Mormon pioneers proclaimed, “This is the place!” upon first coming to the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. From those humble beginnings, Salt Lake City became the state’s largest city and center of its biggest metropolitan area, becoming Utah’s capital in 1856. The Mormon presence is still significant in the city, but it also has top-flight cultural attractions and outdoor escapes, with the Great Salt Lake to the northwest and the Wasatch Range to the east. Plan your two days in Salt Lake City with this guide from RVshare.
There are numerous benefits to renting an RV for your travels. If you choose, you can cook all your meals inside your vehicle, thus saving you from spending money at expensive restaurants. Your rental will also serve as your accommodations while you’re on the road; plenty of Salt Lake City RV parks have substantially lower rates than hotels and motels. You also have the freedom to drive where you want, when you want, at times of your own choosing.
Search RV rentals in the Salt Lake City area.
Preparing for Your Salt Lake City RV Trip
As you prepare your Salt Lake City itinerary, the first task to check off your to-do list is reserving your RV. Fortunately, you’ll find this easy with RVshare due to the wide range of vehicles we have available to rent. If you want to drive yourself, select from Class A or C options for the most room and amenities or a Class B campervan for a cozier adventure. If you wish to tow your home on wheels, you’ll find plenty of fifth wheels and trailers in a range of sizes.
If you’re new to the world of RVing, these resources can help:
● Learn the Ins and Outs of Renting an RV
● Discover the Convenience of Having the RV Delivered to You
● Best Ways to Pack for Your RV Trip
After finding your perfect RV, it’s then time to find the perfect campground. Some top places to stay in the Salt Lake City area include the Pony Express RV Resort & Campground, the Salt Lake City KOA, and Park City RV. Pick your RV park based on your required amenities, such as an on-site grocery store, pull-through spots, fitness facilities, nearby hiking trails, cell reception, and more.
Find other campground options in our comprehensive list of top-rated campgrounds in Salt Lake City.
Day 1: Mormon Salt Lake City
Morning: Visit Temple Square
The Salt Lake Temple at Temple Square rises above the city’s downtown and serves as the center of the Mormon faith. Both guided and self-guided tours are available and free of charge; tours include the surrounding campus. Although there’s no dress code for guests, it’s best to come dressed respectably. Note that as of July 2024, the Temple remains closed for ongoing construction projects; check for updates as you plan your two days in Salt Lake City.
Lunch: German Cuisine at Siegfried’s
A great lunch spot right near Temple Square is Siegfried’s Delicatessen. This deli serves hearty German food that includes Wiener schnitzel and bratwurst, along with sides like coleslaw, sauerkraut, fried potatoes, and red cabbage. Meals cost under $10, making this a great place for those on a budget.
Afternoon: Brigham Young’s Home
The Beehive House is the former home of Brigham Young. Take a tour inside the home to see what life was like in the 19th century. As with Temple Square, the Beehive House is undergoing renovations as of July 2024, so check on its status beforehand if you wish to visit while you’re in town.
Setting Up Camp
When you arrive at your chosen campground, stop first at the main office and talk to the host. From there, drive to your assigned campsite and set up your vehicle. If the thought of driving and setting up an RV makes you nervous, know that the RV’s owner can help you. Just search for RVs that offer delivery and setup.
Dinner: Quiet Time in Your RV
Relax and cook dinner inside your RV at the end of your first day. Did you book a camping spot with a grill or fire ring? If so, use it this evening and have a cookout under the stars.
Day 2: More Top Sights in SLC
Morning: Tour the Utah State Capitol
Head over to the Utah State Capitol building for a tour where you’ll learn about state history and the building’s architecture. Outside, stroll the Capitol Grounds to see the artwork on display, including the beehive structures.
Lunch: Have a Healthy Lunch
Stop by Garage on Beck for a healthy kale salad, or fill up with the Roadkill Chicken Sandwich. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, Garage on Beck has a brunch menu featuring a Spicy Bloody Mary along with breakfast options like the Garage Benedict and Beignet French Toast.
Afternoon: Living History at This Is the Place
Travel back in time at This Is the Place Heritage Park. Heritage Village re-creates how things were when the Mormons arrived in Utah in the 19th century, with a blacksmith shop, a chapel, a pottery shop, a social hall, and various cabins. This state park also features horseback trail rides and hosts children’s parties.
Evening: Harbor Seafood & Steak
Choose between surf or turf, or get both, at the Harbor Seafood & Steak Co. Standards include fish & chips and grilled lobster tail while beef options include Wagyu hanger steak and USDA prime rib-eye. How about some caramel bread pudding for dessert?
Day 3 and Beyond in Salt Lake City
There’s so much more you can do in Salt Lake City, so add a third day to your excursion.
• Located on the University of Utah campus, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts has an extensive permanent collection that includes Ancient Mesoamerican Art, Arts of the Pacific, European Art, and Arts of Africa.
• For some peace and quiet, walk among the colorful flowers and plants at the Red Butte Garden.
Winter Activities
Park City is about a 30-mile drive from Salt Lake City and is the place to be in the winter. Top ski resorts here include the Westgate Park City Resort & Spa. Each winter, the Sundance Film Festival comes to Park City and showcases the best in independent film.
Indoor Activities
At the Natural History Museum of Utah, learn more about fungi at the mycology exhibit, peruse the invertebrate collection, and check out the gems and crystals in the mineralogy collection. Another option is to become immersed in the unique collection at The Leonardo art museum.
Now that you know more about some of the best attractions in Salt Lake City, get started planning your trip. Rent your RV today for your Salt Lake City itinerary.
