salt lake city tourist places

Salt Lake City   Travel Guide

24 Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City

Updated February 2, 2023

Plan on spending a good chunk of your time exploring Temple Square , the official headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This walled neighborhood at the heart of Salt Lake City hosts impressive religious buildings – such as

• All Things To Do

Temple Square Temple Square free

Temple Square's multi-block, 35-acre plaza is home to nearly 20 attractions related to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's anchored by the towering Salt Lake Temple  – where, among other things, weekly meetings of the church's governing bodies are held – and other fascinating buildings like the expansive Tabernacle and the Gothic Revival-style Assembly Hall, which offer insight into the history and development of the church. You should also stop by the Family History Library , the largest genealogy library in the world. Once you've toured the sites, stroll through the square's scenic gardens and past the gurgling fountains.

Recent travelers recommend taking a free, guided tour of the square and also mention that you don't have to be particularly religious to find it of interest. Travelers note that while the area is nice to walk around, the temple is currently undergoing renovation. The building and its surroundings are closed to the public and much of the area is obscured with fences and scaffolding.

Great Salt Lake Great Salt Lake

Clocking in at roughly 35 miles wide and 75 miles long, the Great Salt Lake is the largest natural saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. The lake's name comes from the nature of the water: The evaporation process (the only exit available for the lake's water) leaves behind salty mineral deposits. Salt Lake City's visitors and residents enjoy the area's many hiking trails, ample picnic spots, and swimming, boating and fishing opportunities.

Great Salt Lake Park is one access point that's close to the city: just 20 miles west. Here, travelers will find a marina, a small beach trail and facilities like showers, concessions and restrooms. Another popular access point is Antelope Island, a state park located northwest of the city. While you'll be able to access the same scenery as Great Salt Lake Park, Antelope Island also features plenty of wildlife to spot (including bison and antelope). Plus, you'll find the Fielding Garr Ranch House, an 1800s house on its original foundation. You can only reach the island by driving around the lake's southeast shore, following Interstate 15 to exit 332. The drive is about 60 miles one-way.

Salt Lake Temple Salt Lake Temple free

The temple started an extensive renovation in December 2019 that includes making structural changes, improving its accessibility and adding more visitor facilities. As a result, it is currently closed. The temple is expected to reopen in 2024.

Situated on 10 acres in the square, this impressive six-spire structure is the universal icon of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While you are not allowed to enter the church itself, recent visitors said that the beautiful grounds are worth touring.

Popular Tours

Salt Lake City Guided Bus Tour

(802 reviews)

from $ 69.99

Yellowstone National Parks 3 Day Tour from Salt Lake City

(5 reviews)

from $ 867.00

Tabernacle Choir Performance + Salt Lake City Bus Tour

(370 reviews)

from $ 91.99

FamilySearch Library FamilySearch Library free

Sitting in Temple Square , the FamilySearch Library houses millions of genealogical records profiling more than three billion deceased people, making it the largest library of its kind in the world. The library was founded in the late 19th century to assist members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints piece together their family history. Today, visitors are welcome to peruse the records – all meticulously preserved – and possibly track down a few ancestors of their own. Reviewers said this is a must-visit place for everyone, and especially genealogy buffs, as the staff are friendly and incredibly helpful and the resources are astounding.

The FamilySearch Library is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 or 8 p.m., depending on the day. Admission is free. The library recommends that you plan ahead, organizing family information that you already have and determining what you want to find. This will make it easier for the reference consultant to help you with your search. For more information, visit the FamilySearch Library website .

Red Butte Garden Red Butte Garden

Filled with meticulously landscaped plots, gurgling fountains and pleasant pathways, Red Butte Garden is a great place for budding botanists as well as visitors looking for quiet respite. Housed on the University of Utah campus in east Salt Lake City, the garden is divided into sections, each devoted to a specific type of plant or ecosystem.

Recent visitors said you should prepare to spend a good chunk of your day here, as there's plenty to see. Also, many recommended coming here during the warmer weather for a concert – just remember to bring your own picnic blanket. Red Butte Garden also hosts a variety of educational lectures and kid-friendly activities.

This is the Place Heritage Park This is the Place Heritage Park

History comes to life at This is the Place Heritage Park. Historical interpreters make the past real at more than 50 historic homes and other buildings. The site's This is the Place Monument marks the ends of the 1,300-mile Mormon trail, the path which Mormons took as they searched for a place to live in peace. There are many interactive experiences, including mining activities, pony rides, train rides, a Native American village and splash pad. There are multiple eateries as well.

Recent visitors particularly enjoyed the horseback riding experience and trail. Many also appreciated the chance to learn about both Utah and Mormon history. Travelers agreed that the large site is clean and well-maintained.

Utah State Capitol Utah State Capitol free

History, politics, and architecture buffs alike will enjoy touring the Utah State Capitol. Richard K. A. Kletting, a Salt Lake City area local, designed the 1916 building. In the mid-2000s, the landmark underwent a massive historic preservation effort that included restoration, repairs and seismic improvements.

Recent visitors admired the building's beauty, and enjoyed learning about state history. Many complimented the high quality exhibits, while those who took a docent-led tour (self-guided tours are also permitted), found the guides informative.

Ensign Peak Nature Park Ensign Peak Nature Park free

Ensign Peak Nature Park connects the Ensign Peak to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.  It's also historically significant, as this is where Brigham Young's party stopped to survey Salt Lake City valley shortly after their arrival.

The hike is about one mile in each direction. It offers beautiful views of Salt Lake City and the nearby mountains. Visitors may spot local wildlife, as this area is a habitat for many animals and bird species. It is most enjoyable on a pleasant day with clear skies so you can appreciate the panoramic views at the summit.

Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island Day Tour

(51 reviews)

from $ 145.00

45 Minute Great Salt Lake Boat Tour

(367 reviews)

from $ 37.00

Great Salt Lake Wildlife and Sunset Experience

(219 reviews)

from $ 165.00

Brighton Resort Brighton Resort

Skiers and snowboarders are in their element at Brighton Resort. The mountain escape averages 500 inches of snowfall a year. It boasts 1,875 vertical feet, 66 trails, and four high speed quads. The resort offers snow sports school, night skiing, terrain parks, and even the opportunity to schuss the slopes on a ski bike. There are several dining and lodging options on-site.

Recent visitors applauded the resort for offering excellent experiences to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Many praised the classes, including those for children and novice skiers.

Liberty Park Liberty Park free

If you're looking to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the city limits, head over to Liberty Park's 80 acres for any number of outdoorsy activities. There's a pond, bike paths, concession stands, rides, picnic areas, playgrounds and tennis and volleyball courts. Liberty Park is also home to an aviary and a swimming pool, both of which recent visitors recommend, as well just simply enjoying the peace and tranquility. They also recommend this park for families, as there are plenty of kid-friendly activities.

This park sits pretty in central Salt Lake. It's open every day from about 8 a.m. until 11 p.m., and admission is free (although a small fee is required to use some of the sporting facilities). Liberty also hosts several annual events throughout the year. For more information, check out the park's page on the Salt Lake City website .

Bonneville Salt Flats Bonneville Salt Flats free

The Bonneville Salt Flats may not be the first feature that comes to mind when thinking about Utah's ample natural beauty, but this 30,000-acre feature is worth a visit. From diverse viewing points the massive salt flats may look like desert covered by water, snow, or just like scenic mountains and hills in some places.

When ancient Lake Bonneville dried up, the salt flats were formed ( Great Salt Lake is another remnant of Lake Bonneville). Recent visitors were amazed by this natural wonder. Many noted how distinctive the flats were, and that you can see them from the road if you don’t have time for a longer stop. To conserve this geological feature, do not drive on the salt surface when it is wet – this is bad for the flats and vehicles alike. Be prepared for desert conditions: hot summers days and subzero winter temperatures. There are no facilities at the salt flats.

Park City Park City free

Park City was made for powder hounds. Sitting about 30 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Park City is home to two major alpine ski spots that sprawl across acres upon acres of mountain terrain. Park City Mountain Resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels to traverse groomed trails, powder-filled bowls and terrain parks. And Deer Valley Resort caters exclusively to skiers (snowboarding is prohibited here), offering groomed and gladed runs along with several on-site restaurants. If you're just starting out, all resorts have expert instructors on hand to help you learn the slopes – whether it's through kids ski school, group instruction or private lessons.

Those who aren't avid skiers can still find things to do. Park City's numerous art galleries and museums will keep visitors entertained. Meanwhile, in the spring and summer, the ski resorts transform their runs into hiking and biking trails, and around town tourists can hit the links at Park City Golf Club or peruse the area's farmers markets.

Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort

The historic and cultural attractions are interesting, but skiing is one of the primary reasons many travelers visit Utah. And Salt Lake City is in close proximity to some of the state's best slopes, including those found at the Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort. Sprawling across 2,500 acres with an 11,000-foot peak, this ski resort features 140 runs that cater to both novice and advanced skiers. According to recent visitors, the slopes and views are worthwhile, though the facilities are not the most up to date.

Winter isn't the only time to enjoy Snowbird, though. The resort also features numerous warm-weather activities, including hiking, biking, fishing and even zip lining. The scenic aerial tram, which takes travelers up more than 2,400 feet to the top of Hidden Peak, is another highlight. Recent visitors said the views are awesome.

Great Salt Lake Flying Tour

(9 reviews)

from $ 249.00

Salt Lake City 20 Sites Van Tour With Free HD Photos

from $ 110.00

The Bonneville Salt Flats Tour

(7 reviews)

from $ 155.00

Natural History Museum of Utah Natural History Museum of Utah

Head to the Natural History Museum to learn about the formation of the region's parks, mountain ranges, lakes, and basins, as well as exhibits on Utah's Native American tribes, anthropology, entomology, zoology, mineralogy, botany and much more. The Great Salt Lake exhibit is a must-see, with interactive exhibits on one of the region's most unique features. Kids will especially enjoy the Our Backyard exhibit, with plenty of hands-on activities to spark their curiosity. Recent visitors say the whole museum is family-friendly, with plenty to see and do.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Wednesdays). Tickets are $19.95 for adults; $17.95 for young adults ages 13 to 24; and $15.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Reservations are recommended. The museum sits about 2 miles north of the Hogle Zoo and is best reached by car. For more information, check out the museum's official website .

Big Cottonwood Canyon Big Cottonwood Canyon free

About 20 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Big Cottonwood Canyon, located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, is home to two ski resorts and is also a popular hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking area. Even if you don't get out of your car, you can take in the views on a scenic 15-mile byway leading through the canyon, which takes about one hour to complete.

Recent visitors said it is a beautiful drive. In the mid-1800s, miners sought gold and silver in the canyon and visitors can see the remains of old mines here and there. What's more, Solitude and Brighton ski resorts both offer full-service, year-round facilities. Several hiking trails can be found at Brighton, leading to Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Martha and Dog Lake.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest free

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest boasts 2.2 million acres of Mother Nature. Encompassing multiple wilderness districts across Utah and Wyoming, this national park offers a diverse array of landscapes – ranging from verdant fields to rocky mountainsides – as well as plenty of opportunities to hike, bike and camp.

Recent visitors raved about the beauty of the area and highly recommend bringing a camera and wearing sturdy walking shoes, as there are plenty of trails you'll want to explore (many vary in length and skill level, so check the website before you go to properly plan ahead). If you don't have time for a hike, consider a scenic drive instead. The 38-mile Mount Nebo Scenic Byway is popular for its stunning views of the Utah Valley and the mountains, especially during the fall when the leaves change.

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

More than 4,000 animals live at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. The sprawling site includes a 300,000-gallon shark habitat and tunnel that guests can walk through, as well as five different habitats that house animals from around the world. During your visit, you could see a variety of fish, turtles and stingrays as well as land animals like otters, lizards and leopards. There is also an on-site, three-level playground called Tuki's Island, plus an outdoor plaza full of play areas and interactive stations and an events stage.

Recent travelers enjoyed the diverse marine life. They found the exhibits informative, though several recent visitors balked at the admission prices. The aquarium can get crowded – the best bet for those looking for a quieter experience may be an afternoon visit.

Lagoon Amusement Park Lagoon Amusement Park

With roller coasters, a water park and a pioneer village, Lagoon Amusement Park aims to serve up family-friendly entertainment. The park is divided into five main areas, which includes everything from little kid-focused rides to extreme rides (that cost extra). There are also regular events and entertainment, some of which are themed around seasonal holidays, as well as live animals.

Recent visitors enjoyed the park, especially the roller coasters. Others felt it was expensive for the experience provided. Comparisons to other theme parks abounded, and there was criticism of the animals' living conditions.

Private Half-Day tour to Bonneville Salt Flats

(26 reviews)

from $ 200.00

Trolley Adventure: A Show-Tour of Salt Lake City

(294 reviews)

Ultimate Park City Tour: Olympic Park, Hike, Historic Main Street

from $ 125.00

Hogle Zoo Hogle Zoo

Home to more than 800 animals, Hogle Zoo allows visitors to get up-close and personal with its residents. The zoo boasts the African Savanna exhibit, which is home to giraffes, zebras, ostrich and African lions. You'll also find a small animal building, Asian Highlands (where tigers and lynx tread) and the Primate Forest. Other on-site attractions include a carousel and splash pad. Visitors can also opt to feed the zoo's giraffes, rhinos and elephants (for additional fees and with advance reservation).

Most visitors agree that, although this isn't the best zoo in the country, a visit here is worth the price of entry. Recent visitors had mixed opinions about the size of the animal enclosures. However, many noted the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Salt Lake City Public Library Salt Lake City Public Library free

Whether you like to read or admire beautiful architecture, the stunning and contemporary Salt Lake City Public Library could be worth your while. Located in the downtown area and opened in 2003, the library has a huge collection and plenty of cozy corners ideal for hunkering down with a good story.

Recent visitors said the architecture alone is reason enough to visit, while others appreciated the friendly staff. There are also a variety of shops and cafes around Library Square (just outside the library), not to mention a rooftop garden overlooking the surrounding Wasatch Mountains for those who want to read outside.

Clark Planetarium Clark Planetarium free

Clark Planetarium features exhibits on Earth, near Earth and beyond. Here, you can step inside a giant tornado, see a 6-foot Rand McNally Earth Globe, check out one of the largest real moon rocks on public display, and visit the Lunar Lander exhibit to learn more about the forces of gravity, acceleration and inertia. Then, learn about weather in space, play on the "Gravity Floor" and learn about Io, one of Jupiter's moons.

Recent visitors were impressed with all the interactive and high-tech exhibits and highly recommend the planetarium. The Hansen Dome and Northrop Grumman IMAX theaters also offer shows on everything from moon landings to volcanos to cosmic light shows.

Tracy Aviary Tracy Aviary

There are more than 400 birds representing nearly 150 species at Tracy Aviary. Birds include hornbills, cranes, eagles, pelicans and macaws. The oldest aviary in the country, this tranquil wooded location is open year-round. Highlights include free-flight bird shows and interactive experiences such as feeding birds and shadowing zookeepers (for an additional fee).

Recent visitors delighted in the wide variety of birds found at the aviary, including those from across the Western Hemisphere. Many noted the beautiful setting and the cleanliness of the aviary itself. The excursion is also family-friendly, visitors said.

Utah Museum of Fine Arts Utah Museum of Fine Arts

Read More »

Full Day Small Group Three Canyons Adventures with HD Photos

from $ 414.99

5-Day Salt Lake City, Grand Teton, Yellowstone National Park Tour

from $ 988.00

Private Half-Day Drive Through the Wasatch Mountain Range

(11 reviews)

from $ 170.00

Discovery Gateway Children's Museum Discovery Gateway Children's Museum

Things to do in salt lake city faqs, explore more of salt lake city.

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Salt Lake City, UT

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Lana Law enjoys visiting the sights of Salt Lake City and frequently uses the city as a base for trips to the surrounding ski resorts.

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah , is a young and dynamic city, home to natural, historic, and religious attractions, along with nearby skiing and mountain-based adventures.

While Salt Lake City has long been known primarily for being the religious center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and many of the city's top attractions do focus on this aspect, hosting the Olympic Winter Games added a new dynamic and put the city on the map for international travelers. Today, you can find great dining, shopping, and a variety of things to do here in summer or winter.

Some of the top places to visit in Salt Lake City can be found in the downtown area, including Temple Square and the Temple . In the city center, many of the attractions are in close proximity to one another, making sightseeing easy. Many travelers also use the city as a base and day trip to the nearby ski resorts , or simply to enjoy an outing to the nearby mountains and towns, like Park City and Deer Valley, less than an hour away.

Discover the best things to see and do with our list of top tourist attractions in Salt Lake City

See also: Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

1. Visit Temple Square

2. salt lake temple, 3. natural history museum of utah, 4. ski at nearby ski resorts, 5. red butte garden, 6. tour the state capitol, 7. the salt lake tabernacle, 8. this is the place heritage park, 9. joseph smith memorial building, 10. liberty park, 11. see the birds at tracy aviary, 12. learn about brigham young at the beehive house, 13. hogle zoo, 14. shop at city creek center, where to stay in salt lake city for sightseeing, where to stay in salt lake city for skiing.

Although Temple Square is one of the top highlights of Salt Lake City, it's in the midst of a massive six-year restoration project, and many areas will be closed until at least 2024. Buildings are being upgraded, and in some cases completely replaced, and a new tunnel is being installed to improve access and pedestrian flow.

It is expected that the North Visitor's Center, Tabernacle, Assembly Hall, and the Joseph Hall Memorial Building will remain open. The Temple building will be closed. Before your visit, check to see the latest updates on the temple website.

Temple Square is the holy place of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Spread out over 35 acres, you'll find beautiful flowering trees; colorful flowerbeds; fountains; and four key church buildings: The Temple , the Tabernacle , the Temple Annex , and the Assembly Hall . In addition to these spectacular buildings, you'll come across several historical monuments highlighting important people and events in the faith.

For a more in-depth understanding of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, visit one of the two information centers at the entrances to the square. They supply information, and the staff is more than happy to answer questions about the doctrines and the history of the faith and the area. Tours of the complex are free and are provided by female volunteer missionaries, known as sisters.

This is a peaceful place to simply wander around, particularly in spring and summer when the flowers and trees are in bloom. Several well-regarded restaurants in this area make good lunch stops.

One of the most iconic Salt Lake City landmarks is the Salt Lake Temple . Designed and built in the unique church style, this stunning building was constructed between 1853 and 1893. At each end of this huge granite structure are three towers, the highest of which, at the east end, bears a 13-foot-high gilded figure of the angel Moroni.

The temple may be entered only by church members, but very detailed models of the spectacular interior are on display at the North visitors' centers that are open to all.

Address: 50 West North Temple Street, Salt Lake City, Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a wonderful family activity or something to do on a cold or rainy day in Salt Lake City. Housed in a spectacular copper-clad concrete building with soaring spaces, the museum has more than 40,000 square feet of displays and educational facilities with 1.6 million objects in its collection.

Approximately 5,000 items are on display at any given time, and some of the highlights include the digital globe, dinosaur fossils, and a three-story indoor canyon. There are seven permanent collections including Paleontology, Anthropology, Entomology, Vertebrate Zoology, Mineralogy, Botany, and Malacology (the study of mollusks).

The views from the observation deck out across the city and valley are spectacular.

Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, Utah

If you love to ski, Salt Lake City is a destination that should be on your list of places to visit. Within easy reach of the city are the ski resorts of Park City , Deer Valley , Snowbird , Alta , Brighton, Solitude , Snowbasin, Powder Mountain, and Sundance.

Just up Interstate 80, you'll find the resorts of Park City and Deer Valley. If you prefer smaller resorts, Alta and Snowbird are up the Little Cottonwood Valley via Highway 210. Both drives are twisty and scenic, as they take you into the heart of the jagged Wasatch Range . Solitude and Brighton are north over the ridge over in Big Cottonwood Valley, only a few miles away as the crow flies, but over an hour by road.

If you head north of Salt Lake City for about an hour, you'll find two lesser-known but still amazing resorts: Snowbasin and Powder Mountain. Snowbasin is an ideal destination if you love skiing but hate crowds. It's rarely too busy, and the lift infrastructure is excellent, as it was one of the host mountains of the 2002 Winter Olympics.

Powder Mountain has the largest skiable terrain of all the resorts in the United States and limits the number of skiers on the mountain to 1,000. For those who prefer a smaller and historic ski resort, head an hour south of Salt Lake City to Sundance, started in 1969 and made famous by actor Robert Redford.

For skiers and boarders watching their pennies, Salt Lake City is a great base, with a good assortment of cheap and mid-range hotels and a wide variety of restaurants. This makes SLC a good alternative to staying at the resorts, where you'll pay tourist prices versus local prices in town.

One often overlooked advantage of staying in Salt Lake City is the lower elevation, which will limit the effects of the altitude.

Read More: Best Ski Resorts in Utah

Next to the Natural History Museum is Red Butte Garden , a very popular attraction with locals. It's worth a stop if you are visiting in spring. The garden is known throughout the western USA for its spring blooms and not just a few — over 500,000 flowers burst into a riot of color!

If you'd like to do a bit of walking or hiking, the gardens are spread out over 21 acres, and five miles of trails , some that are relatively steep, wind their way past the most interesting parts of the park. For those who prefer to ride, a 20-minute professionally narrated tram ride leaves on a regular basis. Parking is plentiful and free.

Set 300 feet above the city at the north end of State Street, on Capitol Hill, is the Utah State Capitol . This towering, neoclassical, domed building houses the House of Representatives, Senate, and Supreme Court of Utah.

The interior is known for its marble rotunda, the Golden Room (the Governor's reception room), and a small gallery with changing exhibits. Along the main hallways are wall panels showing the development and history of Utah through the ages.

You can walk the building on your own or make a booking for a guided tour. Be sure to look up to the paintings on the ceiling, and don't miss the view out over the city to the snow-capped mountains from the top of the main exterior staircase.

Capitol Hill is located an easy stroll northeast of Temple Square at the end of State Street. Many of the city's attractions are located here, including the historic Marmalade District .

Address: 350 North State Street, 120 State Capitol, Salt Lake City, Utah

The tabernacle is a massive oval building with a dome perched on 44 sandstone piers. The sober interior, with seating for over 6,500 people, is noted for its fine acoustics. Free tours are offered throughout the day, and an interesting example of the acoustics is performed. If you are lucky, you may also be able to attend a free performance or recital, which take place on a regular basis.

At the west end is the gallery for the celebrated Tabernacle Choir , and above it is the great organ with an astounding 11,623 pipes.

Address: Temple Square, Salt Lake City, Utah

When, after the members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' 1,300-mile-long trek, Brigham Young emerged from Emigration Canyon and saw the valley of his visions, he exclaimed "This is the place!" This park makes an ideal family outing and is just 15 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City.

This is the Place park traces the history of the early pioneers and settlers to Utah in the mid-19th century, but some of the fun things to do here include pony rides, train rides, and a splash pad called the Irrigation Station. You can even dig for gold at the Treasure House.

One of the main features at the park is This Is The Place Monument , a huge sculpture created in 1947 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Latter-day Saints' arrival in Salt Lake Valley. The park also includes the Old Deseret Village , a living history museum built to resemble a typical mid-19th-century Latter-day Saints community.

Address: 2601 East Sunnyside Avenue, Salt Lake City, Utah

One of the main buildings in Temple Square is the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Constructed in 1911 and originally known as the Hotel Utah, it was later renamed in honor of the first president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The building is 10 stories high and is made with glazed terra-cotta bricks, which shine in the strong Utah sun. It's well worth stepping inside to see features like the marble columns, art glass, and the grand staircase.

On-site are the Legacy Theater, conference rooms, the Family Search Center, and three restaurants, including one on the 10 th floor called Rooftop, which offers exceptional views over Temple Square and the city.

Address: 52 North Main Street, Salt Lake City, Utah

Spread out over more than 80 acres, Liberty Park is Salt Lake City's largest public park and home to a variety of recreational activities. This green space is a lovely nature retreat with mature trees, and many residents come here in summer to picnic or relax under the shady canopy of leaves.

Ideal for a family outing, the park has numerous things to do, including tennis courts, bocce ball courts, basketball courts, and a public swimming pool. Fitness buffs can take advantage of the two jogging paths-one paved, and one covered by woodchips. The park is also home to Tracy Aviary .

The park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, as is Chase Mill , on the edge of Tracy Aviary. Built in 1852, Chase Mill is the oldest commercial building in the state.

Sunday is a popular day at Liberty Park, when large drum circles take place. You can see people from all ages and walks of life drumming and singing along.

Address: 600 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, Utah

On the south side of Liberty Park is the Tracy Aviary , with a large variety of birds from North America and other parts of the world. One of the world's oldest aviaries, it was established in 1938 by a local resident.

Perfect for families, the Tracy Aviary has 19 indoor and outdoor exhibits, spread across a wide area. Be sure to see Andy the Andean Condor, one of the aviary's highlights. This huge bird has a wingspan of nearly 11 feet.

Every morning during the spring, summer, and fall starting at 10am and repeating every 10 minutes until 10:30 is the Lorikeet Adventure show . For a small additional fee, you'll be able to see (and hear!) these colorful birds performing in a fascinating fashion. An afternoon show follows the same format and starts at 1:30pm.

After you've caught the lorikeet show, be sure to see the Keeper's Talk. This educational session takes place at 2:15pm at various animal enclosures around the park.

Address: 589 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, Utah

The Beehive House , built in 1845, was Brigham Young's residence as Governor of Utah and leader of the Church Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his large family of 19 wives and 56 children lived here for many years.

Free tours led by church members take visitors through the mansion, which is furnished with many original period pieces. Some of the highlights are the intricate woodwork on the banisters and the original woodworking tools used by Brigham Young.

Of architectural note is the beehive on the turret of the house. This is the symbol of the industriousness of the early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The same symbol also appears in the state's coat of arms.

Address: 67 East South Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah

Hogle Zoo is a wonderful family-friendly destination in Salt Lake City. Located on the eastern fringes of the city, it is easily accessible from downtown. Spread out over 42 acres, the zoo has over 800 animals from around the world.

Seven major exhibits are available, including Elephant Encounter, World of Flight, Great Apes, Primate Forest, Rocky Shores, African Savanna, Asian Highlands, and lastly the Small Animal Building.

For a small fee, children can ride a miniature train that goes right past the lion cages, take a spin on a historical carousel, or have fun in the Lighthouse Point Splash zone on hot summer days.

To get more up close and personal with the animals, consider signing up for a Wildlife Connections program. For an additional fee, you'll be able to pet and feed a giraffe or a rhinoceros. These programs only run during the summer months.

City Creek Center is Salt Lake City's premier shopping destination , not only for the shops but for the atmosphere. Part of an urban renewal project, the mall is light and airy and contains over 100 of the top retailers in fashion, home décor, footwear, and electronics, among many others.

City Creek Center is unique in the fact that it actually has a creek, complete with fish, running through the center of it, and a retractable roof that is open on warm days. Be sure to check out the fascinating water fountain, complete with dancing flames set to accompanying music.

A large indoor play area for children by the food court has a dinosaur theme and is a hit with moms, who can enjoy a coffee while the kids burn off some energy in the playground.

Most of Salt Lake City's tourist attractions are in the downtown core, including Temple Square, the Salt Lake City Temple, and the State Capitol. The trendy west downtown area is where many of the city's best restaurants are located. If you are in the city for sightseeing, entertainment, and nightlife, this is the best place to stay.

If your main purpose is to hit the nearby ski hills, and you aren't interested in going out at night, be sure to stay on the eastern edge of the city. That way, you'll save time commuting across the city or out of downtown.

For the resorts of Park City, stay in the northeastern area, for the resorts of the Little Cottonwood Valley (Alta, Snowbird), stay in the southeastern area of the city.

Below is a list of highly rated hotels in good locations :

Luxury Hotels:

• The towering Grand America Hotel , with elegantly furnished rooms with balconies, occupies a prime spot in downtown Salt Lake City, just a short walk from Temple Square and local eateries.
• Ideal for event or trade show attendees, the nearby Kimpton Hotel Monaco features well-appointed rooms and is pet-friendly.
• The Salt Lake City Marriott City Center is a luxury option just steps away from the lively City Center Mall with its many shopping and dining options.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the center of the action and near several popular restaurants is the recently renovated Hilton Garden Inn , with large rooms, a 24-hour pool, and a free airport shuttle.
• A couple of miles to the east of downtown and near the Museum of Natural History is the University Guest House , with comfortable rooms and a free shuttle to area attractions.
• Fifteen minutes to the east and convenient for those heading to the ski hills is the new Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City East hotel. This hotel features rooms with good views of the city along with a saltwater pool and hot tub.

Budget Hotels:

• The following hotels are within walking distance of Temple Square and a variety of good restaurants. At the top end of the budget category, the Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites Salt Lake City Downtown , with an indoor pool, is one of the most popular budget hotels.
• The Metropolitan Inn , with a seasonal outdoor pool, is known for exceptional rates, which include breakfast.
• A good middle ground is the recently renovated Comfort Inn Downtown , with spacious rooms and an outdoor hot tub with a fireplace. All of these hotels are pet friendly and provide a complimentary breakfast.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Visiting Utah's Parks: Utah's national and state parks are some of America's greatest natural treasures. Nature lovers can spend countless vacations in Utah. Walk along the cliff walls on the hiking trails in Zion National Park or below the towering stone spires on the trails in Bryce Canyon National Park . Pitch your tent or set up your RV in the campgrounds near Moab (Arches NP) or Capitol Reef . And if you want to escape the crowds, get off the beaten path on the hiking trails near St. George and discover the incredible Snow Canyon.

More on Utah

25 Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah: Our Recommendations

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 11, 2024

The capital of Utah is one of the most beautifully located cities in the USA. Salt Lake City sits between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountain Range; it’s a jackpot when it comes to finding things to do.

The high season runs from December until March, when you’ll find all the winter activities and ski-related things to do. The second high season is the height of summer, when road trips around Utah become super-popular, and people visit its lakes for water activities in the sun. April until June and September until November are the shoulder seasons, when you’ll find all of these attractions much quieter.

Many people use Salt Lake City as a bit of a launchpad, flying into the city and then rushing straight off to Utah’s national parks and iconic hiking trails. But we’ll show you why this city is worth sticking around in. There’s so much to do in Utah, and this guide will cover the ultimate 25 things to do in Utah when you visit.

Using a rental bike or public transport, you can easily get around Salt Lake City to see these attractions. Alternatively, you can rent a car to take plenty of day trips and visit Great Salt Lake regularly.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most amazing things to do in Salt Lake City. But first, let’s briefly summarize the essentials for anyone in a rush.

Best of Salt Lake City: Quick Guide

• Must See: Big Cottonwood Canyon, Great Salt Lake, Temple Square, Red Butte Garden, and the Capitol Building.
• Where to Stay: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western ($), The Little America Hotel ($$), and Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown ($$$)
• Fun To Do: Go skiing, swim in the lake, visit the Bonneville Salt Flats, go zip lining, and grab a coffee to enjoy in the ‘park city’ green spaces.
• Day Trips: Bonneville Salt Flats, Bryce National Park, Provo, and Fifth Water Hot Springs.
• Must try Foods: Utah scones, fry sauce, and a Crown Burger.

Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City

We love Salt Lake City and are excited to share our top 25 things to do with you. We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again; there are just so many things to do in Salt Lake City. Without further ado, these are our top 25 picks for you.

1. Liberty Park

Salt Lake City has a beautiful selection of parks and green spaces. This park is the oldest and second largest in the city, spanning 80 acres. It’s the perfect spot for a morning stroll with coffee or somewhere to spend an hour or two in the late afternoon under a tree with a book.

There’s a massive lake where you can rent out paddle boats, miles of manicured trails, playgrounds, and a splash pad for kids. The park is really serene. It’s an excellent spot for inner-city green space and a convenient connection with nature.

The park also has Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens, but we’ll cover that as a standalone attraction later. It’s a paid zoo in the park’s center, sectioned off with an entrance fee of $13. The rest of Liberty Park is unfenced and free to enjoy. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind.

• Insider Tip: Remember to visit the nearby Chase Home Museum.
• Practical Information: Free to enter and open daily from 8 am until 11 pm.

2. Great Salt Lake

Everybody knows the Great Salt Lake. It’s the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi and the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere— impressive titles. The lake is popular for its gorgeous views and is a hotspot for bird watchers, attracting thousands of migratory birds. 

You can visit attractions on the lake like the Spiral Jetty, viewpoints in Great Salt Lake State Park, or beaches like Pelican Beach. It’s beautiful to walk around and admire,  especially at sunset , around the pink water area of the lake. Equally, in hot weather, you can swim – just be mindful of irritation from the high salt levels.

Visiting this beautiful lake is a definite bucket list activity. Depending on where you go, it only takes 20 minutes or so by car to reach the lake’s shores. It’s worth renting a car for and is one of the most convenient day trips from the city.

Insider Tip: If you decide to swim, keep long hair out of the water, and be aware that the salt levels can damage your swimming costumes.

3. Antelope Island State Park

While talking about Great Salt Lake, we’ve got to mention Antelope Island State Park. This protected bit of shoreside peninsula juts into the lake. The beautiful peninsula is full of serene beaches with miles upon miles of hiking opportunities and horseback riding tours.

Best of all, though, are its free-roaming bison herds. You can spot the majestic animals all over the state park. There are also a handful of antelopes, hence the Antelope Island area’s name.

If you want to see the lake and embrace some gorgeous wildlife all at once, visiting Antelope Island State Park is the best. It gets our vote for its wildlife opportunities and beautiful location on the lake, with access to many beaches and trails like the hike to Frary Peak.

Insider Tip: Hike Buffalo Point Trailhead to see lots of different wildlife. 

4. Wheeler Historic Farm

Wheeler Historic Farm is a fascinating working farm offering immersive exhibits and experiences to guests. It’s family-friendly and located just outside of downtown Salt Lake City. If you’re traveling to Salt Lake City with kids, we heartily recommend it.

Kids can enjoy wagon rides, meeting animals, and a vast playground. Adults will love the time capsule-like experience, with historical exhibits, the farmers market, and seasonal events like pumpkin days. You can also tour the farmhouse on select days.

Utah has a lot of rural culture and history, so it’s interesting to learn about this and convenient given how close it is to the center. This preservation of rural heritage and farming communities is what gives it our vote.

• Insider Tip: Reserve a farmhouse tour for an extra memorable experience.
• Practical Information: It is open every day during daylight hours, with small fees of a few dollars depending on what activities you choose while there (milking cows, etc).

5. Red Iguana

You can’t visit Salt Lake City and not dine at Red Iguana. This Mexican restaurant offers delicious authentic Mexican cuisine. You can sample everything from chile verde to fajitas, mole, and carnitas. And that’s without factoring in their amazing beverage menu, which includes some seriously tasty margaritas. 

Red Iguana is family-run and a total favorite on the dining scene in Salt Lake City. We assume you’ll treat yourself to at least one meal, even if you are self-catered. And Red Iguana is the perfect place to do so.

The restaurant is located just a 30-minute walk from the downtown area or 20 minutes by the Green Line on the light rail.

• Insider Tip: Organize a non-driving method of transport so you can sample the cocktails.
• Practical Information: It is open from 11 am until 9 pm Sunday through Thursday and until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

6. Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens

Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens is the small zoo we mentioned earlier in Liberty Park. Rather than being a traditional zoo—we generally do not endorse zoos at all—it only hosts birds, including flamingos, toucans, and vultures. It has plenty of educational programs and learning opportunities.

It’s an educational pick for those traveling with children or just an interesting day out for adults. The developed gardens are also beautiful and easily one of the most popular attractions in the city. It isn’t the largest botanical garden you’ll ever see; instead, what makes it special is the effort in its small areas, like the beauty in its rainforest biodome.

This attraction is centrally located just a short walk from the city center, and it’s a part indoor and part outdoor space, perfect for a hot or wet day.

• Insider Tip: Watch out for the beautiful love birds.
• Practical Information: Open from 9 am until 5 pm at $13 per ticket.

7. Bonneville Salt Flats

Have you heard of the salt flats in Bolivia? Salt flats are fascinating remnants of lakes that have dried up and left patterned salt layers behind. In dry weather, you can spot the salt patterns, which turn into a mirror-like surface in wet weather. Sound familiar? Well, Bonneville Salt Flats are Utah’s answer to Bolivia’s Salar De Uyuni.

Bonneville Salt Flats were formed when Lake Bonneville dried up, and now, they look almost like another planet. The white floor looks tiled thanks to the salt pattern. Bonneville Salt Flats are 1.5 hours away from Salt Lake City by car. It is well worth the rental, and you’ll pass Great Salt Lake State Park.

Insider Tip: Remember to research the salt flats beforehand; they’ve been the site of many world land-speed record runs.

8. Ensign Peak

Nothing is more satisfying than a summit hike. Ensign Peak is a small mountain just north of the city center, marked by a monument and sweeping views over the Salt Lake Valley. It’s a stunning place to gain a new vantage point over the city and that sense of achievement.

The summit trail is well-marked and only around a mile out and back. It’s really easy to navigate, so it’s our top recommendation for a scenic sunrise or sunset hike. You won’t struggle to navigate with a head torch. The trailhead is on Ensign Vista Drive, just a 10-minute drive or 40-minute bus ride and walk from the city center.

Insider Tip: Bring a head torch if you hike it for sunrise or sunset.

9. Lake Blanche

Lake Blanche is a gorgeous little place in the shadow of Sundial Peak and Salt Lake City’s eastern mountain range. It only takes around 30 minutes to drive there, making it an ideal half-day trip from the city center to embrace some natural beauty.

The Lake Blanche trail is 7 miles out-and-back, with striking water views and the dramatic vision of mountain peaks in the backdrop. It’s fairly suitable as a year-round trail, although it’s much more enjoyable and accessible from spring to fall.

You start the trail from Mill B South Fork Trailhead off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. It’s a breeze to find. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of refreshments, though, as it takes roughly 5 hours to complete.

Insider Tip: Keep your eyes out for moose.

10. Big Cottonwood Canyon

You don’t need to go far for natural beauty in Salt Lake City. Big Cottonwood Canyon is just a 20-minute drive or an hour by light rail and bus. The beautiful canyon stretches 15 miles and offers some of the region’s best hiking, biking, and rock climbing. We’d suggest driving it purely so you can enjoy its scenic drive on Cottonwood Canyon Road.

You can hike to places like Lake Mary, Willow Fork Beaver Pond, and Silver Lake. There’s also the Wasatch Wildflower Festival every July.

We’d suggest Big Cottonwood Canyon if you want an area where you can organize your own activities and adventures. Visiting Big Cottonwood Canyon is free and gives you plenty of independence to choose anything from biking trails to climbing experiences.

Insider Tip: Silver Fork Lodge is a cool place to have brunch at Big Cottonwood Canyon.

11. Temple Square

Temple Square is palatial-looking, with light grey rock and dramatic-looking turrets. It’s the church of the Latter Day Saints, a religion that branches off from Christianity with its own interpretation of the bible and teachings of Jesus Christ. 

Salt Lake City was founded by Mormons, so it’s closely intertwined with the city’s history. You can visit Temple Square for free daily, and it’s great for those interested in Jesus Christ, general religious history, or just architecture buffs. The church is really beautiful and well-maintained.

Adjoining Temple Square is the largest genealogy library in Utah, aka the FamilySearch Library. There’s also the Salt Lake City Tabernacle.

• Insider Tip: Watch out for the free organ concerts at Salt Lake City Tabernacle.
• Practical Information: It is free to visit and open from 10 am until 8 pm daily.

12. Go Zip Lining

Perhaps one of the most adventurous things to do in Salt Lake City is to ride the ziplines at Deer Creek State Park, less than an hour’s drive from the city center. Its most exciting line is the Screaming Falcon, which stretches 3900 ft over the lake and is the longest overwater zipline in the US.

Tickets range from $39 to above $120, depending on what guided tour package you want. Going zip lining is easily one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City; it will definitely be an adrenaline rush among summer activities.

Zipline Utah is the company that runs the ziplines in Deer Creek State Park. Visit nearby ziplines, as well, like the ones at Provo Canyon.

• Insider Tip: Consider trying out the Provo Canyon zip lines, which are just next door. 
• Practical Information: Open 9 am until 5 pm with tickets ranging from $39 to above $120.

13. Clark Planetarium

Have you caught Salt Lake City’s weather on an off-day? Clark Planetarium is a great indoor activity on a questionable weather day.

The planetarium runs 3D IMAX films and laser light shows on space and science. It’s an educational place to visit for immersive learning and films-with-a-twist. Settling back to watch a film just provides you with different relaxation. You’ll catch free exhibits, too.

Clark Planetarium is located just outside of the downtown area, around 15 minutes on foot from its center.

• Insider Tip: It’s right next to the Delta Center, so see if there are any events at this venue as well. 
• Practical Information: Tickets are $10 plus tax for shows and free for the exhibits. Open from 10 am until 7 pm from Sunday until Thursday and stays open until 10:45 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. 

14. Capitol Building

Salt Lake City’s Capitol Building sits on top of Capitol Hill and has typical neoclassical architecture. Regardless of your interest in politics and US history, the Capitol Building is stunning to visit and look at. You can take guided tours of its rooms and exhibits. 

The building itself dates back to 1916. Seeing all the marble interior and muraled dome is astounding – you’ll want to take lots of photos, as it’s easily Salt Lake City’s most photogenic building. It’s located north of the city center, around a 35-minute walk from the downtown area.

• Insider Tip: If you are on the fence, just check out its virtual tour – you’ll want to see it in person.
• Practical Information: It is free to visit and open from 7 am until 8 pm from Monday until Thursday and 7 am until 6 pm from Friday to Sunday.

15. Utah Olympic Park

Did you know that  Park City  hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002? Well, Utah Olympic Park was its venue and has everything from ski jumps to bobsled rides. 

You can visit to see where the 2002 Winter Olympics occurred. It’s fascinating to see all the arenas and equipment up close. There are two museums on site, too: George Eccles Museum and Joe Quinney Winter Sports Center. It’s located just outside Salt Lake City, near Park City, in the eastern mountain range.

• Insider Tip: There’s free parking space on site, and it’s best to drive.
• Practical Information: Open from 9 am until 6 pm every day. Prices vary depending on your activities.

16. Go Skiing

If you visit Salt Lake City between December and March, you  have  to try skiing—it’s why the region is popular for winter activities. You’ll have stunning views from the mountains, and advanced skiers will have dozens of routes to enjoy at the ski resort.

There are three main areas for ski resorts near the Salt Lake City area: Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons, Ogden, and Park City. The canyons are famed for deep snow and lots of snowfall. In contrast, Park City is famous for its more luxurious experience and Ogden for family-friendly resorts. For majestic views and a bit of winter adrenaline, you can’t beat skiing in Salt Lake City. Definitely make the most of those nearby mountains.

Insider Tip: Skiing in April after Spring Break will mean fewer crowds.

17. Natural History Museum of Utah

Everyone loves a good Natural History Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Utah has 10 fascinating galleries showcasing all the nature and earth science of the region. It has everything from dinosaur remains to precious gems. 

You could easily spend a couple of hours walking through this modern museum. Remember to check out the special exhibit, too, which is a rotating gallery running two to three different exhibits a year.

The Natural History Museum is located next to Red Butte Garden, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary. Just catch the bus from the city center, and you’ll be there in 40 minutes.

• Insider Tip: You’ll love all the range of dinosaur exhibits.
• Practical Information: $20 per person and open 10 am until 5 pm every day.

18. Visit Provo

You can’t visit Salt Lake City without taking a day trip to Provo. Utah’s ‘second city’ is known for its culture, housing everything from the BYU Museum of Palaeontology to the Crandall Historical Printing Museum.

Reaching Provo takes just over an hour by FrontRunner train or 50 minutes by car. We’d suggest catching an early train from Salt Lake Central Station to maximize your time and avoid parking nightmares. When you arrive, you can enjoy all of its museums. In summer, you’ll love the proximity to Utah Lake State Park and its beaches.

Insider Tip: Allow time to hike Mt Timpanogos in late spring and summer (bring a car for this activity).

19. Visit the University of Utah Campus

The University of Utah is located on the outskirts of the capital and offers regular guided tours. It’s a beautiful campus, with 100 acres of gardens and an arboretum.

If you fancy putting your academic hat back on, book a General Campus Tour – available to all visitors. You can take a look at the state’s most prestigious research university.

The campus is located just a 20-minute bus ride from the city center and is right next to Red Butte Gardens, so we’d recommend combining the two.

• Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts on campus.
• Practical Information: A guided tour is free, and times vary depending on availability. 

20. Day Trip to National Parks

You should definitely use Salt Lake City as a base to day trip to the  mighty 5  national parks. Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, Zion, and Capitol Reef National Park are all amazing spots to enjoy nature. Day-tripping to a national park is one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City.

You could tackle hikes like Angels Landing or a scenic drive through Canyonlands. There are so many activities in Utah’s national parks.

If you only have a day and cannot stay overnight, be prepared to set off early in the morning and for a long day of driving. The closest park is either Arches National Park (3 hours and 40 minutes one way) or Bryce Canyon National Park (Approx. 4 hours one way).

Insider Tip: Research permits and weather conditions beforehand.

21. Trolley Square

Trolley Square is full of character. Once a 1900s trolley barn, it was converted into an upscale shopping center – perfect for retail therapy. Check out bookstores, fine dining restaurants, clothing chains, and even a museum on the history of trolleys.

We’d recommend shopping here for anyone wanting to enjoy Salt Lake City’s retail scene. It’s also a covered mall so ideal if you get unlucky with the weather.

Trolley Square stays open until 8 pm nearly every day, so you can enjoy a late meal and some evening shopping. It’s located just outside the downtown area, roughly 30 minutes on foot or 20 minutes on the light rail.

• Insider Tip: Take advantage of the ice cream truck outside!
• Practical Information: It is open from 10 am until 8 pm Monday through Saturday and 12 pm until 5 pm on Sunday.

22. Memory Grove Park

Memory Grove Park is a serene area of green space within Salt Lake City’s bounds. It’s only a 30-minute walk north of the city center and great for a peaceful walk. One of the best things about Salt Lake City is the number of gorgeous parks, so you should definitely make the most of how central Memory Grove Park is.

The Meditation Chapel is a particularly peaceful place to sit and collect your thoughts. You can also walk the Freedom Trail alongside the refreshing sound of City Creek.

The park is full of memorials and monuments that give you that extra prompt for reflection. The water features are beautiful too, with fountains, ponds, and the natural creek.

• Insider Tip: Remember to see the Anderson Tower Monument nearby.
• Practical Information: Open from 8 am until 10 pm and free to enjoy.

23. Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum

Anyone trying to sightsee with children knows the importance of interactive exhibits. At Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, the target audience is those with a short attention span – so parents, get ready to hit the jackpot.

The museum has over 60,000 square feet of fun learning for children. It has everything from a real helicopter on display to small-world displays like mechanic shops, complete with cars with popped hoods.

If you have young children, visiting the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum is a brilliant way to make your visit to Salt Lake City an extra bit more educational.

• Insider Tip: Avoid the weekends, which get super busy.
• Practical Information: Open Wednesday until Monday from 10 am until 6 pm. Tickets cost $13.50 per adult and $12.50 per child.

24. This Is The Place Heritage Park

Fancy stepping back in time? Well, Salt Lake City certainly would be the place to do so. This Is The Place Heritage Park takes you back to the Old West and the city’s founding. The park has everything from a Native American Village to gold panning exhibits and Mormon history.

It’s a great place to really understand Salt Lake City and its story. It doesn’t feel like a formal museum as it’s such an immersive experience – you’ll be living the days gone by without even realizing you’re learning.

This Is The Place Heritage Park is located on the city’s outskirts, roughly 20 minutes from the city center by car or an hour using the bus.

• Insider Tip: Check out the nearby Living Room Trail when visiting.
• Practical Information: There is a $20 per adult entrance fee, and it is open from 10 am until 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.

25. Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden is one of the largest botanical garden attractions in the Intermountain West. It spans 21 acres of manicured gardens and its beautiful displays change seasonally, including over 590,000 flowers in spring—predominantly daffodils.

To immerse yourself for a few hours in natural wonders, Red Butte Garden is by far the prettiest place to do so. It’s a great way to connect with the great outdoors. You can even catch outdoor concerts in summer. It’s located in the east of the city and an easy 15-minute drive from the center. Alternatively, you can catch a 30-minute bus.

• Insider Tip: Check out the events on its main website.
• Practical Information: $16 per adult from 9 am until 5 pm daily.

Your Questions Answered About Salt Lake City

By now, you should have a collection of the best things to do in the Salt Lake City area that are really up your street. You could ski, learn about the Church of the Latter Day Saints, or hike trails in the Red Butte Garden. Salt Lake City has so much to offer. Before you go, though, take a look at these common FAQs.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Salt Lake, Utah?

The number one attraction in the city center is Temple Square. It’s the pinnacle of Mormon history and has spectacular architecture. Great Salt Lake is the city’s greatest attraction outside the center.

What is Salt Lake City best known for?

Salt Lake City is best known for its Mormon history and proximity to a beautiful lake and ski resorts. It also has the best airport to access Utah’s national parks.

Is Salt Lake City worth seeing?

Absolutely. Salt Lake City is a wonderful place to visit because of its mixture of culture (with the Church of the Latter Day Saints and architecture like Temple Square) and nature (with the lake and nearby mountains).

How many days should I spend in Salt Lake City?

We’d recommend at least three days in Salt Lake City and as long as a week if you want to visit a national park or two.

Tips And Information For Visiting

Of course, knowing the best things to do in Salt Lake City is great. But what do you need to know practically about visiting? Let’s cover the vital tips and information you need to know before booking a trip to Salt Lake City. We want you to have the best time possible.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Salt Lake City is between April and June during shoulder season. In April, you can catch the backend of the ski resort season while also starting to enjoy warmer temperatures. May and June are ideal for quiet hiking and biking trails, as well as sightseeing without the crowds.

As a slight caveat, though, your preferred activities when visiting do slightly impact when you should visit. If you want to enjoy swimming in lakes, stick to summer. And if you want the ski season in full swing, we’d suggest visiting between December and March.

Getting There

The easiest way is to fly directly into Salt Lake City International Airport and catch a shuttle to the city center. This is the best option for anyone traveling internationally or who is short on time. 

With more time, you could use Amtrak to reach Salt Lake City. The Utah capital is on the California Zephyr line, connecting Chicago with San Francisco. Visiting by train is much more sustainable, and you get a more extended travel experience—with gorgeous views from the train window.

You could road trip to Salt Lake City as well. Depending on your departure point, you likely need more time than catching the train. However, it’s definitely worthwhile, and Utah is famously great for road trips.

Getting Around

The easiest way to get around Downtown Salt Lake City is on foot or by rented bicycle. The downtown area is highly walkable, and if you stay centrally, the only reason you’d need to consider other options is for day trips. 

That said, you also have a bus service run by the Utah Transit Authority and a light rail system called TRAX. You can purchase the Premium Pass for these, granting you travel for a set price. There’s also a fare-free area within the main downtown, meaning budget-friendly transport if your legs tire.

We’d suggest biting the bullet and hiring a car for those wanting to take day trips to a national park or the lake.

How Much Time Do You Need?

Three days is enough time in Salt Lake City to sightsee around downtown and visit the lake. You’ll be able to get a good taste of the city in this time.

If you want to see some national parks or visit Provo, give yourself a week. Some national parks, like Zion and Arches, are best visited if you plan to stay there overnight rather than on a day trip, so give yourself that extra wiggle room with more days in your itinerary.

Where To Stay in Salt Lake City, Utah

Without a doubt, Downtown Salt Lake City is the best area for tourists to stay in. The city has an all-or-nothing relationship with attractions, and you’ll either experience inner-city attractions like Temple Square  or  head way out into the outskirts to distant attractions like the lake or Red Butte Garden. Because of this, it really isn’t worth staying anywhere but downtown if you’re short on time and want to maximize sightseeing.

If you want a quieter experience in Salt Lake City and aren’t as interested in inner-city sightseeing, Park City is our top recommendation. Park City is residential and relaxing, perfect for resting after a long road trip or working remotely.

For now, though, we’ll focus on Downtown Salt Lake City, as you seem like the sightseeing bunch.

Here are some of the best hotels in Salt Lake City for all budgets :

Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western ($), The Little America Hotel ($$), and Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown ($$$)

• Luxury: Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown

Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown  is a trendy property with a rooftop pool, fitness center, and onsite restaurant; it’s great for a luxurious base to sightsee the downtown area.

• Mid Range: Little America Hotel Salt Lake City 

The Little America Hotel  is a brilliantly located boutique-style hotel with both an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and comfortable rooms.

• Budget: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western

The downtown area isn’t best known for budget accommodation. While you can find hotels for as little as $70 a night, these mostly have low reviews over things like cleanliness, so we can’t confidently recommend them.  Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western  is the compromise, offering modern rooms, a fitness center, and a pool for reasonable prices.

Salt Lake City is something special. We love how you’ve got surrounding nature and the cultural aspect with the Natural History Museum and Temple Square. It was hard to narrow things down to these 25 best things to do in Salt Lake City, but we’re confident you’ll love them.

Are you looking for more inspiration on visiting Salt Lake City? Why not check out these  amazing things to do in Utah ? If you visit Salt Lake City for longer than a few days, there’s no reason why you can’t see more in the area. You could plan a few national parks or even a road trip to Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon. Whatever you choose to do, Salt Lake City will keep you entertained. Have a fantastic time.

Utah Resources

• 36 Fun Things To Do In Utah
• 12 Best Hikes in Moab, Utah
• Utah National Parks: How to visit The Mighty 5
• 11 Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

You May Also Like

Where to Stay In And Around Zion National Park: Our Favourite Places

Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A First Timers Guide to The Best Places

25 Best Weekend Getaways in The USA (2024)

About ThePlanetD Team

Guest writers for The Planet D offer insider tips and information on destinations that they are experts in. We can't be everywhere at once, and it is important to have the highest level of travel information from local writers and experienced travelers.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The best of Salt Lake City's great outdoors (and indoors)

Aug 30, 2021 • 7 min read

Salt Lake City combines the best of city life with world-class outdoor adventures © f11photo / Shutterstock

Whether you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, wandering through a museum, learning about your family history or experiencing Olympic activities, Salt Lake City , Utah, has it all.

With a combination of city life and nearby world-class outdoor adventures, you get the best of both worlds. 

Salt Lake City was founded in 1847 by Brigham Young and has a history steeped in the Mormon faith. Therefore, there are plenty of interesting religious institutions and monuments to visit. It is also surrounded by a variety of landscapes and terrain that make it a top spot for world-class skiing , hiking, mountain biking and, of course, taking a dip in the Great Salt Lake.

We’ve put together a list of our top things to do while visiting this eclectic city.  

1. Mormon Tabernacle Choir 

One of the most iconic things to see and do in Salt Lake City is to attend a rehearsal of the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir . With a 360-member volunteer chorus of men and women, their vocals lift the spirits of those attending their rehearsals. Visitors to the Mormon Tabernacle, located in Temple Square , can also listen to pipe organ concerts, organ recitals and bells rehearsals.

2. Utah Olympic Park

Olympics fans will love experiencing what it’s like to be in the shoes of an Olympian at Utah Olympic Park . Built for the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games, visitors can try things like bobsledding or freestyle skiing and snowboarding (both in winter and summer). The facility also has adventures like ziplining, airbag jumps, alpine slides, extreme tubing and more. 

Check out the Flying Ace All-Stars Freestyle Show , get a guided tour of the venue or jump off the 41-foot high dive platform. The 400-acre venue is located 25 miles east of Salt Lake City. For ice skating, check out the Utah Olympic Oval and for Nordic skiing and e-bike rentals, visit the Soldier Hollow Nordic Center. To get a glimpse of the Olympic cauldron, go to the south end of the Rice-Eccles Stadium at the University of Utah.

The best time to visit Salt Lake City

3. The Great Salt Lake

You can’t visit Salt Lake City without floating in the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere. It is located within the Salt Lake City State Park , just 16 miles west of Salt Lake City. The salinity of the water, ranging anywhere between 5 to 27 percent salt, makes it very buoyant. Other activities include sailing, kayaking, and hiking. Bring binoculars because there is a plethora of wildlife to view, such as bison, antelope, deer, bobcats, coyotes, elk and birds.

4. Natural History Museum of Utah

Visitors to the Natural History Museum of Utah can learn about and explore collections related to paleontology, anthropology, vertebrate zoology, entomology, botany, mineralogy and malacology. There are 11 permanent exhibitions that range from life and land to gems and minerals and so much more. The museum also features special exhibitions that rotate throughout the year. Just the mineralogy collection alone contains 5000 items. Explore an archeological reconstruction of a Median Village in the First People exhibit. The museum will entertain adults and children with hours of content to examine.

5. Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden , located at the University of Utah, has 21 acres of award-winning gardens. There is something for everyone. Visitors can wander through the many themed gardens of the area which spans the flora scope from medicinals, herbs and roses to an orangerie. Guests can also enjoy concerts, educational workshops, garden tours and five miles of hiking trails. One of the most impressive times to visit is spring when there are 524,000 bulbs in bloom.

6. Family History Library

To do in-depth research about your heritage, visit the Family History Library . The tools and resources available include the largest collection of genealogy materials in the world, which consists of books, film, photographs and documents. The library has skilled research assistants on hand to help discover your roots. Want to preserve your memories to share with future generations? Take advantage of the free photo and document scanner or convert your VHS and DVD videos to digital formats for easy sharing and storing. 

How to get around in Salt Lake City

7. Thanksgiving Point

With a working farm, expansive gardens and interactive museums, Thanksgiving Point is full of educational and entertaining experiences for the whole family. Be surrounded by 1000 butterflies in the Butterfly Biosphere , try out some of the 400 interactive experiences at the Museum of Natural Curiosity, get up close and personal with cows, goats, horses, chickens, sheep and pigs at Farm Country, examine life-sized dinosaur skeletons or wander through 50 acres of pristinely manicured gardens – that includes the largest manmade waterfall in the Western Hemisphere.

8. Clark Planetarium

Learn about space at the  Clark Planetarium with interactive exhibits focusing on meteors, the moon, space weather, solar flares, planets, magnetic fields and more. Touch a meteorite, experience the force of gravity, watch water freeze instantly or test-drive a rover. Visit the Hansen Dome Theater for a musical laser light show or get a tour of the night sky.

9. Timpanogos Cave

About 40 minutes outside of Salt Lake City, in the nearby Wasatch Mountains, is Timpanogos Cave National Monument . Visitors can discover the wonders of geology as they explore the cool underground caves. Learn about how helicities are formed, enter the Chimes Chamber with hundreds of spiral formations, or follow fault lines in the Imagination Room. Take a guided tour to get dirty as you crawl and climb through the caves.

10. Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Meander through the free Gilgal Sculpture Garden with 12 sculptures and 70 large stones engraved with meaningful passages. The creator, Thomas Battersby Child, Jr. worked on building the pieces of art on his property for 18 years until he passed away in 1963. The garden is now a Salt Lake City park and is maintained by the Friends of Gilgal Garden and the Salt Lake City Master Gardener Association. It is a unique and inspiring outing for all to enjoy.

11. Temple Square

Located in the center of downtown Salt Lake City, the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is surrounded by the five-block area of Temple Square . The Square is the hub of worship, history, commemoration, gatherings and music. Visitors can take a free guided tour to visit the temple, museums, libraries, gardens, monuments and fountains.

12. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is located at the University of Utah and was created to showcase contemporary art and prompt discussions about the role art plays in our lives. The museum’s collection houses 20,000 pieces of art. The gallery features 10 ongoing exhibitions that showcase art from several regions and cultures around the world, including Japan, China, Europe, America, Africa, South Asia, the Pacific and more. Revel at the nearly 4000-year tradition of Chinese ceramics, the tribal textiles from Africa or the twenty-sixth dynasty Egyptian coffin. Temporary exhibitions rotate throughout the year. The museum also hosts events such as Art and Yoga, art classes, lectures and online programs.

13. Grandeur Peak

The Wasatch Mountains offer excellent hiking and opportunities to interact with nature. Get picturesque views of Salt Lake City by hiking the six-mile loop from Church Fork Trail to Grandeur Peak East located only about 20 minutes from downtown. The steep hike, which includes a waterfall and switchbacks, leads to Grandeur Peak at 8299ft – a worthwhile way to spend some time outside of the city.

14. Tracy Aviary and Botanical Garden

Located in Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary and Botanical Garden is a delight for the senses. This eight-acre aviary lets you see, hear and touch a large variety of birds including pelicans, eagles, cranes, flamingos, vultures, owls and more. There are 18 exhibits such as the Amazon Adventure, Destination Argentina, Wetland Experience and Treasures of the Rainforest. Visitors can feed birds, adopt birds or see an entertaining bird show. 

From the Salt Lake Airport to the slopes in an hour or less: 10 Utah ski resorts

15. Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicles State Recreation Area

Partake in the thrill of off-roading at the Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicles State Recreation Area . This Utah State Park, located in Salt Lake City, features five motocross tracks and one ATV/UTV track with tabletops and banked turns. Helmets, vehicle registration, safety certificate and driver’s license or OHV education program required.

You might also like: The 12 best day trips in the Rocky Mountains 14 free things to do in Salt Lake City This luxury train lets you see the Rocky Mountains in a whole new way

Explore related stories

Mar 29, 2024 • 6 min read

With Las Vegas, Phoenix, Flagstaff, LA and even Salt Lake City as starting points, here are the best road-trip routes to Grand Canyon National Park.

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Dec 11, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 27, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 15, 2023 • 6 min read

Aug 8, 2023 • 6 min read

Apr 24, 2023 • 7 min read

Mar 15, 2023 • 9 min read

Feb 13, 2023 • 11 min read

21 Best Things To Do In Salt Lake City, Utah (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering what activities and attractions you can’t miss in the City of the Saints? Our guide to the best things to do in Salt Lake City is just what you need!

Salt Lake City, Utah, is the best travel destination for a perfect blend of outdoor and indoor activities. The mountainous valley scenery makes for a breathtaking experience and picturesque backdrop as you explore this stunning city. 

Salt Lake City is home to many unique attractions, including the Family History Library, which stands as the most extensive genealogical library in the world. 

It was also here in Salt Lake City, Utah that the first Kentucky Fried Chicken was established before it spread across the globe to satisfy the world’s fried chicken cravings. 

We’ve created a designated list of what to do in Salt Lake City so that you can take part in the best activities and tourist attractions to visit on your trip to this hot spot travel destination. 

From hiking Big Cottonwood Canyon to checking out the local fossils at the Natural History Museum Of Utah, Salt Lake City has it all! 

Table of Contents

1) Explore Downtown Salt Lake City 

2) bask in the admirable views of great salt lake state park , 3) hike the big cottonwood canyon, 4) check out the local fossils at the natural history museum of utah, 5) shop at the city creek center, 6) get away from the hustle & bustle at liberty park , 7) awaken your finer senses at the utah museum of fine arts, 8) join the olympians at the utah olympic park , 9) tour the impressive grounds of temple square, 10) stroll the stunning red butte garden , 11) scour the family history library , 12) hike the city creek canyon hiking trail , 13) find a hidden gem at the gilgal sculpture garden , 14) walk back in history at the pioneer memorial museum , 15) take a guided tour of the utah state capitol building, 16) learn about the early pioneers at this is the place heritage park , 17) view a theater performance at the joseph smith memorial building, 18) view the memorial of fallen soldiers at memory grove park , 19) bask in the outdoors at the wasatch mountain range, 20) sit back & relax at sugar house park , 21) visit one of the last historic farmsteads at wheeler historic farm , best hostel in salt lake city, utah, best mid-range hotel in salt lake city, utah, best luxury hotel in salt lake city, utah, the best things to do in salt lake city, utah .

There are boatloads of Salt Lake City activities and attractions waiting to be explored that will suit any traveler. There are free activities for budget travelers, outdoor hikes for adventurous travelers, and plenty of cultural and historical sites to see. 

From Salt Lake Trolley Tours, to historic museums, stunning gardens, and more, there are so many fun things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah! 

Read Next: Use a visit to Salt Lake City to make the Utah National Parks Road Trip !

Centered on Temple Square in the Capitol Hill area, which encompasses five city blocks of exhibits and historic sites,  downtown Salt Lake City  is filled with fun activities and attractions waiting to be explored!

Hosting a range of farm-to-table restaurants boasting fresh and delicious ingredients, heading downtown is recommended to satisfy your cravings for an unforgettable meal. For those that enjoy drinking as they eat, downtown also boasts plenty of Irish pubs and wine bars to bask in live music and great company. 

Buy a ticket to bask in a ballet, opera, or Broadway show at the Capitol Theatre, or catch a performance of the incredible Utah Symphony. 

Or book one of the iconic Salt Lake Trolley Tours. These  sightseeing tours  will take you to all the best attractions around the city in a historic trolley. 

There are plenty of things to do in Salt Lake City, so hop over to downtown to explore historic sites, quench your appetite, or dance the night away—the options are endless! 

Heading east next? Here are the best things to do in Denver, Colorado !

A remnant of Lake Bonneville that spanned 20,000 square miles during the last ice age, the Great Salt Lake is a popular Salt Lake City attraction for locals and tourists alike. 

Now the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, the Great Salt Lake is also the eighth largest lake in the world! Though the lake is top-rated for its immensity, people travel from all over the world to visit its stunning shores, scenic nature, and refreshing atmosphere. 

At Great Salt Lake State Park, visitors can explore one of the best bird-watching and bison spotting places. Many come to the park to swim, hike, camp, and bask in the wildlife of this unique spot. 

If you’re a nature lover, then visiting one of Utah’s best state parks is definitely one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City. 

The park is open from sunrise to sunset, and you can find a full list of hiking trails, campgrounds, and more on the  website . 

Related: Don’t miss out on these great day trips from Salt Lake City !

A prevalent outdoor activity of Salt Lake City Utah, Big Cottonwood Canyon boasts prime scenery that is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, fishing, camping, mountain biking, and more.

This stunning location is reached by driving up The Big Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Byway (SR-190) to the top of the canyon at Guardsman Pass, a popular hiking spot. 

In addition, many go out of their way to hike to Big Cottonwood Canyon’s mountain lakes, like Lake Lillian, Lake Florence, Lake Mary, and Lake Blanche. 

Though the trail is only 3.1 miles, it is deemed a strenuous hike, so prepare adequately for this rewarding hike. Then, if you visit Salt Lake City at the right time, join a  guided backcountry ski tour  of the canyon to witness undeniably inspiring mountain range views! 

The Natural History Museum Of Utah illuminates the natural world, presenting exhibitions emphasizing Utah and the Intermountain West.

The museum is committed to serving as an education centerpiece in Utah by offering plenty of interactive exhibits that explore minerals, metals, flora, fauna, and much more. 

If you didn’t know, Utah is one of the most prosperous destinations in the world for dinosaur-fossil discovery. It’s no question, then, that the  Natural History Museum Of Utah  would present these impressive finds to its guests.

• Address:  301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
• Hours:  10am – 5pm
• Cost:  $19.95

Boasting world-class shopping and dining, City Creek Center has over 100 restaurants and stores from Louis Vuitton to Kendra Scott and Lululemon. 

Local favorite restaurants include Bocata and A Taste of Red Iguana, but there are other dining options, including the food court.

This unique shopping center is a must-visit when traveling to Salt Lake City. The center’s tractable glass roof opens and closes, a sky bridge connects the two city blocks of the center, and a fish pond is inserted with local trout, all to create a one-of-a-kind shopping center popular with locals and tourists alike.

• Address:  50 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
• Hours:  10am – 9pm (Closed Sundays)

Liberty Park is the second largest public park in Salt Lake City, which is incredibly popular for homing the Tracy Aviary and two islands. 

Containing more than 80 acres of green landscapes, many stop by this scenic park for a getaway from the bustle of city life. 

The Tracy Aviary and Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Art are on the park’s grounds. The aviary houses more than 135 avian species from around the world. The Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Art exhibits the arts of Utah’s indigenous peoples, European pioneers, and other historical artifacts. 

Go for a jog on one of the jogging paths, power through a game of tennis at the tennis courts, set up for a picnic in the grass by the ponds, or explore the museum and aviary at Liberty Park! 

• Address:  600 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
• Hours:  8am – 11pm

The primary resource for the region’s culture and visual arts, the Utah Museum Of Fine Arts showcases the exhibition of contemporary works to ancient artifacts. 

Presenting the magnitude of human history and creativity through over 20,000 original works of art. 

With over 74,000 square feet of space, the museum has plenty of room to present a range of exhibitions and arts, including sculptures, photographs, paintings, and more. 

In addition, the  Utah Museum Of Fine Arts  presents works from local artists and those worldwide, including ancient Greeks and Romans, Native Americans, Scottish, Thai, and much more. 

Stop by the Utah Museum Of Fine Arts for a film screening, tour, or artist talk for a unique experience of the arts.

• Address : 410 Campus Center Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84112
• Hours:  10am – 5pm (Closed Mondays, open until 8pm on Wednesdays)
• Cost : $17.95

Read next: The Perfect 3 Days in Denver Itinerary

After Utah hosted the XIX Olympic Winter Games and the VII Paralympic Winter Games in 2002, the Foundation designated Utah Olympic Park and the Utah Olympic Oval as the official U.S. Olympic Training Site. 

This task was completed to involve Utah’s youth in winter sports and continue the legacy and positive impact of the 2002 Winter Games.

The Olympic Park spans almost 400 acres, including a sliding track, six Nordic ski jumps, a 2002 Winter Games museum, the Spence Eccles Olympic Freestyle Pool, and a host of other fun activities. 

The multi-use facility has plenty of hands-on, family-friendly activities to explore, including tubing down the runs for a thrilling experience. This is one of the most fun things to do in the area with kids. 

• Address:  3419 Olympic Pkwy, Park City, UT 84098
• Hours:  9am – 6pm
• Cost:  Free (special activities and sports cost extra –  check prices online )

Another one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City is checking out the temple grounds at Temple Square. Owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, the Temple Squares is a 10-acre complex located in downtown.

Temple Square comprises five city blocks of historic sites, interactive exhibits, and other activities centered on the Church’s mission to worship Christ and serve God’s children. In addition, visitors can tour Temple Square’s refreshing gardens, majestic architecture, and historical space. 

The tours are led by missionaries and are available in over 40 languages to allow as much diversity as possible to those that wish to learn about the historic buildings. 

Even if you’re not a religious person, it’s a cool place to check out. 

• Address:  50 N Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
• Hours : 9am – 9pm
• Cost:  Free

The Red Butte Garden is a magical Salt Lake City attraction. Its amphitheater, botanical garden, and arboretum are all operated by the University of Utah campus, and its doors are open to the public year-round.

Red Butte Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West.

It is renowned for its themed gardens, impressive plant collections, world-famous outdoor concert series, teeming 500,000 springtime blooming bulbs, 22 acres of display gardens, and its award-winning horticulture-based educational programs. 

The official state arboretum is a wonderful place to stop for a relaxing stroll through the beautiful gardens. 

• Address:  300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
• Hours:  9am – 7:30pm (Closes at 5pm on Sunday and Tuesday)
• Cost:  $14

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, the  Family History Library  is a genealogical research facility with a library that is open to the public—free of charge!

The library spans five floors and 142,000 square feet with a collection of over 1.3 million rolls of microfilmed genealogical records, 340,000 books, 125,500 periodicals, 190,000 microfiche, and houses the names of more than 8 billion deceased people from over 100 countries. 

The library is operated by FamilySearch, the genealogical arm of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, dedicated to connecting families across generations. 

As one of the largest genealogical libraries in the world, this attraction is one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah.

• Address : 35 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
• Hours : 9am – 6pm (Closes at 8pm Tues-Thurs, Closed Sundays)

Also check out our list of the best things to do in Las Vegas, Nevada !

One of Salt Lake City’s top outdoor attractions is the City Creek hiking trail, which is accessible from downtown on foot. For those that have a car, it is possible to park on Canyon Road if traveling from your stay.

Before the City Creek Hiking Trail is City Creek Road, a paved trail that is a popular spot for walking and hiking. The first 3.6 miles of this refreshing hiking trail travel alongside a trickling mountain stream on this paved trail. 

The last few miles end at Rotary Park is a great spot to sit down for a refresher under the pavilions and picnic tables. 

For City Creek Hiking Trail, this will be found running adjective to City Creek Road. It stretches about three miles up to the water-treatment plant and conjoins with the Bonneville Shoreline Trail that veers up into the hills for picturesque scenery. 

Another one of Salt Lake City’s gems, the  Gilgal Sculpture Garden  is a small park settled behind houses and businesses, personifying a sense of discovery when first-time visitors discover the garden. 

Presenting 12 original sculptures and more than 70 stones engraved with literary texts, scriptures, and poems, the garden is committed as the only identified “visionary art environment” in all of Utah. 

Gilgal Sculpture Garden was created by Thomas Child when he was 57 in 1945. Child’s passionate mission to arouse curiosity and thinking as he was during his life-long spiritual quest. 

Until his death, Child spent much of his time personally traveling to Utah for huge stones that weighed up to 62 tons for his sculptures. 

Open seven days a week, visiting the sculpture garden is free of admission. All visitors are welcome to tour the grounds of this enigmatic and artistic gem. 

• Address:  749 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102
• Hours : 8am – 8pm

Home to the world’s largest collection of artifacts on one subject, the Pioneer Memorial Museum displays collections and memorabilia set from the earliest settlers. This includes settlers who entered the Valley of the Great Salt Lake until the railroads joined at Promontory Point in 1869. 

Stepping into the Pioneer Memorial Museum is a step back into history. Exhibits explore the belongings and memorabilia of the pioneer people who migrated over 2,000 miles west from Nauvoo, Illinois, and other parts of the world to seek religious freedom. 

From gorgeous pine furniture to ornate decorative arts, there are plenty of preserved items and memorabilia to investigate and learn about at the Pioneer Memorial Museum. 

• Address:  300 N Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
• Hours:  9am – 4:30pm, closed Saturdays and Sundays

One of the most prominent landmarks in Utah, the state capitol building has stood as the home of state government since its establishment in 1916. And from 2004-2008, the building underwent one of the largest historical preservation projects in the United States!

The project was done to repair and restore the historical beauty of the building. Since then, people worldwide have visited the Utah State Capitol Building to explore its historical beauty and significance. 

Its design combines Corinthian style and Neoclassical Revival architecture, earning the building a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. 

The capitol building is open seven days a week. It offers free guided tours every hour of the common areas that feature paintings of the state’s early history and the picturesque park outdoors that houses various memorials and a stunning reflecting pond. 

Check the website  for more info about scheduling a tour.

• Address:  350 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
• Hours : 7am – 8pm (Closes at 6pm Fri-Sun)

Located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, This Is The Place Heritage Park offers a chance for guests to step back in time to witness how early settlers lived. 

A family-friendly and educational activity, the park is a worthwhile entertaining experience of the early settlement stages. The park was named after a phrase spoken by Brigham Young 1847, who led a group of pioneers to the valley. 

When Young saw the valley, he declared, “This is the right place. Drive on.” This Is The Place Heritage Park honors and represents the pioneers’ early settlements and hard work accomplished in the Utah territory.

There is a range of activities, including the Heritage Village, which features buildings and cabins to explore where guests can watch leatherworkers, blacksmiths, spinsters, and more work. It’s like a living history museum, and it’s one of Salt Lake City’s top attractions. 

• Address:  2601 East Sunnyside Ave, Salt Lake City, UT, 84108
• Hours:  9am – 5pm (Closed Sundays)
• Cost:  $15.95

Named to honor Joseph Smith, the founder of the Latter Day Saint movement, the  Joseph Smith Memorial Building  is a social center that now houses various restaurants, a 500-seat theater, and an event space. 

Previously called Hotel Utah, the building was established in 1911 to bring a world-class hotel to Salt Lake City. Welcoming guests from over the globe for more than 75 years, in 1987, the hotel closed and reopened in 1993 as an administration space by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

Since its expansion of purpose, the building now houses a theater that hosts various film and theatre performances. Visitors can come for a performance, sit at one of the many dining options, or come for the congregation on Sunday. 

• Address:  15 E S Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
• Hours:  9am – 9pm, Closed Sundays

Heading south after Utah? Here is our list of the best things to do in Phoenix, Arizona .

Dedicated as a memorial to America’s fallen military men in 1924, Memory Grove Park homes various memorials and structures built to honor these fallen soldiers.

The Pagoda is the first memorial established in the park. The classical marble structure is constructed of eight columns, each supported by a circular entablature. 

The marble used for the Pagoda is the same used to create the Lincoln Monument in Washington, D.C. 

Other stunning memorials are speckling the park grounds, like the Meditation Chapel. The chapel was built by a mother and father to memorialize their son and other sons who died in World War II. 

Walk the grounds of this sobering historical park to view the many impressive memorial structures that honor fallen soldiers. 

• Address:  300 N Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
• Hours : 5am – 11pm

Spanning 160 miles from the Utah-Idaho border to central Utah, the awe-inspiring Wasatch Mountain Range is the western edge of the greater Rocky Mountains. 

As the backyard playground of Salt Lake City, many come to explore its encompassing wilderness, inspiring views, and the towns Park City and Haber that cradle the mountain. 

Seven canyons feed into Salt Lake Valley, where the glacier-carved Little Cottonwood, a 15-mile-long adventure land, resorts like Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort, and other popular activities like mountain biking, cycling, hiking, and more are explored. 

Exploring this corner of the Salt Lake Valley is one of the most fun things to do in the area! And if you’re here during the winter, try something new and  book a guided ice climbing tour . 

In the heart of the Sugar House neighborhood,  Sugar House Park  is fondly known as the “crown jewel” among regional parks and the historic Sugar House area. 

Spanning 110 acres, the park empowers luscious greenery, picturesque views, and plenty of space to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Previously the site of Utah’s first state prison, the space has been reformed into a popular park with tourists and locals alike. 

Visitors can hike Parley’sTrail, sled the hilly areas, or simply sit back and relax surrounded by a serene landscape at Sugar House Park. 

• Address:  1330 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
• Hours:  7am – 10pm

One of the few remaining late 19th century farmsteads, the Wheeler Historic Farm is placed on the National Register of Historic Places to protect the historic site. 

A family-friendly attraction, the farm is 75 acres in size and includes a working farm, museum, and park with several hiking trails.

Visitors can hop on a wagon or cow train ride to join an educational tour of the property that encompasses the history of Utah family agriculture. 

Explore the historical exhibits and the working farm, let the kids play in the massive playground, and picnic under the shaded pavilion for a refreshing day in Utah life! 

• Address:  6351 S 900 E, Murray, UT 84121
• Hours : Open daily from dawn to dusk
• Cost : Free

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City, Utah 

Now that we know all the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City, it’s time to figure out the best places to stay! 

Park City Hostel  offers upscale hostel accommodations in an affordable stay that has various lineups of lodging options to maximize comfort for its guests. 

Salt Lake City’s top-rated hostel is perfect for adventurers, backpackers, and travelers who wish to be surrounded by like-minded individuals and fellow travelers.

Providing free shuttle services to Salt Lake’s International Airport,  Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City Airport  provides its guests optimal accommodations. 

Guests are served complimentary breakfast daily, serene mountain views, and an indoor heated pool and hot tub to rejuvenate and increase relaxation during your vacation. 

Located in the prime location of downtown Salt Lake City,  Grand America Hotel  features a full spa, a dine-in cafe, an indoor pool, an outdoor pool, and a gym.

Every room includes a stunning marble bathroom with bathrobes and slippers to dive into a relaxing mood for vacation. 

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

Love Travel?

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter for the best travel tips, ideas and deals!

We respect your privacy. Unsubscribe at any time.

READ MORE...

The Ultimate Las Vegas to Los Angeles Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Guide)

The Perfect 3 Days In Los Angeles Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Related Posts

21 of the best things to do in chattanooga (2024 guide), the 15 best day trips from san francisco (2024 guide), 22 best things to do in milwaukee, wisconsin (2024 guide), the best day trips from san antonio, texas (2024 guide), 1 thought on “21 best things to do in salt lake city, utah (2024 guide)”.

We’ve only lived in the area for a few months now, so we’re still getting to know it! We get our carpets cleaned every so often, so we’re always looking for things to do to get out of the house. This is such a great list of fun things! Thank you!

Leave a comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

37 Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah

Your guide to have a perfect trip to Salt Lake City.

In Salt Lake City, where it’s possible to hike every day of the year and never repeat the same trail twice, outdoor culture reigns supreme. Whether you’re jet skiing across Jordanelle Reservoir , or biking out to City Creek Canyon (a lush green stretch of wilderness just 10 minutes from downtown), there are so many options for adventures, you’ll never have trouble finding fun things to do in Salt Lake City. And while access to mountains is a huge draw for Salt Lake City, hip speakeasy-style bars, funky shopping neighborhoods, and a diverse restaurant scene are quickly putting Salt Lake Cityon the map.

Where is Salt Lake City?

Situated in the northern part of Utah — an hour and a half from the Wyoming border — a visit to Salt Lake City will place you at the foothills of the imposing Wasatch mountain range. Nearby are the shores of Great Salt Lake (the largest salt water lake in the western hemisphere), while close access to famed ski resorts like Snowbird, Alta, Solitude Mountain Resort, and Brighton Ski Resort make Salt Lake City a top pick for powder lovers .

Salt Lake City’s Top Attractions

Utah residents are self-proclaimed outdoors experts. With points of interest like ski mountains and hiking trails all around the city, locals are lucky enough to have world-class snow sports , hiking, and mountain biking right in their backyard. Whether you’re heading into the mountains, or exploring Salt Lake City’s public parks and museums, you’ll find plenty of inspiration as you decide what to do in this underrated city.

The Salt Lake City Connect Pass

Be sure to start your visit by booking a Connect Pass from the visitor center, which grants admission to 13 of Salt Lake City’s top attractions, including the Clark Planetarium and the fantastic Leonardo museum , which explores the intersection of science, art, and innovation.

At the Natural History Museum of Utah , the interactive exhibits focus on Utah’s natural landscape (so expect plenty of dinosaur fossils and gemstones). Adjacent to the museum are several hiking trails , as well as the delightful Red Butte Garden , which contains various themed gardens and an amphitheater for outdoor concerts in the summer.

Admission to Utah Olympic Park is also included in the pass, which showcases one of the venues used during the 2012 Winter Olympics, hosted by Salt Lake City. Adrenaline junkies will love watching athletes practice on the original bobsleigh, luge, and skeleton tracks; but there are tons of activities for nonprofessionals to do as well. Visitors, for example can try the Extreme Zipline , which starts at the edge of the K120 nordic ski jump.

Over at Snowbird , which stays open year-round, the Aerial Tram remains a popular warm-weather activity. The 1.6-mile cable ferries visitors high above the resort to an elevation of 11,000 feet. Once you get to the top, it’s a two-hour hike back down the mountain — though the colorful wildflowers and spectacular views help take your mind off all the legwork.

Major Events and Festivals

Coinciding with Utah’s Pioneer Day (held annually on July 24), Days of 47 is a citywide festival celebrating the founding of Salt Lake City in 1847, by Brigham Young, leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The main event is a parade beginning in Liberty Park, and features fireworks, a rodeo, and performances by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

Over in Pioneer Park, the Twilight concert series gets underway each summer in July. Cheap ticket prices ($7.50) as well as a location in the heart of downtown make the performances accessible to all members of the city — visitors included. In addition to bigger names like Solange, Andrew Bird, and the Roots (all of whom played in 2017), local acts are also featured as openers.

If you’re passionate about art in all its many forms, the Utah Arts Festival (late June) is entirely worth the trip out to Salt Lake City. Hundreds of artist booths set up in Library Square , along with six stages featuring dozens of bands, plus street theater, film screenings, and even workshops, so attendees can end the weekend with a new skill under their belt.

Fireworks in Salt Lake City

Every July 4, celebrations get underway inside Heritage Park , which draws families with activities like pony rides and a watermelon-eating contest. Meanwhile, the main event takes place at Smith’s Ballpark . The fireworks are some of the state’s most impressive, with food (mostly barbecue) and live musical entertainment.

Shopping in Salt Lake City

If you find yourself with a spare afternoon in downtown Salt Lake City, shopping at City Creek Center is a great way to pass the time. The open-air mall spans three blocks, and encapsulates the rugged Utah vibe with fountains, waterfalls, and an actual creek running through the middle of the shops. For high-end gifts, there’s Tiffany & Co. , Coach , and Brooks Brothers , while Utah Woolen Mills , Macy’s , and the Apple Store cater to more general retail needs.

A vibrant (albeit tiny) arts district has taken root in an area just east of downtown called 9th and 9th . The funky strip contains favorite retailers like The Stockist (contemporary, rugged men's and women's fashion), Children’s Hour — a bookstore for kids that doubles as a boutique for moms with brands like Free People, Moon River, and Eileen Fischer — and Cahoots Cards & Gifts , a repository of all things weird and festive, from birthday cards to novelty calendars and gag gifts.

Salt Lake City’s Best Restaurants

The best places to eat in Salt Lake City draw from a wide range of influences, from down-tempo Mexican joints to flashier spots like The Rest : a Southern-inspired, speakeasy-style restaurant hidden beneath a dive bar. Several coffee shops have recently opened around downtown, like The Rose Establishment , while Caputo’s Market & Deli has emerged as the city’s go-to spot for all types of specialty foods, from imported cheese to small-batch, locally-made chocolate.

Most Romantic Restaurant: HSL

Cheap eats: red iguana, best seafood restaurant: current fish & oyster, best mediterranean restaurant: laziz kitchen, best italian restaurant: valter’s osteria, best bars in salt lake city.

It’s practically a requirement these days for a major metro area to have a decent assortment of places to imbibe, and Salt Lake City is no exception. At Bodega , a festive one-room bar facing Main Street, there’s a Playboy-themed pinball machine and affordable cans of Tecate. But the real fun is downstairs, in the bar’s basement, which conceals a Victorian-inspired tavern serving hot fried chicken and hominy.

For something more laid-back, try Squatter’s , the city’s best-loved brewpub. Inside, you’ll find the brewery’s award-winning Hell’s Keep Golden Ale , along with an organic, locally sourced menu of burgers, jambalaya, and house tacos. For another deep dive into the SLC beer scene, there’s Beerhive Pub . This traditional pub has 24 beers on tap (the list of bottled beers and single malt Scotch isn’t bad, either).

Easy Day Trips from Salt Lake City

Though it’s only a half hour drive from Salt Lake City, Antelope Island State Park feels worlds away. The incredibly scenic nature preserve sits on an island in the middle of Great Salt Lake, offering 36 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. At night, there’s stargazing, too: the park was recently named a bronze-tier dark-sky certified site , with the Wasatch mountains helping to block out the city light. It could be the clearest Milky Way you’ve ever seen.

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

As a medium-sized city with a strong focus on outdoor attractions , most of Salt Lake City’s top places to stay are centered around the downtown area. The range of hotels caters mostly to leisure and business travelers, and offer direct access to Salt Lake City’s main commercial areas on Main Street and around Pioneer Park .

Luxury Hotels

Though it was built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Grand America Hotel has a majestic, old world feel. The 24-story luxury hotel is fitted with crystal chandeliers, an elegant lobby lounge for afternoon tea, and a full spa.

Boutique Hotels

Meanwhile, the 225-room Hotel Monaco remains the city’s best boutique hotel option, with a free nightly wine tasting and bike rentals for guests.

Affordable Hotels

On the budget end of the spectrum, downtown Salt Lake City offers an abundance of affordable hotels, including Doubletree Suites by Hilton , Residence Inn Salt Lake City Downtown , and Holiday Inn Express Salt Lake Downtown .

Vacation Rentals in Salt Lake City

Travelers looking for an alternative to hotels in Salt Lake City — particularly those traveling in large groups and seeking a budget-friendly stay — will find a number of homes and apartments available on vacation rental websites. Visitors will discover great, cost-friendly options on sites like VRBO, FlipKey, Home Away, and Airbnb, where you can find everything from tiny houses to 20th-century bungalows .

Related Articles

The Top 15 Things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah

• Facebook 15
• Pinterest 208

Nestled between snowcapped mountains and home to a host of outdoor recreation opportunities, Salt Lake City is a bucket-list destination for anyone craving the adventure of a lifetime! 

Often called “winter’s favorite city,” Salt Lake City is one of the best places to go skiing or snowboarding in the continental United States because of its perfectly fluffy snow formed by an ideal combination of temperature, humidity, and frequent snowstorms. Plus, the nearby Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountain ranges collect an average of 500 inches of snow per year! 

But there’s plenty to do in Salt Lake City when the snow melts. Ski slopes turn into scenic hiking trails, and there are endless waterways to explore. This big city has a small-town vibe, and while often associated with its Mormon religious roots, it’s also home to an up-and-coming liberal arts and culture scene with plenty of restaurants, bars, and breweries to visit. 

With so many diverse attractions to experience, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best things to do in Salt Lake City for you. Stick to this fun and exciting bucket list, and there’s no doubt you’ll have the vacation of your dreams in Utah ‘s largest city! 

Don’t forget to check out our web story: Top 15 Things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 cool and unique things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah

1. bobsled at the utah olympic park.

Salt Lake City came into the worldwide spotlight as the host of the 2002 XIX Olympic Winter Games. The Utah Olympic Park now serves as a museum for the games, as well as a thrilling activity center to put you in the adrenaline-pumping footsteps of the world’s top athletes. 

The  Utah Olympic Park  is in Park City, a short 30-minute drive from Salt Lake City. The venue hosted the 2002 Olympic bobsled, skeleton, ski jumping, and luge events. Now you can tour the old tracks and get a taste of Olympic excitement through several different extreme sports activities! 

If you’re looking for the thrill of a lifetime, you may want to try the facility’s bobsled experience. The program runs year-round and allows you to slip into a bobsled and take a ride down the Olympic track with a professional pilot. You’ll reach speeds up to 60 mph on a rip-roaring journey that will take less than a minute to complete.

The facility also serves as a museum for the 2002 Olympic Games, showcasing interactive exhibits and Olympic uniforms and medals. Visit during the summer, and you might even catch professional Nordic ski jumpers training to qualify for the next series of games in the official USCO training pool. 

Purchase a ticket for a guided tour of the facility, and you’ll travel all the way up to the top of the 2002 120-meter Olympic ski jump. Plus, there are a variety of family-friendly adventure ropes courses open during the summer months. 

2. Float in the Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake is unlike any other lake in the United States and is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Salt Lake City. The water contains 4.5 billion tons of salt, which means the water temperature is almost always warm. The water in the lake is saltier than in the ocean, which means it’s dense enough to effortlessly float in! 

However, actually getting into the water can be somewhat of a challenge. The water levels are consistently decreasing, so you’ll have to walk nearly half a mile in the sand before you reach the shoreline. 

In warmer months, you may want to bring bug spray for the brine flies – which are attracted to the algae formed in the salty lake and collect in large numbers on the shoreline. Also, keep in mind that the water has a strong smell due to the salt content and burns any open cuts or wounds. 

One of the most popular places to get in the water of the Great Salt Lake is  Antelope Island State Park , which is home to free-ranging bison, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. If you’d rather tour the lake by watercraft, the park has a marina with rental service for boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and pedal boats. 

The state park is also renowned for what can be seen on the grounds after dark. It’s one of the few remaining “natural dark sky” areas in the United States and offers unparalleled views of the stars. Rangers frequently host  night sky programs  that allow visitors to stargaze through high-powered telescopes.

3. Play a Round of Mountain Disc Golf

If you’re a lover of mountains, hiking, Frisbees, and golf, you’ve got to experience the unique mountain disc golf courses in Salt Lake City. The sport combines golf and Frisbees into an everyday activity that can be enjoyed by players of all ages and experience levels. 

The mountainous landscape of Utah creates unforgettable courses that are often built directly on the ski slopes during the off-season. This means players have the choice to hike or take an easy ski lift ride up to the start of the course and make their way back down while attempting to sink a Frisbee into the chain baskets. 

One of the most popular courses is located at Solitude Mountain Resort . The high-altitude, 18-hole course is free. If you don’t already have a set of discs, you can rent them from the facility for a small fee. Utah’s beautiful landscape makes disc golf one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City in the summer! 

4. Rock Out to a Cosmic Light Show

If you’re a fan of Pink Floyd or Led Zeppelin, you won’t want to miss an opportunity to experience the music in an all-new way. Clark Planetarium in downtown Salt Lake City hosts weekend laser light shows set to the beats of the best in classic rock. 

The shows are presented in surround sound in the planetarium’s Hansen Dome Theatre and are set to immersive and surrealistic CGI effects. You can catch a show any weekend evening – just check the  updated schedule  to plan your visit and purchase tickets before they sell out.

Arrive early for the show to check out the three floors of interactive exhibits at the planetarium. Entry to the museum portion of the planetarium is free yet provides hours of entertaining information about space, planets, and our solar system! 

5. Hike to Ensign Peak

Want to get in a short morning hike before exploring downtown Salt Lake City? The  Ensign Peak hike  has everything you need to get your blood pumping while providing breathtaking views in the heart of the city! 

The trail is a one-mile hike with about 4,000 feet of elevation gain. The trailhead is located just above the Utah State Capitol building and leads to expansive views of Salt Lake Valley. 

Not only is it a beautiful place, but this peak also has deep roots in the city’s history. Nine Mormon pioneers first climbed Ensign Peak in 1847 to lay out a settlement plan. If it wasn’t for the breathtaking views on Ensign Peak, Salt Lake City might not have become the city it is today!

A shorter, paved trail near Ensign Peak leads to a lower viewpoint called Vista Mound, an ideal way to see the city from above for those who cannot hike the trail.

6. Be a Kid again at The Gateway

The Gateway  is proof that Salt Lake City is more vibrant and culturally diverse than most people realize. The sizeable open-air downtown block is filled with restaurants, entertainment venues, and a cutting-edge arts and entertainment scene and is well worth a spot on your Salt Lake city bucket list! 

The outdoor area is covered in a layer of turf and serves as a playground for people of all ages. The site is covered with fountains and swings, chalkboard walls, and roaring manmade waterfalls. Rainbow staircases and murals make it the perfect place to take that perfect Instagram photo!

If you happen to be visiting on a Tuesday evening, you won’t want to miss Goga. It’s a weekly yoga experience open to the public, pairing participants with adorable goats. 

Vendors also gather for the summer and winter farmers’ markets and monthly art strolls at The Gateway. Special events with live music are also hosted here regularly. 

7. Take a Private Tour of Utah’s Dinosaurs

Dinosaur geeks will love the collection of bones at the Natural History Museum of Utah . Take the experience one step further and  book a private tour of the Past Worlds gallery . You’ll get a behind-the-scenes peek inside the Paleo Prep Lab to see the projects the paleontology team is currently working on. 

The private tour mainly focuses on dinosaurs found in Utah, a place considered to be a hotbed of paleontology digs. According to the Utah Geological Survey, the state has the most complete dinosaur record located in any area of the world. Some of the dinosaur faunas dug up near Salt Lake City are estimated to date back 230 million years!

It would be easy to spend an entire day exploring the Natural History Museum of Utah. The attraction is one of the most educational places in Salt Lake City and is home to 11 permanent exhibits that tell the story of the history of Utah’s native tribes and the creation of the Great Salt Lake. Reservations are recommended as attendance is capped at a certain number. 

8. Race Down the Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats is one of Utah’s most unique places to visit. Salt Lake City is the nearest major city to this bucket list attraction, and it’s well worth the 90-minute car ride to get there from downtown Salt Lake City. 

The 12-by-5 mile stretch of land is in Utah’s west desert and is covered by a salt crust that stretches farther than the eye can see. The Salt Flats are one of only seven locations in the world where the natural curvature of the earth is visible to the naked eye. Not only do the Salt Flats make for breathtaking pictures and scenery, but they’re also a lot of fun to play on when dry. 

The salt flats have become an epic spot for racing, and several speed records have been made in this location. You can try your hand at driving on them, too, as long as they are dry. There are no speed limits on the salt flats, so you can ramp it up and test the maximum velocity of your vehicle at your own risk. 

The flats are open year-round, but if you plan your visit right, you can participate or watch  Speed Week , a racing competition that takes place at the Bonneville International Speedway in August. Other non-motorized events take place all year long on the salt flats, including endurance running races and amateur rocket launches.

9. Go Backcountry Helicopter Skiing

It’s no secret that Salt Lake City is a bucket-list vacation spot for people who love to ski and snowboard. If you’re a true expert on the powdery slopes, there are a few luxury options to maximize your adventure and skip the ski lift to reach the runs of your dreams. 

Several area resorts now offer helicopter skiing adventures. The excursion is available to be booked for individuals or groups and is tailored to participants’ skiing ability so you can spend as much time possible racing down the slopes. A typical Powderbird held-skiing adventure package includes meals, two helicopter guides, and the chance to avoid the crowds and ski a handful of off-the-grid runs. 

If you want to get even more extreme, you can ditch the helicopter and try backcountry skiing. You’ll hike up a mountain with an ultra-light rig and traction devices, then ski down when you find the right place. 

If you’re interested in giving either option a try, be sure to take an avalanche safety course, bring the proper gear, and make sure you go with someone who can teach you the ropes to make it out safely!

10. Hear the Tabernacle Choir Sing at Temple Square

Located in the heart of Salt Lake City is Temple Square, a large complex that is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. 

One of the most popular places to visit in the Mormon-created square is the Tabernacle. Home to a talented 325-member volunteer choir, it’s considered one of the best choirs in the world. 

The group has performed for countless presidents, even snagging gigs at several inauguration ceremonies.  Choir rehearsals are open to the public  every Thursday at 7:30 pm. Daily organ recitals are also available to the public each day at the Tabernacle at noon. 

While you’re in the area, take the time to see the most impressive building in the square, the Salt Lake Temple. The building itself is considered sacred by members of the Church of Latter-day Saints, so there are no public tours inside the building. 

However, it’s an incredible sight to see from the outside. The construction took 40 years to complete, and the temple has been standing since 1853. 

There are many other things to do at Temple Square, including researching your personal roots at the Family History Library inside the Discovery Center. You can also take a tour of the Beehive House , the former home of Utah’s first governor, Brigham Young. 

11. Sip Beer at Salt Lake City’s Breweries

Back in the early 1900s, Salt Lake City was known as one of the best beer producers in the West. Today the craft brewing scene is making a comeback.

The city has just over a dozen microbreweries and brewpubs that craft a diverse range of flavors. It’s important to know that Utah’s law prohibits draft beer from having an alcohol content of over 5%, but you can still try some heavier varieties if you purchase a bottled or canned version. 

State law means all draft beer is created in a session style, but the silver lining is that you can taste more of the unique and cutting-edge flavors without getting too tipsy! If you plan on stopping by several breweries, you can even purchase a Salt Lake Brewery Mobile Pass to get a credit that can be used at 14 different breweries in the city. 

12. Feed Flamingos at Tracy Aviary

Tracy Aviary is the oldest and largest freestanding aviary in the country and is home to more than 130 different species of birds. The bird zoo is mainly outdoors and has species from many other countries. There’s even a bird nursery so you can see how the experts incubate and hatch eggs to nurse newborns!

The aviary and botanical garden offer an add-on opportunity to go behind the scenes in the Flamingo holding building to explain how they care for the birds. After the tour, you’ll even get the chance to get close to the birds and toss them food! The flamingo tours need to be booked at least two weeks in advance. 

The aviary also produces a bird show, where trainers will give you a glimpse at the amazing talents of birds from around the world. The 8-acre aviary is inside Liberty Park, a popular place for running, swimming, bicycling, and rowing. 

13. Go Underground at Timpanogos Cave

Some of the best experiences are the ones you have to sweat a little for! That’s especially true for  Timpanogos Cave , which is located a short 30-minute drive outside Salt Lake City. 

To get to the collection of three limestone caves, you’ll have to hike a steep and strenuous 1.5-mile trail with 1,000 feet of a climb from a canyon bottom. Once at the top, you’ll explore several rooms and see incredible natural formations like heart-shaped stalactites. 

The cave walls are very narrow, so you’ll get an up-close and personal view of unique creations. Tours operate from May through September.

If you want to explore the more narrow and mysterious parts of a cave on your own, the National Park Service offers a unique  introduction to caving tour  that will put you in a helmet with a headlamp, and you’ll learn to scramble and crawl along the trail that leads to Hansen Cave Lake. There are no paved walkways or railings, so it’s an adventure that will get you dirty and is one of the most adventurous and unique things to do in Salt Lake City.

14. Attend the Sundance Film Festival

If you’re a fan of cinema, you’ll want to plan your visit to Salt Lake City around the  Sundance Film Festival.  It’s the largest independent film festival in the United States. The event is usually attended by about 50,000 people and features panel discussions, workshops, music concerts, and parties for industry insiders and the public. 

The festival is regularly attended by some of the biggest names in the film industry, including high-profile directors, actors, and actresses. Past attendees have included Angelina Jolie, Will Ferrell, and Mila Kunis. 

The 10-day festival typically shows about 200 films each year. Imagine getting the chance to see the next big hit in a special screening for the stars!

15. Take a Wagon Ride on a Historic Farm

Take a step back to 1898 and explore  Wheeler Farm , a historic farmstead that spans 75 acres. The original house and outbuildings are in excellent condition and are some of the last remaining 19th-century farming structures that exist in the area.

Today, the Salt Lake County Parks and Recreation Department manages the historic outdoor museum as an agricultural living history museum. A visit to this farm will give you a chance to unplug and live in the moment. 

If you’ve always wanted to know if you’ve got what it takes to milk a cow or goat, you’ll have a chance to do that here for just $1. Daily wagon rides take guests to the back portion of the farm to view the animal pens. You can also pay to take a tour of the original Victorian farm home with more than 6,000 artifacts. 

One of the most popular events at the farm is the Sunday Market, with 80 to 90 booths that offer fresh produce or products made from fresh produce. The market is open in the spring through late fall.

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in Salt Lake City. What’s your favorite thing to do in the city? 

Share this on pinterest.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Great Salt Lake is unlike any other lake in the United States and is definitely one of the coolest things to do in Salt Lake City. The water contains 4.5 billion tons of salt, which means the water temperature is almost always warm. The water in the lake is saltier than in the ocean, which means it’s dense enough to effortlessly float in!

Want to get in a short morning hike before exploring downtown Salt Lake City? The Ensign Peak hike has everything you need to get your blood pumping while providing breathtaking views in the heart of the city! The trail is a one-mile hike with about 4,000 feet of elevation gain. The trailhead is located just above the Utah State Capitol building and leads to expansive views of Salt Lake Valley.

It’s no secret that Salt Lake City is a bucket-list vacation spot for people who love to ski and snowboard. If you’re a true expert on the powdery slopes, there are a few luxury options to maximize your adventure and skip the ski lift to reach the runs of your dreams. A typical Powderbird held-skiing adventure package includes meals, two helicopter guides, and the chance to avoid the crowds and ski a handful of off-the-grid runs.

If you’re a fan of cinema, you’ll want to plan your visit to Salt Lake City around the Sundance Film Festival. It’s the largest independent film festival in the United States. The event is usually attended by about 50,000 people and features panel discussions, workshops, music concerts, and parties for industry insiders and the public.

Dinosaur geeks will love the collection of bones at the Natural History Museum of Utah. Take the experience one step further and book a private tour of the Past Worlds gallery. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes peek inside the Paleo Prep Lab to see the projects the paleontology team is currently working on.

The Bonneville Salt Flats is one of Utah’s most unique places to visit. Salt Lake City is the nearest major city to this bucket list attraction, and it’s well worth the 90-minute car ride to get there from downtown Salt Lake City. The 12-by-5 mile stretch of land is in Utah’s west desert and is covered by a salt crust that stretches farther than the eye can see.

About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

View all posts

Related Posts

The 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Catalina Island, California

The 15 Best Things to Do in Williamsburg, VA

The 15 Best Things to do in Boston with Kids

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Must-See Attractions in Salt Lake City, Utah

Maybe you just have a day or two to spend in Salt Lake City, or maybe you're new in town and want to get the feel of the place as soon as possible. Here's a quick list of things to do, see and experience if you really want to get the flavor of Salt Lake City , and find out what makes it unique.

Temple Square

Temple Square is Salt Lake City's most popular tourist attraction, and the Salt Lake Temple is an iconic symbol of the city. You can spend as little as 30 minutes or as much as a couple of days seeing the sights at Temple Square and the surrounding area. Everything at Temple Square is free.

City Creek Center

City Creek Center is a gorgeous, eye-popping 700,000-square-foot shopping and dining destination. Some of the center's notable architectural features are a retractable skylight roof, a sky bridge over Main Street connecting the east and west sides of the center, two waterfalls, a 1200-foot creek, and three electronically controlled fountains. The center is located between South Temple and 100 South, and between West Temple and State Street, with Main Street running down the center. City Creek Center features Nordstrom, Macy’s and more than 90 stores and restaurants.

Dining options at the City Creek Center include many of the usual national chains, but also a few locally owned favorites:

• Bocata - artisan sandwiches
• Kneader's Bakery - sandwiches, salads, pastries, and desserts
• Core Life Eatery - healthy foods for an active lifestyle
• Taste of Red Iguana - quick service version of Salt Lake City's favorite Mexican restaurant

The Gateway

The Gateway shopping and entertainment center was completed at the time of Salt Lake City's 2002 Winter Olympic Games and have been a major component of the revitalization of Salt Lake's west downtown. It's located along 400 West, between 200 South and South Temple. The Gateway offers stores, restaurants and movie theaters, but also two of Salt Lake City's best museums, Discovery Gateway and Clark Planetarium. It also houses The Depot, a popular live music venue that pays homage to the area's history as a rail transportation center. The Gateway's Olympic Snowflake Fountain is a popular place for kids to play in the summer.

Library Square and Washington Square

The Library Square and Washington Square area of Salt Lake City includes two of the city's iconic buildings: the Salt Lake City Library and the Salt Lake City and County Building, and one of the city's favorite museums: The Leonardo. The Washington Square/Library Square area is between 400 and 500 South, and between State Street and 200 East.

The Salt Lake City Public Library, designed by internationally-acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie, embodies the idea that a library is more than a repository of books and computers; it reflects and engages the city's imagination and aspirations. The curving building features ample daylight, spiral fireplaces, art displays, an auditorium, children's play areas, and shops on the ground level.

The Salt Lake City and County Building was designed by Henry Hobson Richardson, considered one of the greatest architects of his time. As one of the most representative examples of the Richardson Romanesque style, the Salt Lake City, and County Building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Utah Heritage Foundation provides free tours of the City & County Building on Mondays at noon and 1 PM from June through August. For a modest charge, the organization will provide tours on days other than Monday.

The Leonardo is one of Salt Lake City's newest museums, with a unique mission that connects art, creativity, science, and technology. It's a fun way to spend a couple of hours, with exhibits that appeal to adults, teens, and children.

Liberty Park and Tracy Aviary

Liberty Park, located between 900 and 1300 South and between 500 and 700 East in Salt Lake City, is the oldest and most prominent park in Utah. Since its beginning in 1882, Liberty Park has been a favorite open space retreat for thousands of people who have enjoyed its beautiful trees, paths, playgrounds, fountains, ponds, sports facilities, swimming pool, amusement rides and more. The park also houses Tracy Aviary , which has been in operation since 1938 and has been extensively renovated between 2005 and 2013.

Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah is located at 301 Wakara Way, east of the University of Utah. The museum rests on a series of terraces that follow the contours of the Wasatch foothills. The stunning building is wrapped with 42,000 square feet of standing seam copper. The copper is installed in horizontal bands of various heights to represent the layered rock formations seen throughout Utah. Exhibits focus on the history and evolution of Utah's land, plants, animals, and people.

The Natural History Museum of Utah is part of the Foothill Cultural District , along with Red Butte Garden, This Is the Place Heritage Park, Hogle Zoo, the Fort Douglas Museum, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Olympic Cauldron Park. Visit the Foothill Cultural District website for coupons to save money on admission to these attractions.

Red Butte Garden

With more than 100 acres including display gardens, walking paths and natural areas with hiking trails, Red Butte Garden is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West that tests, displays, and interprets regional horticulture. Red Butte Garden is adjacent to the Natural History Museum of Utah, in the foothills east of the University of Utah at 300 Wakara Way.

This is the Place Heritage Park

This is the Place Heritage Park is a living history attraction that allows visitors to experience daily life as it was lived by 19th-century pioneers. It's located at 2601 Sunnyside Avenue, at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, just south of Hogle Zoo. The park includes more than 40 restored homes and other buildings, a historic train, petting corral, and Native American village. You can also visit a grist mill and pan for real gold in a small creek.

Hogle Zoo was founded in 1912 with five kinds of birds, two foxes, two squirrels and a pair of monkeys. Its first location was in Liberty Park. Today, the zoo is located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon at 2600 E Sunnyside Avenue. The zoo is home to several hundred animals from all over the world. Three of the zoo's newest and most interesting exhibits are the Elephant Encounter, completed in 2004, Asian Highlands, completed in 2006, Rocky Shores, completed in 2012, and the African Savanna exhibit which opened in 2014.

Nearby Canyons

One of the greatest things about life in Salt Lake City is easy access to the area's beautiful canyons. You're never more than a few minutes away from the chance to take a nature break. Here are some of the canyons nearest to Salt Lake City:

• Big Cottonwood Canyon
• City Creek Canyon
• Emigration Canyon
• Little Cottonwood Canyon
• Mill Creek Canyon
• Red Butte Canyon

Ski Resorts

Salt Lakers are lucky to have eight world-famous ski resorts within an hour's drive. Each of the Salt Lake area's ski resorts has its own personality, pros, and cons, and most Salt Lake skiers have a favorite. Don't forget the ski resorts during the summer - they all have summer activities including mountain biking, ziplines, hiking, dining, concerts, and a lot more.

Utah Olympic Park

The Utah Olympic Park is a winter sports venue built for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and is located in Park City, just off the I-80 Kimball Junction exit. During the 2002 games, the park hosted bobsleigh, skeleton, luge, Nordic ski jumping, and Nordic combined events. The park is open year-round with seasonal activities for visitors. Guided tours are available daily. The free Alf Engen Ski Museum and George Eccles 2002 Winter Olympic Games Museum are open year-round.

In summer, guests can take a ride on the Comet Bobsled with a bobsled pilot, ride the Xtreme Zipline (the steepest zipline in the world), take a ride on the Quicksilver Alpine Slide, watch athlete training of all levels, and try freestyle ski jumping into the summer splash pool.

In winter, guests can take the ride of their life down the Olympic track in a winter Comet Bobsled with a pilot. Riders reach speeds of 80 mph with 5 Gs of force. Visitors can also try the sport of skeleton on the Rocket Skeleton ride, or try Nordic ski jumping, moguls, or terrain park.

Thanksgiving Point

Thanksgiving Point, at the Point of the Mountain between the Salt Lake and Utah Valleys, includes 55 acres of spectacular gardens, a working farm (Farm Country), a huge dinosaur museum (Museum of Ancient Life), a Megaplex movie theater complex, a fine dining restaurant (Harvest), a cafe and ice cream shop, gift shop, nursery, and golf course.

Thanksgiving Point hosts hundreds of events every year, including a tulip festival, rose festival, huge drive-through animated Christmas light display, summer concert series, cooking classes, gardening classes, kids' summer camps and a lot more.

18 Things to Do With Kids in Salt Lake City

The Top 6 Neighborhoods in Salt Lake City

The Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City's Free Museums

The 15 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City

Guide to the Holidays in Salt Lake City: Festivals, Events, Things to Do

Salt Lake City's Most Iconic Buildings

48 Hours in Salt Lake City: The Ultimate Itinerary

Guide to Labor Day in Salt Lake City: Festivals, Events, Things to Do

12 Best Things to Do for Free in Salt Lake City

Guide to September in Salt Lake City: Events and Festivals

The 9 Best Day Trips From Salt Lake City

Guide to Christmas in Salt Lake City: Holiday Events and Performances

The Best Staycation in Every State

Salt Lake City Guide: Planning Your Trip

The Top 12 Things to Do in Park City, Utah

30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Salt Lake City (Utah)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 25, 2019  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Salt Lake City, Utah is among the most famous and cool places in America.

Steeped in rich religious history and unique culture, this populous city is packed with places to go, sources of entertainment and unique areas to explore, whether you’re there for a day, a weekend, a week, or longer!

But it can be tricky to narrow down exactly what to see while you’re in this beautiful and fascinating city.

After all, how can you pick the coolest, nicest locations in a place that is so full of intrigue and wonder?

To help you choose the right spots to go to, here are 30 best & fun things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah, one of the most beautiful places in America .

Table of Contents

1. Natural History Museum of Utah

Uladzik Kryhin / Shutterstock

The Natural History Museum of Utah is undoubtedly one of the coolest places to see around Salt Lake City if you’re into history, science, and culture.

It gives you an inside look into Utah and its rich past, ranging from its geography to its native background, as well as its most crucial historical moments.

The museum boasts 10 permanent exhibits, as well as a wide variety of interactive features involving smell, touch, and other senses.

It showcases interesting facts about the Great Salt Lake, covers over 500 million years of information on Salt Lake City, and provides occasional seasonal displays to peruse each time you go there.

One of the most popular exhibits is the First Peoples Exhibit, which covers the five initial Native American nations in the state, but there are many more to see.

That’s why visiting this museum is among the top things to do in Salt Lake City!

Address:  301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA

2. The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square

Jerry and Pat Donaho / flickr

One of the Salt Lake City attractions that no tourist can miss is The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square .

You don’t have to be religious to enjoy the harrowing and beautiful melodies and harmonies created by this talented and spiritual group of singers.

At 9.30 am every Sunday, the choir’s performance is broadcast live.

But you can watch them in action in person for free if you’re in Utah between September and November as well as January and May.

During this time, the choir offers free rehearsal attendance to the public for an hour at night on Thursdays.

Worried you won’t get a seat?

In December and between June and September, rehearsals are specifically tailored to cater to bigger crowds at the LDS Conference Center near the famous Temple Square of Salt Lake City.

There is also a bonus organ recital that happens in the afternoon 6 days a week, which is extra fun to sit in and listen to!

3. Temple Square

JVE001 / Shutterstock

Temple Square is one of the top 10 points of interest in Salt Lake City, Utah, hands down.

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, it stands out as the main attraction of SLC with its beautiful architecture and imposing structure.

It spans across 10 acres and is surrounded by gorgeous greenery.

This square is mainly used as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ headquarters, but you don’t need to share the faith to visit.

While you’re there, you can learn about Latter-day Saints’ history and the intricacies of the religion, and some volunteers are onsite to provide tours and give you lots of interesting facts about the faith and its background.

Temple Square is home to multiple other famous spots, such as the Tabernacle, a wide range of museums, Latter-day Saints sites, and plenty of other locations you’ll want to check out.

Address:  50 N Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA

4. Great Salt Lake

Johnny Adolphson / Shutterstock

The Great Salt Lake runs for 1,700 square miles, making it the biggest natural lake in Utah, and the largest between there and the Mississippi River.

The lake’s salty nature is due to the mineral deposits it leaves behind when it evaporates, and it is this iconic body of water that gave Salt Lake City its name.

There are plenty of activities to take part in at the lake.

You can go fishing, swimming, or boating, or sit down for a picnic near the water to look over this amazing Utah location.

Hiking trails and lots of wildlife are ready to be seen for the less aqua-inclined, too.

If you like, you can drop by the visitor center to learn more about the area.

It’s definitely among the best things to do in Salt Lake City!

5. Utah’s Hogle Zoo

Kent Slade / flickr

The Hogle Zoo spans 42 acres and is well-known for being among the top spots in Salt Lake City if you’re looking for a little fun.

It is situated right at the foot of the Wasatch Mountain Range, where it is host to countless animals, both local to Salt Lake City as well as more exotic and rare.

A variety of exhibits within this most famous zoo in Salt Lake City showcase different individual ecosystems in each one.

An Asian highlands exhibit shows off Pallas’ cats, Amur tigers, Siberian lynxes, and more fantastic wildcats.

An African Savannah exhibit shows off zebras, lions, giraffes, and even ostriches.

Other exhibits include an Elephant Encounter and a Rocky Shores display, the latter of which shows all sorts of marine mammals and even polar bears.

So if you’re looking for things to do in SLC, look no further!

Address:  2600 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

Going on a road trip around Utah? Why not check out some of the things to do in Utah ?

6. Utah State Capitol

Don Mammoser / Shutterstock

The Utah State Capitol has its home in Salt Lake City itself, where it serves as one of the region’s main attractions.

It rises 300 feet into the air and is located on Capitol Hill, designed classically with stunning and regal architecture.

It is elegantly opulently decorated, with a dome topping that can be spotted from across the city and marble furnishings within.

The Capitol is open to visitors.

You can enjoy sights of the Golden Room, which is where the Governor holds receptions, as well as some interesting galleries furnished with rotating exhibitions.

Collections of items from around Salt Lake City and beyond adorn the area open to visitors, giving you an insightful glimpse into the state and what it stands for.

Address:  350 N State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, United States

7. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is among the coolest places to visit in Salt Lake City for art and history lovers.

Steeped in culture, this Salt Lake City location is a part of the campus of the University of Utah, doubling up as a university and a state museum.

Originally opened back in the 1950s, this location boasts over 20 galleries, each with a variety of exhibits – some of which are static, and some of which are rotating.

More than 17,000 items are displayed as part of permanent collections, and they’re not just restricted to pieces by those near Salt Lake City.

European and Asian art joins the American works on display.

A healthy mix of classical and modern works adorn the museum, giving you a lot of different styles to appreciate.

Address:  410 Campus Center Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA

8. Ensign Peak

robert cicchetti / Shutterstock

If you’re in Salt Lake City for the weekend, one of the best things you can do is take a hike up to Ensign Peak , which offers an incredible view of this Utah City.

It’s only about half a mile’s hike up, making it a simple and easy option for beginner hikers, and it provides extremely rewarding results!

Sunset is undoubtedly the most opportune time to take a trip to this stunning peak, though it can be crowded at this time.

Still, the extra people are worth the journey regardless!

You’ll be treated to views of the Great Salt Lake bathed in the evening, orange sun, and you’ll even be able to look over Salt Lake Valley, and to the city Capitol.

So if you’re planning a trip to be one with nature and you’re looking for what to do in Salt Lake City, going to Ensign Peak is a noble and ultimately wonderful journey!

Address:  Ensign Peak Trail, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, United States

9. Liberty Park

Chris Curtis / Shutterstock

Liberty Park is one of the more iconic Salt Lake City locations today, especially for sightseeing.

It was first purchased from Bingham Young’s estate back in 1881, and now (and since 1980), it is on the National Registry of Historic Places.

This oasis covers 80 acres of land, and it is the largest park in all of SLC.

You can walk, bike, or hike around the stunning landscape of lush green, play volleyball or basketball, go swimming in the pool, and take a trip to a number of interesting spots along the way.

There’s the Isaac Chase Mill, which holds the title of the oldest building for commercial purposes in Utah.

You can stop by Tracey Aviary, which is home to 135 different bird species, specifically those that are endangered or rare.

There is also the Chase Home of Museum of Utah Folk Art, which offers free admission and showcases the greatest that Salt Lake City and its surrounding regions have to offer.

Address:  600 East 900 South, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, USA

10. Marmalade Hill Historic District

Ntsimp [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons

It is named because of the multiple fruit and plant-based street names that span across the area, provided due to early Salt Lake City settlers who brought these items with them.

There are a number of unique and fascinating, historically rich buildings to see here.

Quince Street is famous for its wealth of cultural value, with such gems as the Thomas Quayle House and the John Platts house, both near to each other.

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported back in time in this whimsical historical location.

Exploring other areas of Utah? Why not check out some of the things to do in Moab ?

11. This Is The Place Monument

Ladanifer / Shutterstock

How, exactly, did Salt Lake City become the home of the Latter-day Saints’ faith?

Well, it all began right at this spot: the This Is The Place Monument , so named because that is what Brigham Young exclaimed when they arrived upon the Utah city.

The congregation of Latter-day Saints followers had been traveling and hiking with Brigham Young across 1,300 miles before they emerged from Emigration Canyon and came upon Salt Lake City.

Young immediately took note of the place, as he said he had seen the exact valley in which they emerged in a vision.

A monument was erected 100 years after the people settled into their new Salt Lake City homes, meaning it dates back to 1947.

It’s one of the best places to visit for a true slice of history, and among the most-loved tourist attractions in the region.

Address:  2601 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

Planning a trip to California soon? Be sure to check out some of the most beautiful places to see in California !

12. Pioneer Memorial Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

The Pioneer Memorial Museum holds the biggest collection of artifacts devoted to one specific topic of history – the settlement of the first Latter-day Saints people to come to live in Salt Lake City, and even Utah.

Written artifacts, information and data collections, and rich photos line the displays, as well as extensive memorabilia collections.

The museum chronicles the entrance of the very first pioneers into what would one day be Salt Lake City, all the way up to the beginning of railroad paths in the region.

Many of the items on display are fairly “normal” – dresses, quilts, instruments, and more – all used by the Latter-day Saints’ migrants during their historical journey to their promised land.

There are some rather fascinating display items, too – such as rattles of rattlesnakes, Victoria art made from hair, and a potato that has been petrified.

It is one of the more unusual points of interest in Salt Lake City, but it’s worth the visit, and it’s one of the more fun museums to check out!

Address:  300 N Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103, United States

13. Fisher Brewing Company

Fisher Brewing Company

The Fisher Brewing Company was once an auto shop, but it wasn’t long before Albert Fisher, an immigrant from Germany, decided to start up this Salt Lake City, Utah company in the Granary District.

This was back in 1884, and since then, generations have taken up the helm and continued their tradition – albeit in a smaller way.

Now, Tony Fisher, the great-great-grandson of Albert Fisher, continues to operate the brewery, though this is done on a smaller scale.

Fisher alcoholic beverages are only sold from the brewing company’s taproom, so it’s pretty exclusive to Salt Lake City and won’t be found in any retail outlets.

Adults will especially enjoy taking a trip to this brewery, where you’ll get to sample delicious and well-crafted Fisher, as well as enjoy fare from food trucks near the entrance.

If you like your alcohol, visiting the Fisher Brewing Company is definitely among the things to do in Salt Lake City today that you can’t miss!

Address:  320 W 800 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA

14. Salt Lake City Public Library

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

The Salt Lake City Public Library opened its doors back in 2003, and if you’re a fan of books or architecture or both, then this is definitely among the nicest places to visit while you’re in Utah.

It houses a whopping 500,000 books and more and provides lots and lots of relaxing areas to lounge in as you enjoy your reading material of choice.

Of all the things to see in this region, the Salt Lake City Public Library probably boasts the most stunning works of modern architecture in its design and build.

Its contemporary appearance has drawn many visitors, who enjoy a lovely cafe indoors or hunker down to read for a few hours.

There’s also a rooftop garden that offers great Wasatch Mountain views!

Recent visitors said the architecture alone is reason enough to visit, while others appreciated the friendly staff and on-site cafe.

You can also find a wide range of different stores situated in the Library Square area, including a stunning rooftop garden that offers fantastic views of the Wasatch Mountains.

It’s also perfect for a little peace and quiet while you read, write, or get some fresh air.

Check their website for opening times!

Address:  210 E 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, United States

15. Summum Pyramid

Visiting the Summum Pyramid has got to be one of the more interesting, fun things to do in Salt Lake City.

The first Summum is a play on the Latin Summus, which means “highest”.

The pyramid was completely in 1979, where it serves as a modern mummification provider as well as the church’s center for meditation and teaching.

The Summum religion was founded by Claude Corky Nowell in 1975 after he claimed to have an unusual encounter with hyper-intelligent beings that he referred to as Summa individuals.

They apparently revealed the universe’s true nature to him, prompting him to change his name to Summum Bonum Amon Ra and form the religion, which is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Much of Summum beliefs draw from polytheism and often seem to be a blend of religious spirituality and science fiction.

It is this uncanny eccentric nature that makes the Summum Pyramid one of the most mysterious Salt Lake City attractions.

You can step in during the evenings every Wednesday to join philosophical discussions.

Address:  707 Genesee Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84104, United States

Looking for more thrills around Utah? Why not check out some of the things to do in St. George ?

16. Big Cottonwood Canyon

Brad Young / Shutterstock

The Big Cottonwood Canyon is a must-see if you’re in Utah for a weekend.

It sits at the bottom of the Wasatch Mountain Range and spans 15-miles.

It is just a short drive away from the more urban parts of Salt Lake City and is packed with things to do.

If you’re a fan of nature, you’ll love this canyon!

While you’re in this SLC spot, you can visit multiple lakes – including Lake Mary and Lake Blanche – as well as go hiking, biking, or walking to take in the scenery.

You will also be able to enjoy picnics, outdoor sports, water activities, and winter sports (during the right seasons).

Some people also like to camp or fish in this Salt Lake City haven.

Address: Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Uintah-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, Salt Lake City, UT 84121, USA

17. City Creek Center

The City Creek Center is the best spot to go if you like shopping – and it’s probably the greatest mall in all of Utah.

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, near to State Street, it covers 700,000 square feet of land, and over 90 different restaurants, shops, and more can be found inside.

But the City Creek Center isn’t just about fantastic shopping.

It’s also a beautifully decorated and designed location, with a huge glass ceiling that serves as a retractable skylight and is moved in and out based on the weather.

It also boasts waterfalls, fountains, and a 1,200-foot stream full of fish!

Apart from many common retail outlets, the mall also houses some unique and more interesting dining and retail outlets from Salt Lake City, Utah itself.

It’s an award-winning mall, too – even more reason to check it out!

Address:  50 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States

18. Redwood Drive-In Movie Theatre

lrterry78 / Shutterstock

Looking for some entertainment while you’re in Salt Lake City?

Head over to the Redwood Drive-In Theatre , which has been showcasing double features (two movies!) for one low price since 1948.

Lots of people are fans of the theatre and come by at night now to enjoy $9 ticket fares and the old-fashioned movie-showings right in Salt Lake City, Utah!

Adults who grew up during the era of drive-in popularity – back in the 50s – will especially enjoy this nostalgic trip down memory lane.

Make sure you’re not late – you’ll want to get a good parking spot.

It’s definitely one of the coolest things to do in Salt Lake City this weekend!

Address:  3688 S Redwood Rd, West Valley City, UT 84119, United States

19. Salt Lake Trolley Tours

Salt Lake Trolley Tours

Salt Lake Trolley Tours are a great way to go sightseeing and spot all the attractions that this Utah region is known for!

The trolley you will ride is painted bright red and a replica of trolleys of old, and it will take you and a small group through the downtown area of Salt Lake City, showing you all the most crucial monuments and locations that the city has to offer.

While you’re on board, you’ll be given lots of information about the history of Salt Lake City and its famous sites.

You’ll see the State Capitol Building, Temple Square, and other spots near to them.

There is also the option of a tour cruise, which brings you through a more scenic experience.

20. Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School

Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School

If you’re looking for something unorthodox to do this weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah, look no further than Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School.

It has been almost five decades since Plescia began studying and compiling lesser-known Biblical passage, using them as artistic inspiration.

Mostly, he focuses on Eve and Heavenly Mother, though there is much more to be seen at this “school”.

Plescia made use of empty buildings in the southern region of Salt Lake City in order to create his school.

It is now a garden that houses multiple gigantic sculptures that cover the area, winding upwards into the sky, depicting specific Biblical figures and Biblical passages and stories.

What’s even more impressive is how Plescia worked on all of this out of his own passion.

A dome, self-built, towers over the school’s top, and he dug out the basement by hand.

Visit in the afternoon on a Friday or Sunday to receive a tour of his spectacular garden and listen to his inspiration behind each piece.

If you’re looking for what to do in SLC that is unusual but fascinating, this is your best bet!

Address: 1324 State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA

21. Thanksgiving Point

Have kids? Take them to Thanksgiving Point , one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City if you’re looking for a versatile and fun adventure!

It contains many different treasured locations within its 55 acres, including a movie theater, a petting farm, the Butterfly Biosphere, and a golf course.

There’s also the Museum of Ancient Life, which is a very high-tech museum great for kids!

Best of all, these spots are all near to each other, so you can take a trip to all of them.

Of course, you don’t need to have children to enjoy this lovely Salt Lake City, Utah location.

Enjoy the golf course, gardens, and go dining or shopping, all within Thanksgiving Point itself!

Address:  3003 N Thanksgiving Way, Lehi, UT 84043, United States

22. Family History Library

The Family History Library is a fantastic free-to-the-public library.

It is located in downtown Salt Lake City as is run by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and its purpose is to pursue genealogical research and assist visitors in finding information about their ancestry.

And this isn’t just limited to Salt Lake City or Utah locals!

There’s lots of stuff to do in this library, and a variety of workshops and classes hosted by this SLC location will show you to do them.

You will be taught how to use the library’s resources, databases, and records.

You can get further assistance from staff, and over 30 languages are ready to be used for this assistance.

This Salt Lake City library first opened in 1894, and since then, millions of individuals from different countries have been able to utilize its extensive resources to find out more about themselves and their ancestry.

Take a trip there and learn something about your history!

Address:  35 N West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA

23. Utah Olympic Park

Jakub Zajic / Shutterstock

The Utah Olympic Park located in Park City was built for the Winter Olympic Games of 2002, and it’s among the top must-see spots near Salt Lake City.

Back then, it hosted a variety of events, such as Nordic ski jumping, bobsleigh, luge, and more.

You can go on guided tours so you can witness all the places to see within the park

A variety of activities are available, some of them being seasonal.

Summer promises the Xtreme Zipline, which is the steepest of its kind internationally, the Quicksilver Alpine Slide, freestyle ski jumping, and more.

Meanwhile, the winter brings Nordic ski jumping, the Comet Bobsled, the terrain park, the Rocket Skeleton, and more.

Address:  3419 Olympic Pkwy, Park City, UT 84098, United States

24. Beehive House

Sopotnicki / Shutterstock

The Beehive House is one of the more popular attractions in Salt Lake City, Utah – especially for those curious about Latter-day Saints history.

It displays a beehive symbol on one of its turrets, which was representative of the hardworking nature of the Latter-day Saints – and also a part of the Utah coat of arms.

When Brigham Young was the governor of the state, he lived in this 1854 home, along with his 19 wives and 56 children.

Many aspects of the Latter-day Saints faith were incorporated into this home, keeping its residence near to their religion, and visiting it for a tour is one of the top things to do in Salt Lake City.

Address:  67 E S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, United States

25. Tracy Aviary

M Outdoors / Shutterstock

We’ve already talked about Tracy Aviary when mentioning the famed Liberty Park of Salt Lake City, Utah, but even if you’re not interested in the whole park, the aviary itself is one of the best tourist attractions for animal-lovers and families.

The aviary hosts more than 400 different types of birds, which come from 135 different species, most of which are either endangered or rare.

They are all housed over 8 acres of land, within exhibits that show them in a replica of their natural ecosystems and habitats.

This aviary, first opened in 1938, is definitely one of the best things to see if you’re a fan of birds!

These birds aren’t local to just Salt Lake City – many are more exotic, such as the Chilean king vultures.

Address:  589 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, USA

26. Gallivan Center

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

Gallivan Center is one of the best entertainment-related points of interest in all of Salt Lake City, especially if you’re into a little nightlife.

Located in the downtown area of Salt Lake City, a wide range of artists perform at music festivals regularly thrown in the area.

Some performers are local, from Utah or from America in general, and others fly in from various parts of the world.

June is probably a good time to take a trip to Gallivan Center when it hosts a Blues music festival that is the greatest that Salt Lake City – and even the whole state – has to offer.

Address:  239 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, United States

27. Gilgal Sculpture Garden

sporst / flickr

The Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a stunning wonder that serves as a surprisingly peaceful respite from the businesses and homes near to it.

It is a hidden gem of Salt Lake City, built by Thomas Battersby Child, Jr. sometime in the middle of the 20th century.

Walk through the garden and you’ll immediately see why it’s one of the most impressive simple attractions in this Utah city.

More than 70 engraved stones are scattered throughout it, engraved meticulously with Latter-day Saints literature and odd carved images of all kinds.

12 original sculptures also lie in wait for perusal, as well as a statue of Child himself!

It took almost two decades for Child to shape Gilgal Sculpture Garden into the blissful and fascinating oasis it is today.

Visiting it is one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City!

Address:  749 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102, United States

28. Red Butte Garden

Chaithanya Krishnan / Shutterstock

The Red Butte Garden is an outdoor center that is one of the most perfect places for sightseeing in Salt Lake City, Utah.

It houses miles upon miles of trails upon its 100-acre foundation that you can follow for fun or for exercise, all winding through garden houses.

All sorts of presentations of fauna and flora are on display in the garden all year long, making it a great Salt Lake City destination for nature-lovers.

It also has a botanical garden, an amphitheater that puts on music concerts in the summer, and an arboretum.

You can also take part in classes on gardening, educational programs, and special holiday events if you’re in Salt Lake City at the right time for them!

Address:  300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

29. Eccles Theatre

Eccles Theater

The Eccles Theatre is a relatively new addition to downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, but it has since served as the venue for a wide range of amazing and entrancing performances.

Adults and kids alike are sure to find a performance they’d like to see while here for a weekend!

The seats feel comfortable and opulent, so you’ll feel like you’re in the lap of luxury the whole time.

Broadway musicals, bands, and comedians have all taken the time to drop by this Salt Lake City venue and perform, as well as some local Utah acts.

The theatre itself is a true stunner and a wonder to see, and after enjoying the show and applauding, you can easily walk to artisanal eateries nearby for a great end to tonight’s outing.

Address:  131 Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA

30. Clark Planetarium

Original photograph Mike Murray, composited with public domain nebula from NASA

The Clark Planetarium is a wonderful and fun educational location that is among the best things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Over 10,000 square feet of ground throughout the spot offer countless multidimensional exhibits and lots of activities to take part in.

When you enter, you’ll get to explore a free hall full of interactive and informational exhibits.

You’ll forget you’re in Utah at all as you learn more about the planet, the solar system, and the progress of space exploration.

There is also a 3D IMAX theatre, so if you come to Salt Lake City with your kids, they’ll love rushing in to watch educational feature films!

You can find the Clark Planetarium in the Gateway District, where it hosts sprawling galleries and exhibits that will amaze and engage you.

You’ll be impressed with all that it has to offer, especially if you’re intrigued by the mysterious world of space.

It’s an experience unlike any other!

Address:  110 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Salt Lake city

Salt Lake City is teeming with places to visit and fun things to see.

No matter where you go around SLC, so many activities are waiting for you to engage in and enjoy.

Beyond just the top, most popular places, many hidden gems in this Utah region are waiting for you to peruse.

There’s a little something for everyone, no matter what you’re into and who you’re with!

Explore Salt Lake City

Plan your trip to salt lake city: best of salt lake city tourism.

Essential Salt Lake City

Trending in the forums

Salt Lake City Is Great For

Winter sports rentals.

Nature and Wildlife Tours

Shopaholics

Eat & drink

• Little America Hotel
• The Grand America Hotel
• Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City
• Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Downtown/The Gateway
• Valter's Osteria
• The Park Cafe
• Ruth's Diner
• Big Cottonwood Canyon
• City Creek Center
• Natural History Museum of Utah
• Temple Square
• Clark Planetarium
• 45 Minute Great Salt Lake Boat Tour
• Great Salt Lake Wildlife and Sunset Experience
• Salt Lake City Guided Bus Tour
• Tabernacle Choir Performance + Salt Lake City Bus Tour
• Trolley Adventure: A Show-Tour of Salt Lake City

• Places To Go
• Cities & Towns

Salt Lake City

• Weather: Partly Cloudy, 46F

Salt Lake City makes a great gateway for travelers making a trip to Utah's ski resorts or southward to Utah’s renowned red rock country. Frequently referred to as the "Crossroads of the West," its location is also ideal for longer roadtrips northward to Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. Though as those who attempt to pass through often find, you'll frequently talk yourself into staying longer than you expected.

Things to Do in Salt Lake City

Explore the Salt Lake Area

Salt lake city stories.

Previous Group Next Group

'Bad' Brad: A Story of Blues, Blood and Legendary Jazz

Written By Andrew Dash Gillman

5 minute read

Meet Utah’s legendary DJ and blues musician, “Bad” Brad Wheeler. Take a peek into the history of Salt Lake City’s music scene through the memories of Bad Brad.

Fervor on Foot: Tracking Salt Lake's Food and Spirits

Written By Stephanie Doktor

Salt Lake City, Utah is a walkable town with a flourishing and ever-evolving food and spirits culture. Find a neighborhood district to stroll, taste, touch and see!

From Big Air to Big Ales: Utah’s Best Local Craft Brew Picks

Written By Visit Utah

Here's the thing about the craft brewing scene in Utah: it's thriving.

The Hands That Shape Temple Square

Written By Temple Square Hospitality

3 minute read

If you visit Salt Lake City, you should visit Temple Square. Breathtaking architecture and landscaping will awe and inspire you. Learn more!

Short List: Local Salt Lake City Nightlife Picks

Make the most of winter's shortened daylight by extending your Utah ski trip into the night. Sure, some resorts offer incredible night skiing — so, okay, after that — but then the night really gets going in downtown Ski City.

The Spice of (a New) Life

Written By Austen Diamond

4 minute read

Some of the best food in Salt Lake City is served in the Spice Incubator Kitchen. Come visit this international culinary kitchen for a treat to your taste buds.

Salt Lake City’s Must-See Street Art

Written By Sara Hobbs

Salt Lake City, Utah has more than 80 murals and art installations to discover. Come and see how these urban street artists showcase their own flavor and perspective.

Where to See Women's Art in Utah

Written By Ashley Mae Hoiland

There’s no shortage of art galleries in Salt Lake City and across Utah's Wasatch Front. Beyond the major metropolitan areas, there are also small artist communities across the state where artists seeking a slower pace have flocked for decades. Here are a few recommendations for where you can experience art in Utah.

Where’s the Meat?

Written By Darby Doyle

Taking the blue highways, finding a local diner or picking up fresh fruit from a family-run farm store gets us that much more in touch with the flow of seasons and feeling grounded in our sense of place as we travel. And shrinking the circle of our food sourcing has become a priority for many people even, and especially, while on the road.

11 Family-Friendly Activities Near SLC

Written By Matcha

From roller coasters to ski slopes, discover 11 fun family activities in and around Salt Lake City.

Utah’s Women Make History

Walk in the footsteps of Utah’s earliest women’s suffrage leaders at sites throughout downtown Salt Lake City. Along the way, view public art installations commemorating voting rights and stop at trail-adjacent local women-owned businesses.

Salt Lake City’s Rainbow Colors Fly Year Round

Take a trip to Salt Lake City, an LGBTQIA+ friendly city, which over the past two decades has become a destination for those who enjoy both a hip urban atmosphere and easy access to the great outdoors.

Discover the Shape of Utah's Coffee Community

Written By Austin Wright

7 minute read

See coffee shops in Salt Lake City on this short video tour of some of the best coffee shops in Utah.

You Are Where You Eat: Salt Lake Latino’s Perfected Flavors

Written By Willy Palomo

Here is a guide for a day — or weekend — packed with some of the Salt Lake City's best Latino cuisine, brought to you by the hands who have cared and perfected their flavors for centuries.

The Salt of Sound: Live Music in Salt Lake City

8 minute read

Check out the live music scene while visiting Utah. Salt Lake City’s numerous music venues offer something for every music lover. Watch Salt of Sound for a taste.

More Than Coffee: The Caffeinators of Salt Lake City

The unique Salt Lake City coffee community is ready to embrace you. When you visit Utah, try all the capital city's coffee shops and styles to find your favorite cup.

V Is for Variety

Gary Vlasic, Salt Lake City’s premier event designer, creates spellbinding experiential design in a city that offers unparalleled freedom and space.

How-to Guide for Salt Lake City Conference Attendees: Food, Drink and Fun

Here’s everything you need to know to get the most out of your time before, during, and after your conference in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Utah's Rum Underdogs

6 minute read

Utah distilleries are becoming very popular. Distillery 36 is rising to the top of the list. Drink in their story and then let’s toast with Brigham agricole rum!

Destination Ski City: Culture Élevé

After a day of skiing, soak up Salt Lake City’s culture and nightlife: Enjoy a live performance and explore delicious dining options and great bars. Check it out!

Required Listening

Written By Mitchell Reber

Crucialfest weaves metal and indie rock into the fabric of Salt Lake City

Step Into an Artistic Vision

Written By Katya Wagstaff

The columns of Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre slowly appear as you climb to its perch above downtown Salt Lake City. The theatre sits on the campus of the state’s flagship university with metropolitan lights below and mountains behind that rise several thousand feet off the valley floor to provide a backdrop to the east and south.

Family and Budget Guide to the One and Only Ski City: Salt Lake

Written By Kristen Pope

With 11 family-friendly resorts nearby, Salt Lake City skiing, dining and entertainment options make Utah one of the best ski destinations in the western U.S.

Discover the Breweries of the Wasatch Front

Over the past two decades, Salt Lake’s breweries have grown into a culture all their own. Here’s what you need to start planning a pub crawl with this collection of Salt Lake’s most popular breweries.

Meet the Women Leading Utah's Food and Beverage Renaissance

When it comes to food and beverage in Utah, there are key influencers who have been the proponents of change, growth, and the role of women in Utah’s food scene.

Let's Talk Utah: Accessibility to the Outdoors in Utah

"Salt Lake City — and the valley — is very lush. We’re really, really close to outdoor recreation from our urban environment."

- Ashley Cleveland, City Planner and Salt Lake Local

Best of Salt Lake

City creek center.

Satisfy your shopping fix with a stroll through City Creek Center and browse Apple, Anthropologie, Coach, Nordstrom and more. This is a one-of-a-kind mall with a retractable roof and a running creek stocked with local brown trout.

Great Salt Lake

The remains of Lake Bonneville have become a thriving ecosystem. This is a perfect place for wildlife watchers, and less than half an hour from downtown Salt Lake City.

Library Square

Utah’s largest library, The City Library is a place to focus, to explore the art gallery, to marvel at the architecture and to grab a quick bite to eat.

Salt Lake City Ski Resorts

10 ski resorts within an hour of Salt Lake City International Airport. That’s unmatched access to The Greatest Snow on Earth®.

• Temple Square

Planning a visit Salt Lake City? Add Temple Square to your itinerary to learn about LDS history, heritage, art and culture of one of the oldest Utah attractions. Explore Salt Lake.

Showing 0 of 0

Great Salt Lake Needs Your Visit

Written By Larisa Bowen

While you visit this mysterious natural wonder, you can also help save it.

Things to Do

Arts and culture.

From performing arts to museums and heritage sites, check out Salt Lake City's art offerings and festivals.

This is the beating heart of SLC, where historic architecture and historic sites frame a bustling shopping, restaurant and nightlife scene. Downtown is the place for art gallery hops and festivals, live music, chocolate tasting, Jazz games, and the downtown Farmers Market. See it all on TRAX or the GREENbike SLC bike-sharing program. Learn more at visitsaltlake.com

Unlike most other metropolitan areas, lush and beautiful mountains and canyons (which include four world-class ski resorts for winter visitors) sit on the very borders of the city and offer hiking opportunities within minutes of its hustle and bustle. Find out where to hike in Salt Lake City.

Little Cottonwood Canyon and Big Cottonwood Canyon

Around 20 miles from Salt Lake City, Little Cottonwood and Big Cottonwood are home to four incredible Utah ski resorts. The Cottonwoods in summer are safe havens for incredible climbing, bouldering, hiking, trail running, cycling and mountain biking, both on and off the resorts. Both canyons are designated scenic byways.

Plan Your Trip

Hotels & lodging.

Explore a variety of hotels and lodging in the Salt Lake City area. Stay at a luxury resort in the heart of downtown or at one of the many nearby ski resorts. Or, find an affordable room with immediate access to nearby recreation. Whatever brought you to Salt Lake City, there are plenty of places to stay.

Find a Hotel

Restaurants & Bars

Excellent international fare and local specialties are never far away from downtown Salt Lake, where the culinary and brewing scenes have grown steadily over the past years.

The Best Restaurants in Salt Lake City

Support Local

Supporting local communities during your travels can have a profound impact. Stock up with groceries locally, stop in an artisan shop or eat at a restaurant in addition to campfire meals.

Discover more ways to support local

Play The Hits: Exploring Salt Lake City's Iconic Sights

Utah’s capital city boasts a unique history. It is rich in frontier history for sure but its story didn’t end (or begin) there. Experience the many layers of history, prehistory and contemporary culture.

Arts, History and Heritage, Urban Experiences

• Utah Museum of Contemporary Art
• Natural History Museum of Utah
• Red Butte Gardens

See Itinerary

Salt Lake City to Moab

Moab is Utah’s adventure epicenter — a place where world-renowned natural destinations are scattered around a town that’s brimming with local charm. Be sure to bring a vivid imagination and taste for exploration along with your hiking shoes, sunscreen and water bottle, because this is not your typical retreat.

Adventure, Arts, Hiking, Mountain Biking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

• Arches National Park
• Guided 4x4 Wheeling
• Canyonlands Stargazing
• Floating the Colorado River

Neighborhoods

9th and 9th district.

Just off downtown, tree-lined streets on SLC's famous grid system lead to hip neighborhoods like the 9th and 9th district, home to bustling espresso bars and bakeries like Coffee Garden and Tulie as well as a burgeoning food scene exemplified by Pago, famous for artfully crafted American cuisine showcasing locally-sourced ingredients. The district (in partnership with its close-by, sister neighborhood, the Maven District) is also brimming with 40-plus women-owned businesses that are helping to boost the local economy, as well as each other.

Campus district

A quick trip on TRAX, SLC’s light rail system, takes you from city center past The Leonardo science museum to the University of Utah campus district, home to Red Butte Garden and Arboretum and the Natural History Museum of Utah. The campus area is also adjacent to multiple access points to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, a sprawling network of trails lacing the foothills behind the city with nearly 100 miles of hiking, running and biking trails, an after-work favorite for locals. Explore Salt Lake's backyard adventure hikes and Learn more at visitsaltlake.com

Sugar House

Sugar House is the place for local shops with an eclectic fair. One of Salt Lake's oldest neighborhoods, the area features a diverse lineup of art galleries, bookstores and boutiques in its now-booming business district, which surrounds the beautiful Sugar House park. Learn more at visitsaltlake.com

The Avenues and Capitol Hill

If you're in for an uphill drive through some of Salt Lake's oldest and most unique neighborhoods, drive through The Avenues and Capitol Hill, perhaps the quirkiest and artsiest neighborhoods in SLC. Capitol Hill offers an unforgettable high-elevation view of the entire Salt Lake metropolitan area from Ensign Peak. Learn more at visitsaltlake.com

What's Nearby

Antelope Island State Park

Syracuse, UT

Antelope Island State Park is 25 miles north of Salt Lake City. Accessed by a causeway, the island sits in Great Salt Lake and features free-roaming bison and antelope herds.

Ogden is an outdoor recreation mecca. It has also worked to restore its historic art deco architecture and buildings and blend in new development toward a charming and vibrant downtown.

Park City, UT

Park City is the perfect mountain town. The winter slopes were once featured in the Olympics, and in summer the mountains and nearby state parks and reservoirs transform into a hiking, mountain biking, fishing and camping mecca.

Support local, show you care.

Here's how you can help

Well-prepared travel is responsible travel.

Do your part by planning ahead

• Last Updated On
• October 3, 2023

14 Top Salt Lake City Attractions — Best Tourist Spots!

Salt Lake City, often abbreviated to SLC, is the beautiful capital of Utah.

It is the most populated city in the state and is known for being the religious center for the Mormon Church or the LDS Church.

Some of the highlights on your trip to this metropolis are eye-catching gardens, superb museums, awe-inspiring religious sites, breathtaking parks, lively zoos, stunning historical attractions, and numerous others.

To make planning as enjoyable and easy as possible, I made a list below of the top Salt Lake City attractions so that you can focus on packing your things and preparing to have a blast with your travel buddies.

Check them out!

1. Temple Square

50 N Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84150 (801) 531-1000

Temple Square, constructed in 1853, sits in the heart of the city.

This area, owned by the Mormon Church, encompasses roughly 25 acres.

Why We Recommend This Tourist Attraction

Start your memorable vacation by visiting one of the most popular attractions in Salt Lake City, Temple Square, welcoming at least 3 million guests annually.

It is home to many renowned attractions and religious sites and close to scenic parks, local eateries, and upscale hotels.

There are many activities you can do here, like going on guided tours, exploring religious places, strolling through the gorgeous flowers, dining at a magnificent restaurant, and so much more.

The best time to visit this historic square is during the holiday season when this tourist hotspot comes alive with dazzling lights of every color.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek

Related: Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City

2. Mormon Temple

50 N West Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84150 (801) 240-2640

The Mormon Temple, also known as Salt Lake Temple, is an iconic landmark.

It is the largest LDS temple on earth, spanning 10 acres and standing at 222 feet tall, taking about 40 years to complete.

When searching for famous tourist places in Salt Lake City to see on your sightseeing getaway, a must-visit is the Mormon Temple.

It plays a crucial role in the Mormon religion and history since its construction in the 19th century.

As you visit this attraction, you can take plenty of pictures of its spectacular architecture, tour the temple grounds, learn about its history and significance, and more.

A terrific place to dine which is right around the corner, is the Roof Restaurant, a gourmet buffet sitting at ten stories high.

It offers captivating views of the temple and exquisite, mouth-watering international cuisine.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City, an IHG Hotel

Related: Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City with Kids

3. Natural History Museum of Utah

301 Wakara Way Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 581-6927

Natural History Museum of Utah, founded in 1969, mainly shows exhibits on local natural history and the Intermountain West.

If you want to visit fascinating historical, natural, and cultural attractions within the city, this museum is one of your best choices.

It is home to a boat-load of permanent and temporary exhibits for you to explore.

For example, Native Voices, featuring eight local tribes of Utah, Past Worlds, taking you millions of years into the past to the time of dinosaurs, First Peoples, depicting the story of the prehistoric people of the Great Basin, and so much more.

This museum also offers a handful of fun activities and workshops for your enjoyment, like craft or painting workshops.

One of the best tour experiences you can book at this museum is the Highlights Tour.

It takes about 1 hour and allows for a more in-depth and immersive visit as you listen to some of the most intriguing stories about the museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Salt Lake City Marriott University Park

4. Hogle Zoo

2600 Sunnyside Ave S Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 584-1700

Hogle Zoo, encompassing 42 acres, sits on the mouth of Emigration Canyon.

It opened in August 1931 and is currently home to about 800 animals from diverse species.

Are you and your companions animal lovers?

Do you love interacting with nature’s wildlife?

If you do, I highly recommend a trip to this lovely zoo.

Here, you can get the opportunity to interact and feed some of the animals, like giraffes, rhinos, and elephants, and observe other wildlife from a safe distance, such as African lions, harbor seals, polar bears, gorillas, rattlesnakes, and programs.

It also offers a wide array of fun activities where you can do things like making crafts with your kids, attending a yoga session, meeting a zookeeper, participating in painting classes, and tons more.

The best time to visit the zoo when traveling with toddlers is on a Tuesday.

During these days, the zoo offers an engaging program called Tot Tuesday, where your little ones can enjoy a series of animal-based activities.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-East

5. Liberty Park

600 900 South Salt Lake City, UT 84105

Liberty Park, at least 80 acres in size, is the second-largest urban park in the city.

It is also the oldest park, created in 1882.

Take your family and friends to one of the best places to visit in Salt Lake City, Liberty Park.

It is a picturesque attraction offering you multiple facilities and amenities to explore, like an aviary, swimming pool, glimmering ponds, sports courts, a playground for your kids, and tons more.

Bond with your friends and loved ones as you enjoy doing countless activities together, such as going swimming, paddle boating, touring an aviary, golfing, and playing fun sports games, like volleyball, tennis, bocce ball, and basketball.

If you want to stay in the park for a while and enjoy a lovely picnic with your group, you can rent a pavilion.

It offers a more comfortable visit and features power outlets and charcoal grills, ideal for having a barbeque.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand America Hotel

Related: Best Beaches Near Salt Lake City

6. State Capitol

350 State St Salt Lake City, UT 84103 (801) 538-1800

The State Capitol, constructed in the 1910s, is the seat of government for Utah.

It overlooks the downtown district and is one of the most prominent landmarks of the city.

A must-visit for your Salt Lake City sightseeing tour is the iconic State Capitol.

This grand building, designed by Richard K. A. Kletting, is the perfect place to visit when looking for budget-friendly options.

It offers free guided tours of the facility every weekday.

As you tour the building, you will learn about its history, stunning architecture, its defense mechanism against earthquakes, its various rooms and their different purposes, and so on.

After touring the building, dine at Arlo, a local favorite.

It is a 3-minute drive from the State Capitol and offers delicious meals, like ravioli and pork chops, cooked by world-class chefs.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Little America Hotel Salt Lake City

Related: Free Things to Do in Salt Lake City, UT

7. Beehive House

67 E S Temple Salt Lake City, UT 84150 (801) 240-2681

The Beehive House, constructed in 1854, was the former official residence of the second LDS Church president Brigham Young.

It gets its name from a beehive-shaped sculpture perched on the home.

One of the top places to see in Salt Lake City is the Beehive House.

It is well-preserved and carefully restored to retain its historical significance.

As you tour the house museum, you can get the chance to see what life was like for the Young family in the 19th century as you explore its many rooms with period-appropriate furnishings.

Expect to see things like the former office of Young, his carpentry tools, and learn about his role as an inspirational community leader and prophet.

There is no public restroom within the building.

Should you feel the need, make your way to the neighboring Joseph Smith Memorial Building.

8. This is The Place Heritage Park

2601 Sunnyside Ave S Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 582-1847

This is The Place Heritage Park is a historical landmark and city park.

It is where Bringham Young first saw where the new home for Mormon Pioneers would be, Salt Lake City.

A colossal monument stands to mark the very spot where Young stood.

If you want to visit Salt Lake City tourist spots and sites that are fun but have a historical significance, this heritage park is the ultimate option.

Here, you can learn about the first Mormon Pioneers, Bringham Young’s discovery, and have fun doing many things.

Some of the activities you enjoy here are digging for gemstones, cracking geodes at the Geode Cracker, riding trains, watching demonstrations from pioneer tradesmen, horseback riding through equestrian trails, and so much more.

This is the Place Heritage Park offers wheelchair rentals, free of charge, should you need it.

It is on a first-come, first-serve basis, so visit earlier in the day.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Sugar House

9. Tracy Aviary

589 E 1300 S Salt Lake City, UT 84105 (801) 596-8500

Tracy Aviary is officially known as the Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens.

It is the oldest and largest free-standing aviaries in the United States.

Discover the grandeur and magnificence of birds by touring cool attractions near you, like the Tracy Aviary, with your travel companions.

Here, you can visit beautifully themed environments and see diverse bird species, like pelicans, North American eagles, hornbills, cranes, flamingos, macaws, swans, owls, vultures, and endless more.

Some of the activities you can do here are listening to keeper talks, buying souvenirs at a gift shop, watching a jaw-dropping bird show, and plenty of other fun options.

If you or someone you are traveling with has sensory sensitivities, you can borrow sensory backpacks filled with tools and toys, like noise-canceling headphones, tangle toys, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Salt Lake City Center

10. City Creek Center

50 S Main St Salt Lake City, UT 84101 (801) 521-2012

City Creek Center, which opened March 2012, features at least 110 stores offering a plethora of shopping options.

It sits in the downtown area of Salt Lake City and spans roughly 10 acres.

If you love to shop at numerous stores, one of the best tourist attractions in Salt Lake City, Utah, for you to visit is City Creek Center.

This shopping mall is the perfect place to go on a terrific shopping spree, featuring stores like the Banana Republic, Coach, Forever 21, H&M, Louis Vuitton, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Sephora, Apple, J. Crew, and so much more.

If you want to enjoy some much-needed relaxation time after going on a shopping spree, visit Form and Spa.

Here, you can get a facial, massage, fix your brows, buy custom-made candles, soaps, and lotions, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Hotel Downtown Salt Lake City

11. Red Butte Garden

300 Wakara Way Salt Lake City, UT 84108 (801) 585-0556

The Red Butte Garden, operated by the University of Utah, spans roughly 100 acres.

It features an arboretum, an amphitheater, various hiking trails, and more.

One of the top places to go in Salt Lake City today is the Red Butte Garden.

It is breathtakingly beautiful, featuring diverse plant species, flowers of every color, and various themed gardens.

It is also the perfect place to view awe-inspiring art exhibits, attend outdoor concerts, go hiking through postcard-perfect sceneries, read poetry on boxes found throughout the garden, sign up for a guided tour, and countless others.

These gardens are gorgeous no matter what season you visit, but spring is one of the best times to come here.

During this time, the Red Butte Garden features flower shows, fundraisers, plant sales, and so on.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: University Guest House & Conference Center

12. Eccles Theater

131 S Main St Salt Lake City, UT 84111 (385) 468-1010

The Eccles Theater, which opened in October 2016, is a grand theater offering a wide range of entertaining shows.

It has a capacity of about 2,468 people and features various terraces, stunning chandeliers, and so on.

If you are searching for points of interest to watch spectacular live shows, I highly recommend visiting the Eccles Theater with your partner, friends, or loved ones.

Its grand stage offers you awe-inspiring live performances to watch, like Broadway shows, theatrical productions, concerts, plays, dance recitals, musical concertos, and the like.

After watching a captivating live show, head to the Murphy’s Bar & Grill with your friends to enjoy a lovely night out of drinking.

It is an Irish-themed tavern featuring a selection of imported beer, cocktails, and other alcoholic concoctions.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Salt Lake City Center

13. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

410 Campus Center Dr Salt Lake City, UT 84112 (801) 581-7332

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts, founded in 1951, offers an impressive collection of more than 20,000 pieces of artwork.

One of the main attractions Salt Lake City has to offer you is the Utah Museum of Fine Arts.

Enjoy a day immersed in art as you do things like look through various artwork of various forms, like paintings, sculptures, European artwork from the 14th to 19th century, and so on.

It also offers fun programs for a more entertaining and enjoyable time, like yoga sessions, artist talks, lectures, film screenings, and art classes where you can learn how to paint, draw, sculpt, and more.

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts offers audio guides for you to rent if you want to explore its many galleries on your own.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: AC Hotel By Marriott Salt Lake City Downtown

Related: Best Hotels in Salt Lake City

14. Clark Planetarium

110 400 W Salt Lake City, UT 84101 (385) 468-7827

The Clark Planetarium is one of the top Salt Lake City attractions.

It opened in April 2003 and features a dome theater, an IMAX theater, laser shows, and so much more.

Go on an adventure to the farthest reaches of our planet and into the universe by visiting the Clark Planetarium.

Explore its many hands-on and interactive exhibits as you look through various galleries about the earth, moon, the solar system, other planets, meteorites, stars, and endless more.

You can also watch magnificent shows about dinosaurs, astronauts, how our planet came to be, and many other fascinating shows.

Visit on a Friday and Saturday to watch a breathtaking laser show free of charge at this planetarium.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Salt Lake City

Related: Things to Do Near Salt Lake City

Map of Salt Lake City Attractions

Salt Lake City Tourist Attractions: The 14 Best Tourism Spots for 2024

• Temple Square
• Mormon Temple
• Natural History Museum of Utah
• Liberty Park
• State Capitol
• Beehive House
• This is the Place Heritage Park
• Tracy Aviary
• City Creek Center
• Red Butte Garden
• Eccles Theater
• Utah Museum of Fine Arts
• Clark Planetarium

35 brilliant things to do in Salt Lake City in 2024

By: Author Megan Singleton

Posted on Last updated: April 11, 2024

Driving into Salt Lake City from the airport is breathtaking!

My first sight of the city made me audibly draw breath. It looks so tiny, almost Lilliputian at the foot the mighty Wasatch Mountains, but don’t be mistaken, SLC is a thriving metropolis with so many things to do and see, you’d need a few days here to do it all.

Read on to discover cultural and historic sites, fun outdoor activities, and some day trips you’ll want to plan extra time for.

Then head out on a fabulous Utah road trip , taking in the national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon (I’m still to visit the others). Utah is also known for its natural hot springs (including one you can SCUBA dive in), so you might want to pack your swimsuit if you’re going to be nearby.

Utah was founded in 1847 by Mormon pioneer Brigham Young – you’ll see his name a lot round here. He and his followers cultivated this rugged land and Salt Lake City, the largest city in Utah with a population of nearly 200,000, is located in the northern part of the state, at the foot of those breathtaking mountains.

SLC is a major tourist destination for its many nearby ski resorts in winter, accessibility to the outdoors, it has a thriving bar scene and nightlife , and loads more fun stuff.

*This post contains affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase I will make a small a commission at no extra cost to you.

Here are 35 fun things to do in Salt Lake City (and surrounds) – hopefully some you won’t have even thought of.

Ultimate guide to things to do in Salt Lake City

Take a sight-seeing tour.

I always like to start my visit to a new city with either a hop-on-hop-off bus ride or a sight-seeing tour. These are so under-rated, yet not only help you get your bearings for where you want to come back to, but teach you things along the way!

This tour is 2.5 hours and includes highlights such as State Capitol Building, Old Deseret Village (aka Pioneer Village), Temple Square where you can hear the world famous Tabernacle organ live, and more.

Or take the same tour in a replica trolley for something a bit more fun!

Visit Temple Square

You can’t miss Temple Square . It is right in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City and is the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, also known as Mormons.

This is the most popular tourist destination in Utah, and for a good reason. This beautiful ten-acre complex is home to the Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and the LDS Conference Center. You can take a free tour of the temple grounds, which includes a visit to the famous Salt Lake Tabernacle.

The Tabernacle Choir regularly performs live (and also live streams their performance) so click on the link above to find out dates.

Or you can buy tickets to a performance (Sunday) or rehearsal (Thursday). This ticket also includes a city sight-seeing tour.

Take a beer tour

What?! They drink beer in the Mormon state? Why yes they do. And not only do they drink it, but they have quite the craft beer scene with local brewers ready to have you sample their wares.

You can just enjoy wandering around some of them in the city, or take this guided cycling brewery tour which includes visiting downtown attractions in between beersies. I wrote more about the surprising Salt Lake City bar scene here.

Natural History Museum Of Utah

The  Natural History Museum of Utah  is a museum located on the University of Utah campus that focuses on the natural history of the state of Utah.

It is perfect for those who want to learn more about the area’s geology, archaeology, and paleontology. The museum also has exhibits on Native American culture and wildlife.

It is open every day from 9am-5pm. The university also runs summer camps, school events, and tours for those who want to learn more about natural history.

Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden  is a botanic garden and arboretum located on the University of Utah campus. This picturesque garden is perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.

You can walk through the gardens, admiring the flowers and plants, or bring a picnic and take a break in one of the many picnic areas. The park also features an amphitheater, which hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.

Shop at City Creek Center

Of course, one of the best things to do on vacation is shop! City Creek Center is a shopping center that was built to resemble a traditional European town.

The center features high-end stores like Tiffany & Co., Louis Vuitton, and Gucci, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes. It’s also dog-friendly. So if you’re looking for a place to shop or enjoy a good meal, the City Creek Center is definitely worth checking out! It is closed Sundays.

Utah Jazz Basketball

I love live sport and whenever we travel, especially in the US, my husband and I try to catch a game.

The Utah Jazz play in the 18,000-seat Vivint Arena, which also hosts concerts and other entertainment. It’s an easy walk from downtown SLC.

Download the Utah Jazz app on your phone to order food, get yourself some great seats, don your colors and have a great time shouting for team.

Salt Lake Bees Baseball

If baseball is more your thing, SLC’s team is the Salt Lake Bees who are a minor league baseball team, but the views of the towering Wasatch Mountains in the background are worth coming to Smith’s Ballpark for alone!

The stadium was awarded the best view in baseball, so clear your throat for the seventh inning stretch, and take yourself out to the ballgame.

Utah Symphony

Perhaps the orchestra is a bit more you than sport. The Utah Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1940, regularly receives rave reviews with conductor Thierry Fischer described as a master painter and a world-class interpreter of Mozart’s scores.

The orchestra’s 85 full-time professional musicians perform more than 150 performances throughout Utah and other Western states each season. You can see them at Abravanel Hall

Visit Randy’s Record Shop

In 2018, after 40 years, Randy Stinson retired from his famous Randy’s Record Shop at 57 E. Harvey Milk Blvd. (900 South), but his vinyl collection lives on thanks to son Sam taking over the business!

It’s like stepping back in time, visiting this store. A time before Apple Music and Spotify and even before cassettes! You’ll find thousands of vinyl records here, in this hip part of town decorated in cool street art. Don’t forget to check out the vegan bakery too.

LGBTQ friendly

Despite about 40% of residents of Salt Lake City being Mormon, the SLC was voted the seventh gayest city in the US, ahead of Los Angeles even.

This might come as a surprise, but there is a thriving gay scene in Salt Lake City. Despite the church’s disapproval, they don’t oppose it and even voted to rename Harvey Milk Boulevard, the famous San Francisco politician and gay activist gunned down in 1978.

This link to Visit Salt Lake LGBTQ has a list of gay bars, festivals, parades, businesses and things to do.

Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a hidden local treasure. This inner city garden is home to 12 original sculptures, and over 70 stones engraved with scriptures, poems, and literary texts. The most well-known sculpture is a sphinx with the face of Joseph Smith, founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

It was started by Thomas Child, a renowned masonry contractor and LDS bishop, hence many of the texts being around Latter-Day Saints themes. The garden is a depiction of Child’s spiritual exploration over 20 years with magnificent and bizarre creations. It became a public park in 2000.

Family History Library

The  Family History Library  is a library located on the grounds of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in downtown Salt Lake City. It is open to the public and specializes in genealogy research.

If you’re so inclined – and you have the time – you can access the library’s collection of more than two million rolls of microfilm, four hundred thousand books, and numerous databases that contain records from around the world. The library also offers free classes and workshops on genealogy research, as well as the ability to explore your family tree and experience a feeling of belonging.

The  Hogle Zoo  is a zoo located in Salt Lake City’s Emigration Canyon. The zoo is home to more than 800 animals, as well as a variety of plants and flowers.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the zoo, take a train ride around the zoo grounds, or participate in one of the many educational programs that are offered. The zoo also has a gift shop and an on-site cafe to enjoy once you’ve walked through the park.

So whether you’re a couple looking for a laid-back activity or a family looking for fun, the Hogle Zoo provides hours of fun!

Clark Planetarium

The Clark Planetarium  is a planetarium and science center located in Salt Lake City’s downtown area.

The planetarium offers shows on various topics, including astronomy, physics, chemistry, and biology. Visitors can also participate in one of the many interactive exhibits or participate in one of the many educational programs offered. They even provide IMAZ theaters with laser shows on Friday and Saturday.

If you’re interested in adding this to your experience , you can purchase tickets online or once you arrive at the planetarium.

Marmalade Hill Historic District

Salt Lake City’s Marmalade Hill Historic District was named after all of the fruit-bearing trees and plants that were brought there by earlier settlers.

This small area is located between Quince Street, 500 North, and 300 North Street and is a unique downtown area full of angular, narrow streets, vintage residential buildings, and gorgeous landscaping. A stroll through this area will show various examples of Utah’s different types of architecture.

Some of the best spots in the neighborhood include  Alchemy Coffee , a show at  Salt Lake Acting Company , or the books at the City Library.

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is the perfect place to get a taste of Utah politics. The hill is home to the Utah State Capitol, as well as the offices of many state legislators.

So, if you’re interested in learning more about how the Utah government works, Capitol Hill is a great place to start. Plus, the views from the top of the hill are unbeatable!

Then, when you’re done admiring the history and view, you can enjoy various bars, club scenes, and cafes that line the streets nearby in Downtown.

Completed in 1916, the  Utah State Capitol  building is an impressive Beaux-Arts-style building that is worth a visit for any history and architecture buffs.

You can take a free tour of the capitol to learn more about its remarkable history or admire it from the outside. The building is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10:00am to 3:00pm, except for state holidays.

Grab A Bite At Ruth’s Diner

If you’re looking for a classic American diner experience,  Ruth’s Diner  is the place to go.

This local favorite has been in operation since 1930 and is known for its delicious comfort food and historical murals.

The diner is open Thursday through Monday from 8:00am to 9/10pm and is closed on Tuesday. And if you can’t find what you want on the menu, just ask. They might be able to whip it up for you!

Relax at Liberty Park

Liberty Park is a large park located in Salt Lake City’s downtown area. The park is home to various trees, plants, flowers and birds.

Visitors can explore the gardens on their own or take one of the many guided tours that are offered. The park also has a children’s play area, a gift shop, and an on-site cafe. So if you’re looking for a laid-back afternoon activity or a family-friendly area, Liberty Park is the perfect spot!

Tracy Aviary Botanical Garden

The  Tracy Aviary Botanical Garden  is a botanical garden and bird sanctuary located in the city’s Liberty Park. This beautiful garden is home to more than 500 species of birds, as well as a variety of plants and flowers.

You can explore the gardens on your own or take one of the many guided tours that are offered. The garden also has a children’s play area, a gift shop, and an on-site cafe. See what they say on TripAdvisor about Tracy Aviary Botanical Garden.

Liberty Park is also home to the city zoo and a large lake that offers excellent views of the city skyline.

Pioneer Memorial Museum

The  Pioneer Memorial Museum  is a museum located in Salt Lake City’s downtown area. The museum is dedicated to the history of the Mormon pioneers who settled in Utah.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the museum or participate in one of the many educational programs that are offered. The museum also has a gift shop and an on-site cafe to enjoy once you’ve walked through the exhibits.

If you’re interested in learning more about Utah’s history, the Pioneer Memorial Museum is a must-see!

Utah Museum Of Fine Arts

If you’re an art enthusiast, you’ll want to visit the  Utah Museum of Fine Arts . This museum is home to a variety of art from around the world, including pieces from ancient civilizations and contemporary artists.

The museum also has an on-site cafe to enjoy and offers guided tours if you are interested. Plus, admission is free for Utah residents on Tuesdays, making it the perfect place for a cheap day out! However, you’ll want to make sure to buy your tickets online, as capacity is limited at this museum to ensure everyone’s safety.

This Is The Place Heritage Park

This Is The Place Heritage Park  is a living history museum that tells the story of Utah’s early settlers.

The park features a variety of exhibits and activities, as well as a working farm where you can see how the early settlers lived. It is a great place to learn about Utah’s history and culture and is perfect for both kids and adults. The best part is that it is open year-round, guaranteeing fun no matter what time of the year it is!

Redwood Drive-In Movie Theatre

The  Redwood Drive-In Movie Theatre  is a great place to catch a flick, during the summer.

The theatre has been in operation since 1948 and is one of the few drive-in theatres still in operation today. Bring your own snacks or enjoy some of the food that they have on offer, including hot dogs, hamburgers, and popcorn. Plus, admission is under $22 for a family of four, making it a cheap night out!

All year round this location is open for weekend Swap Meets from 8am-3pm.

Buy the Salt Lake Connect Pass to get discounts on a bunch of these attractions!

Thanksgiving Point

Thanksgiving point  is an outdoor and indoor farm, garden, and museum complex that is perfect for a day out with the family.

The complex features a variety of activities, including a children’s garden, an animal barnyard, and a museum of ancient cultures. There is also a restaurant on-site where you can enjoy a meal after exploring all that Thanksgiving Point has to offer.

Salt Lake Trolley Tours

Get around on a trolley tour. The trolleys are a great way to see the city and run throughout the day taking you to various points of interest, including Temple Square, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and the State Capitol Building.

The tours are reasonably priced for a 90-minute tour and are a great way to get an overview of Salt Lake City. There is also a few minutes in most locations to snap a couple of photos.

Head out of town!

Visit the great salt lake.

One of the most unique areas to visit is the Great Salt Lake, which is located about 30 miles west of Salt Lake City.

This large lake is stunning because it’s pink and is the largest salt lake in North America. It is an excellent place for fishing, bird watching, hiking, kayaking, boating, swimming, and sunbathing. The lake also has a number of small islands that can be explored by boat.

You can enter the lake through two state parks, including the Great Salt Lake State Park and Antelope Island State Park, from dawn to dusk each day. However, the water levels are not constant, so it’s essential to check the current conditions before visiting.

Buy this tour to the Great Salt Lake , with a local guide, which includes a float in the lake for those who want to!

Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats are a two-hour drive (about 100 miles) west of Salt Lake City, and stand as an awe-inspiring testament to the surprising beauty of nature. They cover 30,000 acres, of vast, shimmering salt crust from a pre-historic dried up sea.

Visitors come to this surreal landscape to take their selfies, and also to attend events like Speed Week, where thrill-seekers attempt to break land speed records on its perfectly flat surface. (World’s Fastest Indian?)

But beyond its adrenaline-inducing attractions, the flats are a magnet for photographers and nature lovers for the captivating sunsets.

If you don’t have a car, or you’d just rather take a guided tour and learn about it on the way, this half-day tour from SLC to the Bonneville Salt Flats is a good one.

Big Cottonwood Canyon

Voted the #1 attraction in Salt Lake City on TripAdvisor, you’ll love the scenic drive up to  Big Cottonwood Canyon .

This canyon is located just south of the city and offers stunning views of the mountains and forests. There are also several hiking trails in the area, as well as a couple of local ski resorts, Solitude and Brighton.

The canyon is especially beautiful in autumn when the leaves change color or when everything is in bloom during the spring.

Utah Olympic Park

The  Utah Olympic Park  is located in Park City (about a 30-minute drive from SLC) and is a world-class training facility for winter sports.

The park was built for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games and is now open to the public for tours, events, and activities.

We just wandered around watching teams train down dry ski ramps (below) and flipping into a huge swimming pool (above), but you can take a bobsled ride, go tubing, or even try out the ski jumping simulator.

Plus, you’ll be able to learn the history of those who have trained there and the accomplishments they’ve achieved.

So if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and want to learn more about winter sports, the Utah Olympic Park is the perfect spot!

Visit Snowbird

Take the scenic Snowbird tram to the top of the mountain during the summer months and you can do a bunch of fun summer activities . You’ll travel 1.6 miles in ten minutes up 2,900 vertical feet.

This is a great place to escape the heat during the summer months and you can do the roundtrip in about 40 minutes, or take as long as you like up here admiring the views.

If you’re coming in winter, buy the Salt Lake Ski Super Pass and bypass the ticket line at Alta, Brighton, Snowbird and Solitude!

Located about an hour and a half west of Salt Lake City, the Bonneville Salt Flats are a must-see.

This stretch of land that occupies more than 300,000 acres of the west desert features a salt crust that creates an otherworldly landscape.

You can hike, bike, or drive out to the flats to experience this unique area for yourself. Besides visitors coming out for a look, the area is also known as an international hub for car racing, with drivers setting multiple records at the Bonneville salt flats.

If you plan on visiting, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as there is no shade out on the flats!

Brigham Young University

Founded in 1875,  Brigham Young University  is the largest private university in Utah.

The campus is located in Provo (about 45-minutes from SLC) with 98% of its students members of the LDS church. BYU is a highly rated university and is known for its excellent academic programs, competitive athletics, and beautiful campus.

You can take a tour of the campus, attend one of the many events that are open to the public or stroll around the grounds.

Ensign Peak Trail

The  Ensign Peak Trail  is a short, easy hike that offers stunning views of the Salt Lake Valley.

The trail starts at the north end of the Salt Lake Valley and climbs up to Ensign Peak. The hike only takes about 25 minutes, with a one-mile length, making it perfect for those who don’t have a lot of time but still want to see a beautiful view.

Make sure to plan to go on a cooler day or when the sun starts to set as it can get quite hot during the summer!

Mountain Biking At Mueller Park

Mueller Park is an excellent spot for beginner mountain bikers who want an out-and-back ride.

To be honest, I’m even afraid of the beginner trails, as you can read in this post about my traumatic albeit picturesque experience, in New Zealand.

This track takes you outside the city with curves and turns that flow as you come back down. The ride is about 12.5 miles with an elevation gain of around 1920 feet.

If you want a more challenging ride, there are multiple other trails nearby that are sure to give you a workout. Make sure to watch out of heavy hiker traffic on the weekends in the lower section of this trail.

With so many things to do in Salt Lake City and its surrounding areas, planning your perfect vacation is easy when you follow these tips. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!

Where to stay in Salt Lake City

If you want to walk to the bars and restaurants, stay in downtown. We stayed at Hyatt Place Downtown , almost opposite Vivint Arena , home of the Utah Jazz . I liked it and it gets a 9/10 “wonderful” score on Expedia. Your typical, clean, modern Hyatt. If you’re in town for a game or an event, this is ideal. It’s also only three blocks from Temple Square , if you’re coming for the church or the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

However if you want to be nearer the nightlife and restaurants , I’d look at something like this penthouse loft in the heart of downtown , a few blocks closer to the action. You get the whole apartment, which conveniently has a washer/dryer for those of us looking to get laundry done before we move on again! It’s also under $200 a night.

You might also like my other posts on Utah:

Check out Salt Lake City’s cool bar scene

Everything you need to know about exploring south-western Utah

My ultimate guide to exploring south-eastern Utah

I hiked the Narrows in Zion National Park: things to know before you go

Visit Bryce Canyon and hike among the hoodoos!

Follow my 7-day Utah road trip itinerary starting in SLC and visiting Zion and Bryce.

Visit these 7 stunning Utah hot springs – includes a map

Why visiting Park City in summer is a must

My favourite quick resource links

• Booking.com for hotels
• Get Your Guide for tours
• Skyscanner for flights across multiple airlines
• Expedia for flights and hotels
• Discover Cars for car rentals across multiple companies
• RentalCars.com for more car rentals and to compare above
• Amazon for my curated list of best travel items (or anything else!)
• Vegas.com for discounted tickets in Las Vegas
• CityPass for discounts on attractions in several US cities

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

About Megan Singleton

Hi, I'm Megan Singleton and I'm the word slinger of this travel blog as well as on radio in NZ every Sunday. Former Travel Editor at Yahoo NZ and current freelance writer for a few newspapers and mags from time to time, I set off on this travel writing journey 20 years ago and I've pretty much always got a suitcase half packed (or half un-packed!) I'd love you to join me on Facebook or Twitter and sign up for my newsletters if you want loads of travel tips, advice and deals!

3 new restaurants in the Salt Lake City area to try this week

Photo illustration by stacker // shutterstock, recently opened restaurants in the salt lake city area.

Many families around the country have traditions involving restaurants, whether it's returning to the same spot year after year for birthdays, Sunday morning brunches at a favorite local diner, or Friday night pies at a neighborhood pizza place.

While plenty of diners like to visit the same restaurants every year, every month, or even every week, others also want to try something new. Consumers today are "looking for new flavor experiences that excite their palates and provide a respite from their daily routines," Stacey Kinkaid, the vice president of product development and innovation at US Foods, said in a statement. "The trend of global flavors demonstrates this as diners look for discovery and escape from the ordinary."

US Foods, a major domestic food service distributor, surveyed 1,000 people who reflect the demographic makeup of the general American population about their dining out and takeout habits . They found that the average person dines out about three times per month for a wide range of reasons, from socialization to enjoying the atmosphere, and from celebrating something special to avoiding the labor of cooking (and cleaning up afterward).

As for what types of restaurants they tend to dine in, at the top of the list is casual dining (62%), followed by fast food (57%) and fast casual (54%). Contemporary casual (32%) and bar and grills (25%) round out the top five.

Need some inspiration for your next meal out? Stacker compiled a list of recently opened restaurants in Salt Lake City using data from Yelp , including details on how each restaurant is rated by diners and the types of cuisine they serve. Get ready to make some new restaurant plans!

Note: The photos in this article are stock images and do not necessarily depict the specific restaurants listed or the dishes they serve.

The 14 peaks

- Rating: 5.0/5 (1 reviews)

- Address: 1446 South State St. Salt Lake City, Utah

- Categories: Indian, Himalayan/Nepalese

- Read more on Yelp

Bhansa Ghar

- Rating: 5.0/5 (12 reviews)

- Address: 250 West 2100 South Expy Ste G Salt Lake City, Utah

- Categories: Himalayan/Nepalese, Indian

- Rating: 4.8/5 (25 reviews)

- Address: 515 East 300th South Salt Lake City, Utah

- Categories: Italian

This story features data reporting by Karim Noorani, writing by Jaimie Etkin, and is part of a series utilizing data automation across 74 metros.

Your browser is not supported for this experience. We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari.

See a New Side of Salt Lake

Downtown Salt Lake, like most cities’ downtowns, is a hub for business, arts, entertainment, dining, and nightlife. Young professionals are moving to this neighborhood in droves to be close to transit and occupy dozens of new apartment buildings and condos, a hip new restaurant or bar opens seemingly every day, Greenbikes cruise from shop to shop, and exciting events hit the city center night after night. But amid all the urban action, historic Temple Square remains the most visited attraction in the city, and views of the venerable Wasatch Mountains can be had from almost every street corner, giving downtown Salt Lake a unique feeling of rootedness and ruggedness. When it comes to planning out your day and night downtown, there’s a lot to choose from. Here are a few crowd favorites. Don't miss your chance to check some of the best food and drink in downtown Salt Lake .

Eccles Theater

Delta center (utah jazz), temple square, city library, city creek shopping center, utah state capitol, locals’ secrets.

Right off of Main Street, this five story performing arts theater  is quite a sight to see. The Eccles Theater books everything from Broadway musicals to bluegrass bands to big name comedians. Be sure to take in the star-speckled ceiling after finding your seat, and head to Finca Pintxos Bar on Regent Street for Spanish tapas and drinks after the show.

Host site of the 2022 NBA All-Star Game, 2002 Winter Olympics site, and home of the beloved Utah Jazz NBA team. Snag tickets to a Jazz game and experience the loudest fans in the NBA, or check out one of the mega popstars taking the mainstage. For a full event lineup, check out the Delta Center website .

Please note: Temple Square is currently under renovation, but still has spaces open for the public. See what is still available to visit and tour here .

The grounds are beautifully landscaped, the towering Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints' temple and surrounding architecture are stunning, and the multilingual tour guides are happy to fill you in on the unusual sights, sounds, and texts you’ll encounter in this utterly unique corner of the city. 

Designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, the downtown library is a gorgeous place to read, relax, catch up on emails, browse books and zines, see an art exhibit, and admire sweeping views of the city.

Currently, the main rooftop terrace is being remodeled and will be an even better place to take in views of the city. For updates on construction, visit their website .

This award-winning, state-of-the-art  shopping mall  has something for everyone, including waterfalls, a fish-stocked stream, and an enormous glass ceiling that opens and closes based on the weather.

Capture a photo op outside this beautiful building, stroll the grounds, or head inside and take in the marble elegance and artwork. Pro tip, go in the spring and see the cherry blossoms bloom. The capitol offers self-guided tours or guided tours that can be scheduled in advance of your visit . 

Not too small, not too big,  The Depot  is a super fun place to see shows. The venue books a good variety of touring bands and musicians, and it’s almost always easy to get a drink and see the stage.

Note: Speaking of shows and other crowd-pleasing happenings, if any of the following events are happening during your visit to downtown Salt Lake, definitely check them out: Twilight Concert Series , Craft Lake City , Utah Arts Festival , Kilby Block Party , Open Streets , Utah Pride Parade , and the Utah Beer Festival .

The following are a few places we probably shouldn’t tell you about. Go there only if you’re a genuinely cool person who wants to chat with some Salt Lakers and take a step off the conventional visitors guide path.

This unassuming  neighborhood bar  is somehow situated right in the heart of downtown. Its curious group of regulars are loyal and close-knit, yet surprisingly diverse—they span a wide range of interests, ages, and backgrounds, from local news anchors to eccentric artists to grumpy old men to tech nerds. There’s always a good conversation to be had here.

Sears Parking Lot Taco Carts

Arguably the best street tacos in town. This is a spot where you come for the food, not the setting.. However, there are some awesome bars nearby that you could hit up afterward, a local favorite is Purgatory .

Brigham Young's Family Cemetery

The burial plot of the second president of the Mormon church, as well as several of his wives and children, is a site of spiritual reflection for some and curiosity for others, but regardless of what draws you to visit, it’s a serene and storied spot in a city that’s quickly growing and changing around it.

Ken Sanders

If you’re a lover of books, don’t miss this eclectic bookstore. From local owner, Ken Sanders , this is a great spot to find those books you might not be able to snag at your chain bookstores. It has everything from rare collections, to new books, to affordable used titles. 

Visit Salt Lake