Owais Crawford
Sleeping in airports can be challenging, and Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) is no exception. The airport has a single terminal with Concourses A and B, offering a variety of eateries and shops. While the airport staff are known for their friendliness, and free WiFi is available, finding a comfortable place to sleep can be difficult. Some travellers opt to sleep outside the security area, but this may not be ideal for those seeking a good night's rest before an early flight. The airport also offers private suites, such as Minute Suites, for those who want a more comfortable and relaxing experience. Additionally, there are hotels located about 15 minutes west of the airport, providing alternative accommodation options.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping spots | Comfortable spots may be hard to find. However, some travellers have reported finding comfortable, armrest-free seating. |
| Eateries | There is a decent selection of eateries and shops in all terminals, including one that operates 24 hours. |
| Airport staff | Generally described as friendly and helpful. One staff member gave blankets to some overnight sleepers. |
| Safety | Sleeping in any airport can be risky, especially when travelling alone. It is recommended to stay near other travellers or close to security, and to keep valuables hidden. |
| WiFi | Free WiFi is available. Connect to the “SLCAirport.wifi” network. |
| Nearby hotels | There are hotels west of the airport, which are about a 15-minute drive away. |
| Art | The airport art collection is on display throughout the airport, most prominently featured in the terminal connector hallway. |
| Baby care facilities | Most women’s and men’s washrooms offer baby change facilities. There are also Special Needs or Infant Care rooms for nursing. |
| Lounges | Minute Suites offers private suites for napping, relaxing, and working. |
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What You'll Learn
Tips for sleeping safely at the airport
Sleeping in an airport can be challenging, especially if it's not something you've done before. However, with the right preparation, it can be manageable and even comfortable. Here are some tips to help you sleep safely at the airport:
Know the Airport Policies and Layout:
Before your trip, check if the airport allows overnight stays. Some airports close at night, requiring you to make alternative arrangements. Understanding the airport's layout will help you locate essential amenities and services, such as nearby hotels, sleep pods, lounges, or locker areas for storing your belongings securely.
Choose a Safe and Comfortable Spot:
Look for designated sleeping areas, quiet zones, or spots where other people are already resting. Opt for locations with minimal foot traffic to avoid disturbances, but stay within well-populated areas for safety. If you're travelling alone, consider staying near other travellers or close to security. Additionally, choose a spot that feels comfortable and safe for you, and keep your belongings close by to prevent theft.
Prepare for Comfort and Safety:
Bring essential items like a travel pillow, blanket, eye mask, earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones, and loose, comfortable clothing. Consider your hygiene needs with a toiletry kit, and stay hydrated with water and light snacks. You can also ask airport staff for amenities or advice on safe spots.
Stay Alert and Aware:
If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable, it's best to stay alert. Drink caffeinated beverages to help you stay awake, and remember that you can always catch up on sleep during your flight. Be considerate of other travellers and aware of your surroundings. Keep your luggage locked and secured, and don't leave it unattended. Set frequent alarms to check your surroundings and ensure your belongings are safe.
Plan Ahead:
Give yourself extra time to wake up and get ready before your flight, especially if you need to freshen up or retrieve your belongings from storage. Ask airport staff for a wake-up call if available, and set multiple alarms as a backup.
Sleeping at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) can be a mixed experience. While the airport operates 24 hours with eateries and shops, finding a comfortable sleeping spot may be challenging. The airport staff are generally friendly, and you may even receive a blanket from them. However, it's always a good idea to come prepared with your travel pillow and other comfort essentials.
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Eateries and shops open 24 hours
If you're looking for eateries and shops that are open 24 hours at Salt Lake City Airport, your options are limited. The Starbucks located in the Terminal Plaza is the only 24-hour food option. However, there are vending machines in the airport lobbies, concourses, and the lower level of the parking garage if you need a quick snack or drink outside of Starbucks's opening hours.
While not a dedicated eatery or shop, it's worth noting that the airport offers free WiFi, which can be helpful if you need to stay connected during your layover or overnight stay. The network name is "SLCAirport.wifi."
Additionally, the airport art collection is on display throughout the airport, most prominently featured in the terminal connector hallway. This can provide a nice distraction or something to pass the time if you're spending a significant amount of time at the airport.
If you're considering sleeping at the airport, it's important to keep in mind that there are no dedicated sleeping areas, quiet areas, or rest zones. Sleeping in any airport comes with a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. However, some travellers have reported that the airport staff are friendly and helpful, and one reviewer mentioned that an airport staff member provided blankets to some overnight sleepers.
To enhance your comfort and safety, here are some tips to consider:
- Know where the security office is located, and try to sleep in a spot with video surveillance.
- Ask security personnel for advice on the safest places to spend the night.
- Stay near other travellers or close to security if you're travelling alone.
- Keep your valuables hidden and out of plain view to deter potential thieves.
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Transport options to the airport
There are several transport options for getting to and from Salt Lake City International Airport. If you're driving to the airport, you can park in the economy lot or one of the long-term UTA lots, and then take an Uber, Lyft, or shuttle to the airport. You could also park on the street somewhere in Salt Lake City and then Uber from there. If you're coming from further away, you can take a cab or an Uber or Lyft directly to the airport. There are also shuttle services available, such as Canyon Transport, which offers an airport van and SUV shuttle service. In addition, some hotels offer transportation to and from the airport, which you can arrange at the airport information desks.
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Hotels near the airport
Sleeping in an airport can be uncomfortable and may include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. If you're looking for a more comfortable and safer option, there are several hotels near Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) that you can consider. Here are some options:
Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Airport
Hyatt Place Salt Lake City Airport is a renovated hotel located near the airport. It offers a free airport shuttle service, 24/7 dining options, and modern rooms with plush beds, HDTVs, and cozy sleeper sofas. The hotel also provides a free breakfast with a wide array of choices.
Courtyard Salt Lake City Airport
Courtyard Salt Lake City Airport is a WELL Health-Safety Rated hotel, ensuring a clean and safe stay for guests. It offers modern rooms with free WiFi, ergonomic workspaces, and plush bedding. The hotel has an onsite restaurant, "The Bistro," serving healthy breakfast and dinner options, Starbucks coffee, and evening cocktails. It is conveniently located just one mile from SLC Airport and provides an airport shuttle service.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Airport
SpringHill Suites is another option located near SLC Airport. It offers a smoke-free environment, a full-service spa, an indoor pool, and a business center with free WiFi. A buffet breakfast and free self-parking are also included in your stay.
Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport
Comfort Inn & Suites is a convenient choice for travellers, offering free WiFi, a business centre, and a complimentary continental breakfast. The front desk staff are known for their friendly and professional service.
In addition to these options, there are other hotels near SLC Airport, such as La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham, Sonesta Simply Suites, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham, and more, which you can consider based on your preferences and budget. Remember to check the latest reviews and amenities offered before making your decision.
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Art installations at the airport
Sleeping in any airport can be uncomfortable and may include a certain level of risk, especially when travelling alone. However, if you are planning to spend the night at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), you can look forward to immersing yourself in the airport's art collection, which is displayed throughout the airport.
SLC started building its art collection in 1977, and it now boasts several local artists, different mediums, and a vast array of landscape art that depicts Utah's beauty. Here are some of the art installations you can discover during your time at SLC:
The Canyon
Artist Gordon Huether's largest art installation, "The Canyon," evokes the Salt Lake City landscape and spans 362 feet, roughly the length of a football field. It uses 2.5 acres of composite fabric and the equivalent of seven miles of aluminum tubing. The installation is integrated into both walls of the new airport terminal and features 412 individual tensile membrane "fins." It represents the vast canyons of Utah and creates a sense of place for the airport.
Northern Light at the end of The Canyon 2.0
Also by artist Gordon Huether, this installation greets passengers exiting the Central Tunnel into Concourse B. "Northern Light" is constructed from 500 hand-drawn glass rods and 300 dichroic glass panels, supported by a 5000-pound stainless-steel framework. It pays homage to "The Falls," with vibrant hues and dynamic light interactions, evoking a sense of awe and wonder.
The Hoberman Arch
Created by Chuck Hoberman, this mechanical curtain is 72 feet wide and 36 feet high. It was inspired by Utah's natural stone arches and was initially created for the 2002 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games Medals Plaza in downtown Salt Lake City. The semi-circular aluminum structure resembles the movement of a human iris and weighs approximately 31,000 pounds.
The Whimsy Wall Art Project
This project features large-scale vinyl wall wraps created from original artwork and installed in the airport's 24 restrooms post-security. The artwork reflects the culture, community, landscape, and spirit of Utah. Local artist Traci O'Very Covey and Texas-based DAAS each painted two 144-foot murals in the Mid-Concourse Tunnel, showcasing Utah's four seasons.
These art installations are just a few examples of the creative features that SLC has to offer. While spending the night at an airport may not be ideal, SLC's art program provides a unique and immersive experience that may help enhance your time there.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can sleep at the SLC airport. The airport has free WiFi, eateries, and shops, and the staff are reportedly friendly and helpful. However, some travellers have reported difficulty finding comfortable spots to sleep.
Yes, you can stay at a hotel near the airport or in downtown SLC, which is about a 15-minute drive from the airport. You could also consider parking somewhere near the airport and taking an Uber or Lyft to the airport, which would typically cost between $15-25.
Here are some tips to keep in mind if you plan to sleep at the SLC airport:
- Know where the security office is located and look for video cameras near your sleeping spot.
- Stay near other travellers or close to security, especially if you're travelling alone.
- Hide your valuables and don't leave them in plain view.
- Stay alert and awake if you feel unsafe or uncomfortable.
Yes, the SLC airport offers Minute Suites, which are private suites where you can nap, relax, or work.
