First Time in Salt Lake City Guide

Description:

Solitude Mountain Resort along with nearby Brighton Ski Resort are lesser-known (and usually less crowded) destinations than the larger resorts in Park City and in Little Cottonwood Canyon, but offer great skiing and summer activities and good value. Solitude and Brighton, located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, are close to downtown and only about 40 minutes from the airport. Solitude offers a quaint pedestrian village with shops and restaurants, and new condos available for nightly or weekly rental. Solitude's recently-added high-speed quad lifts get the ski day started fast for guests staying in the local village. Summer at Solitude features a mountain Frisbee-golf course: ride up the chair lift, throw (and chase) your Frisbee down the rugged terrain through 18 wickets.

Our Local Expert Says:

Brighton by far has the best terrain parks in all of Utah. Skiers and riders can enjoy four terrain parks with constantly changing features.

Description:

Located just 25 miles (40 kilometers) southeast of the city, this Cottonwood Canyon resort bills itself as a family-friendly resort. Catering to young families and snowboarding enthusiasts, Brighton Ski Resort's low lift pass prices, high altitude and 500 inches-per-year snowfall average keeps its runs busy. A half-pipe is available, night skiing is offered, and adapted skiing lessons are also available for disabled skiers. Check website for prices and further details.

Our Local Expert Says:

With its host of historic buildings and its beautiful manicured lawns, Temple Square is a must-see for first-time visitors to Salt Lake City.

Description:

Temple Square is the number-one tourist attraction in the state of Utah, attracting 3-5 million visitors each year. And for the 13 million Latter-day Saints around the world, this is the historic and spiritual center of the church.

The downtown destination is the home of the iconic Salt Lake Temple, the Mormon Tabernacle, the Assembly Hall, two large Visitors Centers, the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and the 20,000 seat Conference Center. On one weekend each April and October, the Square buzzes with tens of thousands of Mormon visitors from around the world for the church's semi-annual General Conference.

During the holiday season, the well-manicured trees and buildings are lit beautifully and become a magnet for couples contemplating a wedding at the temple in the spring.

Throughout the year, free concerts are held at the Tabernacle and the adjacent Assembly Hall, every Sunday morning the Tabernacle Choir performs its weekly "Music and the Spoken Word" program free for the public, and a variety of free films and expositions are shown in the neighboring Joseph Smith Memorial Building.

Did we mention that all of this is available at no cost? Volunteering Mormon missionaries on the square will smilingly offer explanations and answer questions about the faith – and that's free too.

Our Local Expert Says:

The best panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake are seen from Antelope Island State Park.

Description:

The Great Salt Lake has a salinity roughly 10 times that of ocean water. It's shallow and generally hard to interact with. However, it has a unique beauty worth checking out. One of the best ways to explore the Great Salt Lake and its natural environs is to take a trip to Antelope Island State Park.

This island, hardly developed at all, allows you to envision what the shores of the Great Salt Lake looked like hundreds of years ago, before millions of people lived in Utah. Visit the historic farm built by settlers 150+ years ago. Or try to catch a glimpse the island's free-roaming buffalo heard; every October a roundup to help thin the heard before the winter months. Take a hike or a mountain bike ride along the island's trails.

Though only about 20 miles northwest of Salt Lake City as the crow flies, Antelope Island actually requires about 45 miles of driving to reach. First head north on I-15 into Syracuse, then take Exit 335 and head west, following signs for Antelope Island State Park. During late May of every year, the Salt Lake Century bike tour rides north from Salt Lake City and onto Antelope Island before heading back south.

Our Local Expert Says:

A great spot for viewing the lake. Spend the day picnicking and wading in the Great Salt Lake.

Description:

Great Salt Lake State Park has been popular with bathers since the Mormon Pioneers first arrived in the basin in the middle of the 19th century. Although no swimming ability is necessary (the high salt content of the water keeps even non-swimmers afloat), bathers should be aware that the super-salty water may irritate throat, eyes and nose. A small visitors' center offers a museum, local information and a video about the lake, while the private SaltAir development provides a few shops, some food outlets and space for concerts and other events.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you are in need of some fresh air and exercise after a day of business meetings, head to the scenic and peaceful Memory Grove Park just blocks form the City Center.

Description:

This beautiful park, dedicated to the veterans of Utah, is refreshingly quiet and serene. The towering trees throughout and the Harbor of Beauty pond create a feeling of peacefulness for those who just want a quiet, meditative walk in the park. On the east bank is the Freedom Trail. On the west, the paved path goes all the way up to City Creek Canyon. The park is dog-friendly as long as pets are leashed—however, owners may unleash dogs in the canyon.

Our Local Expert Says:

Any trip to Salt Lake City necessitates a trip up to Park City's historic Main Street. Shop, dine, and drink in this Old West styled town.

Description:

Park City's Historic Main Street is the quaint and eclectic home of unique retail shops, art galleries, popular bars and private clubs, and some of the best restaurants in the state of Utah. Originally a 19th Century mining town, Park City's center has quite an historic feel. Set on an incline below the base of the Park City Mountain Resort, Main Street is easily accessible on foot from the ski slopes, or free Park City buses deliver visitors here from various points around town. January's Sundance Film Festival and August's Kimball Arts Festival are two of the annual highlights, but every weekend night the street is hopping with locals mingling with visitors from around the world. To check out the history of this town, stop in at the Park City Old Town Museum and Territorial Jail.

Our Local Expert Says:

Squatters not only has an eclectic selection of award-winning microbrews but amazing pub food as well - a must-dine for first time visitors.

Description:

Located on the western end of downtown, this two-story brewpub has been a consistent Salt Lake Favorite for years. On the menu are its many staple and seasonal beers -both on tap (3.2% alcohol by weight) and full-strength in the bottle. The food offerings range from fish-and-chips to curry, steaks, to salads.

With table and bar seating both upstairs and down, this can be a place for a more "serious" dinner, or a quick snack and beer with friends. Located in a renovated brick structure, it has a classic, upscale brewpub feel. During the summer months, its outdoor patio opens, allowing for pleasant outdoor dining.

Our Local Expert Says:

Market Street Grill is a must-dine for any seafood lover with its remarkably fresh seafood in the landlocked state of Utah.

Description:

The Market Street Grill Downtown is the unanimous favorite of locals and visitors from around the world. Reminiscent of the grills of the 1930s with a long counter, bead board, and tile floors, we have been impressing customers since 1980 in the historic 1906 New York Hotel.

Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, the menu offers something for everyone. A variety of fresh seafood flown in daily from around the world, tender steaks, prime rib, pastas, sandwiches, crispy salads, and delectable fresh baked desserts.

The Market Street Grill serves only the highest quality ingredients available. Zagat has rated The Market Street Grill Downtown as SLC's #1 most popular restaurant. The Grill is consistently voted "best seafood," "best desserts" and "best breakfast" and is the recipient of the Wine Spectator "Award of Excellence." Located in the heart of downtown SLC, The Market Street Grill is within easy walking distance of all major hotels and entertainment venues.

Description:

Billing itself as "home of the hardcore Mexican food," the entrees are daring and feature unusual varieties of mole sauces. Knowledgeable servers will help you select the combination of sauces and level of spiciness that is right for you. Enjoy indoor or patio dining, or take advantage of the complete take-out menu. A full liquor license is available, so patrons can enjoy beer, wine, or mixed drinks with their meals.

Our Local Expert Says:

Lamb's is a classic Salt Lake City landmark. The oldest restaurant in Utah serves up tasty American fare in a lovely, historic spot.

Description:

Unlike theme restaurants posing as authentic, this is the real deal. Founded by Greek immigrant George P. Lamb, the restaurant he started in northern Utah in 1919 moved to the city in 1939. Patrons enjoy excellent and truly classic American cuisine here. For breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this is the best place for both atmosphere and people-watching; it is a favorite spot of the city's politicians, businesspeople, and other celebrities. A full-service bar complements entrees and a la carte items, and service is beyond excellent.

Our Local Expert Says:

Located up beautiful Emigration Canyon, Ruth's offers scrumptious breakfasts in a gorgeous setting.

Description:

In a city with a strong, conservative tradition, Ruth was an early rebel. Originally serving burgers downtown during the 1930s, Ruth was known to help protect girls "of ill repute" and had no qualms about serving beers to miners and other "gentiles". Almost literally driven from town, she set up her new diner a few miles up Emigration Canyon in an old boxcar.

Though Ruth has since passed, her restaurant lives on today as one of Salt Lake City's favorite breakfast joints. Serving high-end, high-quantity diner food, this restaurant starts every breakfast with a serving of "mile high biscuits" that are to die for. Come a bit later for lunch and take a beer outdoors! Located right on a popular road biking route, many enjoy a hearty meal outside in the summer months.

Description:

Alta's Peruvian Bar is a favorite among Alta's die-hard ski bum crowd. The cozy, western-themed bar offers complimentary appetizers and popcorn and thus attracts colorful local characters seeking cold libations, free food, and lively conversation. With great views of Alta's impressive peaks and a welcoming fireplace, the Peruvian Bar just may be the best place to unwind after a sweet day on the slopes.  Also a great place to score some great insider ski tips from the locals. 

Located near the entrance to Alta's Wildcat base area, the Peruvian bar is located in the charming, rustic Alta Peruvian Lodge. Like all Utah bars, entrance is limited to guests 21 and over. 

Our Local Expert Says:

Open year long, Snowbird's Tram Club is popular with locals and tourists alike.

Description:

The absolute most happening place to be after a day of skiing on Snowbird's famed slopes.  The Tram Club is always lively with pool tables, live music, and loads of special events and parties   The Tram Club is also the best place to catch your favorite game with 12 flat screen TVs and several projection screens there isn't a bad seat in the house.  

The Tram Club is located on the ground floor of the Snowbird Center right next to the Steak Pit.  The club holds the gears of the Snowbird Tram and you can view the Tram in action through the glass windows in the bar.  

Also open during the summer months, the Tram Club has a beautiful patio located at the base of the mountain.    

Our Local Expert Says:

If you are in the mood for a tasty treat, try a cocktail off the Red Door's decadent martini menu. The Butterscotch Sundae and Death by Chocolate Martini are amazing.

Description:

For a swanky evening sipping martinis and chatting in overstuffed chairs, head to the Red Door. This small bar has a dark, sexy ambiance that goes well as an after-dinner treat, or a post-show drink. Though it gets very busy, it's rarely gets loud, so it a great venue for hanging with a small group of friends. Beware: though the atmosphere is cool, the service can be quite slow -so don't head here if you're in a rush to get in and out.

Located right downtown, so can easily be taken in combination with other activities -and is totally within walking distance of the hotel district.

Description:

Featuring a patio, dance floor, cigar room and pool tables, this club is sure to deliver. Tuesdays feature pianist Dave Compton; Wednesdays, live jazz; Thursdays, karaoke; Fridays, retro '70s, '80s, and '90s; Saturdays, live local bands; and Sundays, live acoustic tunes. Free pool is offered on Sundays. This club also offers full bar service. Dress code is enforced—no hats, T-shirts, or cut-off jeans are permitted. Casual dress is appropriate.

Our Local Expert Says:

Brewvies is both a bar and a movie theater. What could be better than that?

Description:

One of Salt Lake's most genius establishments, Brewvies is a beer bar, finger food restaurant, and movie theater all rolled into one! Though you won't catch the latest in films, Brewvies does get its hands on some relatively new releases, played in each of their two, 150-seater theaters. Grab one of the 18 beers, a burger (or salad), and enjoy the film! If you get there early enough, you can grab one of the couches in the back and really relax.

Located in one of the country's biggest outdoorsy towns, this will often screen ski, mountain bike, and climbing films.

Description:

Brigham Young and the Mormon pioneers got their first glimpse of the Salt Lake Valley at the site of this historic park. A tall granite and bronze sculpture was erected in 1947 to commemorate the centennial of their arrival. The park, which covers more than 1,600 acres, offers hiking along part of the trail used by the pioneers, with opportunities for cross-country skiing in winter. This is a good place for wildlife viewing and birding in winter and spring, with additional songbirds and raptors present in summer and fall. There's a picnic area, but no camping, and a visitor center contains exhibits depicting the Mormon pioneers' trek from Illinois to the Great Salt Lake Valley in 1847.

Also in the park, Heritage Village is a pioneer village comprised of original buildings from across the state along with some reproductions. In summer and during special events it becomes a living-history museum of the period from 1847 to 1869, with costumed villagers and a variety of demonstrations and activities, including wagon rides. Allow 1 to 2 hours. For a week each December the village re-creates a pioneer Christmas celebration.

Description:

This delightful city park has trails for walking and jogging, tennis courts, a small lake with ducks and paddleboat rentals, picnic facilities, a playground, a children's garden, a children's amusement park, a museum, and an excellent aviary. Covering 100 acres, this is a favorite gathering spot for locals, as well as one of the best dog-walking areas in the city (dogs must be leashed and owners must clean up after them). In the park, the Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts (tel. 801/533-5760), in the historic Brigham Young/Chase home, contains exhibits of pioneer art, American Indian art, and folk art. Allow a half-hour. Tracy Aviary (tel. 801/596-8500; www.tracyaviary.org), in the southwest section of the park, has more than 400 birds, including a number of endangered species. There's a special exhibit of Australian parrots called lories ($1.50 extra per person), and free-flying bird shows are presented during the summer (call for schedule). Allow at least 1 hour.

Our Local Expert Says:

Hogle zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums meaning the zoo is recognized as one of the best in the world.

Description:

Every major city has a zoo, and this is Salt Lake City's. Situated on the northeastern end of town, at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, this houses a huge spectrum of animals, fish, insects, and arachnids. Here you'll find everything from camels to elephants, snakes to bears. Open all year, this is best visited during the warmer months when it's pleasant enough for all of the animals to be outside! No charge for children two and under.

Open since 1931 and operating in the same location, this zoo has served as a community education center, supporting school outings, and offering education programs and zoo classes. This isn't just restricted to toddlers; different classes are designed to inform those from a young age through adulthood. Check online for the program listing.

Just across from the Hogle Zoo (to the north) is one of the many trail heads for the Bonneville Shoreline system.

Description:

This state-of-the-art planetarium presents laser light shows and big-screen movies in Utah's only 3-D IMAX theater. It also contains a variety of interactive exhibits ranging from a display about the names of the planets to a Foucault pendulum, plus a rotating relief globe. Allow up to 3 hours.

Description:

This living-history dairy farm, where you can see demonstrations of farming and daily activities from the late 19th century, features hundred-year-old farm buildings, a small petting zoo, and a nature preserve. Activities include experiencing various farm chores, such as egg gathering and cow milking, farmhouse tours, and tractor-driven wagon rides. Allow 1 to 2 hours. A variety of annual events is also offered, including a scarecrow masquerade, a holiday lights festival, breakfast with Santa, and a summer camp week.