Where to Stay in Salt Lake City: Tour the Alta Club & Hotel
Today, I wanted to give you a tour of one of my new favorite places, and my go-to local historic hotel recommendation in Salt Lake City! Built in 1883, everyone who visits should know about this hidden gem… the Alta Club Hotel. When friends or family ask where to stay when visiting our city, the Alta Club is at the top of my (designer approved) list. While it is a private social club, anyone can make a reservation at this historic hotel- and gain access to the club amenities. Step inside for a tour with me… and definitely pin this gorgeous stop for your next visit!
We’ve called Utah home for around eight years, and while I’ve shared thrifting tips & favorite Salt Lake City stops, I’ve never taken the time to share tours of some of my favorite interiors here. I know you’re going to love this one… the architecture, the history, and the details. Hopefully you can experience it in person someday!
The Hotel
I’ll admit, as it grows, Salt Lake City is gaining new restaurants and accommodations, but the selections are few and far between when it comes to the design standards I hold for hotels. When friends reach out to ask where they should stay, I never had a confident, amazing recommendation. I discovered the Alta Club last year when our friends were getting married. Their entire family stayed at the Alta Club Hotel and we visited for dinner. How had I not heard of this incredible historic hotel and social club? The food is fabulous, the aesthetic & architecture is stunning, and it’s located in the heart of downtown- in a beautiful and convenient area.
Rooms
First, I wanted to give you a tour of the Alta Club Hotel. Step inside one of the rooms with me… you’ll find designer, mission-style tiger oak furniture that has an antique appeal, luxury bed linens, and inviting historic charm.
Our first time visiting, I was taken aback by those graceful windows… not to mention the city view from the top floor.
This place sings to my designer soul, unlike most hotel rooms. With French pleated drapery, heavy brass hardware, original millwork, monogrammed details, and plenty of space to move about- it’s a surprisingly affordable place to stay. I honestly feel like it’s one of Salt Lake’s best kept secrets (don’t worry- I’m not gate keeping this one).
I took these photos on a blustery, gray, snowy day and the natural light still seemed to flood the room with bright and cheerful energy… which is the exact vibe I’m looking for when traveling or enjoying a staycation.
The attached bath is equally as beautiful- it includes more of those grand picturesque windows, designer plumbing fixtures, and timeless tile.
Speaking of tile, I loved seeing the custom mosaic flooring with Alta Club’s historic emblem… what a thoughtful design detail. You know I always appreciate a monogram!
Some rooms include spacious attached balconies that overlook downtown Salt Lake City. I’d love to snag one of these for a staycation during fun and festive city events or parades.
Alta Club History
Learning about Alta Club’s history was most fascinating to me! It was founded in 1883, thirteen years before Utah even became a state! It opened as a gentlemen’s social club, with the motto, “to present the comforts and luxuries of a home together with the attraction to its members of meeting each other in a pleasant and social way.”
This city hallmark has survived many events, including the Prohibition- where it’s said members smuggled hootch into the club. When I walk the halls here, I imagine what they’ve seen. The French delegation even made the Alta Club their home, renting out the entire building during the Salt Lake Winter Olympics… which I think proves my point about the hotel (it’s one to save).
I always admire the hand crafted details, millwork, and historic works of art… though they also display and rotate new works from local artists. The Alta Club is Salt Lake’s oldest members-only social club, which I’m excited to now be a new member of…
The Social Aspect: Joining the Club
Finding Connection & Third Space
If you’re on my weekly email list, you already know- I’ve been trying to find a better sense of community, connection, and deepen friendships this year. Based on the amount of replies to that email, it seems many of us have been feeling lonely. I decided it was time to take action and make some changes. The Alta Club is less than 10 minutes from us, so I decided to join! It has been the most fun, and Emmett & I have already made new friends, met neighbors, and signed up for clubs within the club. It’s a place I look forward to going every week.
I think one thing Americans lack is having access to third space… it’s something I’ve always admired when visiting other countries. Third place refers to social areas that are separate from our two main environments: home (first space) and work (second space). Given I work from home most days, I was really feeling the social need to find a third space (extrovert here!). One month in, Alta Club has really filled that gap for me. They have a library, shared workspace, restaurants, a bar, a gym, and even a billiards room.
When I need a change of scenery or feel the need to have a conversation with another human (instead of my dogs), I hop over to the Alta Club.
Events & Clubs
From wine club, ski club, and Mahjong to bookclub and billiards, members can also join smaller clubs within the club. I was shocked that Emmett joined a club before I could… he’s clearly embracing making new friends- and we’ve met at least eight people who live in our neighborhood. It seems I’m already making good on my annual goal.
We’ve also been attending some of the Alta Club events. We tested out a mixology class last week, supporting a local distillery. They host all sorts of things… in and outside of the building: creative events, parties, workshops, educational seminars with experts, holiday brunches & dinners, etc. It feels like an especially welcoming scene for transplants without family nearby, like ourselves.
FAQ
No… I’d describe it as a social or networking club. Also- there is no golf, ha. Many people we’ve met there have really fascinating jobs, are small business owners, entrepreneurs, or are active in the Salt Lake community.
It is! It’s on Temple Street (if you’re familiar with Salt lake City), which is in the heart of downtown- walking distance to the famous temple, City Creek shopping (our best outdoor mall), so many good restaurants & bars, museums, centers, and venues. You can book it here, or check the map. Hotel guests also get access to the club!
Related
Looking for more interesting, beautiful, and historic hotels to add to your travel destination list? I’m going to link some of my favorites for you below…
- Skiing the Dolomites & Staying at Adler Resort
- Hotel Peter and Paul New Orleans
- 137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
- Visiting Maine in Autumn at White Barn Inn
- Modern Stay in Venice Italy: Il Palazzo Experimental
- Seal Cove Inn at Moss Beach
- The Anvil Hotel in Jackson Hole
- Diving & Jungle Adventures in Indonesia
- Italian Getaway to the Amalfi Coast
- Sailing & Exploring French Polynesia
I’m curious… would you be interested in a Salt Lake City travel guide? I’ve had quite a few requests for this, but know it’s outside my normal home & interiors realm. As a local who appreciates good design, good food, local art, shopping, and unique experiences- I’d be more than happy to share our favorite stops & small businesses with you. Let me know in the comment section below… I hope you liked this one!