Salt Lake City, United States-2-day-itinerary

Salt Lake City: A Two-Day Itinerary

This itinerary explores the best of Salt Lake City, balancing natural beauty with urban attractions.

Where to Stay:

  • Hotel Monaco: Chic boutique hotel in downtown SLC with rooftop bar and views ($$$).
  • Little America Hotel: Classic luxury hotel with indoor pool and gardens ($$$).
  • Airbnb: Find unique stays in trendy neighborhoods like Sugar House or the Avenues ($-$$$).

Transportation:

  • TRAX Light Rail: Efficient and affordable way to travel downtown and surrounding areas.
  • UTA Buses: Extensive bus network covering the entire city.
  • Ride-Sharing Apps (Uber/Lyft): Convenient for getting around, especially at night.

Things to Know:

  • Salt Lake City is known for its high altitude (4,300 ft). Stay hydrated and take it easy on your first day.
  • Utah has unique liquor laws. Alcohol sales are limited in grocery stores and restaurants.
  • Tipping is customary in the US: 15-20% for restaurants, $1-2 per bag for bellhops.

Day 1: Urban Exploration & History

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with breakfast at The Park Cafe, a local favorite known for its delicious pastries and brunch dishes.
    • Explore Temple Square, the heart of the Mormon Church, with its impressive architecture and gardens. Take a free guided tour to learn about its history and significance.
    • Visit the Utah State Capitol Building, offering panoramic views of Salt Lake City from its dome.

  • Afternoon:

    • Head to City Creek Center, an upscale outdoor mall with shops, restaurants, and a retractable roof. Enjoy lunch at Red Iguana, renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine.
    • Explore the vibrant Sugar House neighborhood, known for its quirky shops, art galleries, and cafes. Grab a coffee at The Coffee Shop or browse for unique finds at Local Artisan Collective.

  • Evening:

    • Enjoy dinner at Log Haven, a romantic restaurant nestled in Millcreek Canyon with breathtaking mountain views.
    • Catch a Broadway show or musical performance at the Eccles Theater in downtown SLC.

Day 2: Natural Beauty & Outdoor Adventures

  • Morning:

    • Start your day with a hike to Ensign Peak, offering stunning panoramic views of Salt Lake City and the surrounding mountains (moderate difficulty).
    • Visit the Great Salt Lake, one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world. Take a scenic drive along its shores or enjoy a guided tour.

  • Afternoon:

    • Explore Red Butte Garden, a botanical paradise with diverse plant collections, walking trails, and stunning views.
    • Indulge in a picnic lunch at Liberty Park, a sprawling green space with a pond, playground, and Tracy Aviary.

  • Evening:

    • Savor dinner at The Copper Onion, known for its farm-to-table cuisine and creative cocktails.
    • Enjoy a final evening stroll along the Jordan River Parkway, a scenic trail perfect for biking or walking.

Other things of interest to tourists:

  • Utah Olympic Park (Park City): Experience winter sports activities year-round at this former Olympic venue.
  • Natural History Museum of Utah: Discover exhibits on dinosaurs, geology, and the natural history of Utah.
  • Clark Planetarium: Explore the wonders of space through interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.

This itinerary can be customized to fit your interests and preferences. Enjoy your time in Salt Lake City!