A First-Timer’s Guide to Salt Lake City: Where to Eat, Stay, and Play

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Salt Lake City for the first time, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the best places to eat, stay, and play in this vibrant city surrounded by stunning natural beauty.

Salt Lake City sits in a valley framed by the snow-capped Wasatch Mountains. Utah’s high-elevation capital is the heart of Mormon country, but it’s so much more than Temple Square. With a thriving food scene, stunning natural surroundings, and a host of cultural attractions, SLC is worth more than a ski stopover. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.

Getting to Know Salt Lake City

Lay of the Land

Salt Lake City’s compact downtown makes it easy to explore on foot. The orderly grid of streets fans out from Temple Square, the 35-acre headquarters of the Mormon Church. The square is ringed by some of SLC’s top attractions, including the Utah State Capitol, City Creek Center Mall, and the edgy Granary District.

To the east, the residential Avenues district climbs into the foothills, offering knockout views over the valley. Further afield, the Wasatch Mountains are laced with hiking trails and ski runs.

When to Go

Thanks to its high desert climate, Salt Lake City sees around 222 sunny days each year. Winters are cold but crowd-free, with prime skiing from December through March. Spring sees warmer days and great hiking weather. Summers can be scorching, with temperatures often topping 100°F (38°C).

Fall is a sweet spot, as the Wasatch Mountains blaze with colour, and temperatures are just right for exploring the city sights. The Utah State Fair in September and Oktoberfest celebrations are a bonus.

Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah

Visit Temple Square

Temple Square, the spiritual centre of the Mormon faith, is SLC’s most popular attraction. While the namesake temple is closed to the public, you can admire the neo-Gothic architecture from the immaculate grounds. Don’t miss the Tabernacle, home to the renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Other highlights include the Family History Library, the largest genealogical library in the world, and the Church History Museum, which chronicles the Mormon pioneers’ epic journey west.

Hike or Ski the Wasatch Mountains

The rugged Wasatch Range is Salt Lake City’s playground. Winter brings world-class skiing at Alta, Snowbird, and Brighton, all within a 30-minute drive of downtown. Come summer, the resorts transform into a hiker’s paradise, with trails threading through wildflower-filled meadows to alpine lakes.

For a quick dose of nature close to the city, head to Red Butte Garden. The 100-acre preserve is webbed with walking paths that showcase Utah’s diverse flora, from fragrant sagebrush to towering pines.

Explore Utah’s Natural History

Dinosaurs once roamed Utah’s red rock landscapes, and the Natural History Museum of Utah brings their world to life. Housed in a striking building in the foothills, the museum’s star attraction is its collection of dinosaur skeletons, including a 30-foot Allosaurus.

Interactive exhibits let you experience Utah’s ancient ecosystems, from dry deserts to shallow seas. The museum also spotlights the state’s indigenous cultures, with displays of intricate Navajo rugs and Paiute basketry.

Tour the Utah State Capitol

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Utah State Capitol is a neoclassical gem. Free tours of the century-old building shed light on Utah’s fascinating history and the workings of its government.

Be sure to peek into the soaring rotunda, with its grand marble staircase and gilt-covered dome. The capitol grounds are a destination in their own right, with walking trails, sculpted gardens, and stirring city views.

Where to Eat: Best Restaurants in Salt Lake City

Red Iguana

A SLC institution, Red Iguana has been dishing up authentic Mexican fare since 1985. The bustling spot is known for its wide array of moles, the complex sauces that form the backbone of Mexican cuisine. Try the punchy mole negro, made with chillies, spices, and a hint of chocolate.

Takashi

Sushi might not be the first thing that comes to mind in landlocked Utah, but Takashi is well worth seeking out. The snug restaurant serves up some of the freshest fish in town, flown in daily from the coast. Creative maki rolls and sashimi are the star attractions.

Valter’s Osteria

For a taste of la dolce vita, head to Valter’s Osteria. The upscale Italian eatery is helmed by chef Valter Nassi, a native of Tuscany. House-made pasta and wood-fired pizzas are menu highlights, paired with an impressive wine list heavy on Italian labels.

Table Comparing Top Restaurants in Salt Lake City

Shopping in Salt Lake City: Visit the Salt Lake Mall

For a dose of retail therapy, make a beeline for the shops at City Creek Center. Billed as the Salt Lake Mall, the upscale shopping centre spans two city blocks in the heart of downtown. You’ll find major retailers like Nordstrom and Macy’s alongside local boutiques and speciality shops.

When you need a break from browsing, grab a bite at the food court or catch a movie at the on-site theatre. The mall’s retractable glass roof lets in plenty of Utah’s abundant sunshine.

Tips for Visiting Salt Lake City

• Getting Around: While downtown SLC is walkable, you’ll need a car to explore the field further. The city’s public transit system includes buses, light rail, and a streetcar.

• What to Pack: Salt Lake City’s high elevation and dry climate call for plenty of sunscreen and a reusable water bottle. Pack layers for cool mountain evenings.

• Where to Stay: Downtown Salt Lake City offers the widest range of accommodations, from budget motels to five-star hotels. For a dose of history, book a room at the grande dame Hotel Utah, which once hosted presidents and movie stars.

• Day Trips: If you have time, venture beyond the city to explore Utah’s stunning natural landscapes. Hike amid the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park, raft the Colorado River through Canyonlands, or watch the sunset over the Great Salt Lake.

   

Make the Most of Your Salt Lake City Getaway with Airtel’s Connectivity

From its welcoming locals to its breathtaking mountain scenery, Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventure. Whether you’re here to hit the slopes, explore the city’s cultural attractions, or sample the top restaurants in SLC, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy.

As you explore all the things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah, stay connected with an international roaming plan from Airtel. With seamless data and voice coverage, you can easily book restaurant reservations, navigate the city’s public transit, and share your favourite moments with friends and family back home. An Airtel Prepaid plan is the perfect travel companion for your Salt Lake City getaway.