Experience the ultimate family adventure with our comprehensive Salt Lake City Staycation guide! Discover the best things to do in Salt Lake City, indulge in delectable meals at kid-friendly restaurants, and find the perfect downtown Salt Lake Hotel for an unforgettable 24-hour escape.
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What happens when spring break arrives, your elaborate travel plans unexpectedly unravel, and your kids’ only wish is to spend endless hours splashing in a pool? The answer is simple and delightfully satisfying: you embark on an epic family staycation! For those residing near Salt Lake City, a local getaway offers all the excitement of a distant trip without the stress of long journeys or complicated logistics. Our family, living just a short drive from the vibrant heart of Salt Lake, finds that checking into a comfortable hotel and dining at new restaurants feels just as exhilarating as an out-of-town excursion.
This time, we decided to bring you along on our whirlwind 24-hour Salt Lake City adventure, showcasing all the incredible kid-friendly places we discovered. Despite its brevity, our staycation was packed with memorable moments, delicious food, and plenty of splashes, proving that you don’t need to travel far to create lasting family memories. Get ready to explore the best of Salt Lake City through a family lens!
Your Essential Guide to a Salt Lake City Staycation
A staycation in Salt Lake City provides the perfect blend of urban exploration and relaxation, especially appealing for families looking for convenience and value. This guide covers everything you need for a fantastic short trip, from where to eat to where to play and where to rest your heads. Dive into our experience and plan your own exciting escape to Salt Lake City!
Watch Our Salt Lake City Staycation Video!
For a visual glimpse into our adventure, check out our video! It captures the fun, the flavors, and the friendly atmosphere that made our 24 hours in Salt Lake City truly special. And now, let’s delve into all the specific details of our unforgettable time away from home.
Top Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Salt Lake City, Utah
Exploring Salt Lake City with kids means finding dining spots that not only cater to younger palates but also offer a pleasant experience for the whole family. We’ve curated a list of our favorite family-friendly eateries that made our staycation culinary journey truly delightful.
Sweet Lake Biscuits and Limeade: A Brunch Haven
Our Salt Lake City food tour kicked off with a delightful late breakfast/early lunch at Sweet Lake Biscuits and Limeade. Even with a hint of morning chill in the air, the availability of outdoor dining was a welcome sight, offering a charming street-side experience. We were warmly accommodated as we settled into the fresh air, ready to dive into their renowned selection of house-made limeades and lemonades. We sampled several unique concoctions: the Honeydew Cucumber Limeade, a refreshing and subtly sweet blend that quickly became my personal favorite, though the kids found its unique flavor less appealing. The Mint Limeade, however, was a universal hit, offering a cool, invigorating twist that everyone at the table enjoyed. Finally, the Orange Raspberry Lemonade struck a perfect balance of sweet and tart, a flavor I adored despite one son’s slight hesitation regarding the raspberry seeds.
For the main event, the children eagerly devoured their Kid’s Breakfast plates, which featured a perfectly fluffy pancake, scrambled eggs, and crispy bacon – a classic combination that never disappoints. My choice, “The Hoss,” was nothing short of monumental. Imagine a warm, flaky biscuit generously topped with a perfectly fried chicken breast, a fried egg, savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and smothered in rich, creamy sausage gravy, all finished with a vibrant green onion garnish. This breakfast sandwich was a masterpiece of flavors and textures, so substantial that I could only manage half, yet every single bite was a revelation. It’s an absolute must-try for any serious brunch enthusiast.
Sweet Lake Biscuits and Limeade, while not expansive in size, masterfully creates a cozy and incredibly welcoming atmosphere for families. The children’s menu, though concise, provided ample and satisfying options, ensuring even the pickiest eaters left with happy tummies. This spot perfectly blends a charming local vibe with seriously good food, making it an essential stop for a kid-friendly brunch in Salt Lake City.
Sweet Lake Biscuits and Limeade
54 W 1700 S
Salt Lake City, Utah
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Feldman’s Deli: Authentic New York Delicatessen in SLC
Feldman’s Deli has been a long-standing recommendation on my list of must-try Salt Lake City eateries, and I regret not having visited sooner! This establishment offers an authentic Jewish deli experience that transports you straight to New York City. From the moment you step inside, the aroma of quality meats and fresh bread promises a genuine culinary treat. While they do offer a dedicated kids’ sandwich on the menu, my children, always adventurous eaters, chose to order from the regular menu, a decision that proved both satisfying and generous. The portions here are remarkably ample, featuring a substantial amount of thinly sliced, flavorful meat, making even a single regular sandwich a hearty meal for a younger diner. The boys happily shared one sandwich, while Abbi and I each enjoyed our own, resulting in an abundance of delicious leftovers. We certainly didn’t leave hungry, a true testament to their generous servings!
I opted for the pastrami and corned beef combo, a classic choice that did not disappoint. Each slice of meat was perfectly seasoned and incredibly tender, piled high between slices of fresh rye bread. The flavors were rich, savory, and deeply satisfying – everything you’d expect from a top-tier deli. My experience has left me eager to return and try their famous Reuben sandwich, which I’ve heard rave reviews about. Feldman’s Deli is not just a meal; it’s an experience, bringing a taste of East Coast deli tradition to the heart of Utah. It’s a fantastic spot for families who appreciate quality ingredients and a vibrant, authentic atmosphere.
Feldman’s Deli
2005 E 2700 S
Salt Lake City, Utah
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Howdy Homemade Ice Cream: Sweet Treats with a Heart
As we were enjoying our dinner at Feldman’s Deli, our eyes wandered across the street and landed on the inviting facade of Howdy Homemade Ice Cream. This wasn’t our first encounter; Easton and I had visited a few months prior and were thoroughly impressed. So, it came as no surprise when he eagerly begged to go again for dessert after we had filled ourselves with savory deli sandwiches. Without hesitation, we crossed the street, ready for a sweet finish to our day.
What truly sets Howdy Homemade Ice Cream apart, beyond their incredibly delicious and creative ice cream flavors, is their inspiring mission: they actively hire individuals with special needs. This commitment to inclusivity creates a wonderfully positive and welcoming environment, making every visit feel good in more ways than one. It’s a place where amazing ice cream meets an amazing purpose, creating a truly heartwarming experience for everyone.
Adding to the family-friendly atmosphere, each table at Howdy Homemade is equipped with a selection of games. This thoughtful touch turned our ice cream outing into an extended period of fun and laughter, providing entertainment for quite some time as we savored our scoops and engaged in friendly competition. Howdy Homemade is more than just an ice cream shop; it’s a community hub where delicious treats, meaningful employment, and family-friendly entertainment come together to create a truly special experience in Salt Lake City.
Howdy Homemade
2670 S 2000 E
Salt Lake City, Utah
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Lazy Day Cafe: A Bright and Delicious Breakfast Spot
Our final culinary stop on this Salt Lake City staycation, and certainly not least, was a delightful breakfast at Lazy Day Cafe. Despite Easton feeling a bit under the weather, we still managed to order three fantastic meals that were all met with enthusiastic approval. Lazy Day Cafe offers a focused yet satisfying kids’ menu, and Camden’s choice, the kid’s breakfast burrito, was surprisingly generous in portion. It was truly massive – far exceeding typical “kid’s menu” expectations, yet he heroically finished every single bite, much to my impresssion! It was packed with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor, making it a truly satisfying start to his day.
Abbi, arriving a bit later in the morning when lunch options were also available, opted for a turkey sandwich. I was genuinely pleased to see it made with thick, succulent slices of real turkey breast, a welcome departure from processed lunch meat often found elsewhere. It was a fresh, wholesome, and delicious choice.
My personal mission at Lazy Day Cafe revolved around one specific dish: their legendary lemon pancakes. I had heard glowing reviews about these pancakes, and I am thrilled to report that they not only lived up to the hype but exceeded it. Each bite was a perfect blend of fluffy pancake, tangy lemon, and just the right amount of sweetness, creating an incredibly light yet indulgent experience. In fact, the more I recall their exquisite flavor, the stronger my desire to return for more becomes! Lazy Day Cafe offers a bright, inviting atmosphere and a menu that successfully caters to both children and adults, making it an ideal spot for a memorable family breakfast or brunch in Salt Lake City.
Lazy Day Cafe
2020 E 3300 S #23
Salt Lake City, Utah
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Where to Stay in Downtown Salt Lake City: The Perfect Family Hotel
Choosing the right accommodation is key to a successful family staycation. For our Salt Lake City adventure, we sought a downtown hotel that offered both comfort for the adults and exciting amenities for the kids. Our choice led us to a well-known establishment with a unique feature that promised endless fun.
The Little America Hotel: A Downtown Classic with an Iconic Pool
While our family has enjoyed several staycations near Salt Lake City, this particular trip marked only our second time truly immersing ourselves in the downtown experience. (Our previous downtown stay was at the charming Hotel Monaco, which also offers a distinct appeal.) For this adventure, The Little America Hotel immediately caught my attention, primarily due to its legendary pool that uniquely transitions from an indoor sanctuary to an expansive outdoor oasis. This innovative design promised the best of both worlds, regardless of the weather, making it an instant hit for the kids.
The hotel itself exudes a classic charm. While some of the rooms might suggest its long-standing history and could benefit from future renovations, our accommodations were impeccably clean and meticulously maintained, a testament to the hotel’s dedication to guest comfort. The grand lobby area was truly immaculate, presenting an elegant and welcoming first impression. We opted for one of the garden rooms, which offered a tranquil setting. The only minor inconvenience we encountered was the walk to the pool; accessing it required navigating through the conference room area to reach the elevators. During our stay, a lively conference was in full swing, leading to a few somewhat awkward moments as we, fresh from a swim and slightly damp, found ourselves strolling through crowds of impeccably dressed attendees. However, this small logistical detail did little to detract from the overall enjoyment of our stay.
The pool itself was a highlight, delivering exactly what we hoped for. The seamless indoor-to-outdoor transition was fascinating, allowing us to enjoy the water despite the lingering chill outside – though for me, venturing into the outdoor section proved a bit too brisk! The kids, however, were undeterred and had an absolute blast splashing and playing. The Little America Hotel stands as a reliable and cherished downtown Salt Lake City lodging option, especially for families seeking excellent amenities like a truly unique swimming experience.
The Little America Hotel
500 Main Street
Salt Lake City, Utah
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Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City with Kids
Beyond delicious food and a fantastic hotel pool, Salt Lake City offers a wealth of activities perfect for families. Our 24-hour staycation was primarily focused on indulgence and relaxation, but we still managed to squeeze in some cultural enrichment and local exploration. From interactive museums to beautiful gardens, there’s something to capture every child’s imagination.
Our initial plans for this short getaway were intentionally flexible, centered around eating well and making the most of the hotel’s pool. However, we couldn’t resist a visit to the Clark Planetarium, where we immersed ourselves in the wonders of the cosmos during a captivating show in the Dome Theater. The awe-inspiring visuals and educational content made it a truly engaging experience for all ages. Before heading home, we took a leisurely stroll across the street to The Grand America Hotel. If you’ve never had the pleasure of visiting, it’s an absolute must-see, even if just to marvel at its opulent architecture, wander through its beautifully manicured grounds, and explore its charming collection of boutique shops. The Grand America boasts the cutest toy store imaginable, brimming with unique treasures, and a delectable little bakery filled with tempting treats – perfect for picking up a sweet souvenir or a celebratory macaron. The sheer elegance and beauty of the hotel and its surroundings are an attraction in themselves.
For families planning a longer visit or simply looking for more ways to enrich their Salt Lake City stay, here are some of our other beloved family-friendly attractions that promise endless fun and discovery:
- City Creek Center: More than just a shopping destination, City Creek is an experience. Kids will love watching the choreographed fountain shows, and the center’s retractable glass roof offers a unique outdoor-indoor feel. It’s also a fantastic spot for people-watching and enjoying the lively downtown atmosphere.
- Hogle Zoo: Home to hundreds of animals from around the world, Hogle Zoo offers engaging exhibits and educational programs designed to connect visitors with wildlife. Don’t miss the African Savanna, Asian Highlands, and the immersive Rocky Shores exhibit where you can see polar bears and sea lions up close.
- Tracy Aviary: Step into a peaceful oasis dedicated to birds. Tracy Aviary is a charming, open-air aviary where you can observe a diverse collection of feathered friends, many in naturalistic settings. It’s a serene yet engaging experience for children, offering various daily bird shows and encounters.
- Red Butte Garden: Utah’s largest botanical garden, Red Butte is a stunning outdoor space with diverse themed gardens, walking paths, and breathtaking views of the city. Kids will love exploring the children’s garden and discovering hidden nooks. It’s especially beautiful in spring and summer.
- Temple Square: A landmark spiritual and historical site, Temple Square is a remarkably beautiful and serene place to visit. Beyond its religious significance, the stunning architecture, vibrant flower gardens, and informative visitor centers offer a peaceful and educational experience for families, regardless of faith.
- Natural History Museum of Utah: Located on the campus of the University of Utah, this impressive museum showcases the natural wonders of Utah and the Intermountain West. With engaging dinosaur exhibits, interactive displays on geology and ecology, and breathtaking views from its modern architecture, it’s a perfect destination for curious minds of all ages.
Whether you have 24 hours or an entire week, Salt Lake City is brimming with opportunities for family fun, cultural exploration, and delicious dining. It’s a city that truly offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for your next family staycation or extended visit.
