Finding the perfect place to stay in Salt Lake City can make or break your trip. I’ve explored every neighborhood from downtown’s buzzing streets to the quiet ski-friendly areas, and I’m here to help you choose the right spot for your needs.
This guide covers nine distinct areas where you can stay in Salt Lake City, each with its own personality and perks. Whether you’re here for one night, planning a family vacation, or chasing powder on the slopes, I’ll walk you through the best neighborhoods that match your travel style and budget.
Best Hotels in Salt Lake City: 🏠
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Grand America Hotel, Salt Lake City
- ✨ 5-Star: Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City
- 🏨 4-Star: Little America Hotel Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City
- 🛏️ 3-Star: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Airport, Salt Lake City
- 💸 Cheap: Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80 I-15 Downtown, Salt Lake City
- 🏢 Apartment: Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City Downtown, Salt Lake City
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Best Western Plus Airport Inn & Suites, Salt Lake City
- 🏩 For Couples: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Salt Lake City Airport, Salt Lake City
Quick Neighborhood Guide: 📋
- 🏢 For Business & Attractions: Downtown Salt Lake City
- 🎨 For Local Vibe & Nightlife: Sugar House
- 🏥 For University & Medical: University Area
- ⛷️ For Skiing & Outdoor: Cottonwood Heights
- ✈️ For Airport & Flights: Airport Area
- 🏘️ For Families & Extended Stays: Millcreek
- 🎿 For Ski Resorts: Ski Resort Base Areas
1. Downtown – Best Salt Lake City Neighborhood for Access to Attractions
Location Benefits. Downtown Salt Lake City puts you within walking distance of Temple Square, City Creek Center, and the Salt Palace convention center. I’ve found this area perfect for business travelers and first-time visitors who want everything at their fingertips.
Transportation Hub. The downtown area connects seamlessly to TRAX light rail, making ski resort access surprisingly easy. You can catch the ski bus directly from several downtown locations, eliminating the need for rental cars during winter visits.
Dining Scene. The downtown Salt Lake City restaurant scene ranges from fine dining establishments to casual breweries. I particularly enjoy the variety along Main Street, where you’ll find everything from vegan-friendly spots to traditional American fare within a few blocks.
| Activity | Location | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Square Tours | North Temple | Free |
| City Creek Shopping | Main Street | $10-200+ |
| Jazz Games (when in season) | Delta Center | $25-150 |
| Downtown Brewery Tours | Various locations | $15-40 |
Nightlife Access. Downtown Salt Lake City nightlife centers around Main Street and the Gateway District. The area comes alive after business hours with cocktail lounges, live music venues, and late-night eateries that I’ve explored during my stays.
Walking Convenience. Most downtown Salt Lake City attractions sit within a 10-minute walk of each other. Temple Square, the Capitol Building, and Liberty Park form a triangle that’s easily navigable on foot, making this area ideal for travelers who prefer exploring without constant transportation planning.
Best Hotels in Downtown Salt Lake City
Luxury Hotels
- Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City – This upscale hotel offers modern accommodations with premium amenities and is just steps away from Temple Square and the Salt Palace Convention Center.
- Doubletree Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City – Features spacious all-suite accommodations with separate living areas and signature warm chocolate chip cookies upon arrival.
- Grand America Hotel – This luxury hotel boasts elegant European-style accommodations with marble bathrooms, world-class spa services, and fine dining restaurants.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites - Salt Lake City – This family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms with complimentary breakfast and is known for its pet-friendly policies and excellent value.
- Little America Hotel Salt Lake City – A classic hotel featuring spacious rooms with comfortable amenities and beautiful gardens, providing great value in the heart of the city.
- Hampton Inn Salt Lake City Downtown – This reliable mid-range hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with free hot breakfast and is within walking distance of major attractions.
2. Sugar House – Best Neighborhood for Local Vibe, Dining, and Nightlife
Local Character. Sugar House feels like the cool part of Salt Lake City – creative, walkable, and full of energy. You’ll find young professionals, artists, and families creating a neighborhood where locals actually live, not just visit.
Dining Hub. The restaurants here are way better than most downtown spots. Locals tell me Eva’s Bakery has the best morning pastries for around $4-8, while dinner at Pago brings farm-to-table food for $25-35 per dish. The spot everyone talks about is Sugarhouse BBQ Company, where pulled pork plates cost about $12-16.
Shopping District. Sugar House Park has a Saturday farmers market from April through October. You can find fresh produce, local honey for $8-12, and handmade crafts. The nearby Sugarhouse shopping center has everything from Target to smaller shops selling local artwork.
| Activity | Location | Hours | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sugar House Park | 1330 E 2100 S | 6am-10pm daily | Free |
| Farmers Market | Park pavilion | Saturdays 9am-2pm | $3-20 items |
| Eva’s Bakery | 155 S 900 E | 7am-3pm daily | $4-12 |
| Pago Restaurant | 878 S 900 E | 5pm-10pm Tue-Sat | $25-35 entrées |
Nightlife Scene. This place has the best craft beer selection outside downtown. The Beerhive Pub has over 200 beers, with local drafts costing $5-8. Don’t miss White Horse Spirits & Kitchen for cocktails around $10-14 – their whiskey selection is amazing, even locals say so.
Transit Access. You can catch the S-Line streetcar straight to downtown or connect to TRAX for ski resort access. The streetcar runs every 15 minutes during busy hours, making Sugar House super convenient for exploring the rest of Salt Lake City.
Best Hotels in Sugar House
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Sugar House – This all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations with separate living areas, kitchenettes, and modern amenities including an indoor pool and fitness center. Located just 2 minutes from Sugar House Park with complimentary breakfast and free parking.
- Sugar House Hideaway by Mountains 3BR, Parking, Wi-Fi – This spacious three-bedroom vacation rental features air conditioning, a patio with garden views, and full apartment amenities in the trendy Sugar House district. Perfect for families or groups wanting home-like comfort with mountain proximity.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80 I-15 Downtown – This budget-friendly hotel offers excellent value with free breakfast, fitness center, and convenient highway access just 3.1 miles from downtown. Features 130 rooms with modern amenities and free WiFi throughout the property.
3. Central City – Where to Stay in Salt Lake City for Value and Access to Parks
Budget-Friendly Base. Central City gives you the best value places to stay in Salt Lake City without a bad location. You’ll find yourself between downtown and the university area, with easy access to both business areas and fun spots.
Park Access. Liberty Park sits right in this neighborhood – 80 acres of green space with walking trails, tennis courts, and the Tracy Aviary. The park opens at 6am daily and costs nothing to explore. I love morning walks here before it gets crowded.
Local Dining. The best breakfast spot is Penny Ann’s Café, where huge pancakes cost $8-12 and locals have been coming for decades. For dinner, try Aristo’s Greek Restaurant – their lamb dishes run $18-24 and portions easily feed two people.
| Attraction | Address | Hours | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberty Park | 600 E 900 S | 6am-10pm daily | Free |
| Tracy Aviary | 589 E 1300 S | 9am-5pm daily | $12 adults, $8 kids |
| Penny Ann’s Café | 1810 S 1100 E | 6am-3pm daily | $8-15 meals |
| Aristo’s Restaurant | 224 S 1300 E | 11am-9pm daily | $18-28 entrées |
Shopping Options. You can find everything you need at the 9th & 9th area, just north of here. Dolly’s Bookstore sells new and used books for $5-25, while Fig & Olive has gourmet foods and local products. The best grocery shopping is at Liberty Heights Fresh, known for organic produce and local items.
Transportation Links. This place connects easily to both downtown and university areas with multiple bus routes. The 200 South bus runs every 20 minutes and gets you downtown in 15 minutes, while eastbound routes reach the university in about the same time.
Best Hotels in Central City
Luxury Hotels
- King BD-City View-SLC Walking Wonderland- – This upscale apartment features a king bedroom with stunning city views and is perfectly positioned for exploring Salt Lake City on foot. The property offers modern amenities and a prime location for experiencing the city’s walkable attractions.
- Heart of SLC Stocked w Everything you need – Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, this fully-equipped accommodation comes stocked with all essential amenities for a comfortable stay. The property offers convenient access to downtown attractions and local dining options.
Middle-Range Hotels
- The Anniversary Inn - Fifth South – This unique themed hotel offers romantic specialty suites with distinctive decor and luxurious amenities. Each room features a different theme, creating a memorable and intimate experience for couples visiting Salt Lake City.
- Lady Madonna Sage Flat – This charming apartment-style accommodation offers good value with a cozy atmosphere and essential amenities. The property provides a comfortable base for exploring Salt Lake City while maintaining affordable rates for budget-conscious travelers.
4. University Area – Where to Stay in Salt Lake City for Visiting University of Utah or Hospitals
Medical District Access. The University of Utah medical complex sits right here, making this area perfect for medical visitors or anyone with business at the university. You’ll find everything within walking distance or a quick shuttle ride.
Campus Dining. Students and visitors love the Union Building food court, where meals cost $6-12 and include everything from sushi to pizza. The best coffee spot is Café Pierpont, where lattes cost $4-5 and students hang out between classes.
Research Triangle. This place has the university’s research facilities, making it great for academic conferences or visiting researchers. The area connects to Research Park with free shuttle, running every 15 minutes during work hours.
| Facility | Location | Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| University Hospital | 50 N Medical Dr | 24/7 | Main medical complex |
| Campus Shuttle | Various stops | 6am-11pm daily | Free with university ID |
| Café Pierpont | Union Building | 7am-7pm Mon-Fri | Study space available |
| Research Park | 615 Arapeen Dr | 24/7 access | Business shuttle available |
Neighborhood Character. Locals say this area feels quieter than downtown but more active than residential areas. You can find student-friendly restaurants, bookstores, and coffee shops that stay open later than most Salt Lake City businesses.
Transportation Hub. The TRAX red line stops right at the university, connecting you to downtown in 20 minutes or the airport in 45 minutes. Don’t miss the free campus shuttle system – it covers the whole university area and runs often during school terms.
Best Hotels in University Area
- Salt Lake City Marriott University Park – This upscale Marriott property offers modern accommodations with mountain views and is conveniently located near the University of Utah campus. The hotel features spacious rooms, fitness facilities, and business amenities perfect for academic visitors and business travelers.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Salt Lake City-University/Foothill Drive – This contemporary accommodation provides comfortable lodging with easy access to the University of Utah and nearby medical facilities. The property offers modern amenities and is ideally positioned for visitors to the university district.
5. Cottonwood Heights – Where to Stay in Salt Lake City for Skiing and Outdoor Access
Ski Resort Gateway. Cottonwood Heights puts you closest to Alta, Brighton, Solitude, and Snowbird ski resorts. The best time to stay here is during ski season when shuttle services run regularly up the canyons, usually December through April.
Outdoor Recreation. You’ll find trailheads for hiking and mountain biking right in this neighborhood. Mill Creek Canyon access costs $3 for cars but offers activities all season. Locals tell me the Pipeline Trail is good for easy hiking and the Rattlesnake Gulch for more challenging terrain.
Local Services. This place has everything without downtown crowds. Cottonwood Heights Recreation Center offers day passes for $8, including pool and fitness facilities. The best grocery shopping is at Harmons, known for good prepared foods and local products.
| Ski Resort | Distance | Shuttle Service | Lift Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alta | 12 miles | UTA ski bus $4.50 | $89-109 daily |
| Brighton | 15 miles | UTA ski bus $4.50 | $79-99 daily |
| Solitude | 14 miles | UTA ski bus $4.50 | $89-109 daily |
| Snowbird | 10 miles | UTA ski bus $4.50 | $119-139 daily |
Dining Options. The area has more family-friendly restaurants than trendy spots. Locals love Bruges Waffles & Frites for Belgian-style food costing $12-18 per meal. For quick bites, you can find Cafe Rio and other casual chains, but the real gem is Spitz for Mediterranean food around $10-15.
Seasonal Considerations. This place is awesome during winter months when ski access matters most. Summer brings hiking opportunities, but you’ll find fewer dining and entertainment options compared to central Salt Lake City areas.
Best Hotels in Cottonwood Heights
- Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Cottonwood – This modern all-suite hotel offers spacious rooms with separate living areas and is perfectly positioned for ski resort access. Located just minutes from four major ski resorts, the property features complimentary breakfast, fitness center, and 24-hour market for convenience.
- Courtyard by Marriott Salt Lake City Cottonwood – This upscale Marriott property provides contemporary accommodations with mountain views and premium amenities. The hotel features modern rooms, on-site dining, fitness facilities, and is strategically located for easy access to both downtown Salt Lake City and nearby ski areas.
- Residence Inn Salt Lake City Cottonwood – This extended-stay hotel offers spacious suites with full kitchens and separate living areas, perfect for longer stays or families. The property includes complimentary breakfast, evening social hours, and grocery shopping service, making it ideal for ski vacations or business trips.
6. Airport and West Side – Best Place to Stay in Salt Lake City for Early or Late Flights
Flight Convenience. This area puts you about 10 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, making it perfect for early morning flights or late arrivals. You’ll find most hotels here offer free airport shuttles that run every 20-30 minutes.
Local Dining. The area isn’t known for fancy restaurants, but you can find good solid food. Locals recommend Alberto’s Mexican Food for huge burritos around $8-12, open until 2am. For breakfast, try Denny’s or IHOP – both open 24/7 and cost about $10-15 per meal.
| Service | Location | Hours | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airport Shuttle | Most hotels | Every 20-30 min | Free |
| Alberto’s Mexican | 1596 N Redwood Rd | 24/7 | $8-12 meals |
| Walmart Supercenter | 1955 W 5400 S | 24/7 | Groceries $3-15 |
| FatCats Entertainment | 2325 Decker Lake Blvd | 10am-midnight | $12-20 activities |
Entertainment Options. You’ll find FatCats Entertainment complex here with bowling, mini golf, and arcade games for $12-20 per activity. It’s great for families or if you have time to kill between flights. The area also has a big Walmart if you need to grab supplies.
Transportation Links. This place connects to downtown via TRAX blue line, taking about 25 minutes to reach the city center. The train runs every 15 minutes during the day, making it easy to explore Salt Lake City even if you’re staying near the airport.
Best Hotels Near Salt Lake City Airport
Luxury Hotels
- Holiday Inn Express Airport East by IHG – This modern airport hotel offers comfortable accommodations with complimentary breakfast and free airport shuttle service. Located just minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, it features updated rooms, fitness center, and business facilities perfect for travelers.
- Hilton Garden Inn - Salt Lake City Airport – This upscale airport hotel provides spacious rooms with modern amenities, on-site restaurant, and indoor pool. The property offers 24-hour shuttle service to the airport and features a convenience mart, fitness center, and business center for guest convenience.
- Modern Private Whole Unit 4 Bedroom Guest Suite King Bed – This spacious 1,800 square foot private guest suite features four bedrooms and two bathrooms, perfect for families or groups. The modern accommodation offers complete privacy with full apartment amenities and is conveniently located near the airport area.
Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Airport – This all-suite hotel offers spacious accommodations with separate living areas and complimentary breakfast. Features include free airport shuttle, fitness center, and 24-hour market, making it excellent value for airport travelers.
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Airport – This suite-style hotel provides comfortable accommodations with kitchenettes and separate living spaces. The property includes complimentary breakfast, indoor pool, fitness center, and free airport shuttle service.
- Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport – This budget-friendly hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms with free breakfast and airport shuttle service. The property features an indoor pool, fitness center, and is ideally positioned for quick airport access at affordable rates.
Best Hostels
- Sonesta Simply Suites Salt Lake City Airport – This extended-stay property offers apartment-style accommodations with kitchenettes at budget-friendly rates. Perfect for longer stays, the hotel provides basic amenities and free airport shuttle service for budget-conscious travelers.
- Spark by Hilton Salt Lake City Airport – This value-focused hotel offers modern, compact rooms with essential amenities at affordable prices. The property features free breakfast, fitness center, and airport shuttle, making it perfect for budget travelers who don’t want to compromise on quality.
7. Millcreek & Holladay – Best Areas in Salt Lake City for Quiet, Family, or Extended Stays
Residential Feel. Millcreek and Holladay are quiet suburban areas that feel more like living in Salt Lake City than visiting. You’ll find tree-lined streets, local parks, and a slower pace that’s perfect for families or longer stays.
Family Activities. The area has great parks for kids. Millcreek Canyon offers easy hiking trails and picnic spots for $3 vehicle fee. You can find Wheeler Historic Farm where kids can see farm animals for $4 per person, open Tuesday through Saturday.
Local Shopping. You’ll find everything you need at Highland Drive, which runs through both areas. Smith’s grocery store has good prices and local products. For meals, locals love Cafe Trio for Italian food around $15-25 per dish, or Costa Vida for quick Mexican food at $8-12.
| Attraction | Address | Hours | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wheeler Historic Farm | 6351 S 900 E | 10am-4pm Tue-Sat | $4 per person |
| Millcreek Canyon | 3800 S Mill Creek Canyon Rd | 6am-10pm daily | $3 vehicle fee |
| Smith’s Grocery | 1174 E 2700 S | 6am-midnight | Groceries vary |
| Cafe Trio | 680 S 900 E | 11am-10pm daily | $15-25 entrées |
Quiet Neighborhoods. This place is perfect if you want to escape tourist crowds. The neighborhoods are safe for walking, even at night. Many locals jog or walk dogs in the evening, giving it a real community feel.
8. Ski Resort Base Areas – Where to Stay in Salt Lake City for Skiing at Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Snowbird
Resort Proximity. Staying at the actual ski resort base areas puts you right on the slopes. You can walk to lifts, ski back to your room for lunch, and avoid the daily drive up canyon roads that can be tricky in winter weather.
On-Mountain Dining. Resort restaurants cost more but offer convenience. You can expect to pay $15-25 for lunch on the mountain, with dinner ranging $25-40 per person. The best value is usually the lodge cafeteria-style places rather than the fancy sit-down restaurants.
| Resort | Base Elevation | Lodging Options | Dining Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alta | 8,530 ft | Lodge, condos | $15-40 meals |
| Brighton | 8,755 ft | Condos, cabins | $12-35 meals |
| Solitude | 8,020 ft | Village condos | $15-35 meals |
| Snowbird | 8,100 ft | Lodge, condos | $18-45 meals |
Ski Season Timing. The best time to stay at resort bases is mid-December through March when snow conditions are most reliable. You’ll pay premium prices during holidays and powder days, but weekday rates drop significantly.
Transportation Notes. If you stay at resort bases, you’re pretty much stuck there without a car. Some resorts offer shuttle service to nearby towns, but it’s limited. Make sure you’re comfortable with resort dining and entertainment options before booking.
Best Hotels Near Ski Resorts
- Cliff Lodge and Spa, Snowbird Lodge – This premier ski-in/ski-out resort is also a great place for your trip to Salt Lake City, offering luxurious accommodations with stunning mountain views. The lodge boasts a diverse range of amenities including world-class spa services, and mountains and offer direct access to some of Utah’s best skiing terrain, making guests feel right at home.
- The Lodge at Snowbird, Alta – Perfect for those looking to stay near world-class skiing, this upscale mountain lodge provides elegant rooms with rustic alpine charm. Salt Lake City is one of the few places where you can stay in a hotel with ski-to-door access, and this property is within a short drive of downtown attractions while offering breathtaking Wasatch Mountain views.
- Silver Fork Lodge & Restaurant, Brighton – This historic mountain lodge combines rustic charm with modern comfort, ideal for a group of friends who want to stay together in a unique alpine setting. The location near Brighton ski resort and Solitude Mountain Resort makes it perfect for a day of exploring the mountains, while the acclaimed restaurant offers locally-sourced cuisine with stunning canyon views.
FAQ about Visiting Salt Lake City, Utah
What makes Little America Hotel Salt Lake City special?
Little America Hotel is a great place to stay in downtown Salt Lake City, offering spacious rooms and excellent service. This accommodation features comfortable suites and is perfectly located for both business and leisure travelers.
Are there cheap hotels with suites in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City hotels offer great deals on suite accommodations, especially at properties like Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western. These hotels provide excellent value while keeping you close to major attractions and essential amenities.
Which hotel Salt Lake City offers best pet-friendly amenities?
Many Salt Lake City hotels welcome pets, with Crystal Inn Hotel offering pet-friendly policies without additional fees. These accommodations are ideally located near parks where you and your pets can enjoy outdoor activities.
Where can I find Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City?
Hilton Salt Lake City-East and Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt provide spacious suite options for extended stays. These hotels offer kitchenettes and separate living areas that make travelers feel at home.
What’s near Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City downtown?
Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City downtown is within walking distance of Clark Planetarium, Utah’s Hogle Zoo, and Temple Square. This location puts you close to the city’s best attractions for easy exploration.
Are there boutique hotels near University of Utah?
Several boutique accommodations are located near the University of Utah, including options close to the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. These hotels offer unique character and are perfectly positioned for university visitors.
Which Wyndham Salt Lake City properties offer best value?
Wyndham Salt Lake City properties, including those in West Valley, provide comfortable stays at reasonable rates. These hotels offer solid amenities and convenient locations for exploring the area.
What amenities do Grand America Hotel suites include?
Grand America Hotel offers luxury suite accommodations with separate living areas and marble bathrooms. This world-class hotel features spa services and fine dining for special occasions.
Can I find hotels with water park amenities nearby?
While most Salt Lake City hotels don’t have water parks on-site, many offer pools and are near family attractions. Hotels like Crystal Inn Hotel provide swimming facilities that families enjoy after sightseeing.
Which hotels are best for ski resort access?
Hotels in areas like Cottonwood Heights offer shuttle services to nearby ski resorts and mountain access. These accommodations provide everything you need for winter sports, including equipment storage and early breakfast options.
