Salt Lake City's Best Budget-Friendly Day Trip

Discover the beauty of Salt Lake City on a budget: mountains, lakes, and culture galore!

21 June 2023

Salt Lake City is a great destination for budget travelers who want to experience the city's natural beauty and cultural offerings without breaking the bank. There are plenty of affordable accommodations, cheap eats, and free or low-cost attractions to enjoy, such as hiking in the nearby mountains, exploring the city's historical sites, and visiting world-class museums. With a little bit of planning and research, anyone can have a memorable and affordable trip to Salt Lake City.

Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering Salt Lake City on a Budget

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Ruth's Diner, where you can try their famous Mile High Biscuits.
  • Visit the breathtaking Temple Square, the spiritual hub of Salt Lake City, and learn about the history and culture of the Mormon religion.
  • Head to the Utah State Capitol Building, an impressive architectural masterpiece, and catch stunning views of the city and the mountains from its observation deck.
  • Take a stroll through the charming and historic Sugar House neighborhood, where you can browse the local boutiques and grab a quick bite to eat at one of the local eateries.
  • End the evening with a free concert or performance at the Gallivan Center, a popular gathering place in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City.
  • Indulge in some classic comfort food at The Red Iguana, where you can savor their famous mole sauce and enjoy a margarita without breaking the bank.
  • Note: Don't forget to bring sunscreen, as the altitude and dry climate can make the sun feel extra intense!

How 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.

More travel plans

Romantic Winter Getaway: Salt Lake City in 4 Days

Salt Lake City offers a romantic retreat with a stunning winter wonderland backdrop perfect for couples. Spend the day exploring the city's historic buildings and museums, enjoy an evening at the opera, and indulge in fine dining with stunning views of the city. Lastly, take a romantic walk through the enchanting winter scenes of Lake Tahoe or the picturesque Temple Square.

Salt Lake City Escapades: 4 Days of Family Fun

Salt Lake City offers a fantastic family friendly trip with a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Take your family to the stunning Great Salt Lake, where you can float in its buoyant waters or explore the surrounding hiking trails. Visit the iconic Temple Square and discover the city's rich history, or head to one of the many family-oriented museums and parks like the Hogle Zoo or the Discovery Gateway Children's Museum.

Salt Lake City: 2 Days of Adventure & Indulgence

A trip to Salt Lake City on a limited budget is still possible with a bit of planning and research. Visitors on a budget can take advantage of free activities such as visiting Temple Square, hiking in the nearby mountains, and exploring local parks. Additionally, there are affordable accommodations options and budget-friendly dining choices available throughout the city.

Salt Lake City: Adventure, Culture, and Family Fun!

Salt Lake City offers a plethora of family-friendly activities and attractions, making it an excellent destination for a vacation with kids. Families can explore the stunning natural beauty of the nearby national parks, such as Zion and Bryce Canyon, go hiking, biking, or skiing in the nearby mountains, or enjoy a day at the popular Hogle Zoo. Additionally, the city boasts interactive museums like the Clark Planetarium and the Discovery Gateway Children's Museum, ensuring that there's something to entertain everyone in the family.