Salt Lake City luxury hotels cost almost half compared to Park City. Park City has eight five-star hotels averaging $760 per night, while Salt Lake City has just two five-star options with luxury rooms at $412.
The Grand America Hotel is Salt Lake City’s premier luxury destination. This impressive property was built for the 2002 Olympic Committee and spans 10 acres with 775 rooms across 24 floors. The city has 38 budget-friendly hotels that start from $81 per night. Three-star hotels cost around $150, and four-star accommodations average $220.
Late April to early May is the best time to find lower hotel rates before summer crowds arrive. Weekend stays cost about $230, which is a lot cheaper than weeknight rates at $428. Your hotel choice makes it easy to explore Temple Square and the Natural History Museum. Salt Lake City has options for every traveler – from the $300-per-night Grand America experience to budget-friendly stays. Let Metropolitan Shuttle guide through the array of options.
Grand America Hotel
The Grand America Hotel stands tall in downtown Salt Lake City as Utah’s premier luxury destination. This magnificent 24-story property was specifically built for the 2002 Winter Olympics and continues to be the city’s top five-star hotel.
Grand America Hotel location and availability
The hotel sits at 555 South Main Street on 10 acres of stunning landscaped grounds. Business and leisure travelers love its location. A quick 10-minute drive takes you to Salt Lake City International Airport, making travel plans simple and stress-free.
Downtown’s best shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and sporting events are just steps away. Winter sports enthusiasts will be thrilled to know several world-class ski resorts are less than 40 minutes away. Your transportation choices include:
- Airport transport services (book 24 hours ahead)
- Taxi service ($20 from the airport)
- Car rentals through on-site Go Rentals
- Three electric vehicle charging stations
The Salt Palace Convention Center is just a mile away, and the Salt Lake City Amtrak station is 1.2 miles from the hotel. The property’s walkability score of 79 out of 100 means you’ll find plenty to explore on foot.
Grand America Hotel pricing and value
Room rates start around $300 per night, with prices changing based on season and occupancy. February sees peak rates, while September brings better deals. Weekend stays average $373, offering better value than weeknights at $420.
The hotel’s 775 rooms come in four main categories:
- Premier Rooms (700 sq ft): Entry-level rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, separate seating areas, and elegant furnishings.
- Executive Suites (880 sq ft): These rooms come with separate living quarters, walk-in closets, and Italian marble soaking tubs.
- Kitchenette Suites (996 sq ft): Extended-stay rooms include full kitchens with stove, microwave, and refrigerator.
- Presidential Suites (2,400 sq ft): Pure luxury awaits with residential living rooms, “his & hers” bathrooms, full kitchens, and Italian marble whirlpool tubs.
Guests rate the value at 8.7 out of 10, with cleanliness scoring an exceptional 9.6. While some mention the high rates, most feel the spacious rooms and luxury amenities justify the cost.
Value-adding packages include:
- One of One Summer Package with $125 hotel credit
- VIP Package offering $300 hotel credit and special in-room amenity
- Grand America Loyalty Package giving $25 hotel credit per night
Grand America Hotel amenities
The hotel’s five-star amenities shine throughout the property. You can swim year-round in the indoor pool. Summer brings poolside dining and hand-crafted cocktails at the outdoor pool area.
Food lovers can choose from:
- Laurel Brasserie & Bar’s European-inspired upscale cuisine
- Bonne Vie’s coffee and house-made ice cream
- Gibson Lounge’s sophisticated evening drinks
- Traditional Afternoon Tea with live harpist music
The 20,000-square-foot Grand Spa provides:
- Massage therapy and facials
- Hair and nail treatments
- Salt and eucalyptus saunas
- Spa relaxation rooms with complimentary tea and snacks
The 24-hour fitness center boasts state-of-the-art equipment and often hosts visiting NBA teams. Business travelers appreciate the center’s FedEx and UPS shipping services.
Each room features:
- In-room coffeemaker
- Down pillows and comforters
- Plush bathrobes and slippers
- Comfortable work desk with power outlets
- Multi-line speakerphones and wireless internet
Grand America Hotel best for
Business travelers love the 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting space. Three ballrooms and 20 meeting rooms can host up to 3,000 attendees.
Couples find romance in the European-style elegance, luxury spa treatments, and upscale dining. Families receive thoughtful amenities like:
- Cribs and baby bath accessories
- Bottle warmers and diaper disposal systems
- Outlet covers and humidifiers
- Family-friendly activity suggestions
Art lovers marvel at the handcrafted Richelieu furniture, original artwork, Italian marble bathrooms, and Murano glass chandeliers that create a classic European luxury feel.
The hotel creates magical backdrops for weddings and galas with its grand ballrooms and attentive staff. Most importantly, it serves as the perfect base to explore Salt Lake City’s urban attractions and natural wonders in absolute comfort and style.
Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites Salt Lake City
Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites stands out as a popular choice among travelers who want a comfortable mid-range option in Utah’s capital. This 175-room property in downtown Salt Lake City gives you a practical mix of comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
Crystal Inn location and availability
The hotel sits at 230 West 500 South, with a strategic downtown spot that makes a great base to learn about the city. You can reach Salt Lake City International Airport in just 15 minutes by car, which makes arrivals and departures easy. The hotel’s distance of 7 miles from the airport works well for business travelers and tourists.
You can easily find the hotel from all major highways:
- From I-15 (North or South): Take the 600 South Exit, turn north onto 200 West at the third light, then west onto 500 South at the next light
- From I-80 (East or West): Follow directions to the 600 South Exit, then proceed as above
The downtown spot puts you close to key attractions. Temple Square takes just 15 minutes to reach on foot. You’ll find dining options right outside your door – McDonald’s and Denny’s share the same block. Shoppers can head to Trolley Square Mall, City Creek Center, and the Gateway nearby.
Need to move around without a car? The Courthouse Station light rail stop takes just 8 minutes to reach on foot. This connection opens up the entire city, as the TRAX Green Line runs straight to the airport in about 30 minutes.
Crystal Inn pricing and value
Crystal Inn shines as an attractive mid-tier choice among Salt Lake City’s hotels. Standard rooms usually cost $111-$121 per night, while suites run $136-$151. These rates offer great value, backed by the hotel’s strong 8.5/10 value rating from guests.
Room options include:
- Standard rooms with two queen or one king bed
- Suites with extra amenities
- ADA-accessible rooms for travelers with disabilities
- Jetted tub suites for extra comfort
The hotel’s value goes beyond fair rates. Your stay comes with perks that other hotels charge extra for. You get a free hot breakfast buffet each morning, complimentary airport shuttle service, and free parking – big savings compared to downtown luxury hotels.
Dog owners can bring their pets, though a $100 fee applies per stay (up to 7 nights) with a limit of two pets under 55 pounds per room. Weekend stays often cost less, and Crystal Rewards loyalty program members can earn free nights.
Guest reviews show that budget-friendly rates don’t mean lower quality – the property scores well in cleanliness (8.8/10), comfort (8.7/10), and facilities (8.5/10). This balance of price and quality works perfectly for travelers who want function over frills.
Crystal Inn amenities
Crystal Inn packs plenty of amenities despite its moderate prices. The recreational facilities match those of more expensive hotels:
- Indoor swimming pool you can use year-round
- Hot tub and sauna that repeat guests love
- Exercise room with fitness equipment
- Indoor hot tub to relax after busy days
Business travelers get practical workspace features, including a 24-hour business center with copy, fax and printing services. Three meeting rooms cover 2,526 square feet – perfect for small to medium business meetings. Free Wi-Fi runs throughout the property.
Each room comes with flat-screen cable TVs, refrigerators, microwaves, and coffeemakers. Modern rooms feature 32″ flat-screens with HBO and DirecTV, plus Bath & Body Works amenities. Some rooms even have whirlpool tubs.
Guest services cover all the bases:
- 24-hour front desk help
- Daily housekeeping
- On-site coin-operated laundry
- Dry cleaning service (off-site)
- 24-hour convenience store
Guests often praise the free hot breakfast’s quality and variety. One visitor said, “Beautiful clean hotel and excellent breakfast”. The staff’s helpfulness earns a remarkable 9.0/10 rating – proof of the property’s service quality.
Room refrigerators and microwaves make life easier for long-term guests. Families love the pool on warm days, while business travelers appreciate round-the-clock access to the Internet café and business center.
The smoke-free property offers features for guests with disabilities. Their steadfast dedication extends to digital availability too, as they work toward Level AA design standards recommended by the World Wide Web Consortium.
Crystal Inn focuses on practical comfort instead of fancy décor. This approach appeals to both business professionals and families who want functional rooms without unnecessary extras.
Hampton Inn & Suites Salt Lake City/University-Foothill Dr.
The Hampton Inn & Suites Salt Lake City/University-Foothill Dr. sits right by the University of Utah campus. This 81-room hotel strikes a perfect balance between comfort and affordability.
Hampton Inn location and accessibility
You’ll find the hotel at 1345 S. Foothill Drive, just 1.9 miles from the University of Utah main campus. The east-side spot puts everything within easy reach. Grab a quick bite at Wendy’s (1-minute walk) or The Black Sheep Foothill (3-minute walk).
Key attractions nearby include:
- Hogle Zoo (0.9 miles away)
- Rice-Eccles Stadium (1.8 miles)
- Red Butte Garden and Arboretum (3.3 miles)
- Temple Square (4 miles)
The drive from Salt Lake City International Airport takes about 18 minutes, with the airport 8.78 miles away. The city’s public transit system connects you to different parts of Salt Lake City, and downtown is just 5.2 miles away.
Outdoor lovers will love this spot as their base camp. Big Cottonwood Canyon is only 15 minutes away, making it perfect for hiking, skiing, or golf.
Hampton Inn pricing and value
Room prices change with seasons and availability. Weeknight stays average $251, while weekends cost slightly less at $243. December and January tend to offer the best deals.
Room rates can reach $370 during peak times. Standard rates hover around $150 per night, with an average price of $209.
The hotel includes several free perks:
- Hot breakfast buffet each morning
- On-site self-parking
- WiFi and wired internet access
- Grocery shopping service
Pet owners can bring their furry friends along. The hotel welcomes dogs and cats (max 2 pets) with a one-time fee of $50 for 1-4 nights or $75 for longer stays.
Kids aged 0-17 stay free. Weekend stays often cost less than weekdays, with Sunday offering the best rates and Monday being priciest.
Guest ratings show high marks for cleanliness (8.8/10) and comfort (8.7/10), though value scores sit at 7.9/10.
Hampton Inn amenities
The hotel packs plenty of comfort into its practical design. Take a dip in the indoor pool (open 6 AM to 10 PM) or hit the fitness center. The jacuzzi/hot tub helps you unwind after a busy day.
Each room comes equipped with:
- Refrigerator and microwave
- Tea/coffee maker
- Flat-screen TV
- Air conditioning
- Hairdryer and free toiletries
Food options keep things simple but satisfying. While there’s no restaurant, you get a hot breakfast buffet and access to a snack bar. Rooms feature a mini-bar, and vending machines throughout offer drinks and snacks.
Business travelers get a 24-hour business center and meeting spaces that fit up to 35 people. The 768 square feet of event space works well for smaller gatherings.
Tech features make life easier. WiFi covers the whole property, and Hilton’s Digital Key system lets you check in and access your room smoothly. You’ll also find laundry facilities and services on-site.
Hampton Inn best for
University visitors will love this spot. The hotel’s closeness to campus and the hospital makes it ideal for campus tours, visiting faculty, medical visits, or university events.
The mix of affordability and essential services draws business travelers. Meeting rooms, business center, and free WiFi create a productive space without breaking the budget.
Active travelers use this as their base for outdoor adventures. Nearby ski areas and hiking trails attract year-round visitors, and the hotel provides ski storage.
Families heading to Hogle Zoo or exploring the east side find everything they need here. The free breakfast, pool, and family-friendly rooms work great for all ages.
Medical patients appreciate being just 5 minutes from University of Utah Hospital. This saves precious time before early appointments.
This Hampton Inn delivers reliable comfort without excess. While it’s not the fanciest hotel in Salt Lake City, it offers a solid, comfortable stay with all the practical features most travelers want.
Salt Lake Plaza SureStay Collection by Best Western
Salt Lake Plaza SureStay Collection by Best Western sits right in downtown’s historic center, giving guests the best access to Salt Lake City’s most cherished landmarks. This 3-star hotel strikes a sweet spot between cost and location that makes it a great pick for business travelers and tourists alike.
Salt Lake Plaza location and availability
The hotel’s prime spot at 122 West South Temple puts you right across from Temple Square. Guests love this location because everything’s just a short walk away:
- Temple Square (0.1 miles away)
- Salt Palace Convention Center (984 feet)
- Family History Library (next door)
- City Creek Mall (a quick walk)
- Abravanel Symphony Hall (just minutes away)
Getting here from Salt Lake City International Airport couldn’t be easier – it’s only 8 km (5 miles) away. The light rail (TRAX) system makes things even better with Temple Square Station right by the hotel’s front door. You can hop between the airport and hotel without a car, which saves you money.
The hotel scores an impressive 9.3/10 for its downtown location. Couples seem to love it too, giving it a 9.1/10 for their stays. You’ll find the city’s best restaurants, shops, and entertainment spots all within walking distance.
Salt Lake Plaza pricing and value
Room rates here are a bargain at about $151 per night. That’s less than Salt Lake City’s average hotel cost of $169, making it a smart choice among downtown options. Prices do change throughout the week:
Room rates usually run:
- Weeknights: $142
- Weekend nights: $177
- Lowest recent booking: $93
- Highest recent booking: $269
Self-parking costs $10 daily, which beats most downtown parking rates. Better deals pop up in October and April when rates tend to drop.
Guests give the value an 8.1/10, and many point to the clean rooms and fair prices as reasons they picked this hotel over fancier nearby options.
Salt Lake Plaza amenities
The seasonal outdoor pool offers mountain views and comes with a hot tub – perfect after a day of sightseeing. The gym keeps fitness buffs happy with its cardio equipment and free weights.
Each room comes with everything you need:
- WiFi that works everywhere
- A fridge and microwave
- Coffee maker
- Hairdryer and iron
- Air conditioning
- Flat-screen TV
- Safety deposit box
The business center runs 24/7, and you’ll find meeting spaces and banquet rooms ready for work. Meeting areas include the Salt Lake Room, Heritage Room, Cottonwood Room, and Aspen Conference Room – each adaptable to different setups.
Extra perks include a tour desk to plan your adventures, room service when you want to eat in, and an ATM on site. Staff members speak English and Spanish, which helps international guests feel at home.
The hotel takes care of guests with mobility needs through wheelchair-accessible paths, check-in desk, restrooms, and parking spots. ADA rooms offer either roll-in showers or tub/shower combos with grab bars.
Cleanliness ranks high on the hotel’s priority list with enhanced cleaning protocols, earning a solid 8.5/10 from guests.
Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Downtown/The Gateway
Hyatt Place stands right in the heart of Salt Lake City’s bustling downtown area. This modern hotel combines comfort with great access to everything, making it stand out among the city’s mid-range options.
Hyatt Place location and accessibility
You’ll find Hyatt Place at 55 North 400 West, in downtown Salt Lake City’s center, just 1.5 miles from the city core. The hotel’s great spot puts you close to the city’s best attractions. Sports fans will love that Vivint Arena (formerly Delta Center) is only a 4-minute walk away. Temple Square takes just a 10-minute walk to reach.
Guests give the location top marks with a 9.0/10 rating. The spot works especially when you have a partner, scoring 9.0 for couples’ trips. Getting here couldn’t be easier – Salt Lake City International Airport is 4.3 miles away, usually an 11-minute drive.
No car? No problem. Public transport options are plenty:
- Arena Station is a 4-minute walk
- Planetarium Station takes 7 minutes on foot
- North Temple Bridge/Guadalupe Station is just 4 minutes away
Hyatt Place pricing and value
Prices change based on timing and how busy they are. Weeknights typically cost $269, while weekend stays are a bit cheaper at $247. Basic rooms start at $137, but prices can go up to $431 during busy times.
Each room is roomy with its own seating area and sleeper sofa. King rooms give you 336 square feet, while two-queen rooms are bigger at 378 square feet. The available accessible rooms are the largest at 448 square feet.
Budget-smart travelers should know:
- Self-parking costs $15 each night
- Pet stays cost $75 per visit (up to $175) plus a one-time $100 cleaning fee
- You can bring two pets (50 pounds each, 75 pounds total)
The hotel’s value score stays strong at 8.2/10, with cleanliness at 8.8/10 and comfort hitting 9.0/10.
Hyatt Place amenities
The outdoor pool opens from April through November, perfect to cool off in summer. The fitness center has everything you need, though some guests mention the equipment could use an update.
Each room comes with:
- A separate sitting area with sofa bed
- 42-inch LED flat-screen cable TV
- Mini-fridge
- Coffee/tea maker
- Work desk
Food options are simple but work well. The Bar serves modern food 24/7, with plenty of kid-friendly choices. The free breakfast gets lots of praise, with guests calling it “excellent.” You’ll find scrambled eggs, fruit, yogurt, cereal, and coffee.
Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel, though it rates a modest 7.9/10. Business travelers like the round-the-clock business center with its two meeting rooms.
Hyatt Place best for
The hotel works great if you’re going to events at Vivint Arena. A guest mentioned it’s “fantastic” for Jazz games with an “easy walk to Delta Center”.
City explorers will love this spot. Gateway Mall’s shops and restaurants are right nearby. Convention guests can walk to Salt Palace Convention Center in 7 minutes.
Families love the big rooms with sofa beds that give them lots of sleeping options. One guest said it had a “Nice size room for a family of four and dog”. Yes, it is a top pick for pet owners, even with the extra fees.
This Hyatt Place shines as a smart choice if you want comfort and a great location without paying luxury prices.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Grand America Hotel | Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites | Hampton Inn & Suites University | Salt Lake Plaza SureStay | Hyatt Place Downtown |
| Address | 555 South Main Street | 230 West 500 South | 1345 S. Foothill Drive | 122 West South Temple | 55 North 400 West |
| Airport Distance | 10 minutes | 15 minutes (7 miles) | 18 minutes (8.78 miles) | 5 miles | 4.3 miles (11 minutes) |
| Room Rate Range | $300-420 | $111-151 | $150-370 | $93-269 | $137-431 |
| Notable Amenities | Indoor and outdoor pools, spa, 24-hour fitness center, multiple dining options | Indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, business center | Indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, ski storage | Seasonal outdoor pool, hot tub, business center | Seasonal outdoor pool, 24-hour restaurant, fitness center |
| Guest Value Rating | 8.7/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 |
| Parking | EV charging station available (fee not mentioned) | Free | Free | $10/day | $15/day |
Discover Salt Lake City with Metropolitan Shuttle’s Group Transportation
Exploring Salt Lake City with a large group is seamless and stress-free when you partner with Metropolitan Shuttle. Whether you’re staying at premier hotels like the Grand America Hotel, Hilton Salt Lake City Center, or the Sheraton Salt Lake City Hotel, Metropolitan Shuttle offers direct pickup services tailored to your group’s needs. Their diverse fleet accommodates various group sizes, from small gatherings to large parties, ensuring everyone travels together in comfort. With professional drivers and customizable itineraries, you can visit top attractions like Temple Square, the Natural History Museum of Utah, or even plan day trips to nearby ski resorts such as Park City and Snowbird. Amenities such as reclining seats, Wi-Fi, and climate control make the ride enjoyable, while Metropolitan Shuttle handles all the logistics—so your group can focus on making the most of your Salt Lake City adventure.
Conclusion
Finding Your Perfect Salt Lake City Stay
Your ideal Salt Lake City hotel really depends on what you need and your priorities. The Grand America Hotel shines as the city’s crown jewel for luxury lovers, while Crystal Inn gives you great value with its free breakfast and airport shuttle.
Hampton Inn’s practical amenities and location make perfect sense for families checking out the University area. Salt Lake Plaza puts you right next to Temple Square-you can’t get any closer to Utah’s most iconic landmark. Sports fans heading to Vivint Arena will find Hyatt Place hits that sweet spot between comfort and convenience.
Smart travelers can save money by picking the right time to visit. Room rates drop between late April and early May, right before the summer crowds show up. The weekends can save you by a lot on your booking-you might pocket hundreds of dollars during a longer stay.
Your hotel’s location can make or break your trip. Downtown spots give you easy access to Temple Square and City Creek Center. East Bench hotels bring you closer to outdoor fun. The comparison table below helps you quickly see each hotel’s distance from the airport, price range, and best features.
Salt Lake City hotels are nowhere near as expensive as nearby ski resorts, whether you go for Grand America’s marble luxury or Crystal Inn’s cozy comfort. Your dream stay is waiting-just pick the right spot and get ready for an amazing Utah adventure.
FAQs
Q1. What is the best time to visit Salt Lake City for lower hotel rates?
Late April to early May is an excellent time to visit Salt Lake City for lower hotel rates. This period falls just before the summer crowds arrive, allowing you to enjoy more affordable accommodations.
Q2. How do hotel prices in Salt Lake City compare to nearby ski destinations?
Salt Lake City hotels generally offer better value compared to nearby ski destinations. For example, luxury hotels in Salt Lake City cost almost half of what you’d pay in Park City, with luxury rooms averaging $412 per night compared to $760 in Park City.
Q3. Are there budget-friendly hotel options in Salt Lake City?
Yes, Salt Lake City offers numerous budget-friendly hotel options. There are 38 cheap hotels starting from just $81 per night. Three-star hotels typically cost around $150, while four-star accommodations average $220.
Q4. Which hotel is best for business travelers in Salt Lake City?
The Grand America Hotel is excellent for business travelers, offering extensive meeting facilities with approximately 100,000 square feet of flexible space. It can accommodate up to 3,000 attendees across three ballrooms and 20 meeting rooms.
Q5. Is it cheaper to stay in Salt Lake City hotels on weekends or weekdays?
Generally, it’s cheaper to stay in Salt Lake City hotels on weekends. Weekend stays typically run about $230, which is significantly less expensive than weeknight rates that average $428.
