Salt Lake City may be best known as the gateway to Utah’s Mighty 5 national parks, but the Beehive State’s capital is a destination that stands on its own. Nestled against the towering Wasatch Mountains, it combines breathtaking natural beauty with a vibrant downtown that’s quickly catching the eye. Here’s how to spend 72 hours discovering Salt Lake City:

Day 1: Liberty Park, Temple Square & Downtown Highlights
Start your day with breakfast at The Park Cafe, just south of Liberty Park. This popular local spot is known for its hearty, family-style dishes and relaxed atmosphere, with views across the park’s leafy green spaces. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll through Liberty Park, Salt Lake City’s oldest and second-largest park, which features walking paths, tennis courts, and swimming pools. The park is also home to Tracy Aviary, where more than 300 bird species can be seen against the backdrop of the city skyline and the Wasatch Mountains. Later in the morning, head to Temple Square, the city’s spiritual and historic heart, spanning five beautifully landscaped blocks. Explore landmarks such as the Assembly Hall and the Salt Lake Tabernacle, home to the world-famous Tabernacle Choir, and enjoy interactive exhibits, guided tours, and immaculate gardens. If you’re there on a Thursday, you might even catch a live rehearsal.

In the afternoon, wander north toward the Utah State Capitol Building, admiring Salt Lake City’s colorful urban murals along the way. Sitting atop Capitol Hill, the building is an architectural highlight surrounded by seasonal blooms, with free weekday guided tours offering insight into its history, design, and role in state government. As evening approaches, finish your day with dinner at Junah, a creative Itameshi restaurant where Italian and Japanese influences merge. From gyoza ravioli to matcha tiramisu, this exciting new spot has quickly become a must-visit for food lovers.

Day 2: Pioneering History & Mountain Adventures
Start day two with a visit to This Is The Place Heritage Park, the historic site where early pioneers first saw the Salt Lake Valley. Explore interactive exhibits and a recreated 19th-century village complete with blacksmith shops, log cabins, and working farms, or simply enjoy the sweeping valley views that inspired the city’s founding. Later in the morning, take a short drive east along Emigration Canyon Road to Emigration Brewing Company for brunch. This rustic yet refined brewery serves seasonal dishes alongside rotating craft beers and brunch cocktails, offering a relaxed introduction to Utah’s thriving brewing scene.

In the afternoon, venture into Big Cottonwood Canyon to spend time at Brighton Ski Resort. In winter, the resort is popular for skiing and snowboarding, while summer brings hiking, mountain biking, and disc golf, with scenic lift rides providing breathtaking views year-round. As evening falls, return to downtown Salt Lake City for a night at Repeal, where jazz-infused ambiance, live music, Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and one of Utah’s largest collections of rare bourbon make for a memorable end to a day that blends history, nature, and culture.

Day 3: Culture, Coffee & Nature
Start your final day with coffee and breakfast at The Rose Establishment, a local favorite known for its expertly brewed coffee and creative, thoughtfully prepared breakfast dishes. Afterward, visit the Natural History Museum of Utah, perched dramatically on the Wasatch foothills. The museum’s engaging exhibits span nearly two million objects, from dinosaur fossils and shimmering minerals to Indigenous artistry and modern ecology, offering a fascinating journey through Utah’s natural and cultural story. Late morning, head to the vibrant 9th & 9th neighborhood for lunch. With its walkable streets, colorful murals, and independent shops, it’s the perfect spot to soak up local life, whether you choose fresh sushi at Sapa or a casual bite with craft beer at East Liberty Tap House.

In the afternoon, explore Antelope Island State Park, the largest island in the Great Salt Lake. Home to around 500 free-roaming bison and vast open landscapes, the island is ideal for wildlife spotting, photography, and taking in the striking views that define northern Utah. As evening approaches, return to Salt Lake City for a farewell dinner at Table X. With its minimalist design and farm-to-table philosophy, the restaurant’s seasonal, locally sourced dishes beautifully showcase Utah’s flavors — a fitting and memorable way to conclude three unforgettable days in the city.

Whether you’re drawn by Salt Lake City’s vibrant culture, Utah’s breathtaking national parks, or its world-class outdoor adventures, the Beehive State offers unforgettable experiences for every traveller. Ready to turn these 72 hours into reality? Explore our Utah itineraries, designed to showcase the state’s highlights, from historic landmarks and stunning landscapes to unique dining and hidden gems.