Little America Hotel Salt Lake City leads with a 9.4 comfort score and is an easy 10-minute drive to Hogle Zoo. For a budget-friendly option with free parking and a solid 8.4 rating, Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites sits about 15 minutes from the zoo entrance.
You’re coming for the zoo, but you need a base that works. These Salt Lake City hotels balance proximity to Hogle Zoo with real comfort, and we’ve sorted them by what matters most to zoo-goers.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 14200+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.5+ and location ratings 9.0+. The average guest score across these hotels was 8.2/10.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best overall: #2 Little America Hotel SLC→ Rates
- Budget-friendly w/ free parking: #1 Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites→ Rates
#11 SpringHill Suites Downtown→ Rates - Highest cleanliness score: #18 Element by Marriott Downtown→ Rates
- Pet-friendly w/ free airport shuttle: #1 Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites→ Rates
- Top walkability score: #5 Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City→ Rates
- Best for families: #19 Courtyard by Marriott Downtown→ Rates
#2 Little America Hotel SLC→ 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 | (2850+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Little America Hotel Salt Lake City | (2000+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Holiday Inn Express Downtown by IHG | (1400+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Comfort Inn & Suites I-80 I-15 Downtown | (1350+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City | (950+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Hampton Inn Salt Lake City Downtown | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Doubletree Suites by Hilton SLC | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Radisson Hotel Downtown SLC | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 10. evo Hotel Salt Lake City | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 11. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Downtown | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Sonesta Simply Suites Airport | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Hotel SLC | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Marriott University Park | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Home2 Suites by Hilton East | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Hilton Salt Lake City Center | (300+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Country Inn & Suites West Valley City | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Element by Marriott Downtown | (250+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Courtyard by Marriott Downtown | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Hyatt Place Cottonwood | (200+ Reviews) |
Our Closest Picks: Full Hotel Reviews
1. Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites – Salt Lake City
The Vibe
Crystal Inn sits about 15 minutes from Hogle Zoo by car — an easy shot down I-15. The indoor pool, sauna, and hot tub give post-zoo kids a proper wind-down outlet. Staff score 9.1, and guests consistently call out the front desk as “amazing” and super accommodating. Free parking means you’re not tacking on $25 per night to your zoo trip.
What You Actually Get
The on-call airport shuttle runs 24/7, but you’ll also use it to get around town if you skip renting a car. Every room includes free WiFi scoring 8.3, and breakfast is part of the deal — a truly very good spread from guest accounts. Pets are allowed for a $100 fee covering up to seven days, making this a top pick if you’re road-tripping with a dog to Hogle Zoo. Upper floors have elevator access. Kristen and Emerson get name-dropped in reviews regularly; that level of staff recall says something.
Choose this if: you want the lowest hidden cost for a zoo weekend — free parking, free breakfast, free airport shuttle.
Check Tonight’s Price for Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites – Salt Lake City →
2. Little America Hotel Salt Lake City
The Vibe
Little America is about 10 minutes from Hogle Zoo, and the 9.3 location score means you’re central to everything else you’ll do that day — Temple Square is 5 minutes’ drive. Guests rave about room size: “much bigger than I expected.” The lobby is genuinely gorgeous, and the 4-star rating shows in the details. Comfort hits 9.4, the highest of any hotel in this list.
What You Actually Get
On-site parking is available, though there’s no free airport shuttle — you’ll want a rental or rideshare. The in-house restaurant covers breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner, so you can eat before heading to the zoo and after returning. Cleanliness scores 9.3, and facilities are at 9.1 with a fitness center that actually gets used. No pets allowed here, so leave Fido at the kennel. The elevator serves upper floors, and the property is well-kept; even the pandemic-era closure info is handled transparently in guest communications.
Choose this if: comfort-on-comfort is your priority — you want the most relaxing bed after a day at the zoo.
Check Tonight’s Price for Little America Hotel Salt Lake City →
3. Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake City Downtown by IHG
The Vibe
About 12 minutes from Hogle Zoo, this Holiday Inn Express scores 9.3 for location — it’s a 5-minute walk to the Salt Palace Convention Center and central to downtown dining. Guests consistently call the staff “awesome”; one got checked in early at 10:30 AM without asking. The indoor pool, sauna, and spa are open with restricted hours from 10 AM to 7 PM, which is worth knowing before you plan your zoo return.
What You Actually Get
Every room includes a microwave, small refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities — helpful for storing zoo snacks. The desk, flat-screen TV, and private bathroom are standard, but the comfort score of 9.1 suggests the bedding punches above its 3-star category. Parking runs $25 per day on a first-come, first-served basis, and they limit one vehicle per room with no oversized vehicles. No pets allowed. Elevator access covers upper floors, which is more than some budget properties offer.
Choose this if: you want a central home base with pool access for post-zoo relaxation.
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
This Comfort Inn sits 3.7 miles from downtown and about 10 minutes from Hogle Zoo via I-15 — one of the quicker drives on this list. Cleanliness scores 8.7, and guests highlight “very clean, comfortable bed and nice room.” The location near shopping is a plus if you’re combining errands with zoo day. Free private parking is a standout for a property this budget-friendly.
What You Actually Get
Every room comes with a microwave and small refrigerator — convenient for food prep before the zoo. Only dogs under 40 pounds are accepted at $30/night per dog, and no other pet types are allowed, so call ahead if you travel with a cat. The breakfast is rated “good” by guests, and the fitness center does the job. The pool was closed due to COVID restrictions in past reports; confirm current status before booking if that’s a dealmaker. Free WiFi scores 8.3, reliable for streaming after hours.
Choose this if: you’re driving to SLC with a small dog and want a no-surprise fee structure.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80 I-15 Downtown →
5. Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City
The Vibe
Hyatt Regency holds the highest location score on this list at 9.5 — you’re a 7-minute walk from the center of everything and about 10-12 minutes from Hogle Zoo. It’s a 5-star property with a genuinely modern feel. Staff are “super friendly and accommodating,” and the guest quote about “walking distance from downtown and shopping” confirms the walkability. The outdoor pool is a summer draw, and the fitness center and bar round it out.
What You Actually Get
Two dine-in options — Mar Muntanya and Salt Republic — plus a 24-hour deli market for quick bites. Parking comes as underground valet ($36 daily) or self-parking ($20 daily), so budget for that. Some select rooms have bathtubs (ADA Queen and 2 Queen View rooms, plus some king rooms); call ahead if a tub matters. Pets are allowed with applicable charges. The value score of 8.4 is the lowest of its scores, which tracks with the 5-star pricing, but the cleanliness (9.3) and comfort (9.4) are top-tier.
Choose this if: you want luxury without sacrificing proximity — central SLC’s highest-rated location.
6. Hampton Inn Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
About 12-15 minutes from Hogle Zoo, this Hampton Inn scores 9.3 for staff — the best in this list for friendly service. It’s a 20-minute walk from Temple Square, so you cover the tourist triangle easily. Guests describe it as “beyond expectation” and “clean and quiet.” Free breakfast is rated “excellent” by the hotel, and the 24-hour indoor pool is a rare find — swim whenever the zoo day ends.
What You Actually Get
Free private parking is included, which saves $25-$36 nightly compared to downtown peers. Rooms don’t have microwaves by default, but the front desk can deliver one to your room on request. A $25 damage deposit is required at check-in. Pets are allowed with applicable charges. The fitness center gets the job done, and excellent breakfast means you fuel up before heading to the zoo. No microwaves in-room, so plan snacks accordingly.
Choose this if: you prioritize friendly, responsive staff and want to swim at 10 PM after zoo crowds.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hampton Inn Salt Lake City Downtown →
7. Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
Hyatt House sits 0.6 miles from The Tabernacle and about 12 minutes from Hogle Zoo — the 9.2 location score reflects its walkable downtown position. The standout here is the kitchen in every room, plus BBQ facilities for outdoor grilling. WiFi scores 9.0, the highest of this entire list. Guests call it “modern” and “squeaky clean,” and the King suites are “well equipped with hotspots.”
What You Actually Get
The full kitchen means you can prep zoo snacks and meals, saving on downtown dining. The outdoor pool is open year-round. Parking is covered with an 8-foot-5-inch clearance — watch your roof rack if you have one. Pets are allowed with a fee. On-site dining and the fitness center round out the facilities. Cleanliness hits 8.9, and staff score 8.9, so the service matches the amenities. The value score of 8.1 is the weakest link, but the kitchen recoups some of that. 24/7 coffee is available, and breakfast is included.
Choose this if: you want to cook your own meals and have strong, fast WiFi for streaming or work.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown →
8. Doubletree Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City
The Vibe
Doubletree Suites is 1.1 miles from The Tabernacle and about 12 minutes from Hogle Zoo. The lobby is noted as “very nice,” and guests highlight the “convenient location” and “friendly staff.” Cleanliness scores 9.0, and the all-suite layout means extra space for families. The indoor pool and fitness center are solid, and the on-site restaurant covers meals. Ski storage is available if you’re combining zoo with winter sports.
What You Actually Get
Overnight parking costs $12 per night, one of the cheapest downtown parking rates. The minimum check-in age is 21, so younger groups need to plan around that. Room types include shower-tub combinations or full shower stalls — specify preference when booking. WiFi scores 6.9, the weakest in this list; expect basic browsing but not streaming. Pets are allowed with charges. The good breakfast is included, and the 24-hour front desk helps with late zoo returns.
Choose this if: you need a suite layout and want the lowest downtown parking cost.
Check Tonight’s Price for Doubletree Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City →
9. Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
Radisson sits 2297 feet from The Tabernacle and about 10-12 minutes from Hogle Zoo. The location score of 9.2 is its strength, and the value — 25% less than similar options on the same block — is the real draw. Guests note the room was “clean and had everything you need.” WiFi scores 8.9, which is respectable. The pet fee is a flat $75 per stay for up to 2 pets, a bargain compared to per-night competitors.
What You Actually Get
Self-parking costs $25 in the underground garage, and valet is available. Larger vehicles can park along the back of the building. The very good breakfast is included, and the on-site restaurant covers dinner. Pets are allowed at $75 per stay. The staff holds luggage for up to 14 days if you’re doing a multi-stop trip. Facilities score 8.1 — nothing fancy, but functional. The value score of 7.6 reflects the older property condition; guests occasionally note thermostat quirks.
Choose this if: location is everything and budget matters more than polish.
Check Tonight’s Price for Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown →
10. evo Hotel Salt Lake City
The Vibe
evo Hotel is about 10 minutes from Hogle Zoo and offers a completely different vibe — a 24/7 climbing gym and skate park are built into the property. Staff score 9.0, and guests love the “fun concept” and “great vibe.” Free parking is included. Proximity to food spots and bars is frequently mentioned. This is not your standard hotel; it’s for active travelers who want adventure culture baked into their stay.
What You Actually Get
Parking is free but currently in a temporary lot with security patrol rather than a permanent garage. The front desk is staffed 24/7, so late check-ins are no issue. Breakfast is optional at €6. Pets are welcome with a fee. WiFi scores 7.8 — middling but functional. The climbing gym and skate park are major draws, but the hotel itself is a conversion, so expect a more industrial feel. Cleanliness scores 8.4, and comfort hits 8.7. No TV in rooms? Some room types skip them — check your booking.
Choose this if: you want a lively, active hotel with free parking and 24-hour climbing access.
11. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
About 12-15 minutes from Hogle Zoo, SpringHill Suites offers free on-site parking in a downtown location — a unicorn in Salt Lake City. Staff score 9.2, and guests say “breakfast was very tasty” and the pool “opens early in the morning.” The all-suite format gives you separate living and sleeping areas, perfect for families. The indoor pool and hot tub are operational, and the property is consistently praised as “perfect location to walk downtown.”
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking is the headline, saving you $20-$36 nightly. Every room is a suite with separate spaces. The indoor pool and hot tub are open — confirmed by guests. No pets are allowed. WiFi scores 6.2, the lowest in this entire list, so prepare for slow browsing. The good breakfast is included, and the fitness center is available. No age restriction means anyone can check in, but the incidental hold requires a credit card for the full stay plus taxes and extras.
Choose this if: free parking is non-negotiable and you want suite space for a family.
Check Tonight’s Price for SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown →
12. Sonesta Simply Suites Salt Lake City Airport
The Vibe
About 15-18 minutes from Hogle Zoo — farther than most but cheaper. Sonesta Simply Suites is for extended-stay travelers who want a kitchenette and a 24-hour airport shuttle. Staff score 8.3, and the property is “comfortable accommodations” per guests. The kitchenettes include a stovetop, microwave, and full fridge — real cooking capability. Free private parking is a plus.
What You Actually Get
Every room is a suite with a kitchenette, air conditioning, and family-friendly layout. The 24-hour airport shuttle is available — call the hotel for pickup. Pets are allowed with a $125 fee for cats and dogs. An incidental authorization (hold) is required at check-in. WiFi scores 7.6, acceptable for basic use. The fitness center is on-site. No breakfast included, but with a kitchenette, you can make your own. Cleanliness scores 8.2, which is decent for this price tier.
Choose this if: you need a real kitchen and a 24-hour airport shuttle, and distance is secondary.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta Simply Suites Salt Lake City Airport →
13. Hotel SLC
The Vibe
Hotel SLC is about 20 minutes from Hogle Zoo — the farthest downtown-adjacent option. But it has the best WiFi in this entire list at 9.5, plus free parking and a “wonderful breakfast” included. The location at 4500 South puts you near local dining and shopping. Staff scores 8.5, and the property is straightforward and functional. The pool was noted as opening “next week” in recent guest Q&A, so confirm availability.
What You Actually Get
Free parking is a big deal here. The wonderful breakfast is included. WiFi at 9.5 is the strongest in this list — work-from-hotel types will appreciate the reliability. No pets allowed. Facilities score 7.2 — this is a no-frills property. Cleanliness at 7.9 and comfort at 7.8 reflect the budget nature. The recent change to grab-n-go breakfast instead of full buffet is noted in guest Q&A check current status. The location is further from the zoo than other options, so plan a 20-minute drive.
Choose this if: the strongest WiFi connection is your priority and you don’t mind a longer drive.
14. Salt Lake City Marriott University Park
The Vibe
Marriott University Park sits near the University of Utah, about 10 minutes from Hogle Zoo — one of the closest options if you’re near the east side. The location score is 9.0, and guests mention it’s “close to my daughter’s dorm” and had “newly remodeled room.” One guest called it “one of the best hotels I have ever stayed in US.” The setting includes a garden, shared lounge, terrace, and on-site restaurant.
What You Actually Get
The good breakfast is included (€17 value). WiFi scores 8.8, strong enough for streaming. Pets are allowed with a one-time $150 fee per stay. The airport shuttle runs but takes longer as this is the last hotel on the route. Comfort scores 8.8, and cleanliness at 8.6 is reliable. The on-site restaurant and fitness center are available. Upper floors have elevator access. The garden setting is a nice change from downtown concrete.
Choose this if: you’re visiting the University area or want a quieter, garden-style hotel near the zoo.
Check Tonight’s Price for Salt Lake City Marriott University Park →
15. Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-East
The Vibe
Home2 Suites sits in the Sugar House district, about 12 minutes from Hogle Zoo. The 9.0 location score reflects the neighborhood’s popularity — walkable to shops and restaurants. The full kitchen in every suite is the big draw, plus an indoor pool and hot tub. Staff score 8.8, and one guest singled out “Sorina at the front desk” as A+. BBQ facilities are available for outdoor cooking.
What You Actually Get
Pets are allowed with a $50/night fee up to 3 nights ($150 max for longer stays). Service dogs have the same fee structure. The indoor pool and hot tub are operational. Free parking is included — another free parking winner. WiFi scores 7.5, adequate for basic use. Breakfast is included, and the kitchen lets you cook favorites. Check-in had some guest complaints about credit card mix-ups, so confirm your booking details. Cleanliness scores 8.7 across the board with facility and comfort at the same level.
Choose this if: you want a kitchen and pool in a walkable neighborhood 12 minutes from the zoo.
Check Tonight’s Price for Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-East →
16. Hilton Salt Lake City Center
The Vibe
Hilton City Center is about 10-12 minutes from Hogle Zoo with a 9.2 location score. Guests describe the atmosphere as “upscale” and note that “employees all seem to go above and beyond.” The indoor pool and hot tub are open. Staff score 8.8, and the hotel handles requests quickly. The 4-star property offers a solid downtown base near Temple Square and the Salt Palace.
What You Actually Get
Parking is available — stop by the front desk for details and pricing (typically $25-$35 per night). Pets are allowed with charges. The indoor pool and fitness center are on-site. Breakfast is available but not included. WiFi scores 6.2, the same weak signal as SpringHill Suites — expect basic browsing only. Cleanliness scores 8.8, and comfort 8.6. Some rooms have bathtubs, some have showers only. The 4:00 PM check-in is later than most, so plan accordingly if you arrive early.
Choose this if: you want a polished downtown Hilton with pool access for post-zoo relaxation.
17. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, West Valley City
The Vibe
Country Inn is in West Valley City, about 20 minutes from Hogle Zoo — the farthest option. But it’s also the cheapest pet-friendly option with an indoor pool and free airport shuttle. Staff score 8.4, and WiFi is a strong 9.0. The property offers Jacuzzi Suites with jetted tubs in-room — book directly with the hotel for those. The free breakfast is good, and on-site parking is free.
What You Actually Get
The free airport shuttle runs 6 AM to 10 PM — call for pickup and schedule drop-off at the front desk. Pets are allowed on request with charges. The indoor pool is operational. King Suites are available with a king bed but no separate bedroom — check the room type. WiFi at 9.0 is excellent for this price tier. Facilities score 7.3 — this is a basic, clean property. Cleanliness at 7.5 and comfort at 7.5 reflect the budget segment. The location at Decker Lake Drive is near freeway access.
Choose this if: budget is tight, you need a free airport shuttle, and a 20-minute drive to the zoo is acceptable.
Check Tonight’s Price for Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, West Valley City, UT →
18. Element by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
Element by Marriott is about 10-12 minutes from Hogle Zoo and scores 9.5 for cleanliness — the highest in this entire list. Staff score 9.0, and location is 9.3. Guests say it “met all of my needs for a couple of days sight-seeing in SLC” and note the room was “clean, quiet and bed was comfy.” The outdoor swimming pool and fitness center are open, and the very good breakfast is included.
What You Actually Get
Facilities score 9.2 — near luxury level. The outdoor pool is seasonal, so verify before booking in winter. Private parking is available at additional cost. Pets are allowed with charges. WiFi scores 8.6, solid for streaming. Air conditioning is in all rooms. The 4-star rating matches the quality level. The very good breakfast is included, and the on-site restaurant covers dinner. Cleanliness at 9.5 is the top score across all 20 properties — if hygiene is your #1 concern, this is it.
Choose this if: cleanliness is your absolute priority — this hotel is the cleanest option near the zoo.
Check Tonight’s Price for Element by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown →
19. Courtyard by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown
The Vibe
Courtyard by Marriott is about 10-12 minutes from Hogle Zoo, with a 9.4 location score — one of the best in this list. Staff score 9.3, tied for second highest. Guests describe it as “clean and comfortable” with “excellent breakfast” and “super friendly” staff. The indoor pool is a family favorite, and BBQ facilities are available for outdoor cooking. The center-of-SLC location is hard to beat.
What You Actually Get
Parking is $24 per night in a ground-level garage with security patrol. No pets are allowed — this hotel stopped accepting them. The American breakfast is included and praised. WiFi scores 8.0, adequate for basic use. The indoor pool and fitness centerare available. Comfort scores 9.2, and cleanliness hits 9.1. The elevator serves upper floors. Staff are consistently described as “super friendly and very helpful.” This is a solid all-around choice with excellent location and service.
Choose this if: you want the best location-to-service ratio near Hogle Zoo.
Check Tonight’s Price for Courtyard by Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown →
20. Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Cottonwood
The Vibe
Hyatt Place Cottonwood is about 15-20 minutes from Hogle Zoo, but the trade-off is mountain views and proximity to ski resorts (Snowbird is 12.3 miles, Alta 16.9 miles). Comfort scores 9.1, and staff are 9.0. Guests say “very good hotel, very friendly staff, comfortable beds, full breakfast buffets.” Some rooms have “beautiful views on the mountains.” The outdoor pool is surrounded by lounge chairs.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking is included. Pets are allowed — dogs only — with a $75 non-refundable fee per stay. No cats. Pets are not allowed on the 4th floor. The outdoor pool is seasonal. The good breakfast is included with full buffet options. WiFi scores 6.9 — expect basic browsing. No shuttle to ski resorts is offered. The Cottonwood area is quieter than downtown, with Old Mill Golf Course 3 minutes’ drive away. Comfort at 9.1 is excellent for this price tier.
Choose this if: you want mountain scenery, free parking, and plan to combine the zoo with a ski trip.
Check Tonight’s Price for Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Cottonwood →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#2 Little America Hotel Salt Lake City
8.9/10 with 9.4 comfort and 9.3 location — the most reliable balance of quality and proximity to Hogle Zoo.
Check Tonight’s Price for Little America Hotel Salt Lake City →
💰 Best Value
#1 Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites
Free parking, free airport shuttle, and a 9.1 staff score make this the best bang for your zoo trip buck.
Check Tonight’s Price for Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites – Salt Lake City →
🐕 Best Pet-Friendly
#4 Comfort Inn & Suites I-80 I-15 Downtown
$30/night pet fee with a 40lb limit, free parking, and a 10-minute drive to the zoo — your dog’s home base.
Check Tonight’s Price for Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City I-80 I-15 Downtown →
How We Ranked These Salt Lake City Hotels
I evaluated 20 properties near Hogle Zoo using 14200+ verified guest reviews and an 8.2/10 average guest score. Every hotel was filtered for 8.0+ overall rating and 10+ reviews minimum, then ranked by proximity to the zoo and specific guest scores.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 10+ verified reviews made the cut
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and comfort — the categories that matter most for zoo-day stays
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (pools, kitchens, pet policies) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to Hogle Zoo and downtown SLC — every property is within a 20-minute drive
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pets allowed at hotels near Hogle Zoo?
Yes, many hotels near Hogle Zoo accept pets, but policies vary. Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites charges a flat $100 fee for up to 7 days. Comfort Inn & Suites accepts dogs under 40 pounds at $30/night. Hyatt House, Doubletree, Hampton Inn, and Home2 Suites all allow pets with fees ranging $50 to $150 per stay. A few — like Little America, Holiday Inn Express, and Courtyard by Marriott — do not allow pets at all. Always confirm directly with the hotel before booking if traveling with an animal.
Which hotels offer free cancellation near Hogle Zoo?
Cancellation policies vary by room type and date for every property on this list. Most hotels offer free cancellation if you book a flexible rate — typically up to 24-48 hours before check-in. Properties like Crystal Inn, Little America, and Holiday Inn Express have variable policies depending on the specific room option you select. To see exact cancellation conditions, enter your travel dates in the booking widget and check the rate details. Non-refundable rates are usually cheaper but not changeable.
What’s the best time to visit Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City?
Hogle Zoo is open year-round, but spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking the 42-acre grounds. Summer months can hit 95°F, making early morning visits ideal — the zoo opens at 9 AM. Winter brings fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, but some animals are less active. December’s ZooLights event is a popular evening attraction. Book hotels like Little America or Hyatt Regency for central access regardless of season.
How far is Salt Lake City International Airport from Hogle Zoo hotels?
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is about 4.9 miles from downtown hotels, translating to a 10-15 minute drive without traffic. Most downtown properties like Little America, Hyatt Regency, and Holiday Inn Express are about 10-12 minutes from Hogle Zoo and 15-20 minutes from the airport. Hotels with free airport shuttles include Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites, Country Inn & Suites, and Sonesta Simply Suites. The shuttle from Country Inn runs 6 AM to 10 PM and requires advance scheduling.
Which hotels near Hogle Zoo have the best free breakfast?
Several properties offer breakfast that guests rate highly. Hampton Inn Downtown has an “excellent breakfast included” with guests praising the variety. Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites serves a “very good breakfast” that’s included. Holiday Inn Express includes breakfast with their standard rate. For the most substantial option, Little America Hotel has an on-site restaurant covering breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner. Element by Marriott and Hyatt House also include “very good breakfast” that gets consistent positive mentions in reviews.
What’s the most walkable area near Hogle Zoo for dining and shopping?
Hogle Zoo itself is located at 2600 Sunnyside Avenue, about 3 miles from downtown. For walkable dining and shopping after your zoo visit, the Sugar House district (around 2100 South and 1100 East) offers breweries, cafes, and boutiques. Home2 Suites by Hilton East sits right in Sugar House with a 9.0 location score. Downtown hotels like Little America (9.3 location) and Hyatt Regency (9.5 location) put you within walking distance of Temple Square, City Creek Center, and dozens of restaurants.