FanX Salt Lake City 2025: The Complete Fan Guide

FanX is back in Salt Lake City this September 25–27, 2025 at the Salt Palace Convention Center. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, this guide will help you plan your trip—where to stay, what to eat, how to navigate the show floor, and what to expect around town.

Quick Facts

• When: September 25–27, 2025 (pre-registration starts Wednesday, Sept 24)

• Where: Salt Palace Convention Center, 100 S West Temple, downtown SLC

• Vendor Floor Hours:

• Thu: 1:45 p.m.–8 p.m.

• Fri: 11:45 a.m.–8 p.m.

• Sat: 10:45 a.m.–7 p.m.

• Panels & Programming: Run until 11 p.m. each night

• Download the FanX App: Real-time updates, schedules, and maps

Getting Into the Convention Center

The Salt Palace has multiple entrances, but the fastest-moving lines are usually at the:

• East Entrance (West Temple)

• South Entrance (200 South)

Registration Hours:

• Wed (pre-reg): 12 p.m.–8 p.m.

• Thu: 11 a.m.–8 p.m.

• Fri: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

• Sat: 8 a.m.–7 p.m.

VIP/Ruby Tip: VIP passes get you in 30 minutes early each day—perfect for grabbing exclusives before the crowds.

Where to Stay

Here are the best hotel picks within walking distance of the Salt Palace:

• Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City – Connected directly to the convention center.

• The Grand America Hotel – Luxury 5-star, 0.8 miles away.

• Kimpton Hotel Monaco – Stylish boutique, 3-minute walk.

• Asher Adams (Autograph Collection) – Historic train depot turned hotel.

• Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites – Budget-friendly, ~0.6 miles away.

Pro Tip: Book early—rooms near the venue sell out quickly during FanX.

Show Floor Layout

Knowing where things are will save you steps and time:

• Vendor Hall: Celebrity Row, Artist Alley, Photo Ops, and merch booths

• Panels: Grand Ballroom + select meeting rooms

• KidCon: Room 155

• Gaming Lounge: Room 355

Strategy: Plan your “loop.” Hit Artist Alley, Celebrity Row, and your favorite vendors in one circuit so you’re not zig-zagging all day.

Where to Eat Nearby

After hours on the floor, you’ll need fuel. Luckily, downtown SLC has plenty of options:

• City Creek Center & Main Street (5–10 min walk): Capital Grille, STK, Brio, Nordstrom Grill, plus cafés for quick bites.

• Local standout: Cosmica (Central Ninth) — recently named to the New York Times “Best Restaurants” list. Western-style Italian with natural wines.

Pro Tip: Plan a late lunch during big panels—lines at nearby spots are shorter then.

Getting to SLC & Around Downtown

From the Airport (SLC):

• TRAX Green Line Light Rail – Direct to downtown, budget-friendly.

• Rideshare/Taxi – Best option if hauling luggage or cosplay.

• Rental Car – Handy for side trips, but downtown parking is limited during FanX.

Airport Amenities:

• Before Security: Auntie Anne’s, Cafe Rio

• After Security: California Pizza Kitchen, Bruges Waffles, Beecher’s Handmade Cheese

 

Must-See Events

• Panels & Celeb Appearances: Big-name Q&As and workshops every day.

• Cosplay Contest: Saturday night (7–9 p.m.) in the Grand Ballroom—always a fan favorite.

• Photo Ops & Autographs: Often sell out—reserve ahead online and plan around scheduled times.

Can’t Make It to FanX? You Can Still Get Celebrity Autographs

If you can’t attend FanX in person, you don’t have to miss out on the autograph experience. On Neon Mango, you can request digital autographs (Graphs) from celebrities, athletes, and musicians year-round.

Graphs are cinematic, collectible autographs that include signatures, music, motion, and sometimes personal voice messages. They don’t fade, they’re easy to share, and they make a perfect keepsake whether you’re at the convention or following from home.

Sunday in Salt Lake City

FanX wraps Saturday night, but if you’re staying through Sunday:

• Many downtown shops and cafés open later or close altogether.

• Utah state liquor stores are closed Sundays and holidays. If you want supplies, buy during the week (Mon–Sat).

• Restaurants and bars still serve alcohol on Sundays, but expect lighter crowds.

 

Packing Checklist

• Comfy shoes (you’ll walk a lot!)

• Portable charger + cables

• Backpack for merch

• Snacks + water bottle

• Printed or downloaded floor map

• FanX app installed on your phone

• Hotel and transit details saved

 

Final Tips

• Pre-register Wednesday if you can—it saves time Thursday morning.

• Download the app for live panel updates and map access.

• Make one dinner reservation ahead of time—popular spots fill quickly.

• If you’re new to Salt Lake, enjoy the city’s mountain views and high-desert air (stay hydrated!).

 

✈️ Whether you’re there for cosplay, collectibles, or celebrity panels, FanX Salt Lake City is one of the best pop culture events in the country. With a little planning, you’ll maximize your time, avoid stress, and make the most of your weekend.