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Salt Lake City travel guide

Everything you need to plan a trip to Salt Lake City — flights, hotels, neighborhoods, sights, and money tips in one place.

Salt Lake City, UT, USA· Airport: SLC
Salt Lake City — Travel guide | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Phone-only fares for Salt Lake City, 24/7.

Call (815) 991-4848

Key facts

  • Primary airport: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), located approximately 15 minutes west of downtown.
  • Currency: US Dollar (USD). Major credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Best time to visit: December to March for snow sports; May to October for hiking and city exploration.
  • Public transportation: UTA TRAX light rail and buses connect downtown, the airport, and ski resorts; FrontRunner commuter rail serves cities north and south.
  • Religious significance: Temple Square, headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is the city's most visited attraction.
  • Elevation: Salt Lake City sits at an elevation of 4,330 feet (1,320 meters), which can affect some travelers.

Salt Lake City offers a blend of natural beauty and urban exploration, situated against the Wasatch Front. The city's grid layout, centered around Temple Square, makes for straightforward navigation on foot or via public transport. Beyond the downtown core, the metropolitan area extends into diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character, from historic districts to modern retail hubs.

Visiting Salt Lake City provides access to outdoor activities year-round. In winter, nearby resorts offer skiing and snowboarding. During warmer months, hiking and mountain biking trails are accessible within a short drive from the city center. The Great Salt Lake, a defining geographical feature, offers unique photo opportunities and birdwatching, particularly at its northern shores.

The city's culinary scene has evolved, featuring a range of options from farm-to-table restaurants to international cuisine. Local breweries and distilleries are also contributing to a growing craft beverage culture. Cultural institutions, including museums and performing arts venues, provide indoor diversions.

Consider how Salt Lake City serves as a basecamp for exploring Utah's wider landscapes, including national parks further south. Planning your trip around seasonal activities will enhance the experience, whether it's snow sports or high-desert adventures. If you find the planning process complex, consider speaking with a travel agent.

In this guide

  • Getting to Salt Lake City
  • Where to stay
  • Top things to do
  • Getting around
  • Budget and money
  • Best time to visit
  • Safety and practical tips

Frequently asked questions

What is there to do in Salt Lake City in the winter besides skiing?
Beyond skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts like Park City or Snowbird, Salt Lake City offers several winter activities. You can visit Temple Square to see its holiday lights display, which typically runs from late November through the New Year. The Natural History Museum of Utah and the Clark Planetarium provide indoor entertainment. For outdoor enthusiasts not keen on slopes, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails are available in the surrounding mountains, often within a 30-minute drive. Ice skating rinks also pop up downtown. Consider visiting the Utah Olympic Park in Park City for bobsled rides or to see ski jumpers train.
How do I get around Salt Lake City without a car?
Salt Lake City has a comprehensive public transportation system operated by Utah Transit Authority (UTA). The TRAX light rail connects downtown, the University of Utah, and the airport, making it convenient for central city exploration. Buses serve wider areas. Many hotels in the downtown core are within walking distance of attractions like Temple Square and City Creek Center. For day trips to ski resorts or national parks, dedicated shuttle services are available, especially during peak seasons. Rideshare services are also prevalent. If you plan to explore the broader region, a rental car offers the most flexibility.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
Is Salt Lake City a good base for visiting Utah's national parks?
Salt Lake City can serve as a convenient starting point for a Utah national parks road trip, but it's not ideal for daily excursions to the parks themselves due to distance. Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands National Parks are all a 3.5 to 5-hour drive or more from Salt Lake City. Travelers often fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), pick up a rental car, and then drive south, staying overnight closer to the parks. However, closer options like Antelope Island State Park and Big Cottonwood Canyon offer excellent natural beauty within an hour's drive for day trips from the city.
What are some family-friendly activities in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City offers several engaging options for families. The Living Planet Aquarium showcases marine life and ecosystems, while the Natural History Museum of Utah provides interactive exhibits on geology, paleontology, and local cultures. Hogle Zoo is home to animals from around the world. For outdoor fun, Sugar House Park has expansive green spaces and playgrounds. The Clark Planetarium features IMAX films and space exhibits, suitable for all ages. During warmer months, families can enjoy hiking easy trails in Big Cottonwood Canyon or exploring the gardens around Temple Square. City Creek Center also has a retractable roof and stream where kids often enjoy splashing.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares
What is the culinary scene like in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City's culinary scene has diversified significantly. You'll find a range of establishments, from upscale farm-to-table restaurants emphasizing local ingredients to a variety of ethnic eateries. Downtown and the 9th & 9th neighborhood are known for their diverse dining options. Craft breweries and distilleries are also thriving, contributing to a growing local beverage scene. While historically known for traditional American fare, the city now features notable selections of Vietnamese, Mexican, Italian, and other international cuisines. Many establishments offer outdoor dining options, particularly in the warmer months.
Can I visit the Great Salt Lake, and what should I expect?
Yes, you can visit the Great Salt Lake, a prominent natural feature. The most accessible point for visitors is Antelope Island State Park, about an hour's drive northwest of downtown Salt Lake City. Here, you can drive onto the island, observe free-roaming bison, and access shoreline areas. Expect a unique briny smell, especially on warm days, due to the high salinity. The water is extremely buoyant, making it easy to float. Facilities on Antelope Island include visitor centers, trails, and picnic areas. It's an excellent spot for birdwatching and photography, especially during sunrise or sunset, offering stark, beautiful landscapes.
Call (815) 991-4848 for phone-only fares

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