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A Week in Salt Lake City: September 16-22, 2023

Saturday, September 16: Exploring Downtown Salt Lake City

Start your trip by exploring the vibrant downtown area of Salt Lake City. In the morning, visit Temple Square, the city's most iconic landmark, where you can take a guided tour of the stunning Salt Lake Temple and learn about the history of the Mormon pioneers. In the afternoon, head to the Utah State Capitol, a beautiful neoclassical building offering panoramic city views. As the evening sets in, wander through the lively streets of The Gateway, a shopping and entertainment district with numerous dining options and a vibrant atmosphere.

  • Temple Square: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Utah State Capitol: Free, 1-2 hours
  • The Gateway: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Sunday, September 17: Outdoor Adventures in Big Cottonwood Canyon

Escape the city and spend the day in the stunning Big Cottonwood Canyon. In the morning, hike the popular Lake Blanche Trail, a moderate 6-mile round trip that rewards you with breathtaking mountain views and a picturesque alpine lake. After a picnic lunch, continue exploring the canyon by visiting the scenic Brighton Ski Resort area. Enjoy a scenic chairlift ride or take a leisurely stroll around Silver Lake, a charming mountain lake surrounded by beautiful nature.

  • Lake Blanche Trail: Free, 4-6 hours
  • Brighton Ski Resort: Cost varies, 2-4 hours
  • Silver Lake: Free, 1-2 hours
Monday, September 18: Discovering Natural Wonders

Embark on a day trip to explore the natural wonders surrounding Salt Lake City. Start the day early and drive to Antelope Island State Park, located in the Great Salt Lake. Spend the morning hiking or biking on the island's scenic trails and keep an eye out for the famous free-roaming bison herd. In the afternoon, visit the Bonneville Salt Flats, a surreal landscape of vast white salt flats that stretch as far as the eye can see. Capture some amazing photos and take a moment to appreciate this unique natural phenomenon.

  • Antelope Island State Park: $10 per vehicle, 4-6 hours
  • Bonneville Salt Flats: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 19: Cultural Exploration in Salt Lake City

Take a day to immerse yourself in Salt Lake City's cultural scene. Start your morning at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, where you can admire a diverse collection of artworks from different periods and cultures. In the afternoon, head to the Natural History Museum of Utah, located at the University of Utah. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the region's geology, wildlife, and Native American history. For the evening, catch a performance at the Eccles Theater, a state-of-the-art venue hosting a variety of live shows and events.

  • Utah Museum of Fine Arts: $12 (adult), 2-3 hours
  • Natural History Museum of Utah: $17.95 (adult), 2-3 hours
  • Eccles Theater: Cost varies depending on the event
Wednesday, September 20: Day Trip to Park City

Experience the charm of Park City, a nearby mountain town known for its outdoor activities and lively atmosphere. Start your day by exploring the historic Main Street, lined with unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes. In the afternoon, take a scenic chairlift ride at Park City Mountain Resort for breathtaking mountain views. If you're feeling adventurous, try some mountain biking or hiking on the resort's trails. As the evening approaches, indulge in a delicious meal at one of Park City's renowned restaurants.

  • Main Street: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Park City Mountain Resort: Cost varies, 2-4 hours
  • Dining in Park City: Cost varies
Thursday, September 21: Relaxation at Great Salt Lake

Spend a leisurely day at the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Start your morning by visiting the Great Salt Lake State Park, where you can take a dip in the lake's buoyant waters or relax on the sandy beach. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Spiral Jetty, an iconic earthwork sculpture created by artist Robert Smithson. Enjoy the serene surroundings and take in the beauty of this unique art installation. As the evening sets in, watch a stunning sunset over the lake.

  • Great Salt Lake State Park: $10 per vehicle, 4-6 hours
  • Spiral Jetty: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Sunset Viewing: Free, time varies
Friday, September 22: Shopping and Farewell

Spend your last day in Salt Lake City indulging in some retail therapy and bidding farewell to the city. In the morning, shop till you drop at City Creek Center, a premier shopping destination with a mix of high-end brands and popular retailers. Enjoy lunch at one of the center's many restaurants. In the afternoon, visit Trolley Square, a historic shopping center housed in a converted trolley car barn. Explore its unique shops and boutiques. End your trip with a visit to Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, a beautiful botanical garden offering stunning views of the city.

  • City Creek Center: Cost varies, 3-4 hours
  • Trolley Square: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Red Butte Garden and Arboretum: $14 (adult), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those looking to venture off the beaten path, make sure to explore the charming neighborhoods of Sugar House and 9th and 9th. Sugar House offers a mix of trendy shops, cozy cafes, and beautiful parks, while 9th and 9th is known for its unique boutiques, art galleries, and popular local eateries. Additionally, don't miss the chance to visit the Gilgal Sculpture Garden, a hidden oasis featuring unusual stone sculptures with symbolic meanings. These local gems are loved by the residents and offer a different perspective of Salt Lake City.

Plan your trip and check hotel and flight prices here.

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