4 Best Hotels in East Side and Sugar House, Salt Lake City

Away from the downtown bustle and steps from hiking and biking trails as well as University of Utah attractions, this airy and inviting hotel is popular with business travelers but is actually a great choice if you'd rather be closer to nature and a little away from the bustle of downtown. Thistle & Thyme is one of the better hotel restaurants in town, and there's large gym with big windows facing the mountains. Generally offering lower rates than downtown hotels, this property also has free parking.

The first hotel in the city's colorful Sugar House neighborhood is a sleek all-suites lodging with large entertainment-work areas, a comfy lobby with a convenience market, and an East Side location near I–80 that's handy for hiking and skiing. There's a nice 24-hour gym, but you can also jog and stroll around leafy Sugar House Park, across the street, and there are dozens of eateries and bars within a short walk as well as a Whole Foods.

Located on campus and operated by the University of Utah, this reasonably priced 30-suite hotel is favored by those doing business with the school or its hospital, but the general public is welcome, and those wanting to be near hikes in the East Side foothills as well as the Avenues appreciate this property's convenience and value. Suites are warmly appointed and larger units have full kitchens, and amenities abound, from a good-size gym to laundry facilities and free breakfast. There's a TRAX light-rail stop next door, and several restaurants are within walking distance.