The Essential Guide to Salt Lake City, Utah

Located in the Great Basin and surrounded by the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountains, lies the capital of the Beehive State, Salt Lake City. Often affectionately shortened to “SLC,” the city once had a reputation as being a rather sleepy place—but that is no longer the case.

Salt Lake City was recently named one of Travel + Leisure‘s Best Places to Go in 2026. With its close proximity to Park City, which held the 2002 Winter Olympics and is set to host the games once again in 2034, SLC has always been something of a vibrant outdoor playground. But now, it has a fast-growing, booming culinary scene, and a hip, trendy downtown, making it a one-stop shop for anyone in search of big-city energy and the West’s iconic mountain terroir. 

“Visitors are always surprised by how effortless it is to go from vibrant neighborhoods and award-winning dining to trailheads, ski slopes, and national-quality arts and culture, all within minutes,” Kaitlin Eskelson, CEO of Visit Salt Lake, tells T+L. “You get the buzz of a growing city, but you’re still in a place where people genuinely value connection, creativity, and time outside.”

Indeed, its growing popularity has attracted newcomers from near and far, who’ve all made their unique mark in the community. Rocky Donati, who’s originally from San Diego, has lived in Salt Lake City for over a decade and cofounded the Maven District, a neighborhood made up entirely of women-owned businesses, in 2015.

“Salt Lake City is one of those rare places that functions like a big city, but is actually a vibrant small business community wrapped up with mountain-town soul,” says Donati. “You can hike a world-class trail in the morning, explore endless locally owned shops in the afternoon, and eat destination-worthy food in the evening—all within 20 minutes.”

Here’s what you need to know before planning a trip to Salt Lake City, Utah.

Best Hotels & Resorts

The Grand America Hotel

Built in 2002 in anticipation of the Winter Olympic Games, The Grand America Hotel still provides standout, upscale accommodations for travelers. Today, it’s still one of the top choices for opulent lodging in the area, and many of its 775 rooms have luxe details like Italian marble soaking tubs, walk-in closets, and convenient kitchenettes. 

Asher Adams, Autograph Collection

One of the first things you’ll notice upon stepping into this 225-room Autograph Collection is the grandiose, gold-accented lobby fit for royalty. “Asher Adams is one of the most unique stays in the Mountain West—an exquisitely restored historic train station reimagined as a modern luxury hotel. It’s where incredible architecture, contemporary design, and convenience all meet in the heart of the mountain city,” says Eskelson. 

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City 

Old-world charm meets modern luxury at this historic bank-turned-hotel in the heart of Salt Lake City’s downtown district. It’s also a presidential favorite, and hosted Joe Biden in 2023. 

Evo Hotel 

Providing easy access to Utah’s Wasatch Mountain Range and its many trails, these experience-focused digs have been designed with adrenaline junkies in mind. “Evo Hotel feels like the best version of SLC’s identity—creative, community-driven, and built for people who want connection and adventure in the same day,” says Donati. 

Snowbird 

If you can, make time to venture 45 minutes southeast of SLC to what is (arguably) one of the region’s premier skiing destinations. The mountain resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon, complete with an award-winning spa and multiple on-site restaurants, has access to the self-proclaimed “Greatest Snow on Earth,” making it an ideal home base for travelers in search of a winter sports paradise.

Best Things to Do 

Hike and bike through the city’s many trails.

You don’t have to go far to experience the outdoors in Salt Lake. The city is crisscrossed with dozens of paths, such as Ensign Peak, Mount Olympus, and Bell Canyon, which lead to scenic overlooks, active creeks, patches of violet wildflowers, and even waterfalls. “There’s just so much to explore outdoors, as you can ski, hike, or bike minutes from downtown, or simply take a walk around Liberty Park or the foothills. The quick access to nature is something visitors fall in love with,” says Eskelson.

Marvel at over 135 species of birds at Tracy Aviary. 

Bird’s the word at Tracy Aviary, an eight-acre sanctuary established in 1938 for feathered friends to flourish and frolic. Each exhibit has informative placards that delve into avian facts, figures, and info about worldwide conservation efforts. 

Explore world-class exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Utah.

Learn about Utah’s unique and diverse geologic history with themed floors and easy-to-understand displays. “The Natural History Museum is one of my favorite places to land when I need perspective,” says Donati. “It reminds you how much beauty and complexity existed long before us, and it’s impossible not to feel both grounded and inspired when you walk through it.”

Wander past plants and trees at Red Butte Garden.

Take a break from the chaos of city life with a jaunt through Red Butte Garden, home to over 3,000 types of plants and trees. The rose garden is particularly popular, with its vibrant display of dozens of kinds of roses, which vary in flower shape, color, and smell.

Experience local culture at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.

Take in hundreds of thought-provoking pieces that at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. The permanent collection holds over 20,000 pieces of art that span ancient classical art to the present day. The institution also makes it a point to highlight the work of local artists and regularly funds creative grassroots initiatives in the community.

Best Shopping

Caputo’s

Although it’s perhaps best known for serving up some of the best deli sandwiches in the city, Caputo’s is also a purveyor of regional Italian and Southern European delicacies, with things like imported cocktail bitters, tinned fish, and olive oil lining its shelves. “Caputo’s is always a joy—part specialty market, part cultural staple. Whether you’re picking up artisanal cheeses, craft chocolate from Utah makers, or hard-to-find ingredients, it’s a great window into Salt Lake’s food culture,” says Eskelson. 

Maven District

The mural-lined Maven District neighborhood is entirely dedicated to women-owned businesses, from Lovebound Library‘s romance books and Acrely Farms‘ CBD-based skincare to Pantry Products’ sustainable self and home goods and Mineral and Matter’s nature and space-inspired jewelry. “[The latter] is beautifully curated and deeply feminine in a grounded way, like stepping into an expression of yourself that feels mysterious and empowered,” says Donati. 

Downtown Farmers Market 

Saturdays are for shopping and sampling at Salt Lake City’s bustling market, which is filled with handmade leather and wooden goods, eclectic artwork, locally-foraged produce, as well as artisanal treats. Dedicate at least a couple of hours to peruse the stands and chat with friendly locals. 

Nightlife

Beer Bar & Bar X

“Our nightlife surprises people,” says Eskelson. “Beer Bar and Bar X—connected sister spots owned by actor Ty Burrell—offer a perfect mix of craft beer, cocktails, and energy. Together, they show how fun, welcoming, and unexpectedly lively Salt Lake’s evenings can be.” Don’t leave without ordering a Bar X plate of fries and dipping sauce to enjoy while soaking up the tavern’s wide range of cocktails, beers, and wines. 

Why Kiki

SLC’s roots are deeply intertwined with Mormonism—but the city actually has a thriving LGBTQ+ scene, too. Why Kiki, which hosts burlesque shows and silent discos, has become a safe haven for queer residents, tourists, and allies to let their hair down and dance. 

Lake Effect 

Live music is Lake Effect’s biggest draw, which can be enjoyed from cozy, oversized leather booths and with a menu chock-full of cleverly concocted cocktails paired with thorough descriptions and mini graphics. 

Water Witch 

A 2025 James Beard finalist, Water Witch has become a SLC nightlife staple with a large menu showcasing cocktails, draft beer, wine, and spirits. “Water Witch is unpretentious, intimate, and full of people who love their craft. You feel connected the moment you walk in,” says Donati. 

Best Restaurants 

Loki Coffee

There’s nothing “lowkey” about Loki, a neighborhood coffee shop often bustling with customers in need of their morning caffeine fix. Besides a robust selection of coffees and hot teas, the cafe serves up a range of gourmet grilled cheeses and dressed-up toasts.

Aker Restaurant & Lounge

Home to a seasonal, 10-course omakase “Tuna Fight Club” that celebrates bluefin in every form, Aker Restaurant & Lounge has emerged as one of the city’s most sought-after reservations with a Japanese-inspired menu that ranges from dry-aged nigiri to wagyu beef. 

Tandoori Taqueria

This taco joint in the Maven District serves up Indian-inspired takes of the Mexican classic. “Tandoori Taqueria is one of those places where the fusion just works—bold, playful, and full of flavor in a way that feels both unexpected and totally at home in SLC,” says Donati. 

HSL

At HSL, diners can expect to nosh on elevated takes on elevated American classics like fried chicken, burgers, and buttermilk biscuits. “Our restaurant scene has evolved so quickly, and places like HSL really show the level of creativity happening here. They’re known for modern American cuisine, interesting wines, and thoughtful cocktails, all rooted in locally sourced ingredients that reflect the spirit of the area,” says Eskelson. 

Eva’s Bakery

Eva’s Bakery serves quintessential brunch fare and pastries, including palettes of macarons, an Instagram-famous chocolate croissant, and a caramelized kouign-amann that effortlessly balances sugary indulgence with delightfully crisp edges.

Best Time to Visit 

The best time to visit Salt Lake City depends entirely on what you’re hoping to get out of the visit. Those seeking the thrills and chills of skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and the like will thrive in winter, while sun-seeking hikers and bikers will fare best in spring and summer months.

How to Get There

Flights operate daily to and from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which is less than six miles west of downtown. The airport’s most prominent carrier, Delta Air Lines, has the most significant presence, and is also home to the country’s second-largest Delta Sky Club.

However, one of the most enchanting ways to reach Salt Lake City is by car. Those who have the time should strongly consider tacking Salt Lake City onto a road trip through Utah’s beloved geological gems. Stops can include hikes through the otherworldly hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park, the Virgin River Narrows of Zion National Park, and the red rock vistas of Arches National Park. 

How to Get Around 

For the best experience in Salt Lake City, you’ll want to either drive to the city or rent a car—it’s the easiest way to take advantage of SLC’s natural surroundings and off-the-beaten-path attractions. Ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft are available if need be. That said, the city does have a light rail system, Trax, as well as a public bus system run by the Utah Transit Authority.