Ultimate 3-Day Salt Lake City Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Salt Lake City blends stunning mountain scenery, rich pioneer history, and a vibrant urban culture for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Utah.

Day 1: Downtown SLC Icons & Culture
Morning
Start your journey at the historic Temple Square, the spiritual and cultural center of Salt Lake City, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and the iconic Salt Lake Temple.
Then, immerse yourself in Utah’s natural wonders at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing diverse art from around the world and the American West.
Afternoon
Enjoy lunch at the beloved Red Iguana, a local favorite for its legendary Mexican cuisine and renowned mole sauces in a colorful, friendly setting.
After lunch, stroll through City Creek Center, an open-air shopping destination with a retractable glass roof, scenic creek, and upscale shops.
Evening
Catch a performance or simply marvel at the architecture of Eccles Theater, downtown’s premier venue for Broadway shows, concerts, and local productions.
Day 2: Mountains, Views & Local Flavor
Morning
Begin with breakfast and signature coffee at The Rose Establishment, a chic café in a historic brick building known for its artisanal pastries and fresh, seasonal fare.
Head east to Red Butte Garden, a sprawling botanical garden and arboretum nestled in the foothills, featuring native plants, walking trails, and panoramic city views.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to the funky The Dodo Restaurant, a Sugar House staple famed for its creative American dishes and decadent homemade pies.
Spend the afternoon at Natural History Museum of Utah, an architecturally stunning institution with hands-on exhibits, dinosaur fossils, and fascinating insights into the region's geology and cultures.
Evening
Wrap up the day with craft brews and a lively atmosphere at Squatters Pub Brewery, an award-winning downtown brewery serving up local ales and delicious pub fare in a historic building.
Day 3: Great Salt Lake & Offbeat Discoveries
Morning
Take a scenic drive to Antelope Island State Park, the largest island in the Great Salt Lake, renowned for its wildlife (bison, antelope), hiking, and surreal salt flat landscapes.
Afternoon
Return to the city for lunch at Eva Restaurant, a cozy downtown spot specializing in inventive small plates and Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a local twist.
After lunch, explore the fascinating and interactive Clark Planetarium, where you can enjoy hands-on science exhibits and stunning dome theater shows about space and astronomy.
Evening
End your trip with dinner at Takashi, the city’s acclaimed sushi and Japanese restaurant, beloved for its fresh ingredients, creative rolls, and modern ambiance—be sure to try the omakase if available!
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