VETgirl here with a breakdown of what to expect when you attend VETgirl U 2026. You are not just signing up for continuing education, you are choosing a destination that blends luxury, walkability, mountain views, and elevated experiences all in one seamless stay.

Hosted at The Grand America Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City, this year’s setting transforms your conference trip into something that feels like a true getaway.

Easy Arrival and Transportation

Getting to Salt Lake City is simple, and getting to the hotel is even easier. Salt Lake City International Airport is located just minutes from downtown. A ride share or taxi will have you at The Grand America Hotel in approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

For those who prefer public transportation, you can take the TRAX light rail directly from the airport to downtown for a small fee. The Blue Line runs through the downtown corridor and offers a convenient, budget-friendly option for attendees traveling light. Once downtown, the hotel is easily accessible, making arrival smooth and stress-free.

Stay in Iconic Luxury

The Grand America Hotel sets the tone the moment you walk through its doors. Crystal chandeliers, marble floors, and European-inspired architecture create an atmosphere that feels refined yet welcoming.

Rooms are spacious and thoughtfully appointed, many with private balconies overlooking the beautifully manicured courtyard. It is the kind of property where you can move effortlessly from morning sessions to afternoon relaxation without ever leaving the building.

Between conference events, you can indulge in:

These built-in experiences make networking feel natural and unforced.

Recharge at the 5 Star Forbes Spa with an Exclusive Perk

After a full morning or afternoon of education, carve out time to reset at The Grand America Spa. The spa offers a full menu of massages, facials, and body treatments designed to help you unwind and recharge. Guests can also enjoy tranquil relaxation spaces, steam rooms, saunas, and a serene indoor pool. It is the perfect way to balance a high-energy learning schedule with intentional self-care. Whether you book a quick treatment between sessions or dedicate an entire afternoon to relaxation, the spa experience adds another layer of luxury to your trip.

Pro tip: Cash in on extra savings! As a VETgirl U attendee, you will receive an exclusive 15% discount on spa services, making it even easier to prioritize a little restoration during your stay. Simply show your badge or mention VETgirl U when reserving your service.

A Walkable, Easy Downtown

Salt Lake City offers the convenience of a compact downtown with the backdrop of stunning mountain scenery. Just steps from the hotel, you can explore:

  • City Creek Center for upscale shopping and dining
  • Walkable streets lined with restaurants and cafés
  • Mountain views in nearly every direction

Pro tip: The Blue Line TRAX is free within the downtown zone and takes you just two stops to City Creek Center, making it easy to explore without worrying about parking or transportation.

Evenings Done Right

After a full day, the area offers the perfect mix of energy and ease.

Start with cocktails at The Gibson Lounge inside the hotel, where live music sets the tone for a relaxed evening. Whether you are reconnecting with colleagues or meeting new friends, the ambiance makes it easy to unwind.

When it comes to dinner, downtown Salt Lake City delivers a wide range of options. You might choose the bold, seasonal flavors at The Copper Onion, enjoy elevated Italian at Valter’s Osteria, opt for contemporary American cuisine at Current Fish & Oyster, or gather with colleagues at one of the many lively neighborhood spots within walking distance. Whether you are planning a team dinner, a client meet-up, or a casual night out, there is something to match the mood.

Pro tip: We tried the Copper Onion and it was amazing! Will definitely be going back. Highly recommend the carbonara, goat cheese salad and sautéed mushrooms. 

CARBONARA – Linguine, cream, parmesan, bacon, egg yolk

Laurel’s Brasserie & Bar inside the Grand America is a great option for breakfast, a quick cocktail at night to unwind or snack on one of the in-house made pastries or scoop of ice cream before bed.

GNOCCHI AI FUNGHI – wild mushrooms, leek fondue, parmesan sage cream, chives

Then it is back to your balcony for a peaceful courtyard view before turning in for the night.

Big Nature, Just Minutes Away

One of the best parts about staying at The Grand America Hotel in June? Summer in Salt Lake City is made for getting outside.

Within 30–40 minutes of downtown, you can be immersed in some of Utah’s most iconic landscapes:

Big Cottonwood Canyon for scenic drives, alpine hiking trails, picnic spots, and family-friendly lake walks
Little Cottonwood Canyon for waterfall hikes and cooler mountain air
Antelope Island State Park to spot bison, take in sweeping views of the Great Salt Lake, and explore wide-open trails
Park City for a charming mountain-town day trip filled with hiking, mountain biking, and outdoor dining

Prefer to stay closer to the hotel? Liberty Park is just minutes away and perfect for a morning jog, paddle boating, or letting kids explore the playground. And for panoramic views without a long drive, head up to Ensign Peak for a short, family-friendly hike with incredible city and mountain vistas.

Pro tip: Rent a car for a half-day adventure and be back downtown in time for dinner. The beauty of Salt Lake City is that you can go from conference mode to canyon mode in under an hour.

Why Salt Lake City in June?

June in Salt Lake City offers warm days, cool evenings, and clear mountain air. It is the perfect time to:

  • Extend your trip for a weekend getaway
  • Explore nearby hiking trails
  • Enjoy outdoor patios and rooftop dining
  • Take in the scenic Wasatch Mountain views
  • The city feels vibrant without being overwhelming. Everything is accessible, yet the natural beauty gives it a refreshing, open feel.

Attending VETgirl U at The Grand America means pairing professional growth with an elevated travel experience. Luxury accommodations, spa indulgence, live music, exceptional dining, and walkable downtown convenience all come together in one destination.

This is more than a conference location. It is a setting that makes the entire trip memorable. Register to reserve your seat now at vetgirlontherun.com/vetgirl-u-2026


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