Salt Lake City Weekend on a Budget

Salt Lake City is one of the most inexpensive, family-friendly cities in the country. Family is emphasized everywhere you go, so it's easy to find activities that include both parents and children. The city is super easy to navigate, with big broad avenues that all lead to the center of town. The entire city is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, from the Great Salt Lake to the Wasatch Mountains. Definitely a great place to spend a weekend with the famil, but without having to spend a bundle.

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown

A recently built hotel in the downtown area, with affordable family-friendly suites. Clean and spacious, and the kids will love the pool.

Ruth's Diner

Ruth's Diner, about 10 minutes from downtown in Emigration Canyon, is the place to go for good old-fashioned American comfort food, and at a good old-fashioned price. The diner has been around since 1930, so you know it must be good.

A recently built hotel in the downtown area, with affordable family-friendly suites.

Clark Planetarium

Part science center, part state-of-the-art planetarium, this is the place to go to learn about the planets and the stars. Admission, and access to the exhibits, is free. Shows in the IMAX and the Hansen Dome cost extra, but are well worth the experience. The free exhibits include a rocketry display and a real moon rock.

Temple Square

In the heart of downtown Salt Lake City is the headquarters of the LDS church. The grounds, which are free and open to the public, consist of beautiful gardens, reflecting pools, fountains, restaurants, and museums. Makes for an interesting, and cheap, few hours. Even more fun is taking the free light rail to get there!

This is the Place Heritage Park

A fascinating state park that sends its visitors back in time to when the Mormon pioneers settled Utah. This "living history" park features adobe houses, farms, and trade shops from the 1800's. Kids can help out with different chores, or sit in on a lesson at the old school house. There's also an Indian Village and pony rides! Admissio... More >

Makes for an interesting, and cheap, few hours.

Great Salt Lake State Park

It's 20,000 square miles of breathtaking scenery, all for free! You can find hiking trails of all skill levels to admire the view. Out on Antelope Island, you'll see bison, antelope, waterfowl, and bighorn sheep. What you won't see is people. The place is so big, it will feel like you have it all to yourself. More

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