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What to Bring on a 3-day trip to Salt Lake City

The Great Salt Lake

A 3-day itinerary for Salt Lake City, Utah, focusing on popular activities, keeping within a $100-$200 daily budget, and suggesting popular gear.

Popular Gear to Bring (Consider these based on the season):

* Layers: Utah weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains. Pack layers like a fleece jacket, a light rain jacket, and moisture-wicking base layers.

* Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Essential for exploring the canyons and trails.

* Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are crucial, even on cloudy days.

* Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially at higher altitudes.

* Backpack: For carrying essentials on hikes and day trips.

* Camera/Phone: For capturing the stunning scenery.

* Portable Charger: To keep your devices powered up.

* Swimsuit (Summer): If you plan to visit the Great Salt Lake or local pools.

* Winter Gear (Winter): Warm coat, gloves, hat, scarf, and waterproof boots.

Day 1: Downtown Exploration & Temple Square

* Morning (Budget: $20-30):

* Activity: Arrive at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Take the TRAX Green Line light rail ($2.50) directly to downtown.

* Accommodation: Check into your budget-friendly hotel or Airbnb. Consider options like:

* Hotels: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel at Temple Square, or City Creek Inn & Suites at Temple Square.

* Breakfast: Grab a quick and affordable breakfast at a local coffee shop like Publik Coffee Roasters (around $10).

* Gear Note: Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring downtown.

* Afternoon (Budget: $20-30):

* Activity: Explore Temple Square. Take a free guided tour to learn about the architecture of the Salt Lake City buildings. 

* Lunch: Enjoy a casual lunch at City Creek Center's food court. Options like Chick-fil-A or a local deli will keep you within budget (around $15).

* Evening (Budget: $40-60):

* Activity: Walk around downtown and explore the shops and public art.

* Dinner: Enjoy a delicious and affordable dinner at Red Iguana (Mexican food). Be prepared for a wait, but it's worth it! (around $25-35).

* Activity: Enjoy a free evening concert or performance at Temple Square (check the schedule in advance).

Day 2: Canyons & Great Salt Lake

* Morning (Budget: $20-30):

* Activity: Take a bus or rideshare to one of the nearby canyons.

* Option 1: Little Cottonwood Canyon: Hike to Cecret Lake (easy, family-friendly) or a portion of the Bell's Canyon Trail (more challenging).

* Option 2: Big Cottonwood Canyon: Hike to Donut Falls (easy) or explore the Silver Lake Boardwalk (accessible).

* Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at your hotel or a local grocery store before heading out (around $10).

* Gear Note: Hiking shoes, water bottle, sunscreen, and a hat are essential for canyon exploration.

* Afternoon (Budget: $30-40):

* Activity: Head to Antelope Island State Park on the Great Salt Lake (entrance fee around $15 per vehicle).

* Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at Antelope Island (around $15).

* Activity: Explore the island, look for wildlife (bison, antelope, birds), and take a dip in the Great Salt Lake (be aware of the high salt content).

* Evening (Budget: $40-60):

* Activity: Return to Salt Lake City.

* Dinner: Enjoy a casual dinner at Crown Burger (local burger chain) or a similar affordable restaurant (around $20-30).

* Activity: Catch a movie at a local theater or enjoy live music at a bar in the downtown area.

Day 3: Culture & Departure

* Morning (Budget: $20-30):

* Activity: Visit the Utah State Capitol Building (free). Take a tour and enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

* Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Gourmandise The Bakery (French pastries and coffee) (around $15).

* Gear Note: Comfortable shoes for walking around the Capitol.

* Afternoon (Budget: $30-40):

* Activity: Choose one of the following museums:

* Natural History Museum of Utah: Explore Utah's natural history and geology (admission fee around $20-25).

* Utah Museum of Fine Arts: Admire a diverse collection of art from around the world (admission fee around $15-20).

* Lunch: Grab a quick and affordable lunch at a cafe near the museum you choose (around $15).

* Evening (Budget: $20-30):

* Activity: Enjoy a final walk around downtown Salt Lake City.

* Dinner: Have a farewell dinner at a casual restaurant like The Pie Pizzeria (pizza) or a food truck (around $20-30).

* Logistics: Take the TRAX Green Line back to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) for your departure ($2.50).

Important Notes:

* Transportation: The TRAX light rail system is a great way to get around downtown Salt Lake City. Consider purchasing a day pass if you plan to use it frequently. Rideshares (Uber/Lyft) are also available.

* Altitude: Salt Lake City is at a higher altitude (around 4,200 feet). Drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity on your first day to acclimate.

* Reservations: Make reservations for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.

* Flexibility: This is just a suggested itinerary. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and energy levels.

* Budget: Prices are estimates and can vary depending on the season and availability. Look for deals and discounts online.

* Seasonality: This itinerary is adaptable to different seasons. In winter, focus on skiing or snowboarding at nearby resorts. In summer, enjoy hiking and outdoor activities.

Have a fantastic trip to Salt Lake City!



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