Top 5 Areas to Stay in Salt Lake City for the Cold Turkey Run 2024 – Make Your Experience Unforgettable!

Imagine waking up on race day, just steps from the starting line of the Cold Turkey Run.

The crisp Salt Lake City air fills your lungs as you step outside, perfectly warmed up and ready to tackle the course.

Sounds ideal, right?

Well, that’s just one of the perks of choosing the perfect place to stay for your big race weekend!

As a fellow runner and born and raised Utah native, I can’t stress enough how crucial it is to pick the right neighborhood for your Cold Turkey Run adventure.

Trust me, I’ve made the mistake of staying too far from the action, and let’s just say, pre-dawn Uber rides and cold, stiff muscles don’t mix well with PR attempts!

With the 2024 Cold Turkey Run set to take place in the heart of Salt Lake City this November, you’ve got some fantastic options for your race weekend home base.

Whether you’re looking for downtown excitement, budget-friendly digs, or a peaceful mountain retreat, This local has you covered.

Let’s lace up and explore the top five areas to stay in Salt Lake City for Cold Turkey Run participants!

Downtown Salt Lake City: Heart of the Action

Ah, downtown Salt Lake City – the bustling epicenter of our Cold Turkey Run adventure!

I remember my first time staying here for a race, and let me tell you, the convenience is unbeatable.

• Proximity to race start/finish line: Picture this – you’re calmly sipping your pre-race coffee while other runners are frantically calling Ubers. That’s the magic of downtown! Most hotels are within a 10-15 minute walk of the starting line. Talk about a stress-free race morning!
• Abundance of hotels and dining options: From swanky high-rises to cozy boutique spots, downtown’s got it all. My personal favorite? The Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek. It’s practically throwing distance from the start line! As for food, you’re surrounded by carb-loading paradises. Settebello Pizzeria Napoletana saved my race more than once with their delicious pasta dishes.
• Easy access to public transportation: The TRAX light rail system is a lifesaver, especially if you’re flying in. It connects directly from the airport to downtown, saving you precious dollars on cab fare. Plus, it’s a great way to rest those legs while exploring the city post-race.
• Potential drawbacks: Now, I’ll be honest – downtown isn’t perfect. It can get noisy, especially on weekends. And let’s face it, those prime locations come with prime price tags. But for many runners, the convenience outweighs the cost.

Sugar House: Hip and Convenient

Sugar House, oh Sugar House – how do I love thee?

Let me count the ways!

Seeing that I lived there for just over 12 years I definitely know this place.

Besides the traffic picking up in downtown Sugarhouse area it is a gem.

This quirky, vibrant neighborhood quickly became my go-to spot for races in Salt Lake City.

• Distance from race venue: Sugar House sits about 4 miles southeast of downtown. Don’t let that scare you off! It’s a quick 15-minute drive or a 30-minute ride on the S-Line streetcar to the race start. Plus, the extra distance means quieter streets for a good night’s sleep.
• Unique local shops and restaurants: This is where Sugar House really shines. After one particularly grueling training run, I went to my favorite The Old Spaghetti Factory which has been there since I remember being born– carb heaven, I tell you! Get the pistachio ice cream. And don’t get me started on the post-race brunch scene. Roots Cafe? Life-changing pancakes. Sugarhouse BBQ just closed sadly.
• Park areas for pre-race jogging: Sugar House Park is a runner’s dream. It’s got a lovely 1.5-mile loop that’s perfect for shaking out those pre-race jitters. I’ve logged many a relaxing mile here, watching the sunrise over the mountains. And taking the kids to play by the lake and river.
• Accommodation types available: You’ll find a mix of modern hotels, cozy B&Bs, and vacation rentals in Sugar House. I once snagged an Airbnb with a full kitchen – being able to prep my own pre-race meal was a game-changer! Be sure to try and book ahead for a discount.

The Avenues: Charming Historic District

The Avenues, or “The Aves” as we call it, is like stepping into a time machine – in the best way possible!

This historic district stole my heart with its tree-lined streets and stunning architecture.

• Character and atmosphere of the neighborhood: Imagine Victorian-era homes, quirky coffee shops, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for calming those pre-race nerves. It feels like staying in a quaint small town, not a major city! And this is just down from Sugarhouse.
• Running routes with a view: The Aves sit on a slope, which means one thing – incredible views! I’ll never forget my sunset shakeout run along 11th Avenue. The cityscape below, mountains in the distance… pure magic. Just remember, what goes down must come up – be prepared for some hills!
• Distance and transportation to race venue: You’re looking at about a 2-mile journey to the start line. It’s a beautiful walk if you’re up for it, or a quick bus ride. The #11 bus runs straight down to downtown, easy peasy.
• Types of lodging: This is B&B central, folks. I stayed at a charming little place called The Ellerbeck Mansion with my wife. Waking up to the smell of freshly baked scones? Yes, please! You’ll also find a good selection of vacation rentals if that’s more your style.

University Area: Budget-Friendly Options

Calling all penny-pinching runners!

The University area, nestled around the University of Utah, is your wallet’s best friend.

And trust me, after shelling out for race fees, every dollar saved counts!

• Proximity to the University of Utah: You’re right next to campus, which means a young, energetic vibe. It’s infectious! I found myself people-watching on Library Plaza, soaking in that pre-race excitement.
• Affordable accommodation choices: Budget hotels and student-oriented Airbnbs abound. I snagged a room at the University Guest House once when I was younger – basic, but clean and comfortable. Perfect for a “sleep, run, repeat” weekend!
• Local amenities for runners: The University area is surprisingly runner-friendly. The campus itself has some great paths, and you’re close to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail if you want to shake out those legs with a trail run.
• Transportation options to the race: The TRAX Red Line is your best friend here. It runs straight from the University to downtown, dropping you off just blocks from the start line. No need to worry about parking or traffic on race morning!

Cottonwood Heights: Scenic Mountain Retreat

Ah, Cottonwood Heights – my secret weapon for pre-race zen.

This suburban oasis at the base of the Wasatch Mountains is perfect for runners seeking tranquility (and a little altitude training).

Hey you might even Post Malone cruising around.

Yep, that’s his house (above picture) tucked away in cottonwood heights area.

• Distance from race venue (pros and cons): I’ll be upfront – you’re about 13 miles from downtown. But hear me out! The peace and quiet are unbeatable. I’ve had my best pre-race sleep here, away from the city hustle.
• Mountain views and fresh air benefits: Waking up to sun-kissed mountain peaks? Priceless. The crisp, clean air is a bonus for your lungs, too. Just be mindful of the slightly higher elevation if you’re not used to it.
• Pre-race training opportunities: You’re in trail running paradise here. Big Cottonwood Canyon is right in your backyard, offering miles of scenic trails. I love doing a gentle hike two days before the race to loosen up and calm my mind.
• Types of accommodations available: You’ll find a mix of hotels (the Hyatt House is a favorite) and vacation rentals. I once rented a cabin-style Airbnb complete with a hot tub – perfect for soothing those taper-week jitters!

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Stay

Alright, fellow runners, let’s break it down.

Choosing the right place to stay can make or break your race experience.

Trust me, I learned this the hard way after a disastrous stay in a noisy hotel right before a marathon PR attempt!

• Distance to start/finish line: This is the biggie. How far are you willing to travel on race morning? Remember, closer isn’t always better if it means sacrificing sleep quality.
• Public transportation access: Salt Lake City’s public transit is pretty solid. Check out the UTA trip planner to see how easily you can get around from your chosen location.
• Nearby amenities: You’ll want easy access to groceries, pharmacies, and maybe a running store for those last-minute needs. And don’t forget about post-race celebration spots!
• Budget considerations: Be realistic about what you can afford. Sometimes spending a bit more for convenience is worth it, but don’t blow your entire vacation budget on lodging.
• Pre-race training facilities: If you’re like me and need to shake out the travel legs, look for nearby parks, trails, or even hotel gyms with treadmills.

Conclusion:

Whew! We’ve covered a lot of ground, haven’t we? From the electric energy of downtown to the mountain serenity of Cottonwood Heights, Salt Lake City offers a smorgasbord of options for Cold Turkey Run participants.

Remember, where you rest your head the night before the big race can have a huge impact on your performance. (I still cringe thinking about the time I stayed next to a nightclub. Lesson learned!)

My final piece of advice? Book early! The best spots get snapped up fast, especially those close to the start line. And don’t be afraid to reach out to hotels directly – sometimes they offer special rates for race participants.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and needs. Are you all about race day convenience? Downtown’s your jam. Need some nature to calm those pre-race jitters? Cottonwood Heights has got you covered.

Now, I’m dying to hear from you! Have you stayed in Salt Lake City for a race before? Any hidden gems I missed? Or maybe you’ve got questions about a specific area? Drop a comment below and let’s keep the conversation going. Your experiences could be super helpful for other runners planning their Cold Turkey Run adventure!

And hey, no matter where you choose to stay, remember to soak in the experience. Salt Lake City is a beautiful place, and the Cold Turkey Run is going to be epic. So lace up, fuel up, and get ready for an unforgettable race day. See you at the starting line!

P.S. You can sign up for the Cold Turkey Run here if you haven’t already!