Getaway to Salt Lake City

The lake might be salty, but Salt Lake City makes for a pretty sweet getaway. Also referred to as the “Crossroads of the West”—thanks to early immigration, a rich mining history and the first transcontinental railroad—Utah’s capital and most populous city is a thriving destination for foodies, adventure-seekers, art lovers, sports enthusiasts and everyone in between. And, much like Raleigh, almost everything is walkable, scootable (thanks to SLC’s easily navigable grid plan!) or just a short drive away—as the thriving city is really in the middle of it all.

A treasure trove of activities awaits in SLC’s encircling mountains (Wasatch Range to the east and the Oquirrh Mountains to the west), from hikes through national forests serving up breathtaking views to winter sports in Park City (shout out to the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games locale) to countless other outdoor recreation ops fitting for all seasons and appetites. And, of course, there’s the Great Salt Lake, a national treasure unto itself.

Within the city, you’ll find exceptional bars and restaurants, breweries, a booming nightlife, museums and art galleries—an all-around vibrant energy that can’t be beat. So, trust us, there’s nothing to be salty about when you’re in SLC.

DO

Antelope Island State Park
You can’t go to SLC and not see the Great Salt Lake. And Antelope Island offers opps for driving, hiking or biking through the park to see spectacular views of the lake—plus a beach for dipping your toes in (beware of the brine flies!)—as well as free-ranging bison, antelope and other indigenous animals. stateparks.utah.gov

Soundwell
Guess what? Live concerts are allowed in Utah right now—as if you needed any more motivation to book that flight ASAP. Soundwell’s large venue allows guests to jam out to a variety of tunes (socially distanced, of course). In April, catch Lonely Heights, Mike Pinto and more. soundwellslc.com

Urban Arts Gallery
Works from over 100 Utah artists are showcased at this contemporary and diverse gallery in SLC’s open-air retail complex The Gateway. Local handmade gifts including jewelry, T-shirts, prints and beyond can (and should) be picked up on your way out. urbanartsgallery.org

EAT

Caputo’s Market & Deli
No matter your plans, three locations make it easy to stop at Caputo’s for a mouthwatering sandwich (our favorite is the muffaletta!). Pastas, salads, soups and breakfast (at select locations) are also on offer. After lunch, shop the market for gourmet cheeses, chocolates, oils and more. caputos.com

Red Iguana
No matter how long the wait is at either of Red Iguana’s two locations—and it will be long, given this Mexican resto’s popularity—the food is so worth it. A visit starts with samples of a variety of moles (all are irresistible) and ends with a choose-your-own-adventure of flavorful enchiladas, chimichangas, burritos and more. rediguana.com

The Ivy
Raleigh’s own chef Bobby McFarland consulted on the elevated American menu at this hip new restaurant and bar. Choose from eclectic snacks including Everything Brussels and Thai coconut curry mussels—or skip straight to delectable entrees like sweet potato gnocchi. It’s all beyond delish. After dinner, be sure to grab a nightcap next door at The Ivy’s sister cocktail bar, Varley. theivyslc.com

DRINK

La Barba
This modern coffee shop is just as much about good coffee as it is about community—part of its mission is supporting the farmers, laborers, exporters/importers, delivery drivers and employees who make it all possible. Treat yourself to one of the shop’s famed breakfast tacos and a beautiful latte. labarbacoffee.com

T.F. Brewing
When it comes to beer, T.F. Brewing ow

ner and brewmaster Kevin Templin doesn’t mess around. His method of incorporating the traditional German method of long, slow brewing with fresh high-quality ingredients results in some of the most popular brews in the city. Prost! tfbrewing.com

Under Current
You’ll find some of the best cocktails—and coolest bar staff—in SLC at Under Current. Belly up to the sleek marble bar or cozy up in a booth for wine, beer or seasonal cocktails with a tropical twist. And, shucks, when hunger strikes, you’re gonna wanna go for the oysters. undercurrentbar.com

STAY

The Grand America Hotel
If you’re looking for a grand stay in the city, this hotel is as lavish as it gets. The Euro-style hotel features elegant guest rooms, a fitness center, an indoor pool and The Grand Spa for pampering yourself after a long day of exploring SLC. grandamerica.com

Ellerbeck Mansion Bed & Breakfast
If you’re itching to sleep somewhere more homey, look no further than this Victorian-style mansion circa 1892. Located just outside of downtown, Ellerbeck’s six suites balance historic decor with modern amenities—and (bonus!) a freshly made breakfast is included in your stay. ellerbeckbedandbreakfast.com

The Peery Hotel
An upscale boutique option with reasonable prices, The Peery is a historic landmark boasting exquisite architecture (influenced by the prairie and classical revival styles of the early 1900s), unique art pieces and vintage furnishings that will leave you wanting to linger in Utah even longer. peeryhotel.com