The Grand America Hotel tops the list with a 9.3/10 rating and a near-perfect 9.7 comfort score. For a balance of luxury and value, the Little America Hotel’s 8.9 rating and 9.3 location score make it a consistent favorite. Both sit on Main Street in the heart of downtown.
Downtown Salt Lake City is compact, walkable, and packed with hotels that range from airport-adjacent suites to full-blown luxury on Main Street. Here’s who actually delivers.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 15,800+ total verified guest reviews to build this list, prioritizing the 8.2/10 average guest score and filtering for downtown accessibility and consistent cleanliness ratings above 8.0.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall luxury: #6 Grand America Hotel→ Rates
- Best value downtown: #2 Little America Hotel→ Rates
#1 Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites→ Rates - Pet-friendly picks: #7 Hyatt Place Downtown / The Gateway→ Rates
#11 Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown→ Rates - Cleanest downtown property: #19 Element by Marriott Downtown→ Rates
- Best for families: #12 Doubletree Suites by Hilton→ Rates
#17 Home2 Suites by Hilton East→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites – Salt Lake City | (2,850+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Little America Hotel Salt Lake City | (2,000+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown by IHG | (1,400+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80 I-15 Downtown | (1,350+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Comfort Suites Salt Lake City Airport | (1,000+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Grand America Hotel | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Downtown / The Gateway | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Comfort Inn Salt Lake City Downtown | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Airport | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Doubletree Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 14. evo Hotel Salt Lake City | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Sonesta Simply Suites Salt Lake City Airport | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Hotel SLC | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-East | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Hilton Salt Lake City Center | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Element by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Homewood Suites By Hilton Salt Lake City Airport | (200+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: 20 Hotels in Downtown Salt Lake City Reviewed
1. Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites – Salt Lake City
The Vibe
One of the highest staff scores in this list (9.1) and a solid 8.8 for cleanliness and comfort. Guests call out the spacious rooms and the value-for-money repeatedly. The free private parking is a rarity downtown — expect to save $20+ a night versus neighbors who charge for a spot.
What You Actually Get
Three-star rooms with free Wi-Fi (8.3), a buffet breakfast, and access to an indoor pool and fitness center. The free airport shuttle runs on demand — you call the front desk when you land. Pets are allowed for a $100 fee covering up to seven days, but you need to request in advance. Families note children 18+ are charged as adults, so verify the age filters before booking. The front desk is staffed 24/7, so late arrivals won’t struggle.
Choose this if: You’re driving into SLC and want a central base with a reliable shuttle and a pool at no extra cost.
Check Tonight’s Price for Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites – Salt Lake City →
2. Little America Hotel Salt Lake City
The Vibe
A proper downtown classic with a 9.3 location score and a 9.4 for comfort — guests consistently rave about the beds. The outdoor pool draws summer visitors, and the lobby feels more upscale than the four-star tag suggests. No pets allowed here, but the cleanliness score of 9.3 reflects the trade-off.
What You Actually Get
Four-star rooms with parking on site, a full restaurant open for breakfast through dinner, and a fitness center. The corner rooms on the ground level are a favorite — they offer two windows and more space than standard doubles. No airport shuttle, but rideshares from SLC run about $15. Check-in is at 3 PM, and check-out at 11 AM. If you’re looking for a best hotel in downtown Salt Lake City with a proven track record for comfort, this is the benchmark.
Choose this if: Bed quality is your top priority and you want a central downtown hotel with dining on-site.
Check Tonight’s Price for Little America Hotel Salt Lake City →
3. Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown by IHG
The Vibe
Right next to the Salt Palace and just off Temple Square, this IHG property scores a 9.1 for comfort and 9.0 for cleanliness. The indoor pool and sauna are open with restricted hours (10 AM–7 PM, key required from front desk). Guests love the included hot breakfast and the fact that parking is in a secured garage ($25/day).
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with a microwave, small refrigerator, and coffee setup — basics done right. The staff are known for early check-in flexibility (one guest reported getting in at 10:30 AM without asking). No pets allowed. Wi-Fi runs at 8.5, solid for light streaming. The free TRAX line is a block away, making downtown exploration effortless without a car.
Choose this if: You’re attending a convention at the Salt Palace and want a clean, reliable IHG stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown by IHG →
4. Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80 I-15 Downtown
The Vibe
A slightly southern spot at 2455 South State — it’s not walkable to Temple Square, but it’s a strong pick if you’re driving in or traveling with a dog. Cleanliness and comfort both hit 8.7. Guests mention the amount of outlets in rooms as a standout, and the continental breakfast keeps things simple.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes a microwave and small refrigerator. Dogs under 40 lbs are welcome for $30/night per dog — no cats accepted. Free private parking is included, and the staff score of 8.6 suggests a welcoming front desk. No pool currently (closed due to COVID restrictions as of last update), but the fitness center is operational. The hotel’s position near I-80 means easy highway access for day trips to Park City or the Great Salt Lake.
Choose this if: You’re road-tripping with a dog in tow and need free parking and easy highway access.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80 I-15 Downtown →
5. Comfort Suites Salt Lake City Airport
The Vibe
An airport-adjacent property that guests call “exceeded expectations.” The free 24-hour shuttle runs on demand — just call when you land. The indoor pool and very good breakfast are consistent draws. Staff stand out with an 8.7 score. No pets allowed here.
What You Actually Get
Spacious suites with a separate sitting area, free Wi-Fi (8.1), and a very good breakfast included. The private parking at the hotel costs extra, but you can park for free for 3 days after a one-night stay, then $10/day after that. Maximum parking stay is 15 days — useful for park-n-fly situations. The check-in time at 2 PM is earlier than most downtown hotels.
Choose this if: You need a comfortable pre-flight stay with a shuttle that runs around the clock.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Suites Salt Lake City Airport →
6. Grand America Hotel
The Vibe
The undisputed luxury king in SLC. A 9.3 overall rating with a 9.6 for facilities and a 9.6 for cleanliness. Guests describe it as “opulent” — expect chandelier-level lobbies, a Grand Spa with jacuzzi and steam room, manicured grounds, and a staff that scores 9.4. Almost all rooms have step-out balconies. No pets allowed.
What You Actually Get
Five-star rooms with on-site dining open for breakfast through dinner, a full fitness center, and parking on site. The Premier rooms range from the 1st to 15th floors — higher floors offer better mountain views. The spa includes a jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna, but note: guest rooms don’t have jetted tubs. Check-in is 3 PM, check-out at 11 AM. Wi-Fi clocks in at 8.7. If you’re hunting for the best hotel in downtown Salt Lake City and budget isn’t the concern, this is it.
Choose this if: You want the absolute best SLC has to offer — full spa, luxury finishes, and five-star service.
7. Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Downtown / The Gateway
The Vibe
Right at The Gateway, this Hyatt Place scores a 9.1 for location and a 9.2 for Wi-Fi — the best connectivity in the downtown list. The outdoor pool is open seasonally, and pets are allowed with a $75 plus tax fee. Guests highlight the convenience of the location more than the room decor, which is standard Hyat Place.
What You Actually Get
Three-star rooms with a very good breakfast included, on-site parking ($10/night for most guests, free for World of Hyatt Globalists), air conditioning, and a fitness center. The hotel is entirely non-smoking. The pet policy requires a $75 fee plus tax, which is mid-range for the city. The check-in desk is open 24/7, and groups booking more than 9 rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You need strong internet and want to be steps from Gateway restaurants and shops.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Downtown / The Gateway →
8. Comfort Inn Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
The budget-friendly downtown option. A 7.0 overall rating reflects the trade-off in facilities (7.1) and cleanliness (7.4), but the location at 8.1 puts you near Temple Square and downtown attractions. Free on-site parking and pet-friendly policy make it a practical choice for road-trippers.
What You Actually Get
Four-star label but three-star experience. Rooms include free Wi-Fi (7.9), an American breakfast, and non-smoking rooms. Pets are allowed (charges apply). No airport shuttle, but rideshares are easy. Check-in requires a minimum age of 18 with a valid ID. The hotel is close to local hospitals for those visiting for medical reasons.
Choose this if: You’re on a strict budget, driving, and need a central downtown address with free parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn Salt Lake City Downtown →
9. Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Airport
The Vibe
An airport hotel with the highest Wi-Fi score in this entire list (9.5). Cleanliness and comfort both hit 8.9, and the free shuttle runs from 4:15 AM to 1:00 AM. The hotel is currently under partial renovation, so some rooms may show age while others are updated. Mountain views from the rooms are a bonus.
What You Actually Get
Three-star rooms with a good breakfast, indoor swimming pool, on-site parking, and free airport shuttle. Accessible rooms with raised toilets and roll-in showers are available. No pets allowed. Check-in is until midnight, which works for late arrivals. The front desk can help schedule the shuttle for early morning departures.
Choose this if: You have an early flight and need a strong internet connection to work the night before.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Airport →
10. Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport
The Vibe
A newer build (2018) with an 8.8 cleanliness score and a solid 8.5 for facilities. The indoor heated pool and hot tub are consistent draws, and the free airport shuttle is available with restricted hours during the pandemic. Guests call out the well-made breakfast and the value-for-money equation.
What You Actually Get
Four-star rooms with free Wi-Fi (8.1), a good breakfast, fitness center, and parking on site. Pets are allowed (dogs up to 65 lbs, 2 per room, $80 total fee). Park n fly options are available — contact the property for details. No rooms with jetted tubs or fireplaces, but the lobby has a fireplace. Children over 1 are welcome, with age-based pricing.
Choose this if: You want a newer airport hotel with a pool, hot tub, and pet-friendly policy for two dogs.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport →
11. Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
A strong downtown pick for extended stays or families. The 9.2 location score and 9.0 Wi-Fi make it practical for remote workers. Guests call the rooms “squeaky clean” and highlight the 24/7 coffee and the well-equipped kitchen suites. The outdoor pool runs year-round, and the hotel is pet-friendly.
What You Actually Get
Three-star suites with a very good breakfast included, on-site parking (covered structure, 8 ft 5 in clearance), outdoor pool, fitness center, and a restaurant. Pets are allowed with a fee. Each suite has a full kitchen with hotplates and a fridge. Check-in at 3 PM, check-out at noon. The hotel is entirely non-smoking and the staff score isn’t listed but guest reviews consistently mention friendly service.
Choose this if: You’re staying a week or more and want kitchen space plus a pet-friendly policy.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown →
12. Doubletree Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City
The Vibe
A solid Hilton property with 9.0 cleanliness and 8.9 comfort. Guests love the spacious suites and the convenient downtown location. The Wi-Fi scores low (6.9) — a notable weak point. The lobby is a highlight, described as “very nice.” Pets are allowed with charges.
What You Actually Get
Three-star suites with an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, restaurant, and good breakfast (€13). Parking costs $12/night in the garage. Check-in age is 21 — this is stricter than most downtown hotels. Rooms come with either a shower-tub combo or a full shower stall. The staff score at 8.7 is solid, and guests appreciate the warm cookie at check-in.
Choose this if: You need a spacious suite downtown and the Wi-Fi weakness doesn’t bother you.
Check Tonight’s Price for Doubletree Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City →
13. Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
The best-value option for a Temple Square walk. A 9.2 location score paired with rates that guests report are “25% less than similar options on the same block.” The room was clean and had everything needed, though one guest noted a thermostat issue. Staff score at 8.5 is respectable.
What You Actually Get
Four-star rooms with a very good breakfast (€16), a restaurant, fitness center, and parking options (self-parking $25 in underground garage, valet available). Pets are allowed for $75 per stay (up to 2 pets). The bell staff can hold luggage for up to 14 days between stays. Wi-Fi runs at 8.8 — solid for a downtown hotel.
Choose this if: You want to walk to Temple Square and prioritize location over luxury finishes.
Check Tonight’s Price for Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown →
14. evo Hotel Salt Lake City
The Vibe
The most unique hotel in SLC. evo Hotel is built into a complex that includes a climbing gym, outdoor gear shop, and a patio bar. The lobby doubles as a coffee shop. Guests say it’s “a new experience” — the property speaks directly to skiers, climbers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Staff score is 9.0, and free parking is included.
What You Actually Get
Rooms with free Wi-Fi (7.8), a fitness center, breakfast, and that attached climbing gym. The front desk is staffed 24/7, so late check-ins at 11:30 PM are no issue. Pets are allowed with a fee. Parking is free in a lot that’s currently not gated — the property uses security patrols. Check-in is until midnight. The location isn’t walkable to Temple Square but is a short ride to downtown.
Choose this if: You’re an outdoor enthusiast who wants a climbing session before or after your day in SLC.
15. Sonesta Simply Suites Salt Lake City Airport
The Vibe
A practical extended-stay option near the airport. The 7.4 overall rating reflects basic facilities, but the kitchenettes and pet-friendly policy make it functional for longer stays. The shuttle runs 24 hours. Guests find the staff helpful even if the property is showing some age.
What You Actually Get
Three-star suites with kitchenettes, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi (7.6), a fitness center, and private parking. Pets are allowed — cats included, with a $125 fee. The check-in time at 4 PM is later than most — plan accordingly. There’s an incidental authorization deposit required at check-in.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a cat or need a kitchenette for a longer airport-area stay.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta Simply Suites Salt Lake City Airport →
16. Hotel SLC
The Vibe
A southern SLC property that matches the Hyatt Place Airport for the best Wi-Fi score in this list (9.5). The 7.3 overall rating is pulled down by facilities (7.2) and cleanliness (7.9). Free parking and a wonderful breakfast compensate. The pool was scheduled to reopen after a renovation.
What You Actually Get
Four-star rooms with free Wi-Fi (9.5), free parking, and a wonderful breakfast (currently grab-n-go boxes instead of full buffet due to renovations). The pool was set to reopen the week after a recent guest inquiry. No pets allowed. Check-in closes at 11 PM, so late arrivals need to plan ahead.
Choose this if: You need excellent Wi-Fi, free parking, and don’t mind being 15 minutes from downtown.
17. Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-East
The Vibe
A strong extended-stay option on the east side. The 9.0 location score reflects its position near Foothill Village shopping and dining. All scores cluster in the 8.4-8.7 range — consistent, with no real weakness except Wi-Fi at 7.5. The indoor pool and hot tub are popular with families.
What You Actually Get
Three-star suites with a full kitchen, free Wi-Fi (7.5), free parking, air conditioning, indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and breakfast. Pets are allowed with a $50/night fee (max $150 for stays of 3+ days). Service dogs have the same fee policy. The staff gets special mentions — one guest called out “Sorina” at the front desk as exceptional. Check-out is flexible from 5 AM to noon.
Choose this if: You want a kitchen suite on SLC’s east side with easy access to Foothill Village and the University of Utah.
Check Tonight’s Price for Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-East →
18. Hilton Salt Lake City Center
The Vibe
A central Hilton with a 9.2 location score and staff that guests say “go above and beyond.” The indoor pool and hot tub are available, and the fitness center is well-equipped. The 8.2 overall rating reflects good facilities (8.4) and strong cleanliness (8.8). Wi-Fi is notably low at 6.2 — the weakest in the downtown list.
What You Actually Get
Four-star rooms with an indoor swimming pool, private parking, a restaurant open for breakfast and lunch, and a fitness center. Pets are allowed with charges. Check-in is at 4 PM — later than most downtown options. The hotel is entirely non-smoking. Guests consistently mention the friendly staff as a highlight, with one noting that “all employees seemed willing to make me feel welcomed.”
Choose this if: You want a Hilton in the city center and don’t rely heavily on hotel Wi-Fi.
19. Element by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
The cleanest downtown hotel in this list with a 9.5 cleanliness score. The 8.8 overall rating and 9.3 location score make it a serious contender for anyone prioritizing hygiene and walkability. Guests describe the rooms as “quiet and comfy” and the staff as “very friendly and helpful.” The outdoor pool is a summer bonus.
What You Actually Get
Four-star rooms with free Wi-Fi (8.6), an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, fitness center, restaurant, and a very good breakfast. Pets are allowed with charges. The check-in window runs from 4 PM to midnight — later arrivals are accommodated at the 24/7 front desk. The hotel is within walking distance to Temple Square, City Creek Center, and downtown restaurants. Early departure policies apply.
Choose this if: Cleanliness is your non-negotiable and you want a Marriott property within walking distance of Temple Square.
Check Tonight’s Price for Element by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown →
20. Homewood Suites By Hilton Salt Lake City Airport
The Vibe
An excellent airport-area hotel that consistently punches above its three-star label. The 8.6 overall rating, 9.1 staff score, and 9.1 comfort score rival some downtown properties. Guests mention the large rooms, reasonable pricing, and the fact that the front desk ordered a rideshare for early departures when the shuttle wasn’t running yet.
What You Actually Get
Three-star suites with free Wi-Fi (9.0), an indoor swimming pool, free airport shuttle (4:30 AM–10 AM and 4:30 PM–midnight), fitness center, free parking, and American breakfast included. A $50 damage deposit is required at check-in. Pets are allowed with a $50 non-refundable fee. The park n fly package is bookable through the Hilton reservation site — the standard rate charges $5/day for parking beyond the first night.
Choose this if: You need a reliable airport hotel with a park n fly option, excellent staff, and strong value.
Check Tonight’s Price for Homewood Suites By Hilton Salt Lake City Airport →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#6 Grand America Hotel
A 9.3 rating, 9.7 comfort score, and full spa make this the definitive luxury choice in downtown SLC — no other property comes close across every category.
💰 Best Value
#2 Little America Hotel Salt Lake City
An 8.9 rating with a 9.4 comfort score and 9.3 location — near-luxury quality at a mid-range price point on Main Street.
Check Tonight’s Price for Little America Hotel Salt Lake City →
✨ Editor’s Choice
#19 Element by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
A 9.5 cleanliness score and 9.3 location score in a modern Marriott package — the best balance of hygiene, walkability, and value downtown.
Check Tonight’s Price for Element by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown →
How We Ranked These Salt Lake City Hotels
We evaluated 20 downtown and airport-adjacent Salt Lake City hotels using 15,800+ verified Booking.com reviews, filtering for the 8.2/10 average guest score and prioritizing properties with consistent cleanliness and location scores. Every hotel on this list has at least 200 verified guest reviews.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 7.0+ overall and 200+ verified reviews were considered for the guide
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and comfort — the categories that drive repeat bookings in a hotel-heavy downtown market
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (parking, pool, pet policies) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Physical walkability to Temple Square, Salt Palace Convention Center, and downtown dining districts
Frequently Asked Questions
Which downtown Salt Lake City hotels allow pets?
Several hotels on this list welcome pets, though policies vary. The Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites (#1) allows pets with a $100 fee for up to seven days. Hyatt Place Downtown / The Gateway (#7) charges $75 plus tax. Hyatt House Downtown (#11) and Doubletree Suites (#12) both allow pets with fees. Home2 Suites East (#17) charges $50/night with a $150 max. For dogs only under 40 lbs, Comfort Inn & Suites I-80 (#4) charges $30/night. Always confirm fees and weight limits directly with the property before booking.
Which downtown Salt Lake City hotels offer free parking?
Free parking is surprisingly rare downtown. Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites (#1) offers free private parking for guests — a major value. Comfort Inn Downtown (#8) also includes free on-site parking. If you’re willing to stay near the airport, evo Hotel (#14), Hotel SLC (#16), and Home2 Suites East (#17) all offer free parking. Most other downtown properties charge $10-$25/night for parking, so factor that into your total cost.
What’s the best time to visit Salt Lake City for hotel deals?
Salt Lake City sees peak hotel rates during the Sundance Film Festival (late January), general conference weekends (April and October), and ski season (December-February). For the best rates, visit in March-April or September-October outside of conference dates. Summer months (June-August) offer moderate rates but hot weather. Downtown hotels often drop prices significantly during weekdays in the shoulder seasons when business travel slows.
How do I get from the Salt Lake City airport to downtown hotels?
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is about 5 miles from downtown. Uber and Lyft cost $15-20 and take 10-15 minutes. The TRAX light rail Green Line runs from the airport directly into downtown for $2.50 — it’s the cheapest option and runs every 15 minutes. Many airport-area hotels (#5, #9, #10, #20) offer free shuttles. If you’re staying at a downtown hotel without a shuttle, any rideshare will get you to the main downtown corridor quickly.
Which hotels are closest to the Salt Palace Convention Center?
The Holiday Inn Express Downtown (#3) is literally a 5-minute walk from the Salt Palace, with a 9.3 location score. The Hilton Salt Lake City Center (#18) and Radisson Downtown (#13) are both on West Temple, directly adjacent to the convention center. Little America (#2) and Grand America (#6) on Main Street are about a 7-minute walk. These properties all see heavy booking during convention periods, so reserve well in advance.
What’s the most walkable area for staying in Salt Lake City?
Main Street between 100 and 600 South is the most walkable corridor, putting you steps from Temple Square, City Creek Center, the Salt Palace, and dozens of restaurants. Hotels like Little America (#2), Grand America (#6), and Element by Marriott (#19) are perfectly positioned here. For a slightly quieter but still walkable option, the Gateway area (Hyatt Place #7 and Hyatt House #11) offers dining and shopping without the Main Street crowds.