Travel + Leisure has named Salt Lake City one of its “50 Best Places to Travel in 2026,” recognizing the destination as a standout for its blend of outdoor adventure, urban vitality, and growing reputation on the world stage. This recognition reinforces what visitors and locals already know: Salt Lake offers an unbeatable combination of mountain access and city life.
A Leader’s Perspective
“Travel + Leisure’s recognition of Salt Lake as a top destination for 2026 shows how quickly our city is rising on the global stage. Salt Lake’s cultural scene, dining, and year-round mountain access are resonating with travelers in a new way. Visit Salt Lake is proud to help elevate that story and to build a destination that continues to grow, evolve, and inspire.”
— Kaitlin Eskelson, President & CEO, Visit Salt Lake
What Sets Salt Lake Apart for 2026
Salt Lake’s appeal comes from its “big-city thrills” positioned within arm’s reach of the mountains. Travel + Leisure highlights its rising cultural and culinary scenes and improved access. Specifically, the editors note Salt Lake City among U.S. destinations because it’s gaining traction in categories such as “Food & Drink,” “Big City,” and “Adventure.”
In 2026, travelers can expect to experience downtown Salt Lake’s award-winning restaurants, craft breweries, and neighborhoods like the 9th & 9th and the Maven District. Then, within under 45 minutes, explore world-class ski resorts or hiking trails in the Wasatch Range. That seamless urban-to-alpine access is what sets Salt Lake apart and what Travel + Leisure’s editors singled out for this year’s list.
