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Slay Salt Lake City in 3 Days on a Budget

Explore Salt Lake City on a budget, where adventure meets affordability.

21 June 2023

Salt Lake City is a great destination for travelers on a limited budget. Explore Temple Square, the heart of the city that is free of charge and filled with historical and religious significance. Visit local eateries, like Pretty Bird, for a taste of the city's food scene without breaking the bank. And take advantage of the many walking trails and scenic views offered by the nearby mountains for a cheap and unforgettable adventure.

Travel plan

• Hotel: The Metropolitan Inn a budget-friendly option located downtown with easy access to public transportation and dining options.
• Start the day with a scenic drive up to the nearby Wasatch Range for a breathtaking view of Salt Lake City from above.
• Head back down into the city to explore Temple Square, home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple and numerous historic buildings.
• Stroll through the quirky and colorful streets of the 9th and 9th neighborhood, dotted with independent shops and cafes.
• Grab lunch at Red Iguana, a local institution serving up some of the best Mexican food in town.
• Visit the Utah State Capitol Building, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
• End the day with a relaxing soak in the hot springs at nearby Midway.

• Start the day with breakfast at The Park Cafe, a cozy spot beloved by locals for its hearty fare.
• Head over to the Utah Museum of Fine Arts to explore a stunning collection of art from around the world.
• For an unexpected thrill, visit the Olympic Park to try your hand at bobsledding or ziplining.
• Grab lunch at The Pie Hole, a funky spot serving up delicious pizza by the slice.
• Tour the stunning Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, home to over 21 acres of botanical wonders.
• End the day with a performance at the Eccles Theater, a state-of-the-art venue showcasing the best in music, theater, and dance.

• Start the day with a hike through the breathtaking Big Cottonwood Canyon, which boasts stunning waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and plenty of wildlife.
• Stop for lunch at Silver Fork Lodge, a rustic and charming spot tucked away in the mountains.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the Great Salt Lake, which features plenty of opportunities to swim, kayak, or paddleboard.
• Take a drive out to the Bonneville Salt Flats, a vast expanse of shimmering, otherworldly salt flats that are a photographer's dream.
• End the day with dinner at Takashi, one of the best sushi spots in the city, before catching a sunset over downtown from the Ensign Peak Trail.