I’m on a mission to visit all 50 states by the time I turn 50. I’ve coined this as my 50 by 50 challenge. This summer I decided to visit Utah. I arrived in Salt Lake City and was adamant on renting a convertible to soak up the summer sun rays! I rolled the White convertible Mustang directly to the Marriott City Center hotel to check in. The accommodations met my expectations offering a nice sprawling lobby with several restaurants options. After dropping off my luggage, I drove to Ensign Peak, a residential hill offering beautiful city views and a gradual 0.9 mile hike. Throughout the trip I continued to relish in the incredible nature scene Utah has to offer. Tip: if you’re planning to visit more than 1 National Park, invest in an annual pass for $80 which will allow you access into all US parks. I visited Zion and Arches National Park which were both jaw-droppingly gorgeous. These parks make you realize just how small you are in this world. My favorite part of the trip was visiting the Salt Flats. Tip: Be sure to wear sunglasses to combat the sun and reflective rays. You can drive your vehicle onto the Salt Flats. Imagine salt that appears to be snow as far as you can see. On the GPS the location shows up ad Bonneville Salt Flats or Speedway. Ultimately, I would recommend Utah if you’re looking to reconnect with nature.
btm8910
15 Jun 2021
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Adventure
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Adventure
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Traveling While Black
This review is for the Park City and Salt Lake metro-area during the summer.
Utah is one of the treasures of the American west. We’ve all heard stories painting this as some uber religious dry state, however my experience was quite the opposite.
SLC is incredibly clean and modern. The downtown isn’t exactly ‘lit’ but there is a beautiful modern indoor/outdoor mall and entertainment complex called City Creek thats a good place to stock up (I’m not even a mall fan but this was different ). If you like hoops and they’re in season, go to a Jazz game, Vivnit arena is great place to watch a game with passionate fans.
Park City is awesome. Take the 35 minute drive from SLC and get lost in this western town with tons of personality. As you drive in you’ll notice the US winter Olympic training center. Stop and check it out, they have a museum, and tons of activities during the summer (bobsled runs and an awesome zipline).
Food: Go to Chimayo for inventive Southwestern fare. Silver Star cafe for creative diner fare. We also liked Blind Dog Restaurant, Wasatch Brewery, Freshies Lobster and High West Saloon.
Activities: Hike Mt Timpangos. It’ a 3 mile paved hike with incredible views in a well maintained state park. The hike also has a cave tour that was pretty interesting. Visit Deer Valley for incredible views. There is also an outdoor concert series that features the SLC orchestra, check the schedule. Listening to music in the basin of a mountain is one of the cooler venues I’ve ever been to, regardless of what you’re into.
Lodging: Stay at Stein Erickson or the Chateaux in Deer Valley. Their are also some impressive AirBnB options.
Take a drive out to Kamas and visit State Road Tavern. Along the way you’ll be treated to incredible views of Jordanelle State Park and the massive reservoir.
Everywhere in Utah seemingly has a breathtaking view.
Ok, about the people. Utah is not a very diverse place but we found the people friendly and kind. I’m from NY and I grew up spending summers down south, this is different. We we’re pleasantly surprised, don’t let someone else’s opinion cause you to prejudge.
I will be back!
sdiaz@mail.usf.edu
09 Mar 2018
Rating
Adventure
Things To Do
Adventure
History
Affordability
Relaxation
Local Food
Romance
Nightlife
Traveling While Black
Utah, in my opinion, is one of the most underrated out of the western states. Most people who seek to visit a desert and canyon atmosphere, might consider visiting states like Arizona or California. However, not only does Utah have some of the most beautiful deserts and distinct canyons you’ll ever see, the terrain is quite diverse. In the morning, one can hit the slopes on snow-capped mountains, and then that same afternoon, ATV through the deserts and sand dunes. There’s no limit to the abundance of hiking trails available in Utah’s many national parks, such as Zion, Bryce Canyon and Arches (my personal favorite). If you’re looking for adventure, look no further than Utah. From Las Vegas, I ventured on a 1,000 mile road trip, looping around the State touching some of the world’s most iconic sights, like Monument Valley and the Horseshoe Bend. Whether I was scaling mountains or hitting the open road, there was never a dull moment. Utah has some of the highest highway speed limits in the country (80 MPH). The open road for miles and miles gave me a sense of freedom and appreciation for how incredibly beautiful our country is. The people from the small towns are friendly and inviting. Because parts of Utah are comprised of Native American reservations, you’ll have an opportunity to meet Navajo people and learn about history and culture. You’re welcome to have a jammed packed day at one of the nicely manicured, national parks or relax near a fire watching the sunset over the canyons. There are activities for all ages and thrill levels. There is an adventure waiting for anyone who chooses to visit Utah. It’s one my top contenders for adventurous places to visit, and I’m looking forward to the day I can return. Adventure is about living in the moment, while creating unforgettable memories. Utah provides the perfect backdrop and scenic route for you to do just that. Now, go live your best life.
Bespoke Leather Couture
03 Mar 2018
Rating
Things To Do
Things To Do
Adventure
History
Affordability
Relaxation
Local Food
Romance
Nightlife
Traveling While Black
In Zion National Park there are several hikes you can do but you have to do Angels Landing. But if you are scared of heights it’s not for you. The view at the top is amazing. Take something to eat and drink for when you make it to the top.
There is a sports bar next to a steak house where the hotels are on the right side before you get to the visitor center. The food is really really good. Stay away from the steak restaurant. Even people who were next to us said they didn’t like there food. They actually have the chef cooking behind the so you can see him when he should be behind bars. Terrible food
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I’m on a mission to visit all 50 states by the time I turn 50. I’ve coined this as my 50 by 50 challenge. This summer I decided to visit Utah. I arrived in Salt Lake City and was adamant on renting a convertible to soak up the summer sun rays! I rolled the White convertible Mustang directly to the Marriott City Center hotel to check in. The accommodations met my expectations offering a nice sprawling lobby with several restaurants options. After dropping off my luggage, I drove to Ensign Peak, a residential hill offering beautiful city views and a gradual 0.9 mile hike. Throughout the trip I continued to relish in the incredible nature scene Utah has to offer. Tip: if you’re planning to visit more than 1 National Park, invest in an annual pass for $80 which will allow you access into all US parks. I visited Zion and Arches National Park which were both jaw-droppingly gorgeous. These parks make you realize just how small you are in this world. My favorite part of the trip was visiting the Salt Flats. Tip: Be sure to wear sunglasses to combat the sun and reflective rays. You can drive your vehicle onto the Salt Flats. Imagine salt that appears to be snow as far as you can see. On the GPS the location shows up ad Bonneville Salt Flats or Speedway. Ultimately, I would recommend Utah if you’re looking to reconnect with nature.
This review is for the Park City and Salt Lake metro-area during the summer.
Utah is one of the treasures of the American west. We’ve all heard stories painting this as some uber religious dry state, however my experience was quite the opposite.
SLC is incredibly clean and modern. The downtown isn’t exactly ‘lit’ but there is a beautiful modern indoor/outdoor mall and entertainment complex called City Creek thats a good place to stock up (I’m not even a mall fan but this was different ). If you like hoops and they’re in season, go to a Jazz game, Vivnit arena is great place to watch a game with passionate fans.
Park City is awesome. Take the 35 minute drive from SLC and get lost in this western town with tons of personality. As you drive in you’ll notice the US winter Olympic training center. Stop and check it out, they have a museum, and tons of activities during the summer (bobsled runs and an awesome zipline).
Food: Go to Chimayo for inventive Southwestern fare. Silver Star cafe for creative diner fare. We also liked Blind Dog Restaurant, Wasatch Brewery, Freshies Lobster and High West Saloon.
Activities: Hike Mt Timpangos. It’ a 3 mile paved hike with incredible views in a well maintained state park. The hike also has a cave tour that was pretty interesting. Visit Deer Valley for incredible views. There is also an outdoor concert series that features the SLC orchestra, check the schedule. Listening to music in the basin of a mountain is one of the cooler venues I’ve ever been to, regardless of what you’re into.
Lodging: Stay at Stein Erickson or the Chateaux in Deer Valley. Their are also some impressive AirBnB options.
Take a drive out to Kamas and visit State Road Tavern. Along the way you’ll be treated to incredible views of Jordanelle State Park and the massive reservoir.
Everywhere in Utah seemingly has a breathtaking view.
Ok, about the people. Utah is not a very diverse place but we found the people friendly and kind. I’m from NY and I grew up spending summers down south, this is different. We we’re pleasantly surprised, don’t let someone else’s opinion cause you to prejudge.
I will be back!
Utah, in my opinion, is one of the most underrated out of the western states. Most people who seek to visit a desert and canyon atmosphere, might consider visiting states like Arizona or California. However, not only does Utah have some of the most beautiful deserts and distinct canyons you’ll ever see, the terrain is quite diverse. In the morning, one can hit the slopes on snow-capped mountains, and then that same afternoon, ATV through the deserts and sand dunes. There’s no limit to the abundance of hiking trails available in Utah’s many national parks, such as Zion, Bryce Canyon and Arches (my personal favorite). If you’re looking for adventure, look no further than Utah. From Las Vegas, I ventured on a 1,000 mile road trip, looping around the State touching some of the world’s most iconic sights, like Monument Valley and the Horseshoe Bend. Whether I was scaling mountains or hitting the open road, there was never a dull moment. Utah has some of the highest highway speed limits in the country (80 MPH). The open road for miles and miles gave me a sense of freedom and appreciation for how incredibly beautiful our country is. The people from the small towns are friendly and inviting. Because parts of Utah are comprised of Native American reservations, you’ll have an opportunity to meet Navajo people and learn about history and culture. You’re welcome to have a jammed packed day at one of the nicely manicured, national parks or relax near a fire watching the sunset over the canyons. There are activities for all ages and thrill levels. There is an adventure waiting for anyone who chooses to visit Utah. It’s one my top contenders for adventurous places to visit, and I’m looking forward to the day I can return. Adventure is about living in the moment, while creating unforgettable memories. Utah provides the perfect backdrop and scenic route for you to do just that. Now, go live your best life.
In Zion National Park there are several hikes you can do but you have to do Angels Landing. But if you are scared of heights it’s not for you. The view at the top is amazing. Take something to eat and drink for when you make it to the top.
There is a sports bar next to a steak house where the hotels are on the right side before you get to the visitor center. The food is really really good. Stay away from the steak restaurant. Even people who were next to us said they didn’t like there food. They actually have the chef cooking behind the so you can see him when he should be behind bars. Terrible food