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Where to see Christmas lights in Salt Lake City: A 2023 list

Most are free, but some installations require an entry fee..

(Francisco Kjolseth | The Salt Lake Tribune) The plaza at Temple Square is lit up for the holidays as people take in the visual delights on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023.

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, complete with jingle bells, photos with Santa Claus, festive parties and presents. And of course, elaborate holiday light displays twinkling across the Salt Lake Valley.

Here is a list of free light displays that may help you get into the holiday spirit, along with a few pay-to-view installations as well.

Free Christmas light locations:

Christmas Street, Sugar House (Glen Arbor Street, begins at 1735 S. 1500 East) • Multiple homes are decorated for the holiday in a tradition that dates back to 1948.

Christmas Street, Taylorsville (3310 W. Royalwood Drive/5350 South) • In addition to all the lights on homes, each house also has a sign with a verse from “Twas the Night Before Christmas” (aka “A Visit From St. Nicholas”).

Frosty’s Winter Wonderland (805 E. 18th Ave.) • An elaborate display at a private Salt Lake City home.

(Francisco Kjolseth | The Salt Lake Tribune) A young reveler runs through the visual displays at the Gallivan Center on Saturday, Nov. 25, 2023.

The Gallivan Center (239 S. Main) • The center will feature a 50-foot Christmas tree this year and illuminated sculptures for Gallivan’s annual Glow display that you can visit for free. For a fee, ice skating is also available from about mid-November through February, with rentals included in your admission cost.

The Gateway (400 W. 200 South) • In addition to the lights , there are multiple photo ops with woodland creatures, and local artists designed the Art Shop Project window displays, inspired by the theme “All That Sparkles.”

Liberty Tree SLC (near 1700 South and 500 East) • The property that’s home to “the tallest living lit tree in Utah” was sold in May, but a Facebook page for the attraction states that there are still 28,000 lights on the roughly 70-foot tree and its new owner supports what has become a neighborhood highlight.

Miracle Cove (7325 W. 3100 South, Magna) • The homes all typically feature massive light displays.

Shepherd Family Christmas Lights (3512 W. 6400 South, Spanish Fork) • These “extreme Christmas lights” feature moving light shows set to music.

Temple Square (50 N. Temple) • Although the area remains in the midst of a massive renovation, some areas — including the Salt Lake Tabernacle and Conference Center — will be adorned with thousands of lights.

Pay-to-view Christmas light displays:

Christmas in Color (Bastian Agricultural Center, 11161 S. 2200 West, South Jordan) • Drive through more than a million lights synchronized to holiday music, which you can tune in to using your car radio. There are giant candy canes, snowmen, arched pathways and more. Tickets are $35 per car.

Candy Rush (Utah State Fairpark, 1000 W. North Temple) • There are more than a million lights, and tickets start at $39.99 for the whole car.

(Utah's Hogle Zoo) The annual ZooLights display can be seen at Utah's Hogle Zoo .

Lightwalk (Tracy Aviary, in the southwest corner of Liberty Park, near 500 East and 1300 South) • Light displays include a maze and walk-thru tunnel, and visits with Santa in a life-sized gingerbread house. Tickets are $17.95 for adults, $13.95 for children 3 to 12, and free for infants under 2.

Luminaria (Thanksgiving Point, 3003 Thanksgiving Way, Lehi) • There are millions of twinkling lights in 28 themed areas and a light and music show on 6,500 programmable luminaries. Open Mondays-Saturdays from 4:30-9 p.m.; closed Sundays and Christmas Day. Tickets are $24 for adults and $17 for children through Dec. 7, then $27/$20 through Dec. 26.

Zoolights (Utah’s Hogle Zoo , 2600 Sunnyside Ave. — 840 South) • Open Dec. 6-10; 13-23; and 26-30. Prices are $14.95 for adults, $11.95 for children 3-12.

Editor’s note • Know of other spots that should be on this list? Let us know by emailing Scott D. Pierce at [email protected] .

Donate to the newsroom now. The Salt Lake Tribune, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public charity and contributions are tax deductible

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Christmas in Salt Lake City, UT: 10 Things to do in Salt Lake City at Christmas

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Salt Lake City, UT draws visitors throughout the year for its beautiful mountains, world-class skiing, outdoor adventures, and a growing cultural scene. 

Over the holidays, Salt Lake City provides a winter wonderland of activities ready to help you experience its Christmas spirit.

 If you’re planning to visit the “Crossroads of the West” this holiday, check out our list of 10 things to do in Salt Lake City at Christmas!

1. Christmas at Temple Square

Temple Square contains the worldwide headquarters for the Mormon Church and is a prominent landmark of culture and history in Salt Lake City’s downtown. 

When the holiday season begins, hundreds of thousands of visitors come from all over to see Temple Square light up with Christmas lights. It’s an annual family tradition for many locals as well.

Throughout the Christmas season, over one million lights cover the grounds, as well as nativity scenes from around the world. 

Be sure to check out the holiday performances from the legendary Mormon Tabernacle Choir as well!

2. Festival of Trees

An annual tradition for over 40 years, the Festival of Trees in Sandy, UT (just south of Salt Lake City) provides a festive array of over 700 Christmas trees decorated in various holiday themes. 

The trees are auctioned off during the event with the proceeds supporting a local children’s hospital. Be sure to check out the Aisle of Wreaths to see some beautiful Christmas wreaths for purchase as well.

In addition, shopping and live entertainment, visits with Santa, and face painting for the kids round out this beloved local festival.

3. Christkindlmarkt SLC

Experience a European-style Christmas market with the festive Christkindlmarkt SLC , a holiday shopper’s delight! Located at This is the Place Heritage Park, this Christmas market provides over 90 vendors selling unique artisan goods and tasty German foods (mmm..currywurst!). 

In addition, you’ll want to make a visit to see St, Nikolaus and the live nativity or listen to the story of Stille Nacht and sing carols with the children’s choir.

Afterwards, stay for the holiday parades, including the market’s highlight, the St. Nikolaus Parade, celebrating the good deeds of children.

4. Christmas at the Grand America Hotel

In the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, the luxurious Grand America Hotel provides an excellent place to stay for your Christmas in Salt Lake City visit. In December, the hotel hosts ample festivities to get you into the holiday spirit, worth seeing even if you’re staying elsewhere.

A visit to the Holiday Window Stroll is a must, where you can see the hotel’s famous window displays portraying beautiful holiday scenes (grab your camera!). You’ll want to keep taking pictures at the Grand Gingerbread House, a life-size gingerbread house and longstanding hotel tradition.

In the mornings, you can have the hotel’s famous breakfast with none other than Santa and Mrs. Claus!

5. Holiday Ice Cream Shakes at Iceberg Drive Inn

Utah is known for its extra-thick ice cream shakes requiring spoons to eat, and the Iceberg Drive Inn in Salt Lake City has been providing these famous treats for over 55 years. 

During your Christmas in Salt Lake City visit, make a stop at the original Iceberg Drive Inn for one of these “over the top” shakes, which make a tasty holiday treat at Christmastime. 

If you’re feeling festive, try their eggnog shake. You can only get the “mini” size, which is actually huge!

The original location has a retro neon look, great for taking fun selfies and family photos with shakes in hand. 

6. Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place Heritage Park

This is the Place Heritage Park allows visitors all year to step back in time and experience what life was like firsthand for the pioneer settlers and Native Americans in Utah. At Christmas, the old-fashioned fun continues with Candlelight Christmas .

In addition to seeing blacksmiths, saddlemakers, and other 19th Century craftsmen while exploring over 50 historic structures, guests can visit with Father Christmas and enjoy the songs of Christmas carolers. Kids can make their own crafts too!

Looking for some unique gift ideas? Several handcrafted items will be for sale from the park’s historic pioneer homes and cabins.

7. Christmas Around the World

In nearby Provo for over 60 years, BYU’s International Folk Dance Ensemble has hosted its Christmas Around the World concert for generations of locals and tourists. 

Celebrating the joys of the holidays, Christmas Around the World showcases international dances from various countries all over the globe. Each concert features over 175 dancers and musicians, creating a massive Christmas spectacle.

Striving for authenticity, every dance is crafted by international choreographers. This unique holiday tradition is an excellent choice for fans of travel and culture!

8. Ice Skating at the Gallivan Center

Make sure to come downtown to the Gallivan Center during your Christmas visit for the city’s outdoor ice skating rink! A festive sight, you can enjoy some community ice skating and take in downtown’s Christmas lights and displays. 

While you’re there, grab some hot cocoa and a warm pretzel and admire the festive ambience. Plus, you’ll be close by to other downtown activities and shopping!

The Gallivan Center’s ice skating rink is open throughout the holiday season into the first winter months of the new year.

9. Park City Sleigh Rides

Oh what fun it is to ride in a one-horse open sleigh! You sing about it every year in “Jingle Bells,” but you can actually experience horse-drawn sleigh rides in the snow in Park City, UT . 

With Utah known for its snow and winter recreation, it’s not Christmas in Salt Lake City without going out onto the snow for a sleigh ride. 

At the charming ski town of Park City (less than an hour from Salt Lake City), you’ll have several opportunities to experience this classic Christmas activity (and maybe hear some jingling bells, too!).

Taking in the serene beauty of Park City’s snowy terrain on a sleigh ride will warm your hearts. You’ll create wonderful memories that’ll forever change the way you sing “Jingle Bells!” 

10. Ride with Santa at Solitude Mountain Resort

Up in the snowy mountains in nearby Solitude Mountain Resort , you can meet Santa in a unique way on Christmas Day. Only on December 25th, you can see Santa out and about on skis at Ride with Santa . 

After a night of delivering presents around the world, Santa unwinds by hitting the ski slopes in Solitude every year. Visitors are encouraged to be on the lookout for Santa while they’re enjoying their winter recreation, even getting the chance to ski along with him!

As Santa skis around the area, he passes out free candy to the kids every chance he gets. Only in Utah can you meet Santa on skis! 

Looking for more US travel inspiration?

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Best Things to Do in December in Salt Lake City

LAST UPDATED BY Jennifer Boren November 25, 2014

It's so nice to live in or visit a larger city at the holidays and have so many options for Christmas activities.   Salt Lake City, Utah provides just that, in a picture perfect setting, with the beautiful snow-capped Wasatch Mountain range on the east providing a beautiful backdrop.  The downtown is energized with seasonal spirit, wtih many people choosing to stroll around the beautifully decorated Temple Square , with its numerous lights and beautiful nativity scenes.  Horse-drawn carriages carrying blanketed riders pass shop-keepers' themed windows.  

Music is such a large part of the season and the Utah Symphony provides that in two different ways.  First, accompanying the professional ballet company Ballet West in their multiple showings of The Nutcracker at the Capitol Theatre, and secondly, in their own concert at Abravenel Hall, in the "Messiah" Sing-In.  Fulfill your inner dancer and singer by attending these two very inspiring shows.

Finish your holiday shopping while browsing the beautiful City Creek Center downtown or step back in time and to Salt Lake City's beginnings by meandering the old fashioned village buildings at This is the Place Heritage Park and purchase handmade items or make your own while hearing carolers.  Father Christmas is on hand too.

Stay warm indoors at the annual Festival of Trees event at the South Towne Exp or bundle up to see Santa rapel from the tram at Snowbird Resort and see the Torchlight Parade come down the mountain - an awesome sight!

Enjoy your holidays in Salt Lake City!

Festival of Trees at South Towne Expo Center

Festival of Trees is an annual holiday event held at the South Towne Expo Center, in Sandy, Utah, just south of Salt Lake City (ongoing for 44 years!). Themed Christmas trees are decorated by individuals, families and businesses and auctioned off, with all proceeds going to help the Primary Children's Medical Center. What a wonderful way to help these children suffering from severe illnesses. Besides seeing all the different fun trees, be sure to see the Angel trees, which offer stories of current patients and those who lost their battle. Also don't miss the change to purchase beautiful Christmas wreaths in the Aisle of Wreaths. Besides seeing all the trees, shop the Christmas boutiques and enjoy a variety of entertainment, including moving dance performances. Kids will love the visit from Santa, face painting, the gingerbread village and the bubble machine. Tickets are $5 at the door for adults and $3 for kids. Discounted tickets can be purchased in advance at most branches of Zions bank. For a special night out, attend the Opening Night with a $30 contribution to Primary Children's Hospital Foundation. This is a dressy event complete with silent auction.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The Festival is loads of fun, a huge event, with over 700 trees and is for a great cause

Jennifer's expert tip : Parking is tough - consider taking the UTA or the TRAX to get to South Towne Expo.

Read more about Festival of Trees at South Towne Expo Center →

Christmas at the Grand America Hotel

The Grand America hosts Santa and Mrs. Claus for Breakfast and a photo opportunity. Join in the holiday sing along and feast on delectable breakfast items served in the Oak Room at the only five star hotel in Salt Lake City, Utah. An amazing array of items awaits at either the kid's buffet or the traditional buffet. Children love the chocolate chip pancakes with raspberry syrup, french toast sticks and even mini corn dogs and macaroni and cheese. At the traditional buffet, treats such as mini waffles, cheese blintzes, yogurt parfaits and smoothies accompany the egg and omelet station. A variety of dates are offered from November 29-December 24. Adults, $37, Children $20. Another option to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus is at Santa's Grand Afternoon Tea in the Lobby, with 12pm and 3pm seatings, complete with holiday stories, hot chocolate and cookies. Since these events are in high demand, other options to enjoy at the hotel are the Victorian Afternoon Tea, Holiday Sunday Brunches, Christmas Eve Breakfast and Lunch Buffet, Christmas Eve Prix Fixe Dinner and Christmas Day Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner. Enjoy the beautiful seasonal decorations in the lobby, window displays in the shops and gingerbread creations. Continue the celebrating with New Year's Eve Breakfast and Lunch Buffet, a New Year's Eve Prix Fixe dinner and a New Year's Day Breakfast Buffet.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The Grand America Hotel is a beautiful setting for your family's celebrations, with the grounds and lobby spectacular at the holidays.

Jennifer's expert tip : Make reservations very early, as the Christmas events with Santa sell out.

Read more about Christmas at the Grand America Hotel →

Zoo Lights at Hogle Zoo

Zoo Lights at Hogle Zoo is a fun holiday activity for the whole family. Running nightly November 29-December 31, the animals take a back seat for once amid all the excitement, although some displays are still open and some animals are actually more active at night. The Rocky Shores exhibit features a heated underwater viewing area for seeing North Pole natives such as polar bears, sea lions, otters and seals. Have fun walking the lit pathways with hologram glasses on and work your way through the 135 foot lighted tunnel. See the holiday crafts, ice carving displays and ride the Conservation Carousel (weather permitting). Catch some dinner at the Beastro, grab a hot chocolate, then go meet Santa and his reindeer at the Macy's Santa Station. Tickets are $7 for Adults, $5 for children (Toddlers 2 and under free), with discounts for seniors and members. Gates are open 5:30-8pm Sunday through Wednesday and 5:30-9pm Thursday through Saturday.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : Zoo Lights at Hogle Zoo is a fun, festive atmosphere and a chance to meet Santa and his reindeer!

Jennifer's expert tip : For holiday gift ideas, shop the Zootique or purchase a Zoo membership for someone on your list.

Read more about Zoo Lights at Hogle Zoo →

Messiah Sing In with Utah Symphony at Abravanel Hall

The Utah Symphony, under the baton of Thierry Fisher, brings its "Messiah" Sing-In to Abravanel Hall Nov. 29 and 30. Handel's "Messiah" is a famous piece of music performed mostly during the holidays, and contains the familiar "Hallelujah Chorus." Always wanted to sing someplace besides the shower? Here's your chance! The audience is invited to sing along with the symphony and featured soloists from the Symphony Chorus during this masterful and inspiring concert, which tells the story of the Messiah through Biblical verse. Print out your own lyrics or purchase when you come. For inspiration, volunteer members of the Morman Tabernacle Choir will be dispersed throughout the audience on Saturday night with 75 singers from the University of Utah chorus joining in on Sunday evening. Both performances start at 7pm. Tickets range from $10-$32. Concert is 2 hours including intermission. Abravanel Hall is a beautiful venue in the heart of downtown, next to Temple Square. Its 4-story lobby has impressive city views and the theatre, known for its acoustics, seats nearly 3,000.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The concert's a joyous way to start the holiday season. Afterwards, you can see the beautiful lights at Temple Square nearby.

Jennifer's expert tip : Children must be 8 or older for this event.

Read more about Messiah Sing In with Utah Symphony at Abravanel Hall →

Ballet West Nutcracker at the Capitol Theatre

Recently celebrating its 50th anniversary season, Ballet West is the premiere professional ballet company of the West. Its first director originally co-founding the oldest company in the western United States, San Francisco Ballet, William Christensen began Ballet West by starting the first ballet department in an American university (at University of Utah), which grew into Utah Civic Ballet, and eventually into the company it is today. With its brand new academy facilities opening in Janurary of 2015 adjoining their home, the Capitol Theatre, in downtown Salt Lake City, Ballet West has obviously received a lot of support over the years. The company is housed here in these facilities also, presenting world-class works and a diverse repertoire, which includes the classics such as The Nutcracker, Giselle and Swan Lake, but also more contemporary works such as Aladdin, The Little Mermaid and works by current sought-after choreographers. Each year the Nutcracker is presented at the holiday time from December 5-31. The company will tour its production in Ogden, UT and also at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. Follow Clara on her magical journey through the Land of Snow and Sweets to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy. Enjoy the enduring beauty of this 100 year old classic performed in this 100 year old iconic Salt Lake building!

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The Nutcracker is a holiday tradition and worth seeing, whether you have a young child to take or not.

Jennifer's expert tip : Season tickets are cheaper than a single price - support their whole season!

Read more about Ballet West Nutcracker at the Capitol Theatre →

Christmas at City Creek Center

City Creek Center is a wonderful place to do your Christmas shopping in Salt Lake City and enjoy the dazzle of the holiday. Santa arrives on November 21 to jump-start the season and is available for photos with the kids through Dec. 24. Visit him in his special lantern cottage to share your wishes.. See storybook window displays, gorgeous decorations and lights galore, but don't miss the fountain show in Richards court! It's choreographed to Christmas music at the top of each hour. Created by the designers of the famed Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas, be sure to see it after dusk when the fire elements are added to the shoots of water that go 40 feet in the air! And to make your Christmas card unique this year, bring your pooch to the Santa Paws photo opp. On select Tuesday nights from November 25 through December 16, 6-9pm, get your dog's photo (Santa Hat and all) with Mr. Claus himself! The mall is open every day except Sundays 10am-9pm.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The City Creek Center is a gorgeous large mall wtih all the top stores such as Michael Kors and Tiffany and Co.

Jennifer's expert tip : Underground parking is available. The mall is closed on Sundays.

Read more about Christmas at City Creek Center →

Torchlight Parade at Snowbird Resort

Snowbird Ski resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon, just outside of Salt Lake City, UT offers something special to those out of town visitors spending the holiday here. On Christmas Eve, Head to the Plaza Deck at dusk for bonfires and to see the Torchlight Parade come down the mountain (skiers carrying lights) - a magical sight. Santa makes an exciting entrance, rapelling down from out of the Tram car to see the kids and say hello. Afterwards, see a spectacular fireworks show, then head inside to warm up and participate in a Christmas Eve candlelight service. During the day, you might even see Santa and Mrs. Claus riding around the slopes and passing out treats. New Years Eve brings another exciting evening of bonfire, torchlight parade and later, dancing in the Wildflower Lounge to bring in the New Year.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : The torchlight parade is a magical sight coming down the mountain and Santa makes a grand entrance!

Jennifer's expert tip : After the fireworks, head to Level 2 of the Snowbird Center for a short Candlelight Service sermon and caroling.

Read more about Torchlight Parade at Snowbird Resort →

Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place Heritage Park

This is the Place Heritage Park is a beautiful place to take the family all year long, and learn Salt Lake City's history how one of its founding fathers, Brigham Yourng, made the statement "This is the Place," when leading thousands of pioneers into this area. At the holidays, this state park transforms into a Currier and Ives Christmas card. An old fashioned setting awaits, with Father Christmas on hand to greet little ones and the Heritage Village Carolers adding to the ambience. Wander the winter village and stop in one of the decorated historic homes or pioneer cabins and join in the fun of making a handcrafted gift or purchase one at one of the many old-fashioned shops. There's even live reindeer on hand overseeing the live nativity scene. The Huntsman Hotel opens at 5pm serving up warm soups or burgers to start off your evening. The Village is open from 6-9pm Monday through Saturday evenings, December 8-27, closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Start a new family holiday tradition with a visit to the Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : This is a chance to go back in time and experience Christmas in an old-fashioned setting.

Jennifer's expert tip : Dress very warmly, as winters in Utah can be quite cold!

Read more about Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place Heritage Park →

Temple Square

At the center of Salt Lake City, Temple Square, home to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, sits on a beautiful 10 acres, and at Christmas time, it is a spectacular sight, with over a million lights and nativity scenes from all over the world decorating the grounds. From the day after Thanksgiving thru December 31, holiday viewers can stroll the grounds at no charge and see the colors of Christmas. Some make it an annual tradition to be there right when the lights turn on for the first time on Black Friday, signaling the start of the season. People from all over the world have made it a point to see the lights at Temple Square, an annual event dating back over 50 years. The annual "Savior of the World" Musical runs November 21 through January 3. The Christmas on Temple Square concert series begins Saturday November 29. Tickets are free but must be obtained online or by calling in advance. Many other musical ensembles perform throughout the Square through December 31. See their web site for details. A Christmas

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : This is the city's most spectacular display in a gorgeous setting and definitely puts one in the Christmas spirit.

Jennifer's expert tip : While downtown to see the Temple Square lights, catch a horse drawn carriage to see more lights of downtown shops.

Read more about Temple Square →

Cathedral of the Madeleine

The Cathedral of the Madeleine's annual Christmas Carol Service is a beautiful way to celebrate the season. The service features music of the Advent and Christmas seasons, including choral works and traditional carols. The memorable evening starts with the solo of one child's voice, evolving to include a huge chorus of magnificent singers. Advance reserve seating passes are required for the services on Dec. 17 and 18 but no pass is needed on Dec. 24. All services begin at 8pm. The Cathedral, taking 9 years to build and completed in 1909, with its Romanesque exterior and Gothic interior is a spectacular building is listed on the Utah Register of Historic Sites and the National Register of Historic Places. The mother church for Roman Catholics in the state of Utah, it is a spectacular place to celebrate Christmas.

Recommended for Things to Do in December because : This service is a meaningful vessel for becoming full of the Christmas spirit and in one of Salt Lake's iconic buildings.

Jennifer's expert tip : Admission is free, but guaranteed seating can only be attained by reserving passes in advance.

Read more about Cathedral of the Madeleine →

A native of Oklahoma, by way of New Mexico and now Utah, Jennifer Boren makes her home in Salt Lake City.  A total lover of Park City, she spends many weekends there, especially in the...   More About Jennifer

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11 Utah Christmas events you might want to check out this year

Which local christmas shows should you see what can you do in salt lake city for christmas.

By Herb Scribner

The holiday season is here again, and there’s no question that people will be enjoying the outdoors after spending much of the 2020 holiday season indoors. And the 2021 holiday season offers a slew of new activities for you and your family.

We’ve collected 11 iconic Christmas events for you and your family to embrace this holiday season. Each of these annual events are held in Salt Lake and Utah counties. So if you miss out this year, feel free to check them out in 2022.

Festival of Trees — Mountain America Expo Center

Each year, the Mountain America Expo Center hosts the Festival of Trees, which is a major holiday convention where crafty people can meet decorators and vendors in the community. It is a fundraising event for the Primary Children’s Hospital, too.

Christkindlmarkt — This Is The Place Heritage Park — Salt Lake’s  Foothill District

For the holidays, This Is The Place Heritage Park transforms into a Christmas wonderland with sweet treats and arts-and-crafts events. The holiday market is only open for one weekend in December and it’s this weekend, from Dec. 1 to Dec. 4.

Walk the Windows — Grand America Hotel

The Grand America hosts walking tours for the holiday season that show off new displays in windows for the holiday season. You sample collect hot chocolate and cookies on the tour as you embrace the true magic of the holiday season.

Breakfast with Santa — Gardner Village

Pretty simple. You can head over to Gardner Village to grab some breakfast with Santa Claus himself. Just make sure you do it before Dec. 24 since he’s pretty busy that day.

Zoolights — Utah’s Hogle Zoo

More than 200 lighted animal and holiday-themed displays illuminate the holiday season. Guests can eat s’mores and drink hot chocolate while they explore the zoo, including a lighted walkway that stretches 135 feet.

Ballet West’s ‘The Nutcracker’

The annual performance of William Christensen’s “The Nutcracker” returns for 2021. The performances will happen throughout December.

Ice skating — Gallivan Center

Spending some time on the ice rink might bring that magical vibe of the holiday season. The Galliavan Center offers ice skating opportunities, bringing you closer to the wintry season.

‘Home Alone in Concert’ — Utah Symphony

On Dec. 21 and Dec. 22, the Utah Symphony will perform the score to “Home Alone,” by John Williams.

Luminaria — Thanksgiving Point

More than 6,000 lights illuminate a milelong walk through the Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point. Reservations are available every 30 minutes from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. You can purchase tickets there but also in advance to make sure your spot is reserved.

Christmas on Temple Square

Yes, Temple Square in Salt Lake City is open for the Christmas season. You and your family can head over to check out the lights.

‘ Star of Wonder ’ — West Valley Performing Arts Center

“Star of Wonder” opens this week at the West Valley Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available at  www.starofwonder.com  and the show runs Dec. 4-11.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Wednesday, December 6, 2023

Must-see christmas lights and holiday displays in and around salt lake city, posted by babs de lay on december 6, 2023 , 4:00 am.

Edward H. Johnson put the very first string of electric Christmas tree lights together in 1882. Johnson—Thomas Edison's friend and partner in Edison's Illumination Company—hand-wired 80 red, white and blue light bulbs and wound them around his Christmas tree.

Rocket Homes found through a recent survey that the average American spends $269 for holiday décor each year, but the great thing about holiday lights is that they can be used year in and year out. If you have a ton of money, you can hire a company like JellyFish Lighting to install permanent year-round outdoor lighting along the edges of your roof, and around windows and doors.

This time of year, darkness comes early. So, by the time many folks get off work they go shopping in the dark but often get sidetracked driving by holiday décor. Then again, families plan car tours of infamous displays, of which there are many around our state.

If walking downtown in our capitol city, check out the candy window display at Macy's. In past years I've taken part in creating two of the displays—tons of work but fabulous fun!

In Salt Lake City, I show people Christmas Street, Bible Street and Frosty's Wonderland, which are all free exhibits. Christmas Street in Sugar House started in 1947 just after World War II, when residents of Glen Arbor Street between 1500 East and 1600 East strung lights between everyone's houses and put a candle in each window. Later, a wonderful sign went up on the corner of 1500 East, which is put up every year and nicely lit.

Sadly, the sign got broken last year and one of the support poles was bent. Luckily, neighbors and fans have raised close to $10,000 to make the repairs and all will be well lit on the street as of Dec. 9. If you head west out of Christmas Street, after two blocks you will arrive at Bible Street, where each house on the street has a 4' by 8' sign lit up with a section of bible scripture about the birth of Christ.

Other Salt Lake County displays: Frosty's Winter Wonderland at 805 18th Ave; Temple Square (despite the construction); the Utah State Fairpark; Tracy Aviary's Lightwalk; the Gallivan Center; the County Equestrian Park in South Jordan; Winder Lane at 4400 West and 4100 South; Gardner Village; and Hogle Zoo's Zoo Lights.

Outside of the county, find a huge display with luminaria at Thanksgiving Point in Lehi. Light the Holidays in St. George with the paid drive-thru on Mall Drive, a private home at 2183 S. Harmony Place and at Red Hills Desert Garden. Cedar City's downtown is well-lit, Spanish Fork has a drive-thru Festival of Lights and the Heber Valley Railroad's North Pole Express is a special train that includes a visit from Santa and entertainment from elves.

There are lots of light parades around the state, so just Google your destination and see what lights up!

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Things To Do In Salt Lake City

In order for something to float it needs to be less dense than the water (or air) surrounding it. It’s part of the reason a piece of driftwood floats down a river and helium-filled balloons rise. It also explains one of Great Salt Lake’s most famous phenomena, the fact that swimmers float with little to no effort because the lake is so dense with salt.

In a way, that’s what Salt Lake City is all about — an effortless balance between nature and city living. The Capital City lies in between Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountain Range, and is growing into a vibrant blend of culture and heritage. Take a hike, find a new favorite restaurant, explore the state’s heritage or enjoy a lively night out. It’s all available to you in Salt Lake City, but just in case you aren’t sure where to start, here are a few of the city’s most popular things to do.

Explore Salt Lake City Support Local

Breweries and Distilleries

When you imagine Utah, breweries and distilleries may not be the first thing that come to mind. After all, Utah has historically ranked as the state with the lowest alcohol consumption on average. With that said, there is certainly no shortage of locally brewed favorites. Wasatch Brewery and High West Distillery were among the first of many to open-shop in the beehive state.

The dining scene in Salt Lake City is booming. Cultures from around the world are represented by authentic eateries, many of which are locally owned. From breakfast to late-night food truck stops, you’ll always be able to find a great bite to eat. Also, fun fact: there are a handful of restaurants in Utah that serve fresh seafood that is flown in daily.

Nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountain Range, you’re never far from great hiking when you’re in Salt Lake City. The foothills where neighborhoods meet mountain-sides are covered in trail networks, perfect for a morning or afternoon hike. Ensign Peak, The Living Room and Mount Olympus are a few local favorites of varying intensity, but there are plenty more worth exploring while you’re here.

Rock Climbing

Salt Lake City is host to some of the most renowned climbing on planet Earth. From granite boulders and cliffs in the Cottonwood Canyons, to the plastic holds of world-class climbing gyms, beginner and advanced climbers are sure to find what they're looking for in Utah's capital city.

If you enjoy shopping, then you know that sometimes it is more about the experience than what you end up buying. After all, locally owned stores tend to exude a sense of their city’s culture. Sure, you can easily find the most common stores when you need them, but the most enjoyable shopping might just be in the local boutiques and shops throughout the city. Plus, as you’re browsing the stores you might just pick up a few tips from the locals about what to do while you’re visiting.

Utah is home to The Greatest Snow on Earth® and there are 10 ski resorts less than an hour away from downtown Salt Lake City waiting to be explored. For many, it's the unmatched access to world-class skiing that spurs a trip to Salt Lake City. Beginner-friendly slopes, Olympic terrain parks and knee-deep powder await in the winter. During the summer months, many of the resorts are open for hiking, mountain biking and family fun.

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Salt Lake City Inspiration

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11 Family-Friendly Activities Near SLC

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

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

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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.

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!

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.

Discover the Shape of Utah's Coffee Community

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

Family and Budget Guide to the One and Only Ski City: Salt Lake

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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.

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

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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

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

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.

Meet the Women Leading Utah's Food and Beverage Renaissance

Written By Darby Doyle

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.

More Than Coffee: The Caffeinators of Salt Lake City

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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.

Required Listening

Written By Mitchell Reber

Crucialfest weaves metal and indie rock into the fabric of Salt Lake City

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

The Salt of Sound: Live Music in Salt Lake City

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.

The Spice of (a New) Life

Written By Austen Diamond

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.

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.

Utah's Rum Underdogs

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!

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.

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?

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.

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

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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.

Ave Maria mural by El Mac & Retna in downtown Salt Lake City.

Photo: Jim Urquhart

The Eccles Theater is easily recognized by its spectacular five-story glass lobby and distinctive chandeliers.

Photo: Steve Greenwood

The Living Room Trail offers scenic views of Salt Lake City.

Photo: Jay Dash

More Activities

Bonneville salt flats.

As the ancient Lake Bonneville dwindled into what is now Great Salt Lake, it left behind the Bonneville Salt Flats — vast stretches of nearly perfectly flat desert floors. The Salt Flats are best known as the location where landspeed world records have been set numerous times, but they are also a serene backdrop for photo opportunities and art exhibits. They cover much of the stretch between Salt Lake City and Wendover, Nevada. If you’re going to visit, be sure to stay on public lands and travel responsibly.

Eccles Theater

The Eccles Theater hosts popular touring Broadway shows and concerts in downtown Salt Lake City.

Great Salt Lake

There’s a lot to do at Great Salt Lake. As you know, it is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for swimming and floating. It’s also a great place to see wildlife, being that the lake is one of the largest (and saltiest) inland bodies of water in the Western Hemisphere. Herds of bison roam Antelope Island State Park, and hundreds of uncommon bird species can be seen at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge. A quick half-hour drive from downtown Salt Lake City, Great Salt Lake is an idyllic place to spend a mellow day experiencing one of Utah’s most famous natural spaces.

Hale Center Theatre

Housed at the Mountain America Performing Arts Centre in Sandy, the Hale Center Theatre performs many well known live stage plays and musicals throughout the year.

Hogle Zoo has long been one of Utah’s favorite attractions, dating back to 1931. It’s truly a world-class zoo with 42 acres nestled in a canyon setting and hosting over 800 animals. It has received accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums for its excellence. It’s only 15 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City in Emigration Canyon, right across the street from This Is The Place Heritage Park, a great spot to experience Utah’s pioneer history.

Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah boasts the largest collection of horned dinosaur fossils in the world, and is packed with other fascinating and engaging exhibits to orient you to Utah’s unique geology and ancient history.

Red Butte Garden

Sharing the same property as the Natural History Museum of Utah, Red Butte Garden is a perfectly calm follow-up to the museum. Expect to learn about the state’s natural vegetation and see plenty of exquisite garden arrangements.

Temple Square

As you may know, Utah was settled by Brigham Young and pioneers from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (popularly known as Mormons) in 1847. In the years that followed, Salt Lake City’s streets and buildings were built to follow a grid system, at the heart of which is Temple Square. The gardens in the square and Salt Lake Temple’s architecture are magnificent. Regardless of religion, Temple Square is a beautiful cornerstone of Utah’s heritage that is well-worth visiting and access to the grounds, museums and visitor centers outside the temple are free to visitors.

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Where to See Santa in Utah Valley 2023

Some things can only be seen around the holiday season, such as sightings of Santa Claus. Throughout United States history, Father Christmas has typically been portrayed as a cheery, white-bearded old man in a red suit trimmed in white fur, such as in Coca Cola adverts or the famous drawings of 19th-century cartoonist Thomas Nast.

And while these depictions of Santa warm the heart, there’s nothing quite like visiting the jolly old man in person.

With the Christmas season upon us, many places are offering in-person visits with Saint Nicholas. If you haven’t had a chance to visit Santa Claus yet, there’s still time to create your Christmas gift list and hop in the car with the family to see the man from the North Pole! 

In Fact, Santa Claus is coming to town, again and again! It’s that time of year when every store you walk into has Christmas decorations, red carpets, elves, and most importantly – Santa.

There are so many places in Utah Valley where you can visit Santa Claus or have a photo with him. But there are only a few places that are worth visiting if you want to see the real jolly fat man himself. Here is our list of 6 places to visit Santa Claus in Utah Valley this holiday season.

Whether you're young or simply young at heart, here's your comprehensive guide to the top places to see Santa in Utah Valley this 2023.

1. Traverse Mountain Outlets: A Festive Wonderland

When: November 18 - December 24

Where: 3700 Cabela's Blvd, Lehi, UT 84043

Traverse Mountain Outlets transforms into a holiday extravaganza. Here, you can not only meet Santa but also experience the enchantment of Holiday Town.

The outlets boast Utah's tallest Christmas Tree, a sight to behold. Kids and adults alike can venture into Santa's toy workshop, meet the man himself, and capture these precious moments with a photo. The festive atmosphere is enhanced by the beautifully decorated store windows, making it a perfect family outing.

2. Santa’s Village at University Place

When: November 24 - December 23, 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Where: 575 E University Pkwy, Orem, UT 84097

University Place, known for its vibrant shopping experience, offers a unique twist with Santa’s Village. This year, they've arranged for socially distanced interactions with Santa, ensuring everyone's safety while keeping the festive spirit alive. Children can visit Santa in his Woodland Chalet, receiving a special treat from Kris Kringle. This blend of traditional holiday cheer with contemporary safety measures makes it a must-visit spot.

3. Provo Towne Centre: A Photo-Op with Santa

When: November 24 - December 24

**Times vary

Where: 1200 Towne Centre Blvd, Provo, UT 84601

Provo Towne Centre invites you to create lasting memories with Santa. Positioned near the food court, Santa awaits in a beautifully decorated rotunda. This venue offers professional photography, ensuring that your special moment with Santa is captured perfectly. Reservations are recommended to secure your spot for this sought-after experience.

4. Santa’s Wonderland at Cabela’s

When: Until December 24

Where: 2502 Cabela's Blvd, Lehi, UT 84043

Cabela's in Lehi has created a unique outdoor winter-themed wonderland. Here, you can immerse yourself in a holiday environment unlike any other. Santa is available for photos in this picturesque setting, offering families a chance to experience the wilderness charm of Christmas. The wonderland at Cabela's is an ideal backdrop for those looking for a different kind of Santa visit.

5. Shops at the Riverwoods: An Outdoor Holiday Adventure

When: November 28 - December 24, Monday-Saturday 5-8pm

Where: 4801 N. University Ave, Provo UT 84604

The Shops at the Riverwoods provide a unique outdoor experience with Santa. This venue encourages visitors to bring their Christmas wish lists directly to Santa, adding a personal touch to the holiday tradition. Situated outdoors, it’s an opportunity to enjoy the crisp winter air, so be sure to bundle up. The twinkling lights and festive decorations at the Riverwoods create a magical backdrop for your Santa photos.

Additional Tips for Your Santa Adventure

• Reservations: Many places recommend or require reservations. Book in advance to ensure your spot.
• Dress Warmly: For outdoor venues, dressing warmly is key to enjoying your visit.
• Check Event Hours: Be sure to confirm the times, as they may vary, especially closer to Christmas.
• Capture the Moment: Whether it's a professional photo or a quick snap on your phone, these memories are priceless.
• Safety Measures: With ongoing health considerations, check for any specific safety measures in place at each venue.

Visiting Santa is a cherished holiday tradition, and Utah Valley offers some of the most enchanting spots to meet Santa Claus. Whether you're continuing a family tradition or creating new memories, these venues provide a festive and joyful experience for all. Make the most of this holiday season by experiencing the magic of Santa in Utah Valley.

Whitney Bitton

Whitney has lived in Utah Valley for the past ten years and is constantly astounded by the variety of activities and events you can find here! A foodie at heart, she loves trying all the local restaurants in Provo and will travel for some phenomenal cuisine. Her favorite Utah Valley features are the scenic drives and she loves going to the west side of Utah Lake to go stargazing. 

10 Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City

Scenic mountain views and a bustling cultural scene help make Salt lake City a hugely popular destination, with no shortage of fun things to see and do.

A visitor to the Natural History Museum of Utah peers at an exhibit (Photo: Natural History Museum of Utah)

One could have forgiven the builders of modern Salt Lake – as it is commonly referred to – if they had rested on their laurels given its spectacular scenery of mountains and canyons. But this is also a truly contemporary city packed with top-class urban amenities and attractions. If you’re coming to the Utah capital and would like to pack your itinerary full of fun and excitement, we’ve selected 10 great ways to do just that.

Visit a top-class museum

Tucked along the foothills of Salt Lake City’s Wasatch Mountains and spread over five expansive floors, the Natural History Museum of Utah is one of the city’s most important cultural institutions. Housed in an architecturally striking building designed to mimic Utah’s famous layered rocks, it is also a shining beacon on the Salt Lake landscape. Inside, visitors are treated to a remarkable assortment of exhibits and artefacts that tell the story of Utah’s natural history. Highlights include The Past Worlds exhibit, which showcases dozens of reconstructed dinosaur skeletons and real fossils, including the world’s largest collection of horned dinosaur skulls.

301 Wakara Way / Thurs-Tues 10am-5pm Weds 10am-9pm

Embark on an epic wildlife adventure

Many people come to Utah to witness the expansive deserts, serene beauty and sublime landscapes, but few are aware that you can experience this so close to downtown Salt Lake City. Half-day, fully guided widlife tours takes visitors onto the little-known Antelope Island, only an hour’s drive from downtown and positively teeming with wildlife. With 600 American Bison roaming the land, you’re sure to catch sight of at least a handful of these majestic beasts, as well as coyote, bobcat, antelope, porcupine, big-horn sheep, mule deer and, if the season is right, up to 200,000 migratory birds. After wildlife spotting, you and your group will hike to a popular point to watch the sunset before returning to downtown.

Guests pause to take photos on a Sunnyside Expeditions tour (Photo: Sunnyside Expeditions)

Explore a tranquil botanical garden

Green-fingered visitors to Salt Lake City are in for a treat thanks to the city being home to one of the region’s largest botanical gardens. Located at the University of Utah, Red Butte Garden is brimming with plant collections and over half-a-million blooming bulbs. Spanning over 21 acres of pristinely maintained gardens, the venue also offers several miles of hiking trails, an acclaimed outdoor summer concert series and regular horticulture-based educational programmes.

300 Wakara Way / Mon-Sun 9am-5pm

The scenic environs of Red Butte Garden (Photo: Andrey Zharkikh via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)

Take a trip to a magnificent state park

One of the natural jewels in the region’s crown, Great Salt Lake State Marina is a majestic state park teeming with wildlife-spotting opportunities, majestic views and endless recreational opportunities. Covering more than 2,000 square miles, the park is a particular haven for wild swimmers during the summer months, when pleasant temperatures and the naturally occurring high salt content make the buoyant waters a pleasure to splash around in. Camping is a popular activity here too, and there’s also a visitor centre and a gift store.

You can book a kayaking tour in the Great Salt Lake Marina at GetYourGuide

Immerse yourself in the world of space

A major city attraction for over 50 years, Clark Planetarium is a magnet for anyone keen to immerse themselves in the captivating subjects of science and space. The state-of-the-art venue is packed full of high-tech attractions including a 3-D IMAX cinema, laser light shows and several hands-on, interactive exhibits that shine a light on the mysteries and magic of the universe.  Visitors can even test their knowledge on a Solar System quiz.

The Gateway, 110 400 West / Sun-Thurs 10am-7pm Fri 10am-10.45pm Sat 8am-10.45pm

An illuminated globe display at the Clark Planetarium (Photo: Britt Reints via Flickr / CC BY 2.0 DEED)

Get a taste of the city’s food scene

Salt Lake City has a thriving craft food and drink scene and visitors can discover it for themselves by booking on to a guided food tour . Over two hours, you’ll visit some of the city’s hottest food spots where you’ll get to sample an assortment of local dishes and delicacies, including Utah’s finest cheese, salami, and chocolate, as well as caramel apple and Nashville hot chicken. You’ll also stop off a popular local watering hole to try a High West whiskey. Throughout the tour, your guide will offer stories, facts and insights into the city’s rich food heritage and its broader history.

You can book a Salt Lake City food tour at GetYourGuide

Catch an NBA game

As in almost every city across America, basketball is a seriously big deal in Salt Lake City, and at the heart of the city’s passion are the Utah Jazz NBA team, who play their home games downtown at the Delta Center. The arena offers visitors the chance to experience that most American of recreational activities, with tickets available to the public for most matches. Expect plenty of great sporting action, along with lashings of fast-food favourites including fries, chilli cheese dogs, boiled peanuts and beer.

The Delta Center, 301 South Temple

You can buy tickets for a Utah Jazz NBA game at GetYourGuide

A basketball match at The Delta Center  (Photo: Ken Lund via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED)

Get acquainted with an array of birdlife

Another antidote to the hustle and bustle of the city, the Tracy Aviary is a 9-acre oasis brimming full of birdlife in a tranquil wooded setting. Said to be America’s oldest aviary, visitors can enjoy interactive bird shows, take part in daily feeding sessions and see if they can identify any of the 130-plus bird species that reside here. There’s also the chance to take part in exclusive behind-the-scenes experiences such as flamingo encounters.

Liberty Park, 589 East 1300 South / Mon-Sun 9am-5pm

A resident poses patiently for a photo at the Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens (Photo: Tracie Hall via Flickr / CC BY-SA 2.0 DEED)

Get spooked on a ghost tour

Every city has its dark underbelly and Salt Lake City is no different. Visitors keen to delve into its scary and salacious past can do so by joining a haunted tour that explores its murky mysteries, hair-raising hauntings, and other paranormal activity that are said to have plagued the city down the ages. Led by an expert guide, the 1.5-hour tour will take you to some of Salt Lake’s most haunted spots, including old buildings, disused mansions, train depots and cemeteries. As you go, you’ll hear spine-tingling stories about the ghosts and ghouls that have called the city home.

You can book a Salt Lake City haunted tour at Viator

Admire the city from the clouds

Salt Lake City and its surroundings are a sight to behold from any vantage point, but perhaps nowhere more so than from up high in the sky. This 1-hour flying tour invites visitors to marvel at the scale and beauty of the city and the wider area from aboard a propeller jet. During the excursion, you’ll fly over the Oquirrh Mountains as your guide points out the many elk herds down below, before passing over the magnificent architecture of the Saltair Pavilion, Antelope Island State Park and the Great Salt Lake. Noise-cancelling headphones allow you to listen to live commentary from your pilot and guide throughout.

You can book a Salt Lake City flying tour at Viator

A propeller plane set against a mountainous backdrop in the Great Salt Lake region (Photo: GetYourGuide)

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Utah Bearded Santas

Find your santa .

Davis, Salt Lake, Weber, Tooele

Santa Matty

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Santa Bruce

Mrs claus available.

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Salt Lake, Weber, Davis, Box Elder, Cache

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Santa Joseph

Santa Michael

Weber, Davis

Box Elder, Cache, Weber, Davis

Santa Chuck

Davis, Box Elder, Cache

Santa Dallas

Salt Lake, Utah, Summit, Tooele

Weber, Davis, Salt Lake , Utah

Santa Claus

Tooele, Salt Lake, Davis, Summit, Utah

Santa Larry

Davis, Salt Lake, Utah, Cache

Weber County

Santa Curtis

Weber, Davis, Salt Lake, Box Elder, Cache

Weber, Davis, Salt Lake

Santa Brett

Weber, Davis, Morgan

Santa Darin

Weber, Davis, Salt Lake, Summit

Santa Scott

Salt Lake , Utah, Summit, Tooele, Wasatch

Salt Lake , Utah

Salt Lake , Utah, Tooele

Davis, Salt Lake , Utah, Tooele

Santa Chris

Salt Lake , Utah, Sevier, Wasatch

Utah, Salt Lake, Davis, Summit

Santa James

Davis, Salt Lake, Summit, Utah

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Salt & Honey at the Salt Lake Visitors Center in the Salt Palace

Visitors center & info.

At your service. Salt Lake is known for friendly and helpful people, and we're ready to help you plan your visit. To get started, you can check out the various resources on this site to  discover the opportunities ,  plan your trip , or book your stay. If you need more help or want some specific recommendations, qualified visitor information specialists and volunteers are on hand to help you with your trip before you come, or once you get to Salt Lake. You'll find them at one of the following locations.

Visitor Information Center at the Salt Palace Convention Center 

801-534-4900 800-541-4955 801-534-4927 fax Staffed: Monday - Saturday — 10 AM - 5 PM (closed on major holidays) Send questions and comments

Council Hall, Utah Office of Tourism 

801-538-1030 Monday - Friday — 8 AM - 5 PM Saturday & Sunday — 10 AM - 5 PM

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Celebrate May the 4th at The Gateway in Salt Lake City this weekend

S ALT LAKE CITY ( ABC4 ) — This Saturday, get ready to step into a galaxy far, far away. Star Wars fans everywhere will be celebrating “May the Fourth,” also known as Star Wars Day. The Gateway , Urban Arts Gallery and the Clark Planetarium are teaming up for an out-of-this-world celebration.

Jonathan Trujillo King, who works in special events with the Utah Arts Alliance , said visitors will find Battle Bots with the Utah Combat Robotics and plenty of Star Wars-themed treats, such as blue milk, wookie cookies and Mandalorian mandarins.

In the spirit of Star Wars, there will also be lightsabers and cosplayers portraying fan-favorite characters. Attendees are welcome to dress up too and enter a cosplay contest where winners get to take home FanX wristbands, Megaplex passes and Clark Planetarium passes.

Battle bots at the gallery will be going from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. with other festivities running from 6 to 9 p.m. You can also find Star Wars characters at the Clark Planetarium from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. and enjoy $4 planetarium shows.

King said this is an annual tradition that always has a great community turnout. This year, they’re especially excited that May the 4th falls on a Saturday, making it more accessible for people to attend. He said he loves to see how people dress up for the special day.

“It’s an entire day to walk around with a lightsaber and be totally accepted,” King said.

He added that it’s special to watch families come to The Gateway to celebrate together, showing how Star Wars brings generations together.

“The Kids Contest is probably one of our favorites just because a lot of us discovered Star Wars, but these kids grew up knowing Star Wars because of their parents,” he said. “So, while other people were like, ‘hey, you need to watch this Pixar movie,’ there are a lot of parents out there that were you will like, ‘you will learn Star Wars.’ And so, when you ask them, what do you want to be when you grow up? They’re like, I want to be a Jedi or I want to be a Sith Lord. So it’s always fun to see the little kids.”

Urban Arts Gallery is also hosting a “Star Wars Heroes & Villians” exhibit that features over 30 artists’ submissions. It will run through May 31 to keep the spirit of May the 4th alive all month long. There will also be an art stroll for it on May 17th, with The Nerd Store and comic creators attending.

“This has been a group show we’ve done at the gallery for 14 years. We’ve been doing this annually. It’s been a very fun way for artists to express their fandoms which they don’t normally get to do in their professional work, so it’s a fun way to indulge in the things they like,” said Magen Mitchell, marketing coordinator with the Utah Arts Alliance.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.