Spend just a few days in Salt Lake City and it will become abundantly apparent why Utah is America’s fastest-growing state (and its capital one of the fastest-growing cities). With its proximity to world-class skiing and hiking, charming downtown, and eclectic food scene, be prepared to fall in love (and maybe even into residence) with SLC.
Where to Stay:
Inn On the Hill
Take a step back in time when you visit the majestic Inn On the Hill, located (as the name might suggest) in SLC’s Capitol Hill neighborhood. With just 13 guest rooms, this bed and breakfast combines ultimate luxury with a distinct sense of home – for example, you’ll find complimentary snacks and drinks to accompany your pool game in the Billiards Room, and a gourmet breakfast prepared each morning that you’ll enjoy in the communal dining room.
evo Hotel
Located in the midst of one of SLC’s oldest neighborhoods – the Granary District – the evo Hotel is the very picture of laidback living. With stunning views of the nearby Wasatch Mountains, this hotel is a dream for adventure and outdoor lovers, located just a couple miles from some of the city’s best parks and hiking trails. Plus, with loaner bikes and winter gear, you’ll be ready for whatever SLC has to offer.
Where to Eat:
Mar Muntanya
Located in the recently opened Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown SLC, Mar Muntanya is stunning both from an aesthetic and culinary perspective. Enjoy regional favorites like elk loin paired with northern Spanish classics like an expertly cooked octopus, paired alongside expertly crafted cocktails. And be sure to take a look outside for stunning views of the Wasatch mountains.
Table X
Once a factory, Table X is now one of the trendiest and tastiest places to have dinner in Salt Lake City. Dinner is served in five- to seven-course tasting menus (vegetarian options are available as well), which leverage seasonal, regional ingredients that rotate regularly. Be sure to check out Table X Bread as well, which offers caffeinated beverages and house-made baked goods.
Where to Drink:
Loki Coffee
SLC’s coffee culture is not to be missed, and Loki Coffee offers some of the best brews in town. Lattes, cappuccinos, and cortados are skillfully (and lovingly) made, and the avocado toast is perfectly drizzled with fine olive oil. Whether you’re looking for a caffeinated pick-me-up to-go or a place to hang out, read, and get some work done, check out Loki.
Scion Cider Bar
It’s rare that you’ll find a bar focused on ciders, but that’s exactly what the team at Scion is serving up. You’ll find both local, national, and international cider offerings, as well as cocktails featuring this fermented apple beverage (and other beers, wines, and liquors too).
Where to Visit:
Snowbird
Located just over 30 minutes away from downtown SLC is some of the best skiing you’ll find in the country. This stunning resort is known for its deep powder, challenging terrain, and community feel, but is also a phenomenal place to simply enjoy the views – just take the tram to The Summit (Utah’s highest restaurant at 11,000 feet) and have a microbrew with your lunch.
9th and 9th neighborhood
Situated just in between trendy Sugarhouse and Downtown SLC, 9th and 9th is an adorable area and home to one of the most controversial sculptures in the city – “Out of the Blue” – a large whale. Check out Contender, one of the best bike shops in the city, then head over to Trolley Square for some shopping. Grab a farm-to-table meal at Pago, and unwind with some yoga at Centered City Yoga.
Red Butte Garden
These beautiful botanical gardens in Salt Lake City are located on the University of Utah campus in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains. Some of the best and most accessible hiking in the region has trailheads originating in and around Red Butte, and the gardens themselves are breathtaking.
Temple Square
No visit to Salt Lake City would be complete without seeing the historic Temple Square, which is actually five whole city blocks of historical buildings and sites that pay homage to the Church of Latter Day Saints.
FamilySearch Library
For the genealogy buffs, FamilySearch Library is a surprising way to get a bit of your own history while in SLC. Staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and more than willing to help you take a walk through your family tree using one of the dozens of free resources available at the library.
