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3-day itinerary

Extended Salt Lake City Experience

3-day general exploration of Salt Lake City, Utah

Length
3 days · 8 sights
Pace
Moderate
Estimated cost
$120 per person
Based in
Salt Lake City

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Downtown Culture and History

    Explore the historic center of Salt Lake City, starting with the iconic Temple Square and moving through the downtown cultural district.

    • 09:00

      Temple Square Tour

      Visit the historic Temple Square, including the Salt Lake Temple, Tabernacle, and Assembly Hall. Explore the grounds and visitor center.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 10:30

      Natural History Museum of Utah

      Visit the striking architecture and exhibits of the Natural History Museum, featuring local wildlife and geological history.

      About 60 min

    • 12:30

      Lunch in Downtown

      Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the downtown area near the Capitol and museums.

    • 14:00

      Utah State Capitol

      Tour the historic Utah State Capitol building, learning about state history and enjoying the views from the dome if accessible.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 15:30

      Utah Museum of Fine Arts

      Explore the diverse art collections at the University of Utah's museum, featuring global artifacts and local art.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Downtown SLC; Lunch at Downtown SLC; Dinner at Downtown SLC
    Where to stay:
    Stay in downtown Salt Lake City for easy access to Temple Square and the Capitol.
    Getting around:
    Walking is sufficient for most activities. Use light rail if traveling further.

  2. Day 2: Mountain Adventure in the Wasatch

    Spend the day exploring the stunning natural scenery of the Wasatch Mountains, accessible via a short drive from the city.

    • 08:00

      Drive to Snowbird

      Drive or take the shuttle up to Snowbird ski area. The drive offers scenic views of the canyon.

      About 60 min

    • 09:30

      Snowbird Hiking/Scenic View

      Enjoy the panoramic views from the top of Snowbird. Hike the trails or take the aerial tram for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

      About 4 hours

    • 13:00

      Lunch at Snowbird

      Enjoy a meal at one of the lodge restaurants with mountain views.

    • 14:30

      Alta Ski Area Visit

      Visit the nearby Alta Ski Area, known for its steep terrain and historic charm. Even in summer, the high elevation offers cool breezes and stunning alpine scenery.

      About 2 hours

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Home/Hotel; Lunch at Snowbird; Dinner at Home/Hotel
    Where to stay:
    Return to the same hotel in downtown Salt Lake City.
    Getting around:
    A car is recommended for this day to navigate the mountain roads safely and flexibly.

  3. Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

    A relaxing day exploring local gardens and the unique geological features of the Great Salt Lake region.

    • 09:00

      Red Butte Garden

      Explore the beautiful gardens, botanical collections, and nature trails at the University of Utah's Red Butte Garden.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 11:30

      Great Salt Lake State Park

      Visit the Great Salt Lake State Park to see the unique saline environment, bird watching, and the historic Fort Douglas ruins nearby.

      About 60 min

    • 13:30

      Lunch near Lake

      Enjoy a casual lunch at a local cafe or restaurant near the Great Salt Lake area.

    • 15:00

      Antelope Island State Park

      Visit the iconic Antelope Island, known for its bison herd and stunning views of the Great Salt Lake. Take a short walk or drive around the island.

      About 60 min

    Meals:
    Breakfast at Home/Hotel; Lunch at Near Great Salt Lake; Dinner at Home/Hotel
    Where to stay:
    Stay in the same hotel as previous nights.
    Getting around:
    A car is necessary to visit the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island, as public transport is limited in these specific areas.

Practical information

Salt Lake City is accessible year-round, though the best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer offers warm, dry weather ideal for hiking, while winter brings heavy snow, perfect for skiing in nearby mountains. Spring and fall provide mild temperatures and fewer crowds, making them ideal for exploring the city’s cultural sites. Getting around is convenient with Salt Lake City International Airport, located just 3 miles from downtown. The city is walkable in the central area, and the free TRAX light rail system connects major attractions, including the airport, Temple Square, and the University of Utah. For those visiting the surrounding area, renting a car is recommended, as many natural attractions are spread out. Accommodation options are concentrated in downtown, near Temple Square, and in the nearby areas of Sugar House and Capitol Hill. Staying downtown provides easy access to restaurants, shops, and cultural sites, while the other neighborhoods offer a more local vibe with boutique hotels and boutique inns. Budget considerations vary; downtown hotels can be expensive, especially during peak seasons, but there are affordable options in nearby neighborhoods. Many hotels include breakfast or offer discounted rates for extended stays. When packing, consider the variable weather. Even in summer, evenings can be cool, so bring layers. In winter, pack warm clothing, including a coat, hat, gloves, and boots. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city, and sunscreen is recommended for outdoor activities. Important tips for travelers include booking accommodations and activities in advance, especially during peak seasons. Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly, as weather can change quickly. Be prepared for high altitude by staying hydrated and taking it easy for the first day. Respect local customs and regulations, and be mindful of other visitors when exploring popular attractions.

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