We have been asked many times by people traveling in for events, ski trips, short stopovers on their way to the mountains or Park City, on how to spend a day or half-day in Salt Lake City. We’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite shopping venues, eateries, and things to do in Salt Lake City that should help you spend a great day in the capital of Utah.
For early risers, you may not expect it, but coffee culture is growing in Salt Lake City. Many new cafés and bakeries have appeared over the last few years. Whether you are looking for a warm cup of jo, or a bakery, we suggest you start your day at one of these spots.
TULIE BAKERY – If baked goods are calling, this is your spot. This small, but unforgettable bakery serves incredible French baked good, including fresh beignets, that will make your heart sing. If you’re here for breakfast get the brioche French toast or croque monsieur with a sticky bun. Visiting for lunch? Try the mozzarella, tomato, and basil sandwich, warm with a side of homemade soup and a chocolate bouchon. 863 East 700 South
PUBLIK COFFEE ROASTERS – If you crave a variety of toasts, this is your spot, with 11 types of thickly sliced toast by Park City’s own Red Bicycle Breadworks. This coffee house is also perfect if you need to get a few hours of work done, as they have ample workspace. 975 S West Temple.
As you continue to explore the city, you’ll be wowed by the numerous charming, local shops, some of which are our personal favorites for gift and home décor shopping.
ARTE HAUS COLLECTIF – perfect for picking up something for a friend or family member, or even for your own home. If you’re like us, you go in to buy gifts for others and leave with things for yourself. 352 East 900 South.
THYME AND PLACE – This botanical boutique is great for finding small plants and other botanical items. They even have a new herbal store inside called Green Thread Herbs, which is an herbal apothecary and plant medicine boutique. 362 East 900 South.
If you plan on staying for dinner, here are a few of our favorite restaurants in Salt Lake City.
BODEGA + THE REST – With a fun and well mixed crowd, this location made our list. Bodega is the main floor bar, with a young, lively crowd. This is a great spot if you want to meet up with a few friends for a drink before sitting down for dinner. If you want to enjoy a well-crafted cocktail, make reservations for The Rest in advance, or hopefully you can get lucky by telling the staff you would like a seat at the bar downstairs. The Rest, is a hidden speak easy, known for its cozy and eclectic ambiance, playing vintage vinyl to set the mood. We recommend the beer cam chicken. It takes 40 or so minutes but it’s well worth the wait. 331 Main St.
COPPER ONION – This is one of those Salt Lake’s staples that always is included on our list when visitors ask where they should eat. Order the namesake burger, the saag paneer, or the French dip.
Since wait times at dinner can be long, the owners opened Copper Common, a next-door bar and restaurant, where overflow diners can enjoy a drink or an appetizer while waiting for their tables. 111 East Broadway #170
We hope you enjoyed this Salt Lake City shopping and dining itinerary. If you happen to take any of our recommendations, please leave a comment below. If you have a recommendation of a favorite spot or fun things to do in Salt Lake City that you think would be a great addition to this list, please let us know as well. Note: Salt Lake City is on a grid system with the Temple downtown being at the 0, 0 coordinates. This should help you navigate the streets more easily.
