Salt Lake City is full of surprises. With its beautiful mountains, historic sites, and friendly atmosphere, it's a great place to visit. But if you think visiting this city will be expensive, think again. You can have Salt Lake City on a budget without sacrificing what makes it great.
This guide will demonstrate how to get the most out of your trip without breaking the bank. From cheap accommodation and budget attractions to delicious local food and convenient public transport, here's how to have a low-budget travel in Utah's capital.
1. Book Affordable Lodging Early
Accommodation is typically the most expensive when you travel. But in Salt Lake City, there are plenty of options that will not break the bank.
Affordable Accommodations
Motels & Hostels: Visit hotels such as Avenues Hostel or Motel 6 for simple rooms at a low rate.
Cheap Hotels: Chains like Econo Lodge, Days Inn, or Quality Inn typically have rooms available for less than $100 a night.
Short-Term Rentals: Websites like Airbnb can have budget basement apartments or guest rooms near downtown.
Tip: Reserve ahead to catch the best rates on budget lodging, particularly in high season or for events like Sundance or Comic Con.
2. Get Around Using Public Transport
Avoid the rental car. Salt Lake City has wonderful public transport that is convenient and cheap to use.
How to Travel on a Budget
UTA TRAX (Light Rail): Three color-coded lines will transport you from the airport to downtown, the University of Utah, or the suburbs.
Buses: UTA buses operate in most neighborhoods and interface nicely with TRAX stations.
Greenbike: A bike-sharing service ideal for short city-center trips.
The majority of local rides are only a few dollars. And if you're there for an extended visit, a day pass or a week pass is an excellent means to save even more while seeing Salt Lake City on the cheap.
3. Visit Free Attractions and Scenic Spots
One of the best things about Salt Lake City is that many top sights are free! Whether you're into history, nature, or art, you’ll find plenty of free attractions to enjoy.
Must-See Free Attractions
Temple Square: Explore beautiful gardens, historical buildings, and visitor centers in the heart of downtown.
Utah State Capitol: Walk the marble halls and take in the panoramic view of the valley from Capitol Hill.
Great Salt Lake: Visit Antelope Island for \$15 per car (or go near the lake at Great Saltair for free).
City and Liberty Parks: Perfect for a relaxing picnic or people-watching.
There’s no need to pay for every activity. With so many free attractions, you’ll still have a rich experience without spending much.
4. Eat Like a Local (Without Splurging)
You don't have to eat in pricey restaurants to get quality food. There are lots of local eats in Salt Lake City that taste great and won't cost you an arm and a leg.
Local Favorites That Won't Break the Bank
Crown Burger: Their pastrami burger is legendary. Large portion sizes at a reasonable price.
Red Iguana: If you want some Mexican cuisine, this family-owned restaurant is renowned for delicious mole and excellent value.
Lamb's Grill: A longtime city diner, it serves up filling breakfasts and home cooking.
Food Trucks & Farmers Markets: Look for lunch trucks or stop by the Downtown Farmers Market (June–October) for local eats.
You don't have to break the bank to eat out. With a little advance planning, you can indulge in great local eats without overspending.
5. Save with Free Events and Community Activities
Salt Lake City has numerous free and low-cost activities throughout the year. From outdoor concerts to street festivals, there's always something going on.
Low-Cost Fun Events
Twilight Concert Series: National and local bands play downtown during the summer for a few dollars.
Gallery Stroll: Local art galleries open their doors for free evening stroll-throughs every third Friday.
Craft Lake City: A free, do-it-yourself and craft festival in August that features music, food, and creative booths.
Scan local event calendars and social media sites to find deals and free events while you're taking in Salt Lake City on the cheap.
6. Go Hiking and Explore the Great Outdoors for Free
Salt Lake City is surrounded by gorgeous mountains, canyons, and trails. Nature enthusiasts will discover that the best things in life are indeed free.
Fantastic Outdoor Activities
Ensign Peak Trail: A short, stellar hike with incredible city views.
Millcreek Canyon: Minutes away from downtown, with free admission on specific days (typically weekdays).
Donut Falls or Big Cottonwood Canyon: These are simple and picturesque trails for beginners or recreational hikers.
Bonneville Shoreline Trail: Travels through the foothills and is wonderful for a walk, bike ride, or trail run.
Take water, good footwear, and a camera. These outings provide awesome memories while remaining on your low-cost travel budget.
7. Explore Museums on Discount or Free Days
Several of Salt Lake City's museums and cultural institutions provide discounts, student rates, or even free entry on specific days.
Popular Museums
Natural History Museum of Utah: Advance notice of free admission days can often be found on their website.
Utah Museum of Fine Arts: Free on the first Wednesday and third Saturday of each month.
The Leonardo Museum: Has rotating displays and regularly offers discounts through local offer websites such as Groupon.
These are ideal choices when you're in Salt Lake City on a budget but also wish to immerse yourself in local culture and science.
8. Purchase a Connect Pass (If You'll Be Visiting Many Attractions)
If you do want to visit the city's best paid attractions, consider purchasing a Salt Lake Connect Pass.
What's Included
Admission to attractions such as the Hogle Zoo, Clark Planetarium, Tracy Aviary, Red Butte Garden, and more.
Various pricing tiers (1-day to 365-day) based on your duration of stay.
It can be a smart way to see a lot while sticking to a low-cost travel mindset—especially if you’re traveling with family or a group.
9. Shop and Stroll Without Spending Much
Window shopping can be a fun (and free!) way to explore the city.
Affordable Finds
9th & 9th District: Local boutiques and shops with unique crafts and vintage items.
Trolley Square: A vintage indoor mall that's as much about looking around and enjoying the environment as it is about spending.
Thrift Stores: Visit Deseret Industries (DI) or Pib's Exchange for secondhand finds and souvenirs.
Shopping doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. For travelers making the most of Salt Lake City on a budget, browsing can be all part of the experience.
10. Budget Planning Tips to Keep Costs Down
Here are some quick tips to plan and adhere to your budget:
Establish a daily expense limit: Monitor food, transportation, and admission costs.
Pack your own snacks and water bottle: Cut costs on outings and hikes.
Travel with family or friends: Split accommodation, meals, and Uber rides.
Take advantage of deal sites: Groupon, Yelp Deals, and Airbnb Experiences usually have promotions.
Get locals to recommend: They are the experts on local eats and secret free attractions.
If you plan and keep a Monty Python-like attitude about money, it won't be hard to experience Salt Lake City on a budget.
Final Thoughts
You don't need to be rich to experience the attractions and beauty of Salt Lake City. With so many free attractions, friendly public transport, and fantastic local eats, it's completely possible to get around the region on a budget.
Whatever your accommodation choice in budget accommodations, climbing mountains, or just watching the sun set over the Great Salt Lake, you'll make a memory that won't cost a lot but will last forever.
