Salt Lake City, a gem in Utah, attracts travelers with stunning mountains, the Great Salt Lake, and rich history. A journey from New York to Salt Lake City brings adventure, scenic beauty, and multiple ways to reach the destination. Choosing the best option depends on budget, time, and comfort. Let’s explore every way to travel between these two cities, covering costs, time taken, best routes, and travel tips.
New York to Salt Lake City Distance
New York to Salt Lake City covers a massive distance of 2,200 miles (3,540 km). The route crosses multiple states, offering different landscapes along the way. Travel choices include flying, driving, or taking a bus or train. Each mode offers a unique experience, so selecting the best one depends on how fast or comfortable the journey should be.
Best Ways to Travel New York to Salt Lake City
1. Flights – Quickest Way to Reach Salt Lake City
Flying is the best choice for those looking to reach Salt Lake City fast. Nonstop flights take around 5 hours, making this the most time-efficient way. Several airlines operate direct routes daily, including Delta, American Airlines, and United.
| Popular airports near NY | Location | Driving Time | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) | New York | 43 min | 12 mi |
| LaGuardia Airport (LGA) | New York | 27 min | 8 mi |
| Popular airports near SLC | Location | Driving Time | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) | Salt Lake City | 14 min | 4 mi |
| Provo Airport (PVU) | Provo | 1 hr 6 min | 38 mi |
Flight Cost
- Economy Class: $180 – $500 (round trip)
- Business Class: $700 – $1,200 (round trip)
- First Class: $1,500+ (round trip)
Best Airports to Choose
- Departure: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) or LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
- Arrival: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)
Booking Tips for Cheap Flights
- Book tickets at least 3-4 weeks in advance for the best deals.
- Choose early morning or late-night flights to save money.
- Use flight comparison websites like Google Flights or Skyscanner.
- Consider one-stop flights for cheaper fares, though travel time increases.
2. Train Journey – A Scenic But Long Ride
Traveling by train from New York to Salt Lake City requires at least one transfer, as there is no direct train service between the two cities. Typically, passengers transfer in Chicago, Illinois. The total journey takes about 62 hours, with the quickest trains completing the trip in around 57 hours and 35 minutes.
Train Route
- New York to Chicago: Start your journey with Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited service, traveling from New York Penn Station to Chicago Union Station. This part covers around 960 miles and takes about 20 hours.
- Chicago to Salt Lake City: Next, transfer in Chicago to Amtrak’s California Zephyr service, which heads to Salt Lake City. This leg of the trip covers around 1,000 miles and takes approximately 30 hours.
Ticket Pricing
- Coach Class: $181 – $323.69
- Sleeper Car: $600 – $900
Booking Tips
- Book Early: To get the best fares, try to book tickets 29 days ahead of your trip.
- Flexible Travel Dates: Traveling on weekdays or during less busy seasons often leads to lower prices.
Additional Considerations
- Meals and Amenities: Amtrak offers dining options and sleeper cabins for overnight trips. However, the available amenities can vary based on the service and route.
- Layover in Chicago: If your schedule includes a transfer at Chicago Union Station, a layover may be necessary. It’s a good idea to check the connection times when planning your journey.
3. Bus Journey – Budget-Friendly but Time-Consuming
Direct bus travel between New York and Salt Lake City is not available. The trip usually involves several transfers and takes about 55 to 60 hours, depending on the bus service and route. Major bus companies like Greyhound and FlixBus operate on this route, with multiple departures every day.
Bus Fare
Ticket prices start at approximately $199.99, though they can vary based on booking time and demand.
Best Bus Operators
- Greyhound and FlixBus offer cross-country trips.
- Buses depart from Port Authority Bus Terminal (New York) and reach Salt Lake City Central Station.
Things to Consider Before Taking a Bus
- Long travel time means tiring rides with minimal comfort.
- Layovers and transfers can make the journey feel longer.
- Buses provide basic seats but not much legroom.
4. Driving – A Memorable Road Trip
A road trip from New York to Salt Lake City allows you to explore a variety of landscapes and cultures across the United States. The trip covers about 2,200 miles and takes roughly 34 hours of driving, excluding rest breaks, meals, and overnight stops.
Route Overview
The most popular route travels west along Interstate 80 (I-80), a key highway that runs across the country, connecting New York City to San Francisco. This path goes through states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Utah, before arriving in Salt Lake City.
Estimated Driving Time and Distance
- Total Distance: Approximately 2,200 miles (3,540 kilometers)
- Estimated Driving Time: Around 34 hours of continuous driving
Key Stops Along the Way
Given the length of the journey, it’s advisable to plan for multiple stops to rest, refuel, and explore notable attractions. Here are some recommended stops:
- Cleveland, Ohio: Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or enjoy the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
- Chicago, Illinois: Explore Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and indulge in deep-dish pizza.
- Des Moines, Iowa: Discover the Iowa State Capitol and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park.
- Omaha, Nebraska: Visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, renowned for its indoor rainforest.
- Cheyenne, Wyoming: Experience the Old West at the Wyoming State Museum and the Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum.
Money-Saving Tips for This Trip
- Book Accommodation in Advance: Booking hotels or motels ahead of time can help secure lower rates, especially in cities with higher demand.
- Use Gas Price Apps: Apps like GasBuddy help you find the cheapest fuel prices along your route, saving you money on fuel.
- Pack Snacks and Drinks: Stock up on snacks and drinks to avoid overpriced food at rest stops or convenience stores.
- Take Advantage of Free Attractions: Many cities offer free museums, parks, and landmarks. Research free or low-cost activities in each stop.
- Travel Off-Peak: Avoid traveling during holidays or weekends when prices for accommodations and gas are higher.
- Carpool with Friends: If possible, share the ride with friends or family to split the cost of gas and accommodations.
- Use Coupons and Deals: Check websites like Groupon or Travelzoo for discounts on attractions, dining, and accommodations.
- Use a Rewards Credit Card: Earn cash back or travel points by using a rewards credit card for gas, food, and lodging.
- Stay in Budget Hotels or Motels: Look for budget-friendly chain hotels or motels that offer clean, simple accommodations without the extra costs.
- Pack a Cooler: Save money by packing a cooler with sandwiches, fruit, and drinks for lunch instead of stopping at restaurants.
- Opt for Smaller Towns for Accommodation: Hotels in smaller towns along the route are often much cheaper than those in large cities.
- Use Public Transportation or Walking: In larger cities, take advantage of public transportation or walk to nearby attractions to save on parking and gas.
- Plan Your Route Efficiently: Minimize detours to save time and gas. Plan your stops to be as direct as possible.
ALSO READ: 50 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City, UT
Final Thoughts
Traveling from New York to Salt Lake City provides several options, each with its own benefits. Flights are the quickest, trains offer beautiful views along the way, buses are budget-friendly, and road trips create lasting memories. The best choice depends on your priorities, such as time, budget, and the type of travel experience you seek.
FAQ’s
What’s the fastest route from New York to Salt Lake City by car?
The most common and fastest route is Interstate 80 (I-80), which spans across multiple states and directly connects New York to Salt Lake City.
How much does it cost to drive from New York to Salt Lake City?
Costs can vary based on your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, but expect to spend around $300 to $1,000 on gas, depending on the route, your car, and fuel prices.
What’s the best time to take a road trip from New York to Salt Lake City?
The ideal time is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and traffic is generally lighter compared to the summer months.
How do I prepare my car for a cross-country road trip?
Ensure your car is in good condition by checking tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes, and lights. Carry an emergency kit, extra gas, and necessary documents.
Is it safe to drive across the country during winter?
It can be, but check the weather forecasts and road conditions regularly, especially in areas known for snow, like the Rockies or northern states. Keep your vehicle stocked with winter supplies.
