Find the Best Things to Do in Cottonwood Heights
By Christine Balaz
Salt Lake City Local Expert
About Cottonwood Heights
Photo courtesy of CountyLemonade
Cottonwood Heights serves as the gateway between the Salt Lake Valley and the Wasatch Mountains – specifically Big and Little Cottonwood canyons. At the tops of these canyons sit four of Utah's best and most famous ski resorts, Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, and Solitude. So it is no surprise that this otherwise residential neighborhood has a few of the city's best après-ski joints.
Eat
Cottonwood Heights has a number of restaurants hidden among its sea of single-family homes. The most obvious – and most gratifying after a day in the mountains – is the Porcupine Pub & Grille, immediately downhill from the mouth of Big Cottonwood Canyon. There you'll find the best burgers and nachos around (along with "real" entrees). If you're feeling fancy, check out Cafe Trio Cottonwood for contemporary Italian fare.
Party
If you're already at the Porcupine Pub & Grille, then there's no need to move on; in addition to its dining room, this “grille” also has a pub area with bar stools for relaxing, finger foods for nibbling, and TVs for sports-watching. If you're looking for a change of scenery, drive downhill to the Cotton Bottom, an extremely low-key neighborhood/ après bar with a grill of its own.
Stay
Are you on a ski vacation, but can't quite swing the slope-side prices? Prefer to cook your own meals at night? The Residence Inn Salt Lake City Cottonwood is an extended-stay hotel that offers long-term visitors a chance to unpack in a spacious suite or apartment with a full kitchen.