Salt Lake City is known for being home to the headquarters of the Mormon Church, but in the last few years alone the Utah capital has risen in popularity for so much more. Driven by an influx of millennials attracted to the city’s burgeoning tech and finance scenes—and proximity to world-class ski slopes—the city has become downright cutting edge. From its charming small-town feel and farm-to-table restaurants to its fascinating religious roots and easy access to outdoor adventures, Salt Lake City is a captivating place to visit. Only in town for 24 hours? Here’s how to do the city just right.

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Salt Lake City | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

Arrival and Check In

Hotel Monaco | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

Stay at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco situated in the heart of downtown. The funky, eclectic property, housed in a historic bank building, is walking distance to plenty of restaurants, bars and things do to. While Salt Lake City is very walkable, you’re going to want a comfortable home-away-from-home to come back to after a long day and this charming boutique hotel definitely fits the bill.

Caffeinate

Eva’s Bakery | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

Eva’s Bakery is about a block away from the hotel and the coffee there is bold and flavorful. Pop in to grab a cup of joe and pastry to go.

Get a Lay of the Land

Mormon Church’s Temple | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

The Mormon Church’s Temple Square covers a 10-acre swath of downtown. The temple itself is a beautiful, awe-inspiring structure and it’s well worth strolling by. Surrounding the church, you’ll find gorgeous gardens and plenty of space to stretch out and relax in the grass if you’d like.

Lunch

Copper Onion | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

Walking around downtown Salt Lake City, you will certainly work up an appetite. The Copper Onion is a great place to stop for lunch. The burger is stacked with cheddar cheese, caramelized onions and a special aioli atop a grass-fed patty and homemade bun. The cocktails are equally delicious!

Go for a Drive

Park City | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

The renowned slopes of Park City are only about 35 minutes from Salt Lake City. Even if you aren’t in town to ski (or if you visit in the warmer months), it’s worth the drive. Walk along the charming main drag and pop into the cute boutique shops and bars. Spend about two hours strolling downtown Park City, then head back to Salt Lake City in the late afternoon for a catnap before dinner.

Enjoy Killer Mexican Food 

Red Iguana | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

The food at Red Iguana is authentic and the atmosphere is just plain fun. Family owned and operated, it’s a favorite of locals so expect to wait for a table even if you come early. Go for their signature mole dishes, stay for their margaritas.

Grab a Drink

Bodega | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

It may not look like much from the outside, but Bodega is a great downtown bar. Vaunting speakeasy vibes, it’s open until 1 a.m. (that’s when last-call is here) so it’s perfect for a night-cap. Also, to say the rules surrounding alcohol in Salt Lake City are outdated is an understatement. No one under age is allowed to step food inside a bar, not even sleeping infants. Importantly, some restaurants are designated as bars (even though they are restaurants) so call ahead if you have a kid in tow because they are very strict about this rule.

Breakfast Before You Go

Park Cafe | Photo courtesy of Compass and Twine

After you check out of the hotel, head to Park Cafe, where you’ll find one of the best breakfasts in town. If there is a wait when you arrive, muster some patience and just wait. The kitchen is sliding out food faster than you can even read the whole menu, so a table will likely be available very quickly.

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