City break (noun): a short holiday spent in a city, such as when on business travel.
Before there was bleisure travel, there was the city break—the short space of leisure time that grants you access to the cultural and culinary amenities that big cities offer. In this series from TripIt, we explore some of the world’s best cities for planning a quick getaway or extending a work trip.
Here are our tips for making the most of your city break in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Where to fly in
Salt Lake City is served by Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), located just six miles from downtown.
Once on the ground, travelers can take the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) light rail, TRAX. The Green Line connects the airport to downtown Salt Lake City in about 20 minutes. Alternatively, rideshare options like Uber and Lyft, as well as taxis, are readily available from SLC.
Where to stay during your city break
Looking for a luxury stay in the heart of Salt Lake City? Known for its opulent design, spacious rooms, and world-class spa, the Grand America Hotel is one of the most luxurious hotels in Salt Lake City.
Is a boutique hotel more your style? The Kimpton Hotel Monaco located in the heart of downtown features swanky rooms and an on-site restaurant. Also located downtown, The Peery Hotel is a historic boutique hotel offering charming vintage decor with modern conveniences. Or, book a stay at The Annex by Epic Brewing, a quirky hotel featuring industrial-style rooms and close proximity to breweries and nightlife.
Speaking of proximity, if you’re attending a conference or event at the Salt Palace Convention Center, the Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City (attached directly to the Salt Palace) and the Radisson Hotel (located next door) are both within easy walking distance.
Vacation rentals, like those booked through Airbnb, are also available in Salt Lake City.
How to get around
Part of downtown Salt Lake City’s charm is its walkability. Plan accordingly by packing comfortable shoes for walking from place to place.
When walking isn’t feasible or desirable, you can take the TRAX light rail. Three lines converge downtown: the Green Line (connects the airport to downtown), Red Line (connects downtown to the University of Utah and the Medical Center), and Blue Line (connects downtown to the suburb of Sandy City). Tickets can be purchased via the Transit app. A regular one-way ticket costs $2.50, or you can purchase a $5 day pass that covers all lines. City buses, included with the day pass, can also help you get around Salt Lake City. Consult the (same) Transit app for schedules and tickets.
Looking for micromobility options? Scooter-share services like Spin and Lime are widely available for short trips. GREENBike, Utah’s only non-profit bike share program, is another eco-friendly option for getting around town.
Taxis and ride-share programs, like Uber and Lyft, are also available to take you where you need to go.
Where to eat
If you only have time for one meal in Salt Lake City, make it at Log Haven. Think: upscale American cuisine, fine wines, gorgeous views—all in a one-of-a-kind setting.
For other fine dining experiences, consider Valter's Osteria known for its Italian cuisine, warm hospitality, and fresh pasta. Or, book a reservation at Current Fish & Oyster for fresh seafood and modern coastal vibes.
Looking for some casual options? Zest Kitchen & Bar is a vegan-friendly spot with creative dishes and vibrant flavors. The Copper Onion is known for its friendly service and delicious New American cuisine. Spitz offers Mediterranean street food featuring wraps, bowls, and falafel. Or, head to Settebello for Neapolitan-style pizza.
Have breakfast on the brain? Head to The Park Café for classic breakfast and brunch dishes, Roots Café for organic and locally sourced breakfast options, or Lazy Day Café for its lemon ricotta pancakes and relaxed atmosphere. Just need a coffee fix? Stop by Three Pines Coffee, a local favorite known for its exceptional brews.
Speaking of brews, Salt Lake City is home to a number of fantastic breweries, including Red Rock Brewing Co., Squatters Pub Brewery, Bewilder Brewing, and Fisher Brewing. Explore these local craft beer spots to experience the city’s burgeoning brewery scene.
Tip: Use TripIt’s Nearby Places feature to easily find places to eat, drink, pick up supplies, or even seek medical care within walking distance from where you’re staying. For example, if you’re looking for a restaurant that’s close to your hotel, simply tap on the restaurants option in Nearby Places to view an interactive map with each option tagged. Tap the tags to view useful information like the restaurant’s contact details, hours, reviews, and more. If you find a place you want to visit but can’t get there right away, you can save it to your trip itinerary in TripIt to visit later.
What to do on your city break
Salt Lake City offers a range of activities and attractions to explore.
Bookstores like The King’s English Bookshop, a charming independent bookstore with a fantastic selection, and Under the Umbrella, a queer-owned bookstore with a welcoming vibe, are great for book lovers. Speaking of books, The City Library is architecturally stunning with plenty of quiet spots to relax or work.
Sports fans can catch an NBA game with the Utah Jazz; support the Utah Hockey Club, the NHL’s newest hockey team; or watch Real Salt Lake for Major League Soccer.
Family-friendly attractions include the Clark Planetarium with hands-on exhibits and stunning shows in the dome theater. Or, head to the Natural History Museum of Utah—a must-visit for history and science lovers.
For nature and outdoor activities, visit the Great Salt Lake and book a boat tour to explore this iconic body of water. Wander through Red Butte Garden or Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens for some tranquility in the city.
Want to explore beyond Salt Lake City and see more of Utah? Check out nearby Park City, known for its charming downtown, ski resorts, and year-round outdoor activities. Or, rent a car and take a road trip to Utah’s five national parks, affectionately known as the Mighty Five.
