Whether you are visiting Utah for a golf, mountain or ski trip, business trip, concert, or quick weekend getaway, Salt Lake City has quietly become one of the coolest cities to explore in the Mountain West. Between the mountain views, local coffee shops, cocktail bars, and walkable neighborhoods, you can easily experience the best of downtown Salt Lake City in just one day.

The best part? You really do not need a car for this itinerary. Most of downtown Salt Lake City is walkable, and a quick Uber ride can get you to neighborhoods like 9th & 9th in minutes.

Even better — you can explore the city completely hands-free with Bringit and skip dragging your luggage around town. Learn more about same-day luggage delivery and storage at www.bringit.cool.

Morning: Breakfast at Sunday Best or Eggsburgh

Start your Salt Lake City morning with brunch at Sunday Best, one of the city’s most Instagram-worthy breakfast spots known for its fun atmosphere, pancakes, coffee flights, and brunch cocktails.

If you are looking for something quicker before heading outdoors, grab a breakfast sandwich from Eggsburgh — a local favorite for easy grab-and-go breakfast sandwiches and coffee.

Local Tip

If your flight lands early and your hotel or Airbnb check-in is later in the afternoon, use Bringit luggage delivery and storage so you can start exploring Salt Lake City immediately without carrying your bags around.

Mid-Morning: Run or Hike at Ensign Peak Trailhead

Next, head over to Ensign Peak Trailhead for one of the best quick hikes in Salt Lake City. This short hike offers panoramic views of downtown Salt Lake City, the Wasatch Mountains, and the Great Salt Lake.

Why Visitors Love It: One of the best things about Salt Lake City is how close nature is to downtown. Within minutes, you can go from coffee shops and restaurants to mountain trails and incredible views.

It is a favorite among locals for:

• Morning trail runs

• Sunrise hikes

• Quick outdoor workouts

• Scenic city views

  
  

Lunch at Franklin Ave. Cocktails & Kitchen or  Laziz Kitchen

If you are looking for a trendy downtown Salt Lake City lunch spot, Franklin Ave. Cocktails & Kitchen is a must. Located in the heart of downtown SLC, this stylish restaurant is known for its elevated comfort food, creative cocktails, and cool city vibe that both locals and travelers love. It is the perfect lunch stop for younger travelers, weekend getaways, or anyone wanting to experience Salt Lake City’s growing food scene before heading out to explore the city.

For a more wellness-focused or outdoorsy Utah lunch experience, Laziz Kitchen is one of the best local restaurants in Salt Lake City. Known for its fresh Mediterranean dishes, bright patio, and relaxed neighborhood feel, Laziz is the perfect stop after a morning hike or run around the city. It fits perfectly into the active lifestyle and outdoor culture that makes Salt Lake City such a unique destination for travelers looking to combine city experiences with mountain adventures.

Afternoon Coffee Break: Coffee Garden at 3:00 PM

Around 3 PM, slow things down with coffee and treats at The Coffee Garden, a longtime Salt Lake City favorite with cozy local vibes and outdoor seating. This is the perfect afternoon reset after hiking and exploring downtown.

Grab:

• An iced latte or Cold Brew

• Pastries or treats

• A table outside if the weather is nice

Explore the 9th & 9th Neighborhood: The neighborhood surrounding Coffee Garden is one of the most charming parts of Salt Lake City. After coffee, spend some time walking around the 9th & 9th neighborhood — one of Salt Lake City’s most walkable and creative areas. It is only a short Uber from downtown Salt Lake City, making it an easy stop even if you are visiting without a car.

You will find:

• Cute local boutiques

• Small bookstores

• Vintage shops

• Local art

• Coffee shops

• Neighborhood restaurants
  

This area has a laid-back, local feel that visitors love because it feels very different from a traditional downtown tourist district.

It is one of the best neighborhoods in Salt Lake City for:

• Casual shopping

• Walking around

• Taking photos

• Finding local brands and gifts

Dinner in Salt Lake City: Monomaru or Urban Hill Monomaru

Monomaru is known for having some of the best handrolls in Salt Lake City with an incredibly chill atmosphere.

Perfect for:

• Date nights

• Small groups

• Sushi lovers

• Casual luxury dining

Urban Hill

If you are looking for something a little more elevated, Urban Hill has quickly become one of the best restaurants in downtown Salt Lake City. Order the seafood platter if available — it is one of the standout dishes in the city.

The restaurant is known for:

• Beautiful interiors

• Great cocktails

• Fresh seafood

• Modern American dining
  

Late Night Drinks: Witchcraft or Melancholy Witchcraft: Dark, moody, creative cocktails with a unique atmosphere that feels hidden and local.

Melancholy: One of the best cocktail programs in Salt Lake City with an intimate, upscale vibe perfect for ending the night.

Final Thoughts: Explore Salt Lake City Hands-Free

Salt Lake City is one of the easiest cities to explore in the Mountain West. Between the walkable downtown neighborhoods, mountain access just minutes from the city, incredible restaurants, coffee shops, cocktail bars, and outdoor activities, you can experience a full day in Salt Lake City without needing a packed itinerary — or even a car.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Salt Lake City

1. Do youu need a car in Salt Lake City?

Not necessarily. Many of Salt Lake City’s most popular neighborhoods, restaurants, coffee shops, and cocktail bars are walkable or only a short Uber ride away. Areas like downtown Salt Lake City and 9th & 9th are easy to explore without a rental car.

2. What should I do with my luggage before hotel check-in in Salt Lake City?

Many travelers use luggage storage or same-day luggage delivery services like Bringit to avoid carrying bags around before hotel or Airbnb check-in. Bringit picks up luggage from Salt Lake City International Airport and delivers it directly to your destination, allowing travelers to explore the city hands-free or visa versa (i.e., pick up at your hotel or Airbnb and deliver it to the SLC Airport).

3. What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Salt Lake City?

Some of the best neighborhoods for visitors include downtown Salt Lake City, 9th & 9th, Sugar House, The Granary District, and The Avenues. Each area offers a mix of local restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, cocktail bars, and outdoor access.