Where to Stay

Salt Lake City has a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some recommendations:

1. The Grand America Hotel

Address: 555 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 Price Range: $200 - $500 per night

A luxurious hotel with high-end amenities.

2. Little America Hotel

Address: 500 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 Price Range: $150 - $300 per night

A family-friendly hotel with a range of room options.

3. The Inn at Temple Square

Address: 70 W South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 Price Range: $120 - $250 per night

A convenient and comfortable hotel located within walking distance of Temple Square.

Things to Know

  • Weather: Salt Lake City has a semi-arid climate with cold winters and warm summers.
  • Altitude: The city is situated at an altitude of 4,300 feet (1,310 meters), which can cause fatigue and headaches in some people.
  • Taxes: Utah has no state sales tax on food or accommodations.

Transportation

Salt Lake City has a well-developed public transportation system. Here are some options:

1. Salt Lake City International Airport

Address: 7525 S Terminal Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84122

  • Public Transportation: The airport is served by the TRAX (Transit) light rail system and several bus routes.

2. Public Bus System

Salt Lake City has an extensive public bus system with over 70 routes.

  • TRAX: A light rail system that connects many parts of the city.
  • Frontrunner: A commuter rail line that serves the Salt Lake Valley and surrounding areas.

Tips and Other Information

  • Parking: Be aware that parking in downtown Salt Lake City can be difficult and expensive.
  • Sightseeing Passes: Consider purchasing a sightseeing pass for discounts on attractions and transportation.
  • Walking Tours: Join a guided walking tour to learn more about the city’s history, culture, and landmarks.

Conclusion

Salt Lake City is a vibrant and diverse metropolis surrounded by stunning natural beauty. From its rich history and culture to its outdoor recreation opportunities, there’s something for everyone in this great American city.