Reply To: Tips for visiting fan to Utah

First: welcome to the site.

Is a rental car necessary? How is the public transportation system/Uber in Salt Lake?

Some things can be far away but parking at the football games is a PITA. You actually can do fine by just using the train system (TRAX). You can take the train from the airport to downtown, where you presumably would stay. Lots of food and bars downtown in walking distance. You can then take the train up the the game and avoid parking hassles. And your ticket to the football game gives you a free ride on the train.

What’s the hotel situation like over the weekend of a game?

As a local, I never need to know this. My guess is the games will fill some of the hotel rooms but there should be plenty to go around unless there are other major events going on.

What are your favorite places to eat around Salt Lake during the college football season?

The best pizza in Utah is at The Pie, walking distance to the football stadium. Agree on post above, the Red Iguana is a must eat but be prepared to wait 1-2 hours. There are a lot of eating establishments downtown and up the train line to the stadium. On the higher end of things you could do the New Yorker or Market Street.

What is the best option for visiting fans to buy game tickets?

Probably KSL.com or stubhub etc. You can also get them from scalpers. The home games have been sold out for years.

Any general tailgating advice for a first-timer at a Utah game?

The main tailgating lot is southeast from the stadium. It’s a great time there. When you come, hit me up. I have a great spot and will provide you a frosty beverage.

Game day traditions

The band and cheerleaders perform at the tailgate lot I think about 2.5 hours before game time. Then the fans walk with the team, band and cheerleaders to the stadium.

Attractions

We have some of the most amazing mountains anywhere. You can drive 15 minutes and be on world class hiking or mountain biking trails. That’s where I would go.

Safety

Salt Lake is a pretty safe place. If you are downtown and on the train line between there and the stadium there are pretty much no worries.

Cheers.