14 BEST Things to Do in Salt Lake City
Introduction to Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City, the vibrant capital of Utah, offers visitors a unique blend of adventure, history, and culture. Nestled between the striking Wasatch Mountain Range and the vast Great Salt Lake, this city serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and cultural explorers alike. Whether you’re a powder hound drawn to the world-renowned ski slopes just outside the city or a history lover interested in the roots of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), Salt Lake City has something for everyone.
The wide variety of activities ensures there’s plenty to do no matter the season. From skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in the warmer months, Salt Lake City has earned a reputation as a premier destination for outdoor adventures. Dotting the downtown landscape are historic and cultural landmarks, including Temple Square, museums, and an eclectic art scene.
Salt Lake City also surprises visitors with an ever-growing food scene, quirky gardens, and numerous family-friendly attractions such as zoos, parks, and historical sites. With activities available year-round, it’s an ideal destination for anyone seeking the best of both nature and urban culture.
1. Temple Square: The Heart of Salt Lake City
Temple Square is more than just a religious center; it’s the beating heart of Salt Lake City. Encompassing a sprawling 10-acre area in the downtown district, Temple Square plays a pivotal role in the city’s identity. The square is home to historical landmarks tied to the Mormon history of the region, architectural marvels, and beautifully maintained gardens.
Key Attractions at Temple Square
One of the highlights of any visit is the majestic Salt Lake Temple, perhaps the most iconic building in Salt Lake City. Though the temple itself can’t be entered by the public, this pioneering piece of Gothic architecture continues to awe visitors with its intricate design and symbolism. The adjacent Salt Lake Tabernacle, famous for its acoustics, is where the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir performs. Catching a free rehearsal performance or attending a choir event enhances the cultural and historical richness of this location.
Another essential stop within Temple Square is the Assembly Hall, a smaller but equally significant building. This Gothic-style chapel is used for concerts, religious meetings, and public events throughout the year.
Special Events and Guided Tours
Tours of Temple Square are offered daily, giving visitors invaluable insights into the history of the LDS Church and the buildings within the square. The beautiful gardens change with the seasons, making each visit a unique experience. One of the most remarkable periods to visit is during winter when Temple Square is festively illuminated by dazzling Christmas lights—a tradition that attracts both locals and tourists.
2. Natural History Museum of Utah
Perched on the foothills of the Wasatch Range and directly adjacent to the University of Utah, the Natural History Museum of Utah is a must-see for families, science lovers, and anyone interested in the natural world. It’s home to over 1.65 million items and artifacts that collectively tell the story of Utah’s rich natural history.
This modern, specially designed building integrates harmoniously into its natural surroundings and invites visitors to explore its various themed galleries and exhibitions.
Popular Exhibits
The Life Exhibit allows museumgoers to delve into Utah’s ecosystems, showing how life developed and adapted to the state’s arid and diverse environments. Another crowd favorite is the Native Voices exhibit, which highlights the art, culture, and traditions of Utah’s Native American tribes through engaging multi-media presentations and fascinating artifacts.
For geology enthusiasts, the Gems and Minerals exhibit showcases Utah’s rich geological diversity with a stunning lineup of precious stones and rare minerals found both in the state and abroad.
Family-Friendly Activities
Children will enjoy the museum’s interactive and hands-on exhibits, making this a great destination for families. In addition to permanent exhibits, the museum often introduces temporary exhibitions and hosts educational workshops designed to engage visitors of all ages, amplifying its appeal as one of the most enriching experiences in Salt Lake City.
3. Liberty Park and Tracy Aviary
Liberty Park is an urban oasis, covering more than 80 acres of green space right in the heart of the city. Known for its tranquil lagoon and large shade trees, this park has long been a favored spot for joggers, picnickers, and families looking for a day out. Liberty Park offers miles of walking and jogging trails, a well-stocked pond for paddle boating, volleyball courts, and an array of playgrounds for children.
Tracy Aviary
Located within Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary is not just a bird sanctuary but a rich educational resource, often described as a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. It’s one of the oldest aviaries in the U.S. and is home to over 150 species of birds, with popular exhibits like the Owl Forest and Pelican Pond. Families and bird lovers will appreciate the regular shows, where birds of prey soar overhead, or interactive feeding areas where visitors can engage directly with some of the aviary’s inhabitants.
Additional Park Attractions
Aside from visiting the aviary, Liberty Park offers more family-friendly activities. Catch a ride on the mini amusement train that tours the park, enjoy a paddle boat ride on the pond, or bring a blanket for a relaxing picnic. The park’s well-maintained open spaces and playgrounds make it ideal for spending a sunny afternoon, all without leaving the city’s core.
4. The Great Salt Lake & Antelope Island State Park
The titular Great Salt Lake is both an iconic and unusual natural wonder. While it’s often described as the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, it’s perhaps best known for enabling visitors to experience the bizarre and thrilling sensation of floating effortlessly on its surface due to incredibly high salinity levels.
Antelope Island State Park
While many people come to float in the lake, a visit to Antelope Island State Park, which lies within the lake, offers additional rewards. Known for its rugged beauty, Antelope Island is a wildlife lover’s paradise. The park is home to a large herd of bison, along with antelope and myriad species of birds, making it a great spot for photography or a wildlife hike.
Activities on the Lake
In addition to floating in the salty water, Antelope Island’s Bridger Bay is ideal for beach time, and many visitors enjoy kayaking or paddle-boarding during the summer months. The island also boasts several hiking trails like the Frary Peak Trail, which provides panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake and its surroundings. Indulge in a day of exploring this surreal landscape while keeping an eye out for roaming bison at dusk.
5. Red Butte Garden & Arboretum
Spread across 100 acres of colorful plant life and native habitats, Red Butte Garden & Arboretum is the perfect place for those seeking serenity and an appreciation of Utah’s flora. Located near the University of Utah at the foothills of the Wasatch Range, the gardens are ever-changing with the seasons, ensuring a fresh experience each visit.
Botanical Gardens and Nature Trails
The arboretum features themed botanical areas, including medicinal herb gardens, cactus gardens, and water-conserving plant displays. You can also explore over five miles of scenic hiking trails that weave through native plants and trees, offering a chance to see Salt Lake City from a natural viewpoint.
Outdoor Events & Workshops
Red Butte Garden is an active place, hosting event series throughout the warmer months—especially popular are the outdoor concerts. For a more educational experience, the garden offers gardening workshops and wildlife walks tailored to nature enthusiasts of all ages.
6-10 (Hogle Zoo, Utah Olympic Park, Bonneville Salt Flats, Ensign Peak, and Utah State Capitol)
6. Hogle Zoo
Established in 1931, Hogle Zoo is one of the premier family destinations in Salt Lake City and a wonderful place to discover wildlife from various parts of the world. Spanning 42 acres, the zoo is home to over 800 animals representing species from Africa, Asia, and North America. The setting allows visitors to explore diverse ecosystems without leaving the city.
Popular Exhibits
One of the zoo’s most visited sections is the African Savanna exhibit, where you’ll have the opportunity to see majestic animals such as lions, giraffes, zebras, and ostriches in naturalistic habitats. The Rocky Shores exhibit is another favorite, home to polar bears, sea lions, and seals as they frolic in expansive pools designed to mimic their native environments. There’s also an interactive touch tank filled with sea creatures, allowing children to engage directly with marine life.
Family-Friendly Events
Hogle Zoo regularly hosts kid-friendly events like Zoofari and the ZooLights festival during the winter holiday season, when the entire park is adorned with festive lights. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs for young children, including animal feeding opportunities and summer camps, making it a perfect destination for families with little ones.
If you’re an animal lover, or you’re traveling with kids, a visit to Hogle Zoo is a fantastic way to learn about worldwide wildlife conservation efforts and enjoy a fun and educational day out.
7. Utah Olympic Park: A Legacy from the 2002 Winter Olympics
Nestled just outside of Salt Lake City in nearby Park City, Utah Olympic Park stands as a monument to the 2002 Winter Olympics. While originally created for the Winter Games, today this park has evolved into a year-round destination for extreme sports enthusiasts, history buffs, and families looking for adventure.
Winter Sports and Year-Round Activities
In the winter months, visitors can still partake in activities that harken back to the Olympics, such as bobsledding down the actual Olympic track with aprofessional driver. This adrenaline-pumping experience is available both in summer and winter, giving visitors a chance to feel like actual Olympians. In addition, both novice and expert skiers can enjoy the incredible skiing and snowboarding at Olympic Park.
Summer transforms the Utah Olympic Park into an adrenaline playground with options such as ziplining over the park’s ski jumps and tackling extreme tubing runs down Olympic-sized slopes. For daring adventurers, the airbag jumps provide an opportunity to leap off a crane into a gigantic safety airbag, allowing for some extreme freestyle practice.
Museums and History
For visitors interested in the history of the Winter Games, the Olympic Museum within the park is informative and inspiring. The museum showcases artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits that highlight the excitement and challenges of hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics. Exhibits include actual uniforms worn by past Olympians, the torch itself, and even medals awarded during the games.
Utah Olympic Park is a brilliant way to blend sports, history, and adrenaline into a memorable, full-day experience.
8. Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats might look like a scene straight out of a science fiction film, but this geological wonder is very real. Located about 90 minutes west of Salt Lake City, the Bonneville Salt Flats are one of the most unique natural landscapes in the world. These vast expanses of salt crust were created as an ancient lake, Lake Bonneville, evaporated over millennia, leaving behind this stark and breathtaking desert.
Activities and Land Speed Records
The Bonneville Salt Flats are famous not only for their striking beauty but also for their reputation as the ultimate place to set land speed records. In fact, since the 1930s, racers from around the world have regularly gathered here to race custom cars and motorcycles on the flat and unyielding terrain.
For visitors not looking to break records, the Salt Flats still offer exceptional activities. Photography enthusiasts will be blown away by the mirror-like surfaces that reflect the deep blue sky, creating photo opportunities that evoke another world. You can also explore the flats on foot or by car (if conditions permit), though it is important to adhere to travel guidelines to protect this fragile environment.
Be sure to plan your trip carefully by checking the weather and road conditions beforehand, as heavy rainfall can transform sections of the flats into unpassable wetlands.
9. Ensign Peak Hike: Best Views of Salt Lake City
Even though it’s a relatively short and easy hike, the Ensign Peak Trail rewards hikers with some of the most panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley, the Great Salt Lake, and the surrounding mountain ranges. Ensign Peak holds historical significance, as it was one of the first points of exploration by Utah’s original Mormon pioneers, including Brigham Young, who stood at the summit after their arrival in 1847.
Trail Details
The trailhead begins just north of downtown Salt Lake City and totals just under one mile to reach the top, making it a great hike for people of all fitness levels. The hike takes approximately 30 minutes to complete, but many visitors stay at the top to savor the 360-degree views, especially around sunset when the skies ignite in vibrant hues over the valley.
Many hikers learn about the significance of this peak during the trail, with signs detailing the site’s ties to early Mormon settlers and its use as a landmark in the establishment of Salt Lake City.
Whether you’re a local looking for a quick outdoor adventure, or a tourist in search of some wonderful views, Ensign Peak makes for an excellent outing.
10. Utah State Capitol Building Tour
The Utah State Capitol, standing prominently on the city’s northern hilltops, is not only a government building but also a beautiful piece of architecture that commands admiration. The neoclassical design of the Capitol takes its cues from the iconic United States Capitol in Washington, D.C., with its gleaming dome and grand columns.
Free Guided Tours
Visitors are not only welcomed but encouraged to join the free guided tours that run hourly Monday through Friday. These tours delve into the history of both the building itself and Utah’s state government, and feature impressive art collections that include murals and sculptures throughout the rotunda and various chambers.
While historical exhibits inside the Capitol are noteworthy, perhaps the best time to visit is during the early days of spring, when the cherry blossoms bloom around the grounds. The trees create a colorful and picturesque setting that makes for perfect photography, especially with the grand Capitol building in the background.
Exploring the Utah State Capitol gives you a deeper appreciation for both Utah’s rich political past and the architectural elegance that makes this building such a pivotal part of Salt Lake City’s skyline.
11. Gilgal Sculpture Garden: A Hidden Gem
If you’re looking for something quirky and off-the-beaten path, seek out the Gilgal Sculpture Garden, one of Salt Lake City’s hidden gems. This small and curious park is tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood, yet it’s bursting with unique sculptures and religious symbolism, thanks to the creative energies of its sculptor, Thomas Battersby Child Jr.
Unique Sculptures and Art
The park, which is free to enter, presents a strange and fascinating world where sculptures of biblical figures, famous Mormon leaders, and mythological creatures come together. Among the most talked-about sculptures is the Joseph Smith Sphinx, a human-lion hybrid featuring the founder of the LDS Church.
Interwoven throughout the garden are symbolic structures, engraved stones, and even poems. While some pieces require interpretation to fully grasp their intended meaning, this adds to the intrigue, as visitors often find themselves discussing possible explanations for the artist’s more abstract works.
Gilgal Sculpture Garden offers a peaceful respite from the city hustle, ideal for a quiet afternoon or a reflective moment among the stone monuments.
12. Trolley Tours & Historic Downtown Exploration
One of the most relaxing yet informative ways to explore downtown Salt Lake City is by joining a trolley tour. These nostalgic, open-air trolleys wind through the capital’s most significant landmarks, providing visitors with a charming and educational experience.
Sights Along the Tour
Trolley tours typically pass by Salt Lake’s top attractions, including the Utah State Capitol, Governor’s Mansion, historic homes, and the beautifully designed Public Library. Additionally, the trolley routes often include stops at major shopping destinations like the City Creek Center, a beautiful, modern retail space offering high-end shopping, dining options, and even an indoor waterfall.
As you ride through key historical sites, tour guides share insights into the city’s more detailed histories, particularly relating to Salt Lake City’s unique blend of 19th-century Mormon settlements and 20th-century developments.
For those who prefer to explore on their own, downtown also offers multiple walking tours that enable visitors to appreciate Salt Lake City’s architecture, public art, and prominent historical landmarks that trace the growth of the city from a humble settlement into the hub it is today.
13. Ski Resorts Near Salt Lake City: Alta & Snowbird
Salt Lake City is known as the gateway to some of the best skiing in the United States. If you’re a winter sports lover, you’ll instantly recognize globally renowned ski resorts nearby, especially Alta and Snowbird. Both resorts are located about a 40-minute drive from the city in Little Cottonwood Canyon, and are particularly famous for their “powder snow,” easily attracting skiers and snowboarders from all corners of the world.
Winter Sports
At Alta Ski Area, you’ll find slopes perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers, as skiing remains their primary focus (snowboarding is not permitted). Alta’s laid-back, no-frills attitude towards skiing caters to purists looking for excellent conditions without the pretension.
Snowbird Ski Resort, situated just adjacent to Alta, opens its slopes to both skiers and snowboarders. It’s also home to a variety of winter activities that make it a popular destination for families with children. Beyond the traditional snow sports, adventurers can enjoy backcountry snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice climbing.
Summer Fun at the Resorts
During the summer months, these ski resorts transform into action-packed playgrounds for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife spotting. In Snowbird, you can also enjoy a ride on the scenic aerial tram, which offers breathtaking views of the mountains from a bird’s-eye perspective.
Whether you’re visiting in the throes of winter during a snowstorm, or hiking in summer among wildflowers and alpine breezes, Alta and Snowbird consistently top the list for outdoor enthusiasts near Salt Lake City.
14. Timpanogos Cave National Monument & Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
Not far from Salt Lake City lies Timpanogos Cave National Monument, a fascinating experience that immerses visitors in a subterranean wonderland. Nestled within American Fork Canyon, this attraction is perfect for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a unique adventure.
Cave Exploration
To reach the entrance of the cave, you must hike the well-paved but steep trail that leads 1.5 miles up the Timpanogos Mountains—and while the trek requires some stamina, visitors are richly rewarded. Once inside the cave, guided tours lead you through intricate passages filled with stunning geological formations such as stalactites, stalagmites, and the brain-like stone formations of Chimes Chamber. The tour is highly educational, as guides explain the cave’s formation and its significance over millennia.
Alpine Loop Scenic Byway
For a relaxing time after your dark and cool cave adventure, the nearby Alpine Loop Scenic Byway offers a mesmerizing driving route showcasing spectacular views of the canyon and surrounding mountains. The byway connects Provo Canyon to American Fork Canyon, and includes myriad pull-offs where you can enjoy nature walks, picnicking, and photography.
If you’re planning an outdoor-centric trip and crave a mix of both shaded cave exploration and sunlit mountain views, Timpanogos Cave National Monument offers the perfect blend.
FAQs Section
1. What is there to do in Salt Lake City for free?
Several of Salt Lake City’s top attractions are completely free, allowing you to explore the city on a budget. Temple Square offers free guided tours, and its beautiful architecture and gardens can be enjoyed for hours without charge. Liberty Park is the perfect spot for a peaceful day of picnicking, jogging, or bird-watching. You can also visit the unique Gilgal Sculpture Garden, where quirky and symbolic sculptures are freely available to admire. Lastly, the Utah State Capitol offers free tours that delve deep into Utah’s political history and features beautiful artwork on display.
2. Can you swim in the Great Salt Lake?
Yes! Swimming in the Great Salt Lake is a unique experience due to the super-salty water that allows you to float effortlessly. Antelope Island State Park is one of the best places on the lake for a swim, and taking a dip in the warm, salty brine is undeniably one of the most distinctive activities you can do in Utah.
3. What are some family-friendly activities in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City is filled with family-friendly attractions. Hogle Zoo ranks among the top family destinations and offers interactive exhibits, as does the Natural History Museum of Utah. For outdoor fun, families flock to Liberty Park, where children can enjoy large playgrounds, paddle boating, and even a ride on the amusement train. Tracy Aviary within the park is perfect for curious little bird lovers. Lastly, downtown trolley tours allow families to explore the city’s rich history without exhausting the little ones.
4. When is the best time to visit Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on the activities you’re interested in. Spring and fall are ideal thanks to their mild temperatures, making outdoor activities such as hiking, sightseeing, and city tours more enjoyable. In contrast, winter in Salt Lake City is heaven for snow sports enthusiasts, as some of the world’s best ski resorts are only a short drive away from the city. Summer also shines here with pleasant weather for high-altitude hiking, lake swimming, and vigorous outdoor pursuits.
5. How far is Park City from Salt Lake City?
Park City, a world-famous ski and film festival destination, is about 30-40 minutes from Salt Lake City by car along I-80 East. Whether you’re planning a day trip to hit the ski slopes or just exploring the historical downtown during the summer, the proximity makes it an easy and worthwhile drive.
Conclusion & Final Thoughts on Visiting Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City effortlessly combines the best of urban living with access to majestic natural landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for world-class skiing, exploring the historic and religious landmarks at Temple Square, partaking in cultural or family-centric activities, or venturing out to the Great Salt Lake to marvel at the unique environment, there is truly something for everyone.
This dynamic city manages to offer both laid-back day escapes and heart-pumping adventures, making it a year-round destination suited to a variety of interests. From awe-inspiring hikes to cultural icons, cozy parks, and charming ski towns to discover just beyond the city borders, Salt Lake City offers endless adventures you’ll never forget.
The next time you find yourself in Utah, don’t just pass through—take the time to experience Salt Lake City’s unique blend of nature, culture, and history. You won’t regret it!
