Things To Do
in Salt Lake City
Nestled in the high elevation of the Wasatch Range, this bustling capital city of Utah is renowned for its picturesque natural beauty, including the Great Salt Lake and numerous nearby ski resorts. It serves as a cultural hub, with a rich history deeply influenced by its Mormon heritage, evident in landmarks like the impressive Salt Lake Temple.
The city is also a modern urban center, offering a vibrant outdoor lifestyle, diverse dining options, and a thriving arts scene, making it a unique blend of historical significance and contemporary living.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2.50 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Temple Square. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the beautifully landscaped gardens and impressive historical buildings.
Head to the Natural History Museum of Utah to discover fascinating exhibits about the region’s history. Take time to enjoy the panoramic views of the valley from the museum's terrace.
Wrap up the day with dinner at a local eatery offering farm-to-table cuisine. Take a walk through downtown to enjoy the city lights.
Begin your day with a hike in the picturesque Red Butte Garden. Experience the stunning landscapes and diverse plant life in this urban oasis.
Go for a scenic drive to Big Cottonwood Canyon for more hiking or simply to take in the breathtaking views. Pack a picnic and enjoy it at one of the picturesque spots.
Head back to the city and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a cozy mountain lodge. Perhaps indulge in a dessert with a view to round off the day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and access to outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States.
- Strong economy with a diverse job market, particularly in tech, healthcare, and tourism.
- Family-friendly environment with good schools and community services.
- Rich cultural heritage and events, including the Sundance Film Festival and various local festivals.
- Higher altitude can cause health issues for some individuals.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger metropolitan areas.
- Air quality concerns, particularly during the winter months due to temperature inversions.
- Cultural conservatism and a predominant religious influence may not appeal to everyone.
- Hot summers and cold winters may not be suitable for those who prefer milder climates.
Best Activities in Salt Lake City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic trails and beautiful vistas in the rugged terrain of the Wasatch Mountains.
Ride along the picturesque Jordan River and explore the natural beauty of the area.
Explore the botanical gardens and enjoy the diverse plant collections in a peaceful setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Salt Lake City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Salt Lake City
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of the Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding mountains, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Provides a scenic overlook of the city and is a popular spot for capturing photographs.
Known for its picturesque views of the city skyline and the Capitol Building.
Food in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A uniquely Utah condiment, typically a blend of ketchup and mayonnaise, often served with fries. Recommended place: Hire's Big H
Must-Try!
A casserole dish featuring potatoes, cheese, onions, and a crunchy topping. Recommended place: Lion House Pantry
A deep-fried bread often served with honey butter or as a base for savory dishes. Recommended place: The Park Cafe
A quirky dish featuring Jell-O mixed with fruits, vegetables, or marshmallows. Recommended place: Garage on Beck
Unique Experiences
Get to know Salt Lake City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Operates from June to October, offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and diverse street food options.
Serving up authentic and award-winning Mexican cuisine, including their renowned moles.
A hub for delectable sweets like crepes, waffles, and artisanal chocolates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Salt Lake City has a strong religious culture, with a majority population belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is important to be respectful of religious practices and traditions.
Utahns value courtesy and politeness in their interactions. It is customary to greet others with a smile and be polite in conversations and interactions.
Salt Lake City residents have a deep appreciation for nature and outdoor activities. It is important to respect the natural beauty of the area and follow outdoor etiquette when visiting parks and trails.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Salt Lake City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Salt Lake City
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Salt Lake City, with the standard tipping rate being 15-20% of the total bill in restaurants, bars, and for other services such as taxi rides.
Payment in Salt Lake City is generally done using credit or debit cards, with cash also being widely accepted. Contactless payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are increasingly common, particularly in larger businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Salt Lake City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Salt Lake City, with pleasant temperatures and blooming flowers. The city comes alive with outdoor events and activities, and you can expect to see beautiful cherry blossoms and tulips in bloom.
Summer is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the nearby national parks. The city hosts a variety of festivals and outdoor concerts during this time.
Fall brings stunning foliage to Salt Lake City, as the surrounding mountains and canyons are painted with vibrant autumn colors. The weather is mild, making it a great time for scenic drives and fall festivals.
Winter is ideal for skiing and snowboarding, with several world-class ski resorts located just a short drive from the city. You can also experience the festive atmosphere during the holiday season with lights, markets, and winter sports.
Salt Lake City at Night
Hiking in Salt Lake City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area with trails for all skill levels, offering beautiful views and lush vegetation.
Known for its stunning canyons and diverse hiking trails, it is a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.
Home to a variety of trails, this area is known for its impressive granite cliffs and alpine scenery.
A short hike that offers panoramic views of Salt Lake City, perfect for a quick outing.
A long trail that follows the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville, offering unique geological features and vistas.
While a bit further away, this venue features an impressive cave system and scenic hiking trails.
Offers a combination of botanical gardens and hiking trails, showcasing native plants and beautiful landscapes.
A longer trail that leads into the Wasatch Mountain wilderness, offering solitude and natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Salt Lake City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Salt Lake City by plane.
The primary airport serving Salt Lake City, with extensive domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 600 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, it is one of the largest airports in the U.S., offering a wide range of international flights.
About 600 miles southwest of Salt Lake City, it is a major global gateway with numerous international destinations.
Located approximately 750 miles west of Salt Lake City, it serves as a key trans-Pacific and international travel hub.
Situated around 1,000 miles northwest of Salt Lake City, it offers extensive domestic and international flights.
Roughly 600 miles south of Salt Lake City, it serves as a major hub for domestic and some international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily of European descent.
A significant portion of the population with roots in Latin American countries.
A smaller but notable demographic with diverse cultural backgrounds.
Includes individuals from various Asian cultures and countries.
Comprising individuals from indigenous tribes and communities.
Includes residents with origins from the Pacific Islands.
Individuals who identify with multiple racial backgrounds or other distinct identities.
The Soul of Salt Lake City
Discover the essence of Salt Lake City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is extremely popular in Salt Lake City, largely due to the presence of the Utah Jazz, the city's professional NBA team, which attracts a significant following.
With the nearby Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City is a top destination for skiing and snowboarding, drawing enthusiasts from around the world to its numerous ski resorts.
Soccer has gained popularity in recent years, especially with the success of Real Salt Lake, the city's Major League Soccer team.
American football is also prominent in Salt Lake City, with the University of Utah's Utes being a strong college football program.
Running events and marathons are popular, with numerous races held annually, including the Salt Lake City Marathon.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salt Lake City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Salt Lake City has a variety of eateries offering vegetarian-friendly options, from casual cafes to upscale dining establishments.
Numerous restaurants in Salt Lake City have embraced vegan cuisine, providing plant-based alternatives and creative dishes.
Many restaurants and bakeries in Salt Lake City have gluten-free menus or options, catering to those with gluten intolerances or celiac disease.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Salt Lake City with these cultural adventures.
