A vibrant blend of stunning natural beauty, a rich history and modern urban culture make Salt Lake City one of the world’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re exploring the iconic Temple Square — headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints — dining on local flavors in eclectic neighborhoods or hitting the slopes at one of the many nearby world-class ski resorts, a trip to Salt Lake City offers something for every traveler.
However, getting the most out of a trip to any destination, with so much to see and do, requires lots of planning. To help make planning your trip easier, we’ve put together a guide to Salt Lake City, featuring the most popular attractions, useful travel tips and some AAA Diamond-designated hotels and restaurants.
How to Get Around Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City — Utah’s capital and largest city — has a population of around 199,000 residents and encompasses an area of roughly 110 square miles. Many of its most popular attractions are within easy walking distance from each other, while reaching others will require some form of transportation. Here’s a guide to your transportation choices:
Walk
Many of the city’s downtown attractions, such as the Capitol Building, Temple Square and City Creek Center are within walking distance and easy to explore on foot. Downtown also boasts several world-class museums, a performing arts venue that hosts concerts, Broadway shows and other performances and plenty of AAA Diamond-designated restaurants.
Biking
Salt Lake City has an extensive network of bike lanes and trails. You can rent bikes from local shops or use bike-sharing services for a quick and economical way to get around.
Driving
If you plan to explore the surrounding areas, driving is a must. Most major rental car companies have a counter at the airport as well as locations throughout the city.
Public Transportation
Salt Lake City’s robust public transportation system offers several options for getting around:
- Light Rail: The TRAX light rail system connects various parts of the city and surrounding areas, including the airport, downtown and the University of Utah.
- Bus: UTA operates an extensive bus network that services Salt Lake City and the greater Salt Lake Valley, making it easy to reach areas not covered by light rail.
Rideshare and Taxis
Rideshare services operate throughout the city and offer a convenient option for those who prefer not to drive. Salt Lake City also has around 300 to 400 taxis operating throughout the city.
Shuttle Services
Most hotels offer shuttle services to popular destinations — including the nearby ski resorts during the winter months.
Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City
Anytime is a good time to visit Salt Lake City. Overall, late spring and early fall are considered by many as the best times for a balance of pleasant weather, smaller crowds and budget-friendly prices. But, each season offers a compelling argument as to why it’s the best time to visit Utah’s capital city.
Spring (March to May)
Mild weather and blooming flowers make it the perfect time to comfortably enjoy the area’s many outdoor activities. Average daily high temperatures range from the mid-50s in March, to the low-70s in May. This time of year also features small crowds and plenty of daylight.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Salt Lake City means warm temperatures — 80s and 90s for daytime highs — and larger crowds. But don’t let that keep you away if a summer trip is your only option. Ongoing events like the Utah Arts Festival, the Twilight Concert series and access to many of the area’s natural attractions that close in the colder months make summer a good time to visit.
Fall (September to November)
Beautiful fall foliage, fewer tourists, lower airfares and hotel prices and more comfortable temperatures make autumn a good time of year to enjoy everything that the city has to offer.
Winter (December to February)
With 11 world-class ski resorts within a three-hour drive from downtown Salt Lake City, skiers flock to the area from late November to mid-April, depending on weather conditions and snowfall. For snow lovers, few destinations offer as much as Salt Lake City does in the winter.
Top Things to do in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City offers visitors a wide range of historical, cultural and outdoor activities. Here are some of best things to do in Salt Lake City.
Temple Square
Temple Square, a 35-acre complex in the heart of Salt Lake City, serves as the headquarters for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In all, Temple Square has six buildings, including the Salt Lake Temple — a stunning granite structure that took 40 years to complete (1853–1893) — the Salt Lake Tabernacle( where the Tabernacle Choir performs), Assembly Hall — a Gothic Revival-style building, constructed between 1877 and 1882— a conference center, a church history museum, and a visitor center. Beautifully manicured gardens surround Temple Square which comes alive in the spring. Thousands of lights give Temple Square a magical feel each Christmas season.
The Utah State Capitol
Designed by architect Richard K.A. Kletting and completed in 1916, Utah’s State Capitol building features Corinthian columns, a grand dome and a symmetrical facade. Constructed with native Utah granite, its position atop a hill offers stunning views of Salt Lake City and the surrounding mountains.
Marble floors, sweeping staircases, murals, intricate details in the ceilings and walls and a Rotunda located directly beneath the dome make the beautiful Capitol building just as impressive on the inside as on the outside.
Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
Part of the University of Utah, Red Butte Garden features over 100 acres of plant collections, cultivated gardens and natural areas. The plant collections are arranged in themed gardens, including a Rose Garden, a Medicinal Garden and an Ornamental Grasses and Water Conservation Garden. The nursery focuses on tree conservation and education and includes many species native to the Rocky Mountain region and beyond.
The garden also has an extensive network of hiking trails that wind through the foothills and offer panoramic views of Salt Lake City and the surrounding mountains. Its open-air amphitheater hosts concerts throughout the summer, making it one of the best views in Salt Lake City.
Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island
Located just west of Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island provide a fascinating glimpse into the state’s natural history and ecosystems. The Great Salt Lake, at 1,700 square miles, is one of the most saline inland bodies of water in the world and the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. The lake is a remnant of Lake Bonneville, a huge prehistoric body of water that covered most of western Utah during the Ice Age.
Visitors enjoy floating in the lake, as its high salinity makes sinking almost impossible. Salt Lake’s largest island — Antelope Island — features diverse wildlife, rugged terrain and scenic beauty. Around five to seven hundred bison roam freely on the island. You may also encounter Pronghorn Antelope — the fastest land animals in North America — mule deer, bighorn sheep, coyotes, Peregrine falcons, burrowing owls and horned larks.
Visit a Museum
Salt Lake City boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in history, science, art or culture, the city's museums offer something for everyone. Here’s an overview of some of the most notable museums in Salt Lake City:
Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA)
- Location: University of Utah campus
- Overview: The state’s premier art museum features a collection of over 20,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years.
- Highlights: Works by prominent artists such as Monet, van Gogh and Rembrandt
Natural History Museum of Utah (NHMU)
- Location: University of Utah campus (Rio Tinto Center)
- Overview: A modern, award-winning museum with striking architecture designed to blend into the foothills of the Wasatch Range, the museum explores the natural world of Utah.
- Highlights: A dinosaur exhibit featuring full-size dinosaur skeletons, the Landscapes of Utah gallery showcasing the state's stunning natural beauty and the Native Voices exhibit focusing on Utah's Native American heritage. The museum also has many interactive displays which makes it a favorite of families and children.
- Location: Downtown Salt Lake City (The Gateway)
- Overview: Interactive exhibits, a 3D IMAX theater and a dome theater make this a popular stop for space enthusiasts.
- Highlights: Virtual reality experiences, planetarium shows that simulate space travel and an IMAX theater.
Other notable Salt Lake City museums include the Leonardo Museum, a science and technology museum focused on the intersection of art, science and technology; the Fort Douglas Military Museum, which chronicles Utah’s military history from the Civil War to the present; and the Pioneer Memorial Museum, dedicated to the history of Utah’s early settlers. Many of the museums included on the Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass.
Where to Stay in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City has accommodations, of all types, at every price level. In general, prices increase as you get closer to the city center. Here are some AAA Diamond-designated options to consider at various price levels and locations:
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
- Address: 15 W. 200 S., Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Four Diamond
- Best for: Travelers seeking luxury accommodations near the city's most popular attractions
The recently renovated Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City delivers an upscale experience right in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. The hotel offers various room types. All accommodations include 50-inch smart TVs, bedside USB ports and steamers. There’s also an excellent restaurant and bar area on the ground level.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
- Address: 625 S. 300 W., Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Best for: Those who want a spacious hotel room near attractions
All the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown’s guest rooms come with sofa beds, granite-topped wet bars and TVs with streaming availability. The hotel also has an outdoor patio and an available guest BBQ. Its downtown location provides easy access to many of the city’s top attractions.
Best Western Plus Airport Inn & Suites
- Address: 5433 W. Wiley Post Way, Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Approved
- Best for: Those wanting to stay outside the downtown area and business travelers wishing to stay close to the airport
Notable room amenities for the Best Western Plus Airport Inn & Suites include free wireless Internet, free parking, a refrigerator, a microwave and a coffee maker. Those on an early morning flight will appreciate the hotel’s free breakfast and proximity to the airport.
Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek
- Address: 75 S. West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Best for: Those who prefer a stylish hotel in a central location
Located right across from the City Creek Center — a large shopping and dining complex — and just steps from Temple Square, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art and the Eccles Theater, the Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek puts guests right in the middle of the city’s most popular attractions.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott - Salt Lake City/Downtown
- Address: 135 W. 200 S., Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Best for: Families or larger groups who want to stay in a comfortable hotel in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City
The extended-stay TownPlace Suites by Marriott - Salt Lake City/Downtown is located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City and features spacious, apartment-style accommodations. It's ideal downtown location and fully stocked kitchens make it a popular choice for travelers who are staying in the city for longer periods, as well as families and business travelers. Guests also enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast buffet each morning.
Where to Eat in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City boasts a diverse and growing food scene with restaurants ranging from local favorites to upscale dining. Here’s a look at some of the city’s most popular eateries:
Avenues Proper Restaurant & Publick House
- Address: 376 8th Ave, Suite B, Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Approved
- Reservations required: Suggested
Located just northeast of downtown in the city’s charming Avenues neighborhood, Avenues Proper features a cozy, neighborhood vibe that's a bit removed from the busier city center. Menu choices include gourmet burgers, chicken and waffles, beef stroganoff, and an ample selection of regional brews make it a popular spot with the locals.
Red Iguana
- Address: 736 W. North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Approved
- Reservations: Suggested
Bold flavors, generous portions and a casual, vibrant atmosphere make the Red Iguana a favorite with locals and tourists alike. Menu staples include enchiladas, tacos, burritos, fajitas and chiles rellenos. They’re also known for their varieties of mole, such as mole negro, mole Amarillo, mole poblano and mole verde.
Tuscany
- Address: 2832 E. 6200 S., Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Reservations: Required
At Tuscany, dine inside surrounded by traditional detail-rich Italian décor or on the outdoor patio with lush, manicured landscaping. Menu choices include spicy seafood puttanesca, Tuscan meatballs and grilled salmon. Split an extra large slice of chocolate cake for dessert.
Franck's
- Address: 6263 S. Holladay Blvd., Salt Lake City, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Reservations: Required
Enjoy French-inspired cuisine with some global twists in an intimate setting. Dishes at Franck's like meatloaf with blueberry-lavender sauce and glazed Kurobuta pork loin set Franck’s apart. Stop in on Tuesday night and sample the chef’s tasting menu or on Thursday for a gourmet burger.
Café Madrid
- Address: 5244 S. Highland Dr., Holladay, UT
- Diamond-designation: AAA Three Diamond
- Reservations: Required
Cafe Madrid serves a variety of authentic Spanish cuisine, such as seafood paella, beef tenderloin in Roquefort cheese sauce and sea bass in a creamy shrimp sauce, in a distinctive and elegant European bistro atmosphere.
Salt Lake City Photo Spots
Between its many incredible human-made structures and the stunning natural landscape, Salt Lake City has endless opportunities for the perfect photo-op. Here are several that you won’t want to miss.
1. Temple Square
The iconic Salt Lake Temple and its beautifully landscaped gardens provide a stunning backdrop. The area takes on a special feel after dark when the temple is illuminated.
2. Great Salt Lake
Expansive views of the Great Salt Lake, particularly at sunset, create unique and dramatic photo opportunities.
3. Antelope Island State Park
Located in the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island State Park features an array of wildlife and stunning views of the lake and mountains.
4. Big Cottonwood Canyon
Breathtaking mountain scenery, especially during the fall, makes Big Cottonwood Canyon one of the area’s most popular spots for landscape photography. Several easy-to-navigate trails, like Donut Falls and Lake Blanche, offer stunning vistas.
5. Red Butte Garden
Red Butte Garden features scenic pathways, diverse plant life and colorful flowers. The garden’s unique landscaping and seasonal blooms make for beautiful, vibrant photos throughout the year.
6. The Utah State Capitol Building
The Capitol building’s grand architecture and manicured grounds offer great opportunities for architectural photography, with the city skyline or Wasatch Mountains as a backdrop.
Salt Lake City Day Trips
The Salt Lake City area has so much to see and do within a few hours' drive. So, whether you’re going it alone or taking a guided tour, be sure to find some time for at least one of these popular excursions.
1. Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island
Explore this unique and timeless landscape while an experienced guide brings the story of the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island to life. You will learn about the issues and struggles that affect the lake today and the work that is being done to conserve this priceless resource.
2. Utah Olympic Park
Located just outside downtown Park City, Olympic Park now serves as a training center for Olympic hopefuls. Utah Olympic Park hosted the bobsled, luge, ski jumping and Nordic combined events for the 2002 Winter Olympics.
3. Arches, Canyonlands and Moab
It takes a few days to see all three of these popular Utah spots. On a tour, you'll be treated to breathtaking sites, including Arches National Park and Canyonlands. In Moab, you can do activities like horseback riding and whitewater rafting. You can experience this on your own or book a three-day tour of Arches, Canyonlands and Moab.
4. Zion, Bryce and Antelope Canyon Adventure
Another three-day adventure is visiting several of the state’s most popular national and state parks. Experience the serenity that earned Zion National Park its name, and take in some of the world’s most stunning natural landscape at Bryce Canyon. Also stops at Antelope Canyon, a stunning slot canyon located near Page, Arizona, within the Navajo Nation. At certain times of day, rays of light filter into the canyon and create a surreal and magical atmosphere. Travel on your own, or book a tour of Zion, Bryce and Antelope Canyon.
5. Great Salt Lake Boat Tour
Head to the Great Salt Lake for a short boat tour around the marina area with ongoing commentary by the captain who also serves as your tour guide. A fast, fun and inexpensive way to learn about the lake and its history.
Salt Lake City on a Budget
Whether you're traveling to Salt Lake City on a budget or just looking to get the most for your money, AAA is here to help.
1. Visit Salt Lake City in Late Fall or Early Spring
Late fall and early spring offer the best opportunities to save money on a Salt Lake City vacation. Smaller crowds and lower demand translate into more affordable airfares, car rentals and hotel rooms. The weather typically stays pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing in spring and autumn.
2. Use AAA Discounts for Hotels, Restaurants, Shopping and More
AAA membership includes much more than just roadside assistance, with member savings and benefits on many travel purchases. As a AAA member you get access to discounts and benefits on car rentals, hotel bookings, and attraction and event tickets.
3. Take Advantage of the City’s Many Free and Inexpensive Attractions
Some of Salt Lake City’s most popular attractions don’t cost a dime. It’s easy to spend a half day touring the grounds of Temple Square. They also host free concerts by their famous choir throughout the year. The Capitol building also offers free self-guided tours and panoramic views of the city from its grounds. Antelope Island State Park charges just $15 per vehicle, a reasonable fee for a day at the park that features an extensive network of hiking trails, beautiful lake views and lots of wildlife.
4. Keep an Eye Out for Discounts and Deals
Salt Lake Connect Pass allows more than 15 of Salt Lake City’s most popular attractions, including the Hogle Zoo, the Clark Planetarium and the Natural History Museum, at a discounted rate. Also, many museums and attractions in Salt Lake have free or discounted admission one day per week.
5. Use Public Transportation
Salt Lake City has an affordable light rail system, UTA TRAX, which makes getting around the city fast and easy. The system also has a free fare zone in the downtown area. When weather and energy permits, consider renting a bike with GreenBike, Salt Lake City’s bike-share program. It’s a great way to explore the city and save on gas and parking.
Plan Your Salt Lake City Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream Salt Lake City trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or à la carte options.