Planning Your Trip to Salt Lake City
Country and State
United States, Utah
Timezone
GMT -7 (Mountain Standard Time)
Languages Spoken
English
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Salt Lake City Weather & Climate: A Month-by-Month Snapshot
- January: Cold, snowy, average highs around 35°F (2°C). Perfect for skiing!
- April: Mild, increasing sunshine, average highs around 60°F (16°C). Great for outdoor exploring.
- July: Hot and dry, average highs around 90°F (32°C). Ideal for water activities.
- October: Cool, colorful foliage, average highs around 65°F (18°C). Enjoy the fall scenery.
- December: Cold, snowy, average highs around 35°F (2°C). Ski season is in full swing!
Salt Lake City Overview
Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is a gem nestled in a valley embraced by the stunning Wasatch Mountains. It’s a city where urban life meets outdoor adventure. Founded by Mormon pioneers in 1847, Salt Lake City has a rich history, which you can see in its architecture and cultural landmarks. But it’s also a modern city with a cool arts scene, diverse food, and a friendly vibe. Plus, it’s close to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, making it a hit with outdoor lovers. You’ll find a good mix of nature and city fun here, making for a trip you won’t forget.
Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City
Seasonal Pros and Cons
- Spring (April-May):
Pros: Mild weather, blooming flowers, fewer crowds. Cons: Occasional rain showers. - Summer (June-August):
Pros: Warm, sunny days, great for hiking and outdoor events. Cons: Can get hot, busiest time for tourists. - Fall (September-October):
Pros: Beautiful fall colors, pleasant temperatures, smaller crowds. Cons: Days get shorter. - Winter (November-March):
Pros: Amazing skiing and snowboarding. Cons: Cold, snowy, potential for icy conditions.
How to Get to Salt Lake City & Visa Information
Flights, Trains, and Transportation
- Flights: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is a major hub with lots of direct flights from the US and other countries.
- Trains: Amtrak’s California Zephyr stops in Salt Lake City.
- Visa Details: Check the US Department of State’s website to see if you need a visa. Requirements vary by country.
- Airport Transfers: You can grab a taxi, use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, or take the TRAX light rail.
Fun & Interesting Facts About Salt Lake City
Brigham Young, the second leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, famously said “This is the place!” when he arrived in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. It marks the end of their long journey to find religious freedom and start a new life.
Famous People from Salt Lake City
- Jewel (Singer-Songwriter)
- Julianne Hough (Dancer, Actress)
- Donny Osmond (Singer, Entertainer)
Top 10 Salt Lake City Attractions: Don’t Miss These!
- Temple Square
Description: The heart of Salt Lake City and the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. See the Salt Lake Temple, Tabernacle, and other historic buildings.
Address: 50 N Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150 - Great Salt Lake
Description: The biggest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Enjoy unique views, birdwatching, and floating in the salty water.
Address: Access points vary, but Antelope Island State Park is a popular destination. - Natural History Museum of Utah
Description: Learn about Utah’s natural history, from dinosaurs to geology to Native American cultures.
Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 - Red Butte Garden
Description: A beautiful botanical garden with themed areas, hiking trails, and amazing city views.
Address: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 - Liberty Park
Description: Salt Lake City’s largest park, with a lake, Tracy Aviary, and walking paths.
Address: 600 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105 - Utah State Capitol Building
Description: A neoclassical building with beautiful architecture and free tours.
Address: 350 N State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84114 - Clark Planetarium
Description: Discover the universe with interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater.
Address: 110 S 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 - Hogle Zoo
Description: See animals from all over the world.
Address: 2600 E Sunnyside Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84108 - The Leonardo
Description: A science, technology, and art museum with hands-on exhibits.
Address: 209 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 - Cathedral of the Madeleine
Description: A stunning Roman Catholic cathedral with beautiful architecture and stained glass.
Address: 309 E South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Salt Lake City Hidden Gems: Explore the Unusual
- Gilgal Sculpture Garden
Description: A quirky garden with folk art sculptures by Thomas Battersby Child, Jr.
Address: 749 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102 - Ensign Peak Park
Description: Hike to the top for amazing views of the Salt Lake Valley.
Address: End of Ensign Vista Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84103 - Memory Grove Park
Description: A peaceful park with paths, memorials, and a creek.
Address: 300 N Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
Salt Lake City Festivals & Events Calendar
- Sundance Film Festival (January): A famous film festival showcasing independent movies.
- Utah Arts Festival (June): A celebration of visual and performing arts.
- Days of ’47 Parade (July): Celebrates the arrival of the Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley.
- Utah State Fair (September): Farm exhibits, rides, and entertainment.
Day Trips from Salt Lake City: Explore Beyond the City
- Park City (40 minutes): A cute mountain town known for skiing, snowboarding, and its historic Main Street.
- Antelope Island State Park (1 hour): See the Great Salt Lake and spot bison, antelope, and other wildlife.
- Snowbird & Alta (45 minutes): Top-notch ski resorts with great skiing and snowboarding.
- Bonneville Salt Flats (1.5 hours): A huge salt flat, perfect for taking photos.
Salt Lake City’s Best Photography Spots: Capture the Magic
- Temple Square at night
- The Great Salt Lake at sunset
- The Bonneville Salt Flats
- Red Butte Garden
- The Utah State Capitol Building
Where to Stay in Salt Lake City: Hotels for Every Budget
Recommended Length of Stay
3-5 days
Top Salt Lake City Hotels
Budget-Friendly Hotels
- Salt Lake Plaza Hotel at Temple Square
Address: 122 W South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 - Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salt Lake City Airport
Address: 5454 W Amelia Earhart Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 - Red Roof Inn Salt Lake City – Mid Valley
Address: 7335 S Redwood Rd, West Jordan, UT 84084
Mid-Range Hotels
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
Address: 15 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 - Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Downtown/The Gateway
Address: 140 S 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 - Courtyard by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
Address: 345 W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Luxury Hotels
- The Grand America Hotel
Address: 555 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 - Hotel Monaco
Address: 15 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 - Little America Hotel
Address: 500 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Getting Around Salt Lake City: Transportation Options
Public transport, taxis, bikes, walking
- Public Transport: Use the TRAX light rail and bus system.
- Taxis & Ride-sharing: Easy to find.
- Bikes: Rent a bike through the city’s bike share program.
- Walking: The downtown area is easy to explore on foot.
Salt Lake City Travel Tips: Be Prepared
What to Pack for Salt Lake City
Essentials based on weather and culture
- Layers of Clothing: The weather can change quickly.
- Comfortable Shoes: For walking and hiking.
- Sunscreen & Sunglasses: Especially in summer and winter.
- Modest Clothing: When visiting religious sites.
Useful Apps for Your Trip
Navigation, local guides, food
- Google Maps: For getting around.
- Visit Salt Lake: For local info.
- Uber/Lyft: For transportation.
Salt Lake City Safety and Etiquette Tips
Do’s & don’ts, scams to avoid, respectful behavior
- Do: Be respectful of religious customs.
- Don’t: Public drinking is limited in some areas.
- Safety: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Salt Lake City Food & Fun: Eat, Drink & Enjoy
Top Salt Lake City Restaurants
For all tastes and budgets
- Red Iguana
Description: Authentic Mexican food.
Address: 736 W North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84116 - Valter’s Osteria
Description: Upscale Italian restaurant.
Address: 173 W Broadway #100, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 - Pretty Bird Chicken
Description: Nashville hot chicken.
Address: 146 S Regent St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Must-Try Salt Lake City Dishes
Local delicacies and street food
- Pastrami Burger: A local favorite with lots of pastrami on a burger.
- Fry Sauce: Utah’s signature sauce, usually mayo and ketchup.
- Scones: Fried dough served with honey butter.
Salt Lake City Nightlife & Entertainment
Clubs, bars, live music
- Bar X
Description: Classic cocktails in a stylish place.
Address: 155 E 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 - The State Room
Description: Live music venue.
Address: 638 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 - Lake Effect
Description: Popular spot with a varied menu and cocktails.
Address: 155 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Salt Lake City Shopping: Find Unique Souvenirs
Local crafts, street shopping
- Downtown Farmers Market
Description: Local produce, crafts, and food.
Address: Pioneer Park (300 S 300 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101) (seasonal) - Western General Store
Description: Western-themed gifts and souvenirs
Address: 208 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
