I'm a New Yorker who went to Salt Lake City for the first time. These 9 things surprised me.
A New York-based reporter shares their personal impressions of a trip to Salt Lake City, Utah, highlighting the contrast between the city's tech-focused culture and its natural landscape. The account details the travel experience via Amtrak and observations on local lifestyle.
Why it matters
Personal travel narratives provide cultural context for emerging regional hubs like Salt Lake City, which is increasingly recognized as a tech and lifestyle destination.
Business Insider's reporter visited Salt Lake City, Park City, and Draper, Utah, for the first time. Joey Hadden/Business Insider Skiers on a lift floated feet above my head. Tech workers used breaks to practice their golf swings. My first trip to the Salt Lake City area was full of unexpected sights and experiences. As snow-topped mountains and frozen streams gave way to red canyons and flowing brooks on the train from Colorado to Utah, I knew Salt Lake City must be close. In January 2025, I traveled from my home in New York City to the American Southwest , where I spent three days in Salt Lake City for the first time, as well as the nearby towns of Park City and Draper. The city and its surrounding areas are renowned for their high-end ski scene, thriving tech hub , and wealthy residents.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in