Salt Lake City, Utah-7-day-itinerary

7-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary

This itinerary balances urban exploration with the stunning natural beauty surrounding Salt Lake City.

Things To Know:

  • Altitude: Salt Lake City sits at 4,300 feet elevation. Take it easy on your first day and stay hydrated to avoid altitude sickness.
  • Weather: Summers are hot and dry, winters cold and snowy. Pack accordingly!
  • Transportation: Salt Lake City has a decent public transportation system (UTA) with buses and light rail. Consider renting a car for exploring outside the city center.

Where To Stay:

  • Downtown: Easy access to attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
    • Luxury: Grand America Hotel, The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
    • Mid-Range: Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Downtown, Little America Hotel
  • Sugar House: Hip neighborhood with boutiques, cafes, and a local vibe.
  • Avenues: Quaint district with historic homes, art galleries, and independent shops.

Day 1: Downtown Discoveries

  • Morning: Explore Temple Square, the heart of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Visit the iconic Salt Lake Temple and learn about Mormon history at the visitors’ center.
  • Afternoon: Stroll through City Creek Center, a beautiful outdoor shopping mall with waterfalls and fountains.
  • Evening: Dinner at The Copper Onion (contemporary American cuisine) followed by drinks at Whiskey Street (craft cocktails).

Day 2: Nature Escape

  • Morning: Drive to Big Cottonwood Canyon for breathtaking mountain scenery. Hike to Donut Falls or take the scenic Gondola ride at Snowbird Ski Resort.
  • Afternoon: Relax by the lake at Brighton Beach, enjoying picnicking and swimming (weather permitting).
  • Evening: Enjoy a casual dinner at Red Iguana (famous for its Mexican cuisine)

Day 3: Cultural Immersion

  • Morning: Visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing diverse collections from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
  • Afternoon: Immerse yourself in science and technology at the Clark Planetarium, featuring interactive exhibits and immersive shows.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Eccles Theater, a world-class venue for Broadway productions, concerts, and dance.

Day 4: Historic Charm & Breweries

  • Morning: Explore the historic Avenues neighborhood, browsing antique shops and admiring Victorian architecture.
  • Afternoon: Sample local brews on a brewery tour in Salt Lake City’s vibrant beer scene. Try Epic Brewing Company or Squatters Pub Brewery.
  • Evening: Indulge in delicious Italian fare at Valter’s Osteria (reservations recommended)

Day 5: Great Salt Lake Adventure

  • Morning: Visit Antelope Island State Park, a unique island in the Great Salt Lake with stunning views and wildlife viewing opportunities. Hike to the summit of Frary Peak for panoramic vistas.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the shores of the Great Salt Lake and experience its salty waters.
  • Evening: Dinner at The Roof Restaurant (downtown) for breathtaking city views and delicious cuisine.

Day 6: Park City Day Trip

  • Full Day: Drive to Park City, a charming mountain town known for skiing in winter and hiking/biking in summer. Explore Main Street, visit the Utah Olympic Park, or take a scenic gondola ride up the mountains.
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at High West Distillery & Saloon (unique Western-style dining with whiskey tastings)

Day 7: Farewell and Souvenirs

  • Morning: Stroll through Trolley Square, a historic shopping center with boutiques and local artisan shops. Find unique souvenirs to take home.
  • Afternoon: Relax in Liberty Park, enjoying the gardens, playgrounds, and Tracy Aviary (a bird sanctuary).
  • Evening: Celebrate your final night with a farewell dinner at Takashi (Japanese-inspired cuisine)

Transportation Tips:

  • Consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft within Salt Lake City.
  • Rent a car for day trips to nearby destinations like Park City and Big Cottonwood Canyon.

Additional Tips:

  • Purchase the Salt Lake City Explorer Pass for discounts on attractions and activities.
  • Check local event listings for festivals, concerts, and other happenings during your visit.

Enjoy your trip to Salt Lake City!