The very best 12 nightlife spots in Salt Lake City, United States
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Welcome to the land of dazzling lights and dancing shoes! Salt Lake City, the hidden gem of Utah, may not scream "party central," but fear not, intrepid traveler, for there are secret spots that will make your nights unforgettable. From the electrifying beats at Sky, sprinkled with a pinch of mischievous charm, to the sultry allure of Metro Music Hall, where the walls pulse with tunes that make you wiggle, these venues will ensure your dance moves are epic. And for a touch of whimsy, make your way to Quarters Arcade Bar, where vintage games and craft cocktails collide, leaving you basking in nostalgia and contemplating whether you're more skilled at Pac-Man or the art of mischief.
Save destination1. Hog Wallow Pub
3200 E Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121, USA
Welcome to Hog Wallow Pub, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City that will leave you squealing with delight! This cozy, rustic tavern offers a rustic atmosphere that feels like a cross between an old western saloon and a pigsty (minus the actual pigs). With its mismatched furniture, dim lighting, and walls adorned with whimsical pig memorabilia, the Hog Wallow Pub is a place where you can let loose and oink to your heart's content. Be prepared to indulge in some lip-smacking deliciousness at Hog Wallow Pub. Their menu is stacked with hearty pub grub that will make your taste buds dance a jig. From their famous "Sloppy Hog" burger, oozing with gooey cheese and dripping with tangy barbecue sauce, to their crispy pigtail fries that will have you squealing in delight, their fare is worth every single calorie. But there's more to this place than just food and drinks. Hog Wallow Pub is famous for its lively, unpretentious atmosphere that attracts a diverse crowd of locals and out-of-towners alike. If you're lucky, you might even catch their infamous Saturday Night Hog Slam, where brave souls compete in a no-holds-barred hog-calling contest that is both hilarious and strangely mesmerizing. So, whether you're looking for a unique dining experience, a pig-themed getaway, or just a good ol' place to unwind with friends, Hog Wallow Pub is an oink-tastic choice that will leave you wanting to come back for more.
Learn more2. The Ruin
159 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
Nestled amidst the breathtaking urban landscape of Salt Lake City, you'll stumble upon the enigmatic marvel known as The Ruin. Don't let the name fool you; this place is far from a post-apocalyptic wasteland. Its crumbling façade exudes an irresistible charm, almost like a giant monument to that time your grandma attempted home improvement and it didn't quite go as planned. A testament to unruly vegetation and the triumph of entropy, The Ruin will leave you pondering life's complexities while trying to determine whether the aluminum siding was really meant to peel off in such an organized fashion.
Learn more3. Piper Down
1492 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA
Welcome to Piper Down, a hidden gem in the heart of Salt Lake City! This lively Irish pub is not only an enchanting haven for beer enthusiasts, but it also doubles as a place where locals gather to perfect their Irish brogue. Prepare yourself for an authentic pub experience complete with boisterous laughter, communal storytelling, and copious amounts of whiskey - hey, it's the perfect spot to become an honorary leprechaun for the night, or perhaps just loose some inhibitions!
Learn more4. Beer Bar
128 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
Nestled snugly in downtown Salt Lake City, Beer Bar is the oasis where brew aficionados gather to worship at the temple of hops and barley. With its vibrant atmosphere and extensive range of craft brews, this haven is the perfect spot to chase away the woes of not finding a parking spot. Grab a seat in their sun-soaked patio, and as you sip on your beer, feel free to pretend you’re savoring it on a mountaintop – just don’t start yodeling, or they might ask you to leave.
Learn more5. Whiskey Street
323 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, Whiskey Street is the haven for those seeking refuge from the judgmental gazes that seem to follow you like clingy, over-enthusiastic dates. This eclectic street boasts a vibrant array of whiskey bars, each showcasing more options than a mid-2000s iPod shuffle. Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or just need a strong drink to forget about that blind date gone awry, Whiskey Street is here to save the day (or night, let's be honest).
Learn more6. The Garage
1199 Beck St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, USA
Nestled amidst the captivating city of Salt Lake City, lies a peculiar haven called The Garage. This quirky joint is not your typical parking spot for clunky vehicles, oh no! Instead, it showcases an ingenious fusion of gastronomy and entertainment, leaving visitors bemused and delighted. Imagine slurping on a bowl of delectably comforting ramen while simultaneously marveling at the impressive juggling skills of a unicycle-riding clown. The Garage provides a thrilling escape from the mundane and a chance to experience a gustatory and visual feast all under one roof.
Learn more7. Bar X
155 E 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, Bar X is where the city's quintessential charm meets a quirky mix of drink connoisseurs and hipsters. With a laid-back ambiance that can only be described as "hipster chic meets wild west saloon," Bar X has a character all its own. Whether you're a craft cocktail connoisseur or desperately seeking a friendly watering hole, this is the spot where mixing good times and delightful libations is not just an art but a delightful ritual.
Learn more8. The State Room
638 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, The State Room is your ticket to funky fun and toe-tapping grooves. With its quirky decor and intimate ambiance, this vibrant venue offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will have your senses doing a happy jig. Whether you're a seasoned concert-goer or just a curious explorer, prepare to have your eardrums serenaded in style, while neck-deep in a sea of cheerful folks who definitely know how to party.
Learn more9. The Rest
331 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
Welcome to The Rest, a hidden oasis in the heart of Salt Lake City. This hipster haven may not be a barnyard, but it's definitely a hot spot for the cool crowd. With its wooden interiors and Instagram-worthy decor, this trendy café will make you feel like you've stepped into a Pinterest board. Step inside, grab a cup of expertly brewed coffee, and embrace the relaxed vibes while rubbing shoulders with the city's trendsetters.
Learn more10. The Bayou
645 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
Welcome to The Bayou in Salt Lake City, where the spirit of New Orleans has been squeezed into a cozy corner of Utah. As you step inside, prepare to be transported to a magical world of spicy Cajun cuisine, lively music, and enough Mardi Gras beads to make your neck feel like a flamboyant rainbow. Don't miss their gumbo that'll make you wonder if you accidentally boarded a flight to the French Quarter instead.
Learn more11. Gracie's
326 S W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
Welcome to Gracie's in Salt Lake City, a hip and lively eatery that promises to tickle both your taste buds and your funny bone. Nestled in the heart of downtown, this joint offers a delightful blend of eclectic vibes with a sprinkle of quirkiness, making it the go-to spot for adventurous foodies with a sense of humor. Whether you're craving a twist on classic American cuisine or simply in need of a good chuckle, Gracie's has got you covered with its creative menu and witty atmosphere.
Learn more12. Lake Effect
155 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
Welcome to Salt Lake City, where the weather likes to keep you on your toes – or should I say, in your chunky winter boots. Prepare to experience the infamous Lake Effect, the local weather phenomenon that turns the city into a real-life snow globe. It's like living in a perpetual fluff fest, with a side of "Where did I park my car again?"
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The easiest way to get to Salt Lake City is by plane. Salt Lake City International Airport is located just 6 miles from the city center and is served by numerous domestic and international airlines.
Car
Salt Lake City is easy to reach by car, as it is located at the intersection of several major highways, including I-15 and I-80. Visitors can rent a car at Salt Lake City International Airport or a variety of rental car locations throughout the city.
Train
While there are no direct trains to Salt Lake City, Amtrak's California Zephyr makes stops in several nearby cities, including Helper and Green River. From there, passengers can take a bus or rental car to reach Salt Lake City.
Boat
There is no direct way to reach Salt Lake City by boat, as the city is located inland. However, visitors can take a scenic boat tour on nearby bodies of water, such as the Great Salt Lake, which is just a short drive from the city center.
Bus
Greyhound is the largest bus carrier in the United States and operates several routes to Salt Lake City. The Salt Lake City Bus Terminal is located in the heart of downtown and is easily accessible by public transportation and taxi.