72 Hours in Salt Lake

Start your morning off right with a cozy breakfast at ​Hash Kitchen, a chef-driven, brunch-only spot known for its creative twists and lively vibe. Dig into one of their signature potato-hash dishes or have some fun building your own donut platter, it’s the perfect way to kick off a relaxing Salt Lake morning.

Ready to explore the city foliage? A mid-morning stroll through Liberty Park is the perfect way to see the colors of Salt Lake come alive. Whether you stop at Tracy Aviary, rent a paddle boat on the pond or walk the 1.4-mile park loop, you'll find no shortage of things to do in this classic Salt Lake City park.

Take a quick stop over to the Maven District for a collection of locally owned stores just walking distance from Liberty Park. From records to expertly curated consignment, this shopping district has it all. 

Watch the colors come alive at Red Butte Garden, a Salt Lake arboretum nestled at the base of the foothills. With more than 3,000 species of plants and trees just a short drive from the city center and sweeping views of the valley that will take your breath away, you won’t want to miss this whimsical experience.

Head next door to the Natural History Museum of Utah and wander the halls where dinosaur bones, sparkling gems, and sweeping canyon views make science feel like pure magic.

Experience the Great Salt Lake from a new perspective with a scenic boat tour. Glide across its shimmering waters, take in panoramic mountain views, and learn about the lake’s unique ecology and history. It’s a peaceful and unforgettable way to connect with Utah’s most iconic natural landmark.

Located in the heart of the city, Aker Restaurant & Lounge is the perfect place to kick off your night. Showcasing an inventive blend of Japanese cuisine infused with Latin flavors, Aker delivers a dining experience that’s as stylish as it is surprising, one that’s sure to delight and captivate your taste buds.

Just a few blocks from Main Street and the Delta Center, Lake Effect is the spot to elevate your evening. With an artfully curated menu of craft cocktails and elevated small plates, this lively lounge curates an atmosphere that feels both intimate and electric. 

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Rose Establishment, known for its artisanal coffee and farm-to-table dishes. Just a short walk from the city center, this cafe is the perfect place to start your weekend morning in Salt Lake!

Kick off your day with a drive along Big Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Byway. This route offers breathtaking views of fall colors, winding through aspen and pine forests. Don’t forget to stop at viewpoints like Silver Lake for stunning photos. Trust us, your Instagram will thank you!

A morning stroll around Silver Lake Loop offers the most accessible viewing of the changing colors in Big Cottonwood Canyon. Make sure to make this stop for mountain reflections, and the chance to spot wildlife in an easy, unforgettable way. 

Tucked away in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Silver Fork Lodge pairs rustic mountain charm with hearty comfort food. Whether you’re stopping in after a hike or settling in for a cozy evening, it’s a timeless spot to savor good meals and sweeping alpine views.

Take a drive on Guardsman Pass in the fall feels like stepping into a painting. Golden aspens line the winding mountain road, their leaves flickering in the crisp breeze, while sweeping views of the Wasatch and Heber Valley open up around each curve. It’s a breathtaking journey that captures the very best of Utah’s autumn colors.

Dinner at Ivy & Varley feels especially inviting in the fall. The atmosphere comes alive with the season. Outdoor seating lets you enjoy the crisp autumn air, while their seasonal cocktails add a refined touch to the evening.

Step into Salt Lake’s haunted past with a guided ghost tour. As night falls, you’ll wander historic streets and hear eerie tales of restless spirits, mysterious happenings, and the city’s darker side—equal parts spooky and fascinating.

Following your Ghost tour adventures, close the night out at Bar X. Its glowing sign draws you into vintage charm and a lively buzz. Classic cocktails are poured with precision, the dim lighting sets a moody backdrop, and the vibrant late-night scene makes it a downtown staple for an unforgettable evening.

Ease into a crisp fall morning with brunch at Sunday’s Best in Salt Lake’s Post District. Known for its chef-crafted dishes and playful takes on brunch classics, it’s the perfect spot to sip coffee, enjoy seasonal flavors, and linger with friends in a bright, welcoming setting. From indulgent plates to lighter bites, Sunday’s Best sets the tone for a day well spent.

Spend a cozy fall morning wandering Salt Lake’s 9th & 9th neighborhood. Pop into locally owned shops, grab a warm latte at Coffee Garden, and take in the laid-back charm of one of the city’s most walkable, creative districts.

Nestled in Salt Lake City's charming Avenues neighborhood, Avenues Proper is the perfect outdoor lunch spot with a welcoming patio. Whether you're stopping by for their acclaimed weekend brunch or looking for a classic burger, Avenues Proper does not disappoint. 
 

Drive from downtown Salt Lake and suddenly you're watching 700-pound bison roam free against the shimmering backdrop of the Great Salt Lake. Antelope Island isn't playing around – it delivers the kind of wilderness you'd normally drive hours to find. Hike the Frary Peak Trail for panoramic views, or bike the smooth shoreline paths where the salty breeze keeps you cool.

Set in the heart of downtown, Squatters is a go-to for relaxed dinners paired with locally brewed beers. Their seasonal brews capture the flavor of the moment, making it the perfect spot to wind down over good food and a pint that tastes like fall.

End your Salt Lake adventure with a short, rewarding hike to Ensign Peak. Just minutes from downtown, this accessible trail leads to sweeping views of the city skyline framed by the Wasatch Mountains, a breathtaking farewell to your time in Salt Lake.