Salt Lake City
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What people say
Brandon Roertgen
"Following a day traveling through the Rocky Mountains and traversing a multitude of red rock canyons, the California Zephyr arrives in Salt Lake City just after 11 p.m.
Almost the exact opposite of Denver, Salt Lake’s stop is (for now) extremely unbecoming of a major city with a rich railroad heritage. Amtrak’s operations in Utah’s capital city take place out of another one of the Amshack structures located nearby the Salt Lake Intermodal Hub, which serves Frontrunner Commuter Rail, Trax Light Rail, UTA Bus and Greyhound.
All of this wouldn’t sound too bad (it didn’t to me, the first time I visited after doing a little research): fairly busy train station a few blocks from downtown, seems like a fine place to spend several hours waiting for Amtrak, right? Well, it is amazing the difference a couple of blocks can make and I can confidently say it is not the place you want to wait more than the to-be-expected 30 minutes (my party quickly left, found a hotel and spent the excess time there).
First of all, the shack station is only open certain hours around when the train actually arrives, so it isn’t an option to hang out at if you are quite early. Second, there is a lot of undesirable and frankly unsafe activity happening in the general area (people openly doing drugs directly across the street in daylight, walking around and screaming at apparently no one). Third, there seemed to be an infestation of cockroaches on the platform, so watch where you put your bags (and yourself!). Lastly, if on-time, train #5 arrives at 11:15 p.m. and train #6 at 2:55 a.m., which means all of the buzz from a lively city is either winding down or fully asleep. The local transit (Trax, Frontrunner, UTA) all seem to stop running roughly around midnight, effectively leaving the station a ghost town.
By no means am I trying to discourage a visit to SLC, just be prepared and arrange a drop-off/pick-up ahead of time, so you don’t have to spend any extra time at the station. In other, more positive news, the Rio Grande Plan is gaining traction in the SLC area, which would move all of these services into the old Rio Grande Station building and significantly develop the area bringing it up to par with a big city (similar things have happened in the past 20 years in Denver and Reno)."
Trinity Hobdey
"Salt Lake City, the vibrant capital of Utah, offers a diverse array of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From its stunning mountain backdrop to its bustling downtown area, there's something for everyone to explore. Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the city's rich culture and history at attractions like Temple Square, home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple and other historic buildings. Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Avenues neighborhood, known for its Victorian-era architecture and tree-lined streets. For outdoor enthusiasts, Salt Lake City serves as the perfect gateway to nearby outdoor adventures, with world-class skiing and hiking opportunities just a short drive away.
While in Salt Lake City, adventurers should take advantage of being in the city by stocking up on snacks and gear they may need for their excursions to the national parks and beyond. Visit local outdoor retailers like REI or gear shops in downtown Salt Lake City to find everything from hiking boots to camping gear. Additionally, don't miss the chance to experience the city's vibrant music venues and bar scene. Whether you're into live music, craft cocktails, or local brews, Salt Lake City offers a diverse range of nightlife options to suit every taste. And when it comes to dining, the city's culinary scene is second to none. My boyfriend and I enjoyed a memorable meal at Saffron Valley, an Indian cuisine restaurant that left us both impressed with its flavors and ambiance.
For sports enthusiasts, attending a Utah Jazz NBA game is a must-do experience. The electrifying atmosphere of the Vivint Arena, combined with the skillful plays of the team, makes for an unforgettable evening of entertainment. So, before heading off on your next outdoor adventure, be sure to make the most of your time in Salt Lake City by indulging in its cultural offerings, stocking up on supplies, savoring its delicious culinary delights, and catching a thrilling basketball game with the Utah Jazz.
Feel free to upgrade and purchase my Salt Lake City guide if you wish to learn more about our experiences and discover even more hidden gems in the city. There's so much to see and do that couldn't fit into this guide!"
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Travel Gives By Mandy
"1st Stop: to see how Salty the Great Salt Lake is! Less than a 30-minute drive from downtown.
2nd Stop: Downtown Salt Lake - walked around all afternoon and explored the neighborhoods and historical sites around the Capitol building.
FOOD:
Takashi Sushi - this is by far the best sushi I have ever eaten. Make sure to get a reservation. I'd recommend eating an early lunch!
* on Sunday most places are closed, even restaurants. Be sure to check if a place is open before you go.
Second Day:
The Avenues Hike - This hike is located in a neighborhood in Salt Lake City! Great way to start your day with an out and back hike. "
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