What to do in Salt Lake City in 48 Hours – 2-day Salt Lake City Itinerary
As Utah’s capital and most populous city, SLC has undergone significant growth since my last visit and now boasts a wide array of attractions. What I appreciate about Salt Lake City is the diversity of activities it offers. If you would like to explore its monuments and museums, this 2-day Salt Lake City itinerary will come in handy. It allows you to experience the city’s major attractions and get a feel for its mountainous surroundings.
Planning a 2-day Salt Lake City itinerary in unfamiliar place can be challenging, but I’ve taken care of the details for you, providing travel suggestions and top things to do in Salt Lake City.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or have a couple of days to fill during your trip, this 2-day Salt Lake City itinerary is designed to help you maximize your time in Utah’s vibrant capital.
Best 2-Day Itinerary for Salt Lake City, Utah
Why Visit Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City is nestled amidst the Wasatch and Oquirrh mountain ranges. It is a destination that marries natural splendor with cultural richness. The city’s breathtaking landscapes offer a plethora of outdoor recreational opportunities.
Whether it’s hiking and biking in the summer or skiing and snowboarding in the winter, the city’s natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for adventure.
The city’s vibrant downtown area is another compelling reason to visit. With a thriving arts scene, diverse dining options, and a lively nightlife, Salt Lake City pulses with urban energy.
Venues like the Eccles Theater host a range of performances, while the city’s many restaurants cater to a variety of culinary tastes. Educational attractions such as the Natural History Museum of Utah, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, and the Clark Planetarium offer enriching experiences for all ages.
Moreover, Salt Lake City’s well-planned layout and efficient public transportation system make it easy for visitors to explore. Serving as a convenient gateway to some of the country’s most spectacular national parks, including Yellowstone, Arches, and Zion, Salt Lake City is a destination that promises a unique travel experience.
How to Get to Salt Lake City
To get to Salt Lake City, you have several transportation options depending on your starting point and preferences:
By Air
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the major airport serving the city. It offers numerous domestic and international flights, making it a convenient choice for air travel. From the airport, you can take a shuttle, taxi, ride-sharing service, or public transportation to reach your final destination in Salt Lake City.
By Car
If you prefer driving, Salt Lake City is easily accessible via major highways such as I-15, I-80, and I-215. Whether you’re coming from nearby cities or states, driving to Salt Lake City gives you the flexibility to explore the city and its surrounding areas at your own pace. Keep in mind that traffic conditions and parking availability can vary, especially in downtown areas.
By Bus or Train
Several bus companies operate routes to Salt Lake City, providing an affordable and environmentally friendly travel option. Amtrak also offers train services to Salt Lake City, with the California Zephyr route connecting the city to destinations like Chicago and San Francisco.
Ride-Sharing Services
Companies like Uber and Lyft operate in Salt Lake City, providing convenient transportation options for getting around the city. Simply use their mobile apps to request a ride to your desired destination.
Public Transportation
Salt Lake City has a public transportation system operated by the Utah Transit Authority (UTA), which includes buses, TRAX light rail, and FrontRunner commuter trains.
Is a Weekend Enough Time to Discover Salt Lake City?
A weekend in Salt Lake City may offer a glimpse into the city’s highlights. However, the breadth of experiences in this vibrant destination may require more time for a comprehensive exploration. With just a weekend, you can immerse yourself in the city’s cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures. But may find yourself craving additional days to delve deeper into Salt Lake City’s diverse offerings.
Day 1 of Your 2 Days in Salt Lake City Itinerary
Morning: Temple Square
Begin your day at Temple Square, the city’s most famous landmark. Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, Temple Square is a cultural and religious landmark. It offers visitors a glimpse into the history and heritage of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Easily accessible from downtown Salt Lake City, Temple Square welcomes guests to explore its grounds, historic buildings, and lush gardens. You can take guided tours to learn about the significance of the Salt Lake Temple, marvel at the intricate architecture of the Tabernacle, and discover the pioneer legacy at the Church History Museum.
Mid-Morning: Utah State Capitol
Next, head to the Utah State Capitol. This is a historic and architectural gem, embodying the state’s rich heritage and governmental significance.
This neoclassical masterpiece offers visitors a glimpse into Utah’s past and present through guided tours, informative exhibits, and striking design elements.
Explore the Capitol’s grand rotunda, adorned with murals and sculptures, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains from the observation deck.
When planning a visit to the Utah State Capitol, you can take advantage of various amenities and services available on-site.
Guided tours are offered throughout the week, providing insights into the building’s history, architecture, and legislative functions. The Capitol also houses a visitor center where guests can access information, maps, and educational resources to enhance their experience. Additionally, ample parking is available near the Capitol.
Afternoon: City and County Building and Liberty Park
The Salt Lake City and County Building is a historic landmark, showcasing Beaux-Arts architecture and serving as the seat of government for the city and county.
This iconic structure, with its grand façade and intricate detailing, offers visitors a glimpse into the city’s governance and history.
Located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, the building is a popular spot for architectural enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Surrounding the City and County Building is the scenic Liberty Park, a sprawling urban oasis. It features lush green spaces, recreational amenities, and a picturesque lake. You can enjoy leisurely strolls, picnics, paddleboat rides, and visits to the aviary and amusement park within the park’s expansive grounds.
The building itself offers guided tours that provide insights into its architecture, history, and governmental functions.
Liberty Park boasts a range of recreational opportunities, including jogging paths, sports facilities, and picnic areas, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Additionally, visitors can explore the park’s attractions, such as the Tracy Aviary, featuring a diverse collection of bird species, and the Liberty Park Children’s Playground, providing entertainment for young visitors.
Evening: Downtown Dining and Entertainment
As evening descends upon Downtown Salt Lake City, a myriad of activities and attractions await. Explore the vibrant downtown area by taking a stroll along Main Street. Here, you’ll discover a bustling scene of restaurants, bars, and shops illuminated by the city lights.
Indulge in a culinary adventure at one of the city’s renowned eateries. They offer a diverse selection of cuisines ranging from local favorites to international delights.
For those seeking a cultural experience, catch a performance at the Eccles Theater. Or enjoy live music at one of the many music venues scattered throughout the downtown district.
For a more laid-back evening, opt for a scenic sunset walk along the Salt Lake City Public Library plaza. Or take in panoramic views of the city from the observation deck of the Utah State Capitol.
Day 2 of Your 2 Days in Salt Lake City Itinerary
Morning: Natural History Museum of Utah
Start your second day at the Natural History Museum of Utah. Perched on the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, the museum offers a journey through the natural wonders of Utah and the Intermountain West.
The Natural History Museum’s 10 galleries provide visitors with a rich tapestry of exhibits, and interactive displays that showcase the region’s diverse ecosystems, geology, and wildlife.
From towering dinosaur skeletons to dioramas depicting ancient landscapes, the museum’s collections offer a glimpse into the natural history of Utah.
The Natural History Museum of Utah offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events that cater to visitors of all ages. Additionally, the museum features a gift shop.
Convenient parking facilities, on-site dining options, and easy access to public transportation make exploring the Natural History Museum of Utah an enriching experience.
Afternoon: Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
After lunch, head to the Red Butte Garden and Arboretum. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is a botanical garden, arboretum, and amphitheater that is part of the University of Utah. It is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West, covering over 100 acres.
The garden is divided into several distinct sections, each focusing on different types of plants or themes. These include a fragrance garden, a children’s garden, a medicinal plant garden, and a rose garden, among others.
The Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is not just a place for leisurely exploration, but also serves as an important educational resource. It functions as an outdoor classroom for university students and local schoolchildren. It also offers programs and workshops on plant-based science, conservation, horticulture, and more.
The garden’s commitment to education extends to the wider community as well, with numerous events and classes designed to foster an appreciation for the natural world and the importance of preserving it.
Beyond its botanical and educational offerings, the Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is also known for its beautiful walking paths and hiking trails. These trails offer stunning views of the Wasatch Range and the Salt Lake Valley. Additionally, the garden’s amphitheater hosts a variety of cultural events, including outdoor concerts.
Late Afternoon: Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island State Park is a wildlife and nature reserve situated in the southeastern portion of the Great Salt Lake. It is the largest of ten islands within the lake, spanning over 28,000 acres.
The park is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It hosts a diverse range of wildlife, including its namesake, the pronghorn antelope, along with bison, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species.
There are several hiking and biking trails that traverse the rugged landscape, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is also a popular destination for bird watching, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
Additionally, Antelope Island State Park features a sandy beach where visitors can swim and sunbathe, and it offers facilities for picnicking and camping. There are also guided tours to the historic Fielding Garr Ranch, a ranch that was operational from 1848 to 1981.
Evening: Dinner with a View
End your day with dinner at The Roof Restaurant, which offers a gourmet buffet and panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley.
2-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary. The Bottom Line
This two-day Salt Lake City itinerary offers a taste of what the city has to offer. Salt Lake City is a remarkable destination that promises a memorable exploration experience. Its landscapes and culture captivate countless visitors, making it easy to understand why it’s such a beloved city.
From thrilling outdoor escapades to engaging city life, or a blend of the two, Salt Lake City caters to all tastes and preferences! I trust that this Salt Lake City itinerary has been beneficial in your planning. Embark on your journey today and enjoy every moment of your travels!
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