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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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11 Family-Friendly Activities Near SLC

Written By Matcha

4 minute read

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

Written By Andrew Dash Gillman

5 minute read

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

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.

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

Written By Kristen Pope

6 minute read

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

Written By Stephanie Doktor

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

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.

Insider's Guide to Salt Lake City Neighborhoods

Check out these neighborhoods on your next trip to Salt Lake City

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

Written By Austin Wright

8 minute read

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.

Salt Lake's Tattoo Scene: Inclusivity is the New Frontier

Traveling for tattoos is second nature for those seeking the perfect piece. Keep Salt Lake, the Crossroads of the West, in mind when planning your next piece.

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

Written By Visit Utah

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

Written By Willy Palomo

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

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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The 15 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is Utah’s high-elevation capital and most populous city, but in recent years its long-quiet downtown has been reborn. Boasting small-town charm with big-city amenities, its vibrant nightlife, incredible dining, and booming art scene make it an ideal urban vacation destination. 

No longer burdened by strict alcohol and private club laws, there’s never been a better time to visit. Whether you come to ski the "Greatest Snow on Earth," tour its historic sights, shop ‘til you drop, or have adventure outdoors, we’ll show you what not to miss on your visit to the Beehive State.

Walk Around Temple Square

Built by Mormon pioneer settlers in the late 1800s, Salt Lake City’s Temple Square is the state’s most popular attraction and the center point of its gridded street system. While only church members can venture inside the six-spired temple, free tours of the surrounding scenery are offered daily in 40 languages. You can also wander the tulip-filled gardens in spring and see dazzling light displays during winter holidays. 

On Sunday mornings, visit to catch a free, live performance of Music & the Spoken Word, a radio program featuring the lauded Tabernacle Choir accompanied by an 11,623-pipe organ—one of the world’s largest. Temple Square is located in the Free Fare Zone of the city’s UTA TRAX light rail.

Visit a Museum

From dinosaur bones to contemporary art, Salt Lake City’s museum scene has something for everyone. Bring the whole family to the Natural History Museum of Utah to learn about history, geology, and see the giant reptiles that roamed long before humans came along. 

Downtown at The Gateway , let kids space out at a Clark Planetarium star show, or learn about the grownup world in the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum. Inside innovation-centric Leonardo , find special exhibits on human bodies and the wonders of flight. See modern art at the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art and classic pieces at the Utah Museum of Fine Art .

Tour the Utah State Capitol

Set overlooking the city’s skyline and surrounding mountains, Utah’s state capitol is the seat of its government and fashioned after the nation’s capitol building. Constructed in a Neoclassical style with locally mined granite and imported Georgian marble, its 165-foot rotunda dome depicts Utah’s pioneer past in overhead murals. The hallways and alcoves feature bronze statues of prominent local figures, such as Philo T. Farnsworth, the inventor of television. Take a complimentary guided tour every hour on the hour Monday to Friday, or a self-guided one any day of the week.

Paddle the Great Salt Lake

While you can drive along the shore of the Western Hemisphere’s largest saltwater lake, the best place to experience the city’s namesake is at the Great Salt Lake Marina. A remnant of ancient Lake Bonneville, visitors can discover the lake’s history and learn what a brine shrimp is in the educational visitor’s center. Then venture onto the salty sea in a rental kayak, paddleboard, or pedal boat from Gonzo Boat Rentals . Or book a sunset dinner cruise on Utah’s Dead Sea. While driving to the lake, stop for pictures at Saltair , a once-mighty beach resort-turned-concert venue. 

Learn About Your Past at the Family History Library

Where did your ancestors come from? Find out at the Family History Library Discovery Center. Run by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (Mormons), it’s the largest genealogical research library in the world. 

But don’t worry, you needn’t be a church member to peruse its vast database where the records of more than 3 billion people are kept. Grow your family tree and search for free, or use the library’s resources to scan and preserve documents from your ancestors. Open Mondays to Saturdays from 8 a.m. 9 p.m. and Sundays from 1–5 p.m.

Shop at City Creek Center

In an era where malls across America are closing, downtown’s City Creek Center is flourishing. Named the “ Best Retail Development in the Americas, ” this luxurious shopping and dining destination features a mix of high-end, local, and chain retailers. Thoughtfully designed, its fully retractable glass roof, namesake creek, and flame-accented fountain show bring Utah’s natural beauty indoors. The holidays bring Macy’s Christmas Candy Window display with spinning creations crafted entirely from sweets. Open six days a week from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; closed Sundays.

Explore the Utah Olympic Park

The 2002 Winter Olympics put Salt Lake City on the map as a winter destination, and today the park where it hosted the bobsled, luge, and skeleton events is a public adventure space. Hear the story of Utah’s Games in the free museum, then venture outside to whizz down the zipline, go bobsledding, conquer the ropes course, cruise on the alpine slide, watch ski jumpers practice, or catch a competition. It's open year-round, and activities vary by season. 

Shop the Downtown Farmers Market

On summer Saturdays, join the locals at Pioneer Park to shop for food, crafts, and produce from farmers and makers. Launched in 1992 with just four vendors, this outdoor farmers market is today one of the country’s most successful, with more than 100 vendors and attendees in the thousands. 

From coffee-rubbed cheddar by Beehive Cheese to sweet, flaky pastries from Tulie Bakery, there’s a near-endless supply of food to indulge in. On the park’s north end, find local farmers selling crisp apples, giant strawberries, and Utah-grown vegetables. Held at Pioneer Park on Saturdays from June to October; the market moves inside to Rio Grande Depot during winter.

Explore Liberty Park and Tracy Aviary

Opened in 1882, Liberty Park is the city’s oldest public green space, but it's still popular with urban dwellers looking to unwind outdoors. Home to a pedal boating lake, numerous walking trails, a swimming pool, volleyball and tennis courts, playgrounds, carnival rides, a farmers market, festivals, and Tracy Aviary (America’s oldest and largest bird park). 

Open 363 days a year, visitors flock to Tracy Aviary to see endangered birds, watch others take flight in shows, and feed some by hand. See Utah birds in the Kennecott Wetlands display as well as exhibits featuring tropical macaws, flamingos, and parrots.

Grab a Drink at a Local Brewery

Despite its reputation for strict alcohol laws, craft beer is booming in Utah’s capital. A new law axed Utah’s 3.2 percent beer and upped the allowable alcohol to 5 percent, meaning "strong beer" is finally on draft and in grocery stores. Sample it at more than 20 breweries, including classic Fisher Brewing Co. , a 19th-century brewery revived in 2017, or Wasatch Brewery , Utah’s first post-Prohibition brewery with only-in-Utah flavors like Polygamy Porter. 

Find sour beers at Kiitos and all-Utah brews at Craft By Proper . Pair your suds with a show at Brewvies Cinema Pub , a relaxed theater and eatery showcasing new and classic films.

Get a Taste of Utah Culture

Salt Lake is avid about the arts. From gallery strolls to a robust theater scene, there’s something to see or do nearly every night of the week. Hear a symphony in Abravanel Hall ’s grand, gold-leafed space, or see ballerinas and opera singers take the stage at Capitol Theatre , a turn-of-the-century landmark recently revamped for the modern era. 

Watch Broadway performances and national touring acts in the newly constructed Eccles Theatre ’s 2,500-seat, six-story space. Or get the scoop on Utah at the always funny, always irreverent Saturday’s Voyeur, a theatrical take on the state’s culture and politics. 

Salt Lake City is nicknamed “ Ski City ” for good reason. Located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, downtown is within 30 minutes of four world-class ski resorts. With Salt Lake as your basecamp, you can ski Utah’s legendary powder snow (what locals call “ The Greatest Snow on Earth ”) at Alta, Snowbird, Solitude, and Brighton in a single weekend. Once the shredding’s done, enjoy après ski cocktails and the city life by night. 

And don’t worry about driving a rental car up the steep, snowy Cottonwood Canyons. Ski City’s resorts are accessible with UTA’s bus and light rail transportation service and within driving distance of one another.

Amble Through a Garden

Find beautiful ornamental and sculptural gardens spread throughout Salt Lake. From lauded to practically hidden, these pristine places can be visited year-round. While Gilgal Gardens is small, this sculptural oasis is a free and fascinating visit. Inside, see 12 unusual statues (think a Sphinx with a human head) depicting Latter Day Saint themes along with 70 stones engraved with scriptures, poetry, and quotations. Open seven days a week. 

Find 21 acres of traditional flowering gardens at Red Butte Garden , the Intermountain West’s largest botanical garden, nestled in Salt Lake’s foothills. What you see varies by season, but the space is most alive in spring when tulips bloom, bees buzz, and rare flowers come to life. The garden is open year-round, but closed December 24 to January 1.

Hike Up Ensign Peak

Salt Lake City’s best perk is its nearby natural scenery and recreational pursuits. Experience it on a short, steep hike up Ensign Peak. Tucked in the foothills behind the Utah State Capitol, this one-mile roundtrip trek features unparalleled skyline, mountain, and Great Salt Lake vistas. First climbed by territorial leader Brigham Young to survey the valley, plaques near the base detail pioneer history while an 18-foot monument built with Mormon Trail markers designates the summit. Sunset is the most beautiful (and most crowded) time to visit, thanks to the colorful views paired with twinkling city lights.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Grand America

Courtesy of The Grand America Hotel

Don a fancy hat or a sensational suit for afternoon tea at the Grand America, Salt Lake City’s largest and only five-diamond hotel. The opulent Lobby Lounge hosts this daily teatime with all the British trimmings: homemade scones and clotted cream, trays of sweets, finger sandwiches, and a selection of traditional English tea and cocoa. Reservations are required to partake in the tradition, which welcomes adults and children.

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

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 11, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

Best of Salt Lake City: Quick Guide

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

Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City

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

1. Liberty Park

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

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

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

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

2. Great Salt Lake

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

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

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

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

3. Antelope Island State Park

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

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

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

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

4. Wheeler Historic Farm

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

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

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

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

5. Red Iguana

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

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

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

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

6. Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens

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

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

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

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

7. Bonneville Salt Flats

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

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

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

8. Ensign Peak

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

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

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

9. Lake Blanche

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

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

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

Insider Tip: Keep your eyes out for moose.

10. Big Cottonwood Canyon

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

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

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

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

11. Temple Square

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

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

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

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

12. Go Zip Lining

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

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

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

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

13. Clark Planetarium

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

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

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

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

14. Capitol Building

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

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

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

15. Utah Olympic Park

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

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

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

16. Go Skiing

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

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

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

17. Natural History Museum of Utah

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

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

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

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

18. Visit Provo

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

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

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

19. Visit the University of Utah Campus

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

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

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

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

20. Day Trip to National Parks

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

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

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

Insider Tip: Research permits and weather conditions beforehand.

21. Trolley Square

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

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

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

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

22. Memory Grove Park

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

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

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

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

23. Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum

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

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

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

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

24. This Is The Place Heritage Park

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

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

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

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

25. Red Butte Garden

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

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

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

Your Questions Answered About Salt Lake City

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

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

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

What is Salt Lake City best known for?

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

Is Salt Lake City worth seeing?

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

How many days should I spend in Salt Lake City?

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

Tips And Information For Visiting

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

Best Time To Visit

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

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

Getting There

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

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

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

Getting Around

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

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

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

How Much Time Do You Need?

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

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

Where To Stay in Salt Lake City, Utah

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

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

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

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

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

• Luxury: Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown

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

• Mid Range: Little America Hotel Salt Lake City 

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

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

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

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

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

Utah Resources

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Aug 30, 2021 • 7 min read

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

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

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

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

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

1. Mormon Tabernacle Choir 

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

2. Utah Olympic Park

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

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

The best time to visit Salt Lake City

3. The Great Salt Lake

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

4. Natural History Museum of Utah

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

5. Red Butte Garden

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

6. Family History Library

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

How to get around in Salt Lake City

7. Thanksgiving Point

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

8. Clark Planetarium

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

9. Timpanogos Cave

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

10. Gilgal Sculpture Garden

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

11. Temple Square

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

12. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

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

13. Grandeur Peak

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

14. Tracy Aviary and Botanical Garden

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

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

15. Jordan River Off-Highway Vehicles State Recreation Area

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

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

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37 Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah

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

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

Where is Salt Lake City?

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

Salt Lake City’s Top Attractions

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

The Salt Lake City Connect Pass

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

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

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

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

Major Events and Festivals

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

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

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

Fireworks in Salt Lake City

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

Shopping in Salt Lake City

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

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

Salt Lake City’s Best Restaurants

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

Most Romantic Restaurant: HSL

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

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

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

Easy Day Trips from Salt Lake City

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

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

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

Luxury Hotels

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

Boutique Hotels

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

Affordable Hotels

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

Vacation Rentals in Salt Lake City

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

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The 18 best things to do in Salt Lake City

The best things to do in Salt Lake City kick off at Utah Olympic Park and include axe throwing, skydiving and more

With over 220 days of sunshine every year, Salt Lake City is a sought-after spot for a week away. That and all the fantastic ski resorts on offer, of course. So it’s no surprise that over the years, this city has become home to some seriously swanky high-end hotels, resorts and more. 

Now, Salt Lake City is full to the brim of fantastic restaurants, hidden speakeasies and salt flats and double-feature drive-ins, and there’s things to do for a romantic getaway or for a kid-friendly family holiday. At the top of our list is, duh, the Utah Olympic Park, but if you’re more of an indoorsy person, then use this list to gallery hop to your heart’s content. Here are the best things to do in Utah right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🌯 The best restaurants in Salt Lake City 🏨 The best hotels in Salt Lake City 🏞️ Where to stay in Zion National Park 📍 The ultimate guide to Utah

This guide was written by Melissa McGibbon , a writer based in Salt Lake City. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines .

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Best things to do in Salt Lake City

1.  Utah Olympic Park

Built for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, the Utah Olympic Park operates year-round and offers a multitude of summer and winter activities, such as bobsledding, ski jumping, and ziplining. You can even have a go at aerial ski training in the splash pool if you dare!

2.  Redwood Drive-In Movie Theatre

Drive-in movie theaters were all the rage in the 1950s, but have been steadily dwindling during the age of Netflix. Fortunately, the Redwood Drive-In Theatre  in West Valley City has been showing double features since 1948 and still enjoys a strong fan base. At just $10 per person, two movies for the price of less than one at a regular movie theater is a smokin’ deal. Get there early to pick the best parking space and grab your popcorn. It doesn’t get better than watching a movie under the stars on a warm summer night.

3.  Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West, with more than 21 acres of developed gardens and five miles of walking and hiking trails. The community-funded space is known for its numerous plant collections and display gardens as well as its education programs and special events. The Garden offers many educational programs including horticulture classes, bird watching, summer camps, art exhibits plus outdoor concerts in the summer.

4.  Family History Library

The family history library is a research facility (open to the public, free of charge) that has the largest on-site collection of genealogical data in the world. It has been in operation since 1894 and is run by FamilySearch , the LDS (Mormon) Church—no need to be a member of the church to use their genealogical resources, though, as the Family History Library is open to everyone. Using microfilms, microfiche, books, serials, periodicals and electronic resources such as genealogical websites, the library helps patrons discover their families histories.

5.  Great Salt Lake Marina

The Great Salt Lake is a remnant of the massive ancient Lake Bonneville and is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. It’s just slightly less salty than the Dead Sea! Kayaking, paddle boarding, pedal boating and sailing are great ways to experience the spectacular sunsets on the lake. You can rent pedal boats and book dinner cruises with Gonzo Boat Rentals at the Antelope Island State Park . On your way to or from the marina, stop for photos at Saltair; the historic building from 1893 hit its peak favor in the 1920s as a beach resort but now operates as a concert venue.  

6.  Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats offers one of the most unique landscapes in the world; it’s no wonder so many movies and car commercials are filmed there. The Salt Flats consist of hard, white salt crust as far as the eye can see—almost one hundred cubic yards of it. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management, it was designated as an area of Critical Environmental Concern in the mid-‘80s for its unique geology. It’s one of only a handful of salt pans in the world.  

7.  Timpanogos Cave Tour

Timpanogos Cave is a National Monument located in American Fork Canyon that has colorful caverns and all of the helictites, stalactites, stalagmites and anthodites you can handle. The Hansen, Middle and Timpanogos caverns make up the cave system that is accessed by a strenuous 1.5-mile paved trail with an elevation gain of 1,100 feet. On your ranger-guided tour, you’ll learn the science behind the formations as you make your way through the natural passageways of these delicate underground formations. Digital cave tours are also available.

8.  Bicycle tours

Pedal your way around town while learning about the history of SLC by bike with an expert local guide who will give you all of the ins and outs during your ride. Six different loop tours are available for $44 to $109 per person and range from mild to medium in ability level, lasting one to three and a half hours. Don't miss the new Salt Lake Bike & Brew Tour which includes beer sampling and sightseeing (available as an electric bicycle tour for those who prefer not to pedal). Cruiser bikes, helmets and light refreshments are included on all of the tours. You can also do a self-guided tour for $7 using Green Bike, Salt Lake’s non-profit bike share program. 

9.  Gallery Stroll

On the third Friday of every month, Salt Lake City’s local galleries open their doors late for the public to browse their art collections, listen to music and enjoy snacks and drinks for a few hours. Founded by the Salt Lake Gallery Association in 1983, the Gallery Stroll began as a small consortium of art galleries but has become a social gathering for Salt Lake City’s “in” crowd and tourists alike. Nearly 40 galleries participate in the monthly event, which is a self-guided tour (no tickets required). Gallery Guide Maps are available at participating galleries.

10.  Grandeur Peak

For one of the best views of the Salt Lake Valley hike to the summit of Grandeur Peak . Start at the Church Fork Trailhead in Millcreek Canyon and hike just over three miles to the summit for a view of, well, grandeur. The 6.5-mile round trip trail starts steep and follows a small stream north into the forest and then climbs to a saddle via switchbacks, from the saddle it’s just a half-mile to the 8,299 feet summit. The trail is easily marked and has an elevation gain of 2,650 feet. It features wildflowers and stunning views along the way.

11.  Social Axe Throwing

Axe Throwing is an old Celtic game, but you don’t have to be Braveheart to try your hand at it. Visit Social Axe Throwing and you can throw real axes at bullseye targets. Even if you’re not great at it you’ll find it amusing—but your session will include an instructor to show you how it’s done so you’ll be sticking your throws in no time. Go solo or with a group for a couple of hours of a hootin’ ‘n’ hollerin’ good time. If you discover that you can’t get enough, you can join a league. Yes, there are axe throwing leagues! Flannel is not required but is encouraged.

12.  iFLY Utah

If you love skydiving, visiting iFLY Utah is a great way to get your fix in between plane jumps. If you’ve never been skydiving, a session at iFLY will give you a sense of what it’s like to really fall through the sky. No experience is necessary to fly, and even kiddos 3 years and older can try it out. iFly hosts The 12-foot wind tunnel boasts speeds of up to 150 miles per hour, and once you take your first two-minute flight you won’t want it to end. Professional instructors teach you the basics and will join you in the tunnel to help you perfect your skills.

13.  Sundance Mountain Resort

Sundance Mountain Resort is a family-friendly destination nestled in the foothills of Mount Timpanogos with gorgeous scenery in every direction. The resort, owned by none other than Robert Redford, is known as a great year-round destination, offering great skiing as well as other fun winter activities, and an impressive array of summer activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, owling, horseback riding, art classes and more.

14.  Grand America Hotel

You don’t have to be British to enjoy a good afternoon tea session at the Grand America Hotel . Guests delight in tasty teas and cocoas, finger sandwiches and scones with clotted cream. Go ahead and wear your derby hats, fancy white gloves, and that pretty strand of pearls you save for special occasions. When else might you get the chance to wear them? Tea time isn’t just for the ladies, gentlemen are welcome too, especially those who wear top hats, pocket watches, and monocles. Reservations must be made 24-hours in advance.  

15.  TNT Experience

The TNT Experience has the largest indoor shooting range in the Mountain West and offers a wide variety of range options. Gun rentals are available starting at $15 for a handgun or rifle. TNT accommodates beginners and experts and should you find yourself hooked, you can purchase a membership.

16.  DF Dance Studio

Who doesn’t love dancing? DF Dance Studio has professional dance instructors in Salsa, Ballroom, Latin, West Coast Swing, Argentine Tango, Country, Hip Hop, Break Dancing, Ballet and Jazz. The studio offers over 50 group dance classes per week for adults and kids, in addition to West Coast, Salsa, Ballroom and Blues weekend dance socials. Complete beginners are welcome and you don't need a partner for any of the dancing lessons or socials.

17.  Top Golf

In their signature game, Top Golf players score points by hitting balls that are assigned using a microchip technology into any target. The more accurate your shot and distance, the more points you earn. There are also eight other games to choose from. Top Golf has more than 100 climate-controlled hitting bays, a full-service restaurant and bar, a rooftop terrace with a fire pit and over 200 HDTVs. Each reservation is good for groups of six players per bay.

18.  Bodega and The Rest

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bodega (@bodegaslc)

Experience a speakeasy at Bodega and The Rest . It’s not really a secret, but it’s still fun to experience a speakeasy-style underground bar and restaurant. Bodega looks like a pretty inconspicuous place with a small market and bar, but if you have a reservation, you’ll gain access to The Rest. Cocktails are abundant, food is greasy-diner-style, and space is limited. Walk-ins are welcome, but seating is not guaranteed. While you're at The Rest, you're required to keep your phone tucked away to preserve the secrecy of the experience.

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

By: Author Jerric Chong

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1. Natural History Museum of Utah

Uladzik Kryhin / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square

Jerry and Pat Donaho / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

Worried you won’t get a seat?

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

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

3. Temple Square

JVE001 / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Great Salt Lake

Johnny Adolphson / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Utah’s Hogle Zoo

Kent Slade / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. Utah State Capitol

Don Mammoser / Shutterstock

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

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

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

The Capitol is open to visitors.

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

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

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

7. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

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

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

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

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

European and Asian art joins the American works on display.

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

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

8. Ensign Peak

robert cicchetti / Shutterstock

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

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

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

Still, the extra people are worth the journey regardless!

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

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

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

9. Liberty Park

Chris Curtis / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10. Marmalade Hill Historic District

Ntsimp [CC0], via Wikimedia Commons

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

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

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

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

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

11. This Is The Place Monument

Ladanifer / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

12. Pioneer Memorial Museum

Ritu Manoj Jethani / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

13. Fisher Brewing Company

Fisher Brewing Company

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. Salt Lake City Public Library

Nagel Photography / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check their website for opening times!

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

15. Summum Pyramid

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

16. Big Cottonwood Canyon

Brad Young / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

17. City Creek Center

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

18. Redwood Drive-In Movie Theatre

lrterry78 / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. Salt Lake Trolley Tours

Salt Lake Trolley Tours

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

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

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

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

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

20. Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School

Ralphael Plescia’s Christian School

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

21. Thanksgiving Point

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

22. Family History Library

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Take a trip there and learn something about your history!

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

23. Utah Olympic Park

Jakub Zajic / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

24. Beehive House

Sopotnicki / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

25. Tracy Aviary

M Outdoors / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

26. Gallivan Center

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

27. Gilgal Sculpture Garden

sporst / flickr

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

28. Red Butte Garden

Chaithanya Krishnan / Shutterstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

29. Eccles Theatre

Eccles Theater

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

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

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

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

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

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

30. Clark Planetarium

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s an experience unlike any other!

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

Start Planning Your Trip To Salt Lake city

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

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

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

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

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

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

1) Explore Downtown Salt Lake City 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Check the website  for more info about scheduling a tour.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City, Utah 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. bobsled at the utah olympic park.

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

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

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

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

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

2. Float in the Great Salt Lake

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

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

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

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

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

3. Play a Round of Mountain Disc Golf

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

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

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

4. Rock Out to a Cosmic Light Show

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

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

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

5. Hike to Ensign Peak

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

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

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

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

6. Be a Kid again at The Gateway

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

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

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

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

7. Take a Private Tour of Utah’s Dinosaurs

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

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

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

8. Race Down the Bonneville Salt Flats

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

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

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

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

9. Go Backcountry Helicopter Skiing

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

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

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

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

10. Hear the Tabernacle Choir Sing at Temple Square

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. Sip Beer at Salt Lake City’s Breweries

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

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

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

12. Feed Flamingos at Tracy Aviary

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

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

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

13. Go Underground at Timpanogos Cave

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

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

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

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

14. Attend the Sundance Film Festival

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

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

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

15. Take a Wagon Ride on a Historic Farm

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

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

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

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

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » Utah (UT) » 15 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City (UT)

15 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City (UT)

Salt Lake City is probably best known as the base of the religious community known as the Mormons or the Church of the Latter Day Saints.

The city is also the state capital of Utah and is known for its scenic location, being situated in a valley that sits high above the majestic Jordan River.

The city was founded in 1847 by Brigham Young who trekked here from Illinois and decided to set up a community.

As a result, the Mormon faith was established here, and many of the buildings and attractions in the city reflect this illustrious history.

There is even a replica of a Mormon village here that represents life much as it would have been when the city was established in the 1800s, if you really want to enjoy a slice of historical Salt Lake City.

If you want to learn more about Mormonism then you can certainly do so in the city, but there is more to Salt Lake City than just religious monuments, and you can enjoy other attractions like zoos, vibrant museums, and planetariums.

1. Temple Square

Temple Square is considered a holy location for Mormons, and here you will find a scenic square that covers over 10 acres.

The square is lined with trees and pretty flowers, and several buildings of interest look out over it.

Just some of these include important Mormon sites such as the Mormon Temple, the Mormon Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and the Assembly Hall.

There are also some monuments and memorials in the square, as well as an information center where you can learn more about Mormonism.

2. Liberty Park

Liberty Park covers an impressive 80 acres of land which makes it the largest park in the Salt Lake City area.

Due to its size, you can expect a huge range of activities here and you can go walking, hiking, or biking around the green slopes.

There are a range of sports and recreation grounds here such as basketball courts and volleyball nets, as well as a swimming pool.

The park is also known for its beautiful scenery in the form of a wealth of greenery, indigenous flowers, and shady trees, many of which are hundreds of years old.

3. Clark Planetarium

The Clark Planetarium sits in the Gateway District of the city and is an ideal spot to visit if you want to go on a whistle stop tour of the night sky.

Signature features in the planetarium include the Hansen Dome Theater which has a dome under which you can see a simulation of the galaxy, as well as an IMAX theater that shows three dimensional films related to space.

As well as films about the earth and other planets, you can also tour exhibits and galleries that span over 10,000 square feet.

4. Mormon Temple

The Mormon Temple is one of the most important religious buildings in Salt Lake City and was built in 1893. The building is impressive in style and stature, and is made of granite with three large signature towers at each end.

The tallest tower, which is to the east of the building, features a statue covered in gilt which is modeled in the shape of an angel named Moroni who is significant in the Mormon faith.

Visitors here can view the temple from the outside, as only Mormons are allowed to enter.

5. State Capitol

The State Capitol is found, perhaps unsurprisingly, on Capitol Hill, and is the symbol of the state of Utah.

The building is 300 feet above the rest of the city, which means that it can be seen from many different vantage points, and is designed in the Neo-Classical style.

The building is topped with a dome and the inside of the capitol is furnished with marble.

You can visit some of the rooms in the capitol such as the Golden Room which is also the Governor’s reception room, as well as a gallery that has rotating exhibitions with collections of interest related to the state of Utah.

6. Tracy Aviary

The Tracy Aviary is located within the iconic Liberty Park, and is the place to come if you like bird watching.

The aviary was set up by a prominent local banker in 1938 and houses a large range of birds that visitors are sure to enjoy.

Many of the species here are from North America, but you can also see some examples of amazing birds from all over the world.

As it was first established in the 1930s, this also has the claim to fame of being one of the oldest aviaries in the world.

7. Mormon Tabernacle

Located in Temple Square is the Mormon Tabernacle which is shaped like an oval and topped with a dome.

This dome is notable for sitting on the top of 44 separate pillars made of sandstone, and this is quite a feat of engineering, even for those who are not usually interested in design.

The interior of the tabernacle has a capacity of over 6,000 spectators and is known for its beautiful acoustics, in part thanks to the engineering prowess of the dome.

The Tabernacle Choir performs here, and there is also a great organ that acts as an accompaniment.

8. This is the Place Monument

In the Mormon faith, followers went on a 1,300 mile trek after which Brigham Young walked out of Emigration Canyon and recognized a valley that had previously come to him in a vision.

Upon seeing it, he said ‘This is the place!’ and a monument was erected to commemorate the history of the Mormons arriving at and settling in Salt Lake City.

The monument dates from 1947 when it was erected for the 100th anniversary of the Mormons’ arrival.

9. The Beehive House

The charmingly named Beehive House was built in 1854 and is known for being the former home of Brigham Young, the leader of the Mormon faith and the previous Governor of Utah.

Young lived in the residence alone with his 19 wives and 56 children and the home is designed with features of the Mormon faith in mind.

One such feature is the turret of the house that has a beehive as a symbol of the industrious nature of those involved in the Mormon faith.

Incidentally, this symbol is also part of the coat of arms of the state of Utah.

10. Hogle Zoo

Hogle Zoo stretches across an amazing 42 acres of land and is known for its collection of different ecosystems under one roof.

The location of the zoo is also impressive, as it sits at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, the spot where the Mormons first arrived in Utah.

The zoo first opened in 1931 and is known for being separated into different sections that feature animals from different parts of the world.

Just some of these are the Asian Highlands, the Rocky Shores, the African Savannah, and an Elephant Encounter.

11. Joseph Smith Memorial Building

Another famous building located on Temple Square is the Joseph Smith Building which dates from 1911. The building used to be called the Hotel Utah before being renamed after the first president of the Mormon Church and the multipurpose area is known for its amazing design features such as intricate glass work, sweeping staircases, and impressive marble columns.

In the Joseph Smith Building you will find the FamilySearch Center, a range of restaurants, and the famous Legacy Theater.

12. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

If you are interested in culture and the arts then the Utah Museum of Fine Arts is the place to come and indulge your passion.

The building is part of the campus of the University of Utah and as such is both a state and university museum.

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts first opened in the 1950s and you will find more than 20 different galleries here with both static and rotating exhibits.

Of the permanent collections here, you will find over 17,000 objects on display, and the pieces here come from all over the world, so you will find Asian, European, and American art represented.

There are also classical as well as modern pieces featured here, so whatever your preferences, you are sure to find something to pique your interest.

13. Discovery Gateway: The Children’s Museum of Utah

Discovery Gateway: The Children’s Museum of Utah stretches over 60,000 square feet and is a discovery center that is dedicated to interactive learning when it comes to all things science related.

If you are traveling with a family then this makes a great rainy day activity, and you can get hands on with a range of different galleries that will help you to better understand science and the way the world works.

14. Marmalade Hill Historic District

The Marmalade Hill Historic District is so named because of the fact that many of the street names here were given after fruit trees and plants that were brought to the area by early settlers in Salt Lake City.

The area is small and compact and you will find one of its borders on the delightfully named Quince Street.

Many of the architectural features here are a throwback to how Salt Lake City would have looked in the days of old, and there are a number of historic buildings here such as John Platts House and Thomas Quayle House, so if you want to feel as if you have stepped back in time then this is an excellent place to come for a historic walking tour.

15. Old Deseret Village

Close to the This is the Place Monument in Salt Lake City is the Old Deseret Village, which is a model of a traditional village that was erected to commemorate the Mormon arrival in Utah.

Here you will find a collection of different homes and period buildings, some of which are replicas and some of which have been painstakingly resorted, that will give you a glimpse of how life would have been in the 1800s in Salt Lake City.

Actors in period garb will help you get into the mood of the time as you walk around, and as the village sprawls over 440 acres, you will be able to stroll around traditional streets taking in the entire atmosphere.

Some attractions to look out for include a typical inn and a heritage replica of a farmhouse where you can learn all about how a Mormon village would have operated in the days of old.

15 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City (UT):

• Temple Square
• Liberty Park
• Clark Planetarium
• Mormon Temple
• State Capitol
• Tracy Aviary
• Mormon Tabernacle
• This is the Place Monument
• The Beehive House
• Joseph Smith Memorial Building
• Utah Museum of Fine Arts
• Discovery Gateway: The Children’s Museum of Utah
• Marmalade Hill Historic District
• Old Deseret Village

Think Utah’s boring? Here are 102 things to see and do

S ome may think that the Beehive State is boring . That’s OK. The state is full of fun activities and places to go. In fact, in the process of making this list, I had to make a lot of cuts.

And I mean a lot of cuts.

• Hey, Golden State Warriors, there’s plenty for you and your families to see and do in SLC while you’re here
• Opinion: Shaq and Barkley think we’re boring. Who cares?

Whether you’re a born-and-raised Utahn or an out-of-state Utah traveler, this list includes well-known places that you’ve most likely explored, but also places that are a little more off the beaten path. In my opinion, there’s a lot to love about Utah.

So without further ado, here are 102 things to do in Utah.

• Visit the Bonneville Salt Flats in Salt Lake City.
• Have a beach day on Utah Lake in Utah County.
• Tour Temple Square in Salt Lake City. Bonus points: Go see the lights while you’re there.
• Look at the stained glass Roots of Knowledge mural at Utah Valley University in Orem.
• Shop at the Traverse Mountain outlets (i.e. Thanksgiving Point) in Lehi.
• Look out at Salt Lake City from Ensign Peak. Get some of Salt Lake City’s iconic Crown Burgers on your way up.
• Grab a raspberry milkshake over by Bear Lake in Garden City.
• Visit the Museum of Art at Brigham Young University. Might as well eat at Black Sheep Cafe while you’re there and walk down Provo’s historic Center Street.
• Go skiing in Park City. Afterward, get some Vessel Kitchen for dinner.
• Take a fall drive through the Alpine Loop in American Fork.
• Visit Antelope Canyon near Lake Powell.
• Drive down to a ghost town like Grafton or Old Irontown.
• If you find yourself in Lehi, go to the Hutchings Museum Institute. Stop by the Lehi Bakery afterwards. They have square doughnuts.
• Go swimming in Homestead Crater in Midway. Take a mozzarella making class from Heber Valley Artisan Cheese while you’re there.
• See antelope and bison on Antelope Island in Davis County (near Layton).
• Go see where Butch Cassidy grew up in Panguitch.
• Book tickets for a rodeo in Nephi. You can listen to the Killers album on the way down — the album is about band member Brandon Flower’s childhood in Nephi.
• Go to the Shakespeare Festival down in Cedar City. Try Centro Woodfired Pizzeria while you’re there and go see the Cedar City Historic Rock Church.
• Take a walk along the shores of Stansbury Island.
• Do a walking tour of Salt Lake City. Eat at one of the city’s fantastic restaurants like Valter’s Osteria or Red Iguana or Settebello Pizzeria.
• Go hiking at Arches. Hint: Delicate Arch in Grand County at sunset is gorgeous.
• Going to see Gilgal Sculpture Garden in Salt Lake City with the famous Joseph Smith sphinx is a fun activity.
• Visit the Bryce Wildlife Adventure Museum in Bryce. Check out Hell’s Backbone Grill & Farm (you’ll need a reservation).
• Head over to Rozel Point peninsula to the Spiral Jetty in Corinne.
• Spend a couple of days at Zion National Park.
• See the petroglyphs in Parowan.
• Hike the Fairyland Loop Trail in Canyonlands.
• Visit the Hole N’ The Rock House in Moab.
• When the poppies are blossoming, head over to the poppy field in Mantua.
• Drive to Manti and Ephraim to see the historic buildings there. Eat at Snow Dragon while you’re there.
• Hike Bridal Veil Falls in Provo.
• Visit one of the most interesting rock formations — Wahweap Hoodoos in Kane County.
• Visit the Dinosaur National Monument and the Quarry Exhibit Hall in Jensen.
• Head up to Sundance Resort in Provo and enjoy the views.
• Visit the historic town Santaquin and go to one of the orchards.
• Drive down Provo Canyon and stop at one of the parks along the way.
• Go to a concert at the Tuacahn Amphitheater near St. George.
• Did you know the real “Up” house is in Herriman? Check it out.
• Hike up Y Mountain at BYU.
• Catch a Ballet West production at the Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake City. Beware — the theater is rumored to be sort of haunted .
• Go boating on Lake Powell.
• Head over to Mona and go swimming there. There are rope swings.
• Visit Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake City.
• Go ice skating in downtown Salt Lake City during the winter.
• Visit Escalante Petrified Forest State Park in Garfield County — it’s a great place for hiking and camping.
• If you find yourself in Delta, go to the Trilobite Quarry.
• Go to the Inlet Hot Springs near Saratoga Springs.
• Hike around Fantasy Canyon in Vernal.
• Check out the Family History Library in the FamilySearch building in Salt Lake City.
• Head over to Nine Mile Canyon near Price.
• Get ice cream from Utah State University’s creamery in Logan. And also BYU’s creamery in Provo.
• Walk around downtown Logan and then head over to White Pine Lake.
• Check out Emigration Canyon in Salt Lake City.
• Visit Reid Moon’s bookstore, Moon’s Rare Books, in Provo. You won’t be disappointed with his offerings.
• Hike Mount Timpanogos in American Fork Canyon. You might need the whole day for this one.
• Visit Brigham City and head over to the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge.
• Go listen to the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square in Salt Lake City.
• Head over to Eagle Mountain to check out Cory Wride Memorial Park.
• Walk past the Reed O. Smoot House in Provo.
• Check out the Bluff Fort Historic Site in Bluff.
• Visit the Natural History Museum in Salt Lake City.
• If you want a meal that’s a total experience, go to La Caille Restaurant in Sandy.
• Visit the Fort Douglas Museum in Salt Lake City.
• Drive over to Helper and check out the downtown area as well as the mining museum.
• Make some soap at Soap Factory in Provo.
• Check out the Torrey Log Church-Schoolhouse in Wayne County.
• Visit the Historic Trolley Square in Salt Lake City.
• Catch a Utah Jazz game in Salt Lake City.
• If you find yourself in Provo, catch a concert at Velour and dine at Communal.
• Walk around downtown Pleasant Grove and then enjoy a creative grilled cheese at Cravings Bistro.
• Check out the Benson Grist Mill in Stansbury Park.
• Head over to the Utah state Capitol in Salt Lake City and walk around.
• Visit Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City.
• Shop at City Creek Center in Salt Lake City.
• Listen to the Utah Symphony in Salt Lake City.
• Check out the Tracy Aviary Botanical Garden in Salt Lake City.
• Do a chocolate tasting down in Provo at Taste 117.
• Go to Lagoon Amusement Park .
• Visit the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary near Kanab.
• Head over to Bryce Canyon Lodge in Bryce.
• Go see the Old City Hall in Summit County.
• Head over to Spring City Historic District and check out the whole downtown area. Many of the buildings and structures are historic. The church in the downtown area is one not to miss.
• Check out the St. George Tabernacle in St. George.
• Visit the Coral Pink Sand Dunes Park outside of Kanab — seriously, the sand is somewhere between a coral and a peach.
• Take a road trip throughout Utah to see all the temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the state. Many of them are older and have interesting architecture.
• Walk down the streets of historic Ogden.
• Take a trip down the Pony Express National Historic Trail in Salt Lake City.
• Hike the Narrows in Zion Canyon.
• A visit to the Four Corners near Bluff is probably in order. Hop around from state to state on this historic landmark.
• Have lunch at the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City.
• Go whitewater rafting in Moab.
• Check out the Marriott Library at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City.
• Visit Fillmore and check out the Territorial Statehouse Museum. Look at other historic landmarks in the area.
• Head over to Snowbird or Alta near Salt Lake City for the day.
• Go hiking at Capitol Reef National Park near Torrey.
• Check out the Kachina Bridge near Lake Powell. The hike is short, but steep.
• Take a road trip (with a Swig or Sodalicious drink, of course) to Eureka and check out the historic area.
• Head up to Cedar Breaks National Monument in Brian Head and paint the view you see.
• Go to Goblin Valley State Park in Green River.
• In the winter, go sledding at Rock Canyon Park in Provo.
• Take a cooking class at Caputo’s.
• Visit This Is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City.

1 Week, 5 Utah National Parks: A Curated Road Trip Itinerary

In just one eye-popping, mind-blowing, camera-clicking week, experience all of utah’s mighty 5..

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You may have heard, Utah is home to some pretty amazing national parks. And by amazing we mean jaw-dropping, breathtaking, heart-racing stuff. Cliffs, hoodoos and pillars made of candy colored rock; slot canyons, natural arches and verdant valleys. The scenery goes on and on and on. 

So obviously you’d like to see for yourself, did nature really design a valley of castle turrets? Can a bridge of rock be held up by sheer willpower? Yes and yes, and we have a customizable Utah national parks itinerary to prove it. Use our free PDF map download to navigate your road trip through Utah’s Mighty 5 in one fell swoop. Well, a 1,000-mile scenic drive, gallons of drinking water and miles of hiking swoop. Tuh-MAY-toe, tuh-MAH-toe.

What's so great about that arch on Utah license plates? See for yourself in Arches National Park.

Travel tips

Before throwing your hiking shoes and sunhat into your carry-on, take care of a few details.

• Buy an America the Beautiful park pass; the $80 fee covers entrance to all the national parks, saving you some cash for souvenir T-shirts. Get your pass through the National Park Service .
• Make park reservations. Arches requires a timed-entry ticket from April through October; visit Recreation.gov to make your vehicle reservation. Some hikes in Zion have a permit lottery; sign up at Recreation.gov . 
• April to October is peak season: Make camping or hotel reservations well in advance.
• Check the weather . It gets HOT during the summer months; pack appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear, reusable water bottles and plenty of sunscreen.
• Plan to start your days early. Most people visit the park between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; go during the off hours for cooler temps and fewer crowds. Plus, the lighting is better for your Insta pics.
• Remember, you can come back! It’s impossible to hike every trail in one park in just a day or two, let alone all five. So plan what you can reasonably do this time around. And don’t worry, the scenery has been around for thousands of years, it’ll be here for you next time.

Accommodations

You can experience the outdoor wonders in three ways: fully immersive, semi-immersive and I-need-a-good-night’s-sleep immersive. If you want the deep dive experience — dirt in your shoes, campfire smell in your clothes — you can set up a tent in or near the national parks.

If you want to dip your toes in the wilderness but still want a mattress, consider renting an RV, campervan or camper trailer . But, if you’re more of a hot shower, hot tub kind of traveler, there are hotels and cabins , either inside the parks or in nearby towns. Can’t decide? Try glamping , camping-like lodging with some luxury hotel amenities.

Arrivals and Departures

The national parks are located in the southern half of Utah, so the two closest international airports are in Salt Lake City and Las Vegas. Plan your travel as a round trip, or fly into one city and leave from the other. Pick up your rental vehicle and let your Utah national parks road trip begin.

Introduce yourself to Zion along the Riverside Walk.

Day One: Airport to Zion National Park

• Salt Lake City to Zion: 313 miles, 4.5 hours
• Las Vegas to Zion: 168 miles, 3 hours
• Lodging: Camping (spots inside the park fill quickly), hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, glamping

We suggest starting your Utah national parks road trip at Zion , when your legs are the freshest; there are some serious hikes here. In fact, there are so many swoon-worthy hikes at this park, it’s hard to choose just one. Or two. Or three. There’s a reason Zion sees some 5 million visitors every year. Plan on spending at least two days, if you can, to soak up all the scenery. And hey, if you decide to stay even longer, we totally get it.

Temple of Sinawava

After checking into your accommodations, head over to the park to stretch your legs on a warmup hike. Catch a free shuttle at the Visitor Center; it travels the length of Canyon Scenic Drive, with stops at the Zion Lodge and the trailheads.

Stay on until the last stop, Temple of Sinawava, and take the Riverside Walk for the perfect introduction to the park. The paved, 2-mile (round trip) walk takes you along the Virgin River and into a canyon. You’ll see hanging gardens, weeping walls and maybe some wildlife.

This trail ends where the Narrows hike begins. If it’s open and you have sturdy shoes, step into the river and walk the first portion of the hike. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to catch the shuttle back or you’ll be walking an extra nine miles. Fuel up for tomorrow at one of Springdale’s many eateries.

• Grilled grub: Camp Outpost, Whiptail Grill
• Fancy fixin’s: Spotted Dog, King’s Landing Bistro
• Family fare: Zion Pizza & Noodle, Porter’s

Get the best view in Zion National Park from Angels Landing.

Day Two: Zion

If you can get a permit, hike Angels Landing . It has a lot of uphill, steep switchbacks and some sheer drop-offs, but the view of the canyon from way up there? Matchless. Plan on taking several hours for the 5-mile hike. Pack a lunch to enjoy at the top; it’s definitely a better view than any rooftop restaurant can offer. Be sure to pack out all your trash. Register for permits with the National P ark Service .

If you didn’t get a permit, there are plenty of other (and easier) hikes . We recommend Emerald Pools . You’ll see three natural ponds and some waterfalls, separated by a short climb through desert vegetation. The lower pool is a fairly easy hike; it’s a bit more work to get to the other two, but the trail is easy to follow. At the upper pool, cool off in the grotto surrounded by enormous, weeping rock walls.

If you still have some energy, you may want to try another short but noteworthy hike . When you're properly worn out for the day, head back to Springdale for dinner, then maybe catch a show at the Bumbleberry Inn .

Day Three: Zion to Bryce Canyon

• Zion to Bryce: 2 hours, 84 miles
• Lodging : Campgrounds, cabins, B&Bs, glamping

Next stop, Bryce Canyon . Drive back into Zion, heading east on scenic Highway 9 toward Mt. Carmel. You’ll drive through the mile-long Zion-Mt. Carmel tunnel. In addition to gaining a mad respect for 1920s sandstone blasters, you may catch a glimpse of some bighorn sheep through the built-in windows.

Make one last stop before you leave the area: Checkerboard Mesa . Imagine a giant sat down to do his math homework and got a bit carried away drawing lines. Then, on to Bryce.

Note: Oversize vehicles, such as RVs, are only allowed through the tunnel during limited hours and must pay an additional fee. Read more about restrictions at the National Park Service .

Walk among sandstone towers in Bryce Canyon.

Bryce is Nice

Remember when you tried to make an epic sandcastle? Well, Bryce Canyon did it first. See an entire valley of the tallest, coolest, colorfulest hoodoos on a walk from Sunset Point to Sunrise Point. 

If your legs are still a bit wobbly from Zion, take the Mossy Cave Trail , an easy 1-mile round trip among the spires. Another option is the Bristlecone Loop Trail , which will give you a bird’s-eye view. A little more challenging, the Navajo Loop is the most popular trail in the park; you’ll descend 800 feet into the heart of the hoodoos.

Got more stamina than that bighorn sheep you saw on the drive over? Try the 8.3-mile Fairyland Loop . You’ll hike down into the pink and white canyons, see natural amphitheaters and be surrounded by hoodoos. No need for wings, but you may wish you had some.

Park your tired puppies back in the car and head over to the tiny town of Tropic for some tasty respite. Steaks, house specials, lavender sponge cake and a wine menu await you at Stone Hearth Grille . For more casual fare, stay in Bryce Canyon City for Ruby’s Inn Cowboy’s Buffet and Steak Room .

The vistas are wide and grand in Canyonlands. Photo by Chad Hurst

Day Four: Canyonlands

• Bryce to Canyonlands: 4 hours 20 minutes, 256 miles
• Lodging : camping, hotels, cabins, glamping

Are you ready to mumble? Under your breath in awe, that is. Definitely not because your quads and hammies are jiggly; they can rest on the drive. Pull out our map of Utah national parks and head toward Moab. It’s the home base for Canyonlands and Arches.

Where Bryce seems like fine handiwork, Canyonlands was made with broader strokes. Get an overview of Utah’s largest national park from the Grand View Overlook . The easy hike takes you up a 1-mile sandstone stairway — to heaven? Just about. It ends at a mesa with an unobstructed view of Monument Basin. Be aware, while the path is wide, there are sheer cliffs.

Catch a perfectly framed sunrise at Mesa Arch.

Mesa Arch is another sweet spot for sweeping vistas, evident by the dozens of photographers shooting here at sunrise. The 27-foot long arch is so obliging, it perfectly frames your photos of the La Sal mountains. It’s worth squeezing into your day no matter the hour, since the trail is only 0.6 miles round trip. Hint: Walk to the arch clockwise, then retrace your steps back to avoid some of the stone steps.

If you’re visiting Canyonlands in the spring or winter, consider hiking the Confluence Overlook Trail , a moderate, 11-mile round trip. You’ll do some scrabbling up and down rocky slopes but it’s mostly flat. The payoff is the vista, 1,000 feet above the spot where the Green River and Colorado River come together. We don’t recommend it for a summer’s day; the trail is fully exposed — no shade — and the heat can be brutal.

The Confluence Overlook Trail is long, but the views are unparalleled. Photo by Chad Hurst

Even if you’re camping, head to Moab for some dinner and a casual walk down its charming Main Street. For a small town, there’s a surprisingly large assortment of dining options, from traditional kebabs at Sultan Mediterranean Grill to curry from Thai Bella Moab.

Day Five: Arches

• Canyonlands to Arches: 29 minutes, 26 miles

Just half an hour away from Canyonlands, Arches has mesas, buttes and some wiiiide, gravity defying arches. The most popular — so popular it can be seen on one-third of Utah’s license plates — is Delicate Arch. It’s not an easy hike to see it; there are some steep stretches on the 3-mile trip. But you’ll be rewarded by a magnificent, solitary arch standing in a bowl of sandstone. Wax as poetic as you like, it’ll be fitting.

Visit one of the world's longest natural bridge in Arches.

Actually, rare beauties are a thing for Arches. You’ll understand what we mean when you head over to Landscape Arch ; it’s the fifth longest natural bridge in the world. The slab of rock spans 290 feet, but it is only 18 feet wide. How does it stay up? No idea.

Day Six: Canyonlands or Arches

Have time to stick around for another day? You could take another hike in Arches, or head back to Canyonlands. Or consider some activities nearby such as white-water rafting , kayaking and off-roading . 

Drive on to the town of Torrey, just outside Capitol Reef, for the night so you can get an early start in the morning.

Day Seven: Capitol Reef and Home

Park logistics.

Arches to Capitol Reef: 2 hours, 133 miles

Lodging : camping, glamping, hotels

The final stop on our Utah national park itinerary is Capitol Reef National Park . This compact park is no slouch in rock sculptures, either. 

Reach for the stars at Cassidy Arch, named for a local outlaw.

First hike: A moderate 3.5 mile climb to Cassidy Arch . It’s a big one — standing 400 feet tall. It’s pretty photogenic, too, much like the movie star who played the arch’s namesake, Butch Cassidy. 

Next up, a moderately easy jaunt up to the Hickman Bridge . The 2-mile round trip trek includes fantastic scenery along the way, culminating in not just one, but TWO arches.

Grab a late lunch outside the park at Capitol Burger, a food truck serving gourmet burgers (find its exact location for the day on its Facebook page). Then settle your trail-worn body into your vehicle, crank up the air, choose your playlist and head back to the airport.

Home Logistics

Capitol Reef to Salt Lake City: 3 hours 23 minutes, 218 miles

Capitol Reef to Las Vegas: 5 hours, 327 miles

On the long drive back, make your case for which national park deserves a second, longer look. Utah.com will be here to help you plan your next trip and all your other excursions around our state.

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The 25 top things to do in colorado, according to a local.

Expect plenty of epic adventures and spectacular scenery in Colorado.

Top Things to Do in Colorado

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Adventurous travelers will find a home in Colorado. Snowcapped mountains, rushing rivers and dramatic canyons create a rugged yet stunning landscape well worth exploring. Meanwhile, cities like Denver, Boulder and Colorado Springs provide a taste of culture – and plenty of relaxing activities for those not up for hiking or skiing. Read on for the top things to do in the Centennial State.

Hike in Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park draws millions of people every year to explore its 147 lakes and 355 miles of trails, which appeal to hikers and backpackers of all experience levels. Visitors recommend the park's flat lake trails – such as Lily Lake Loop, Bear Lake trail and the Lake Irene trail – for beginners. Intermediate climbers may enjoy the 4.1-mile Emerald Lake trail, which requires 744 feet of elevation gain. Many experienced hikers set out to complete Longs Peak: This mountain is a 14er (a peak that exceeds 14,000 feet) with a nearly 5,000-foot elevation gain, reserved for ambitious and very skilled hikers willing to start the hike early (think: 3 a.m.) and pack all the appropriate gear.

Don't miss the chance to drive the Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park. With a high point at more than 12,000 feet, Trail Ridge spans nearly 50 miles and runs from Estes Park in the east to Grand Lake in the west, and it's known as the highest continuous paved road in the country. It has several designated pull-over areas and is well maintained, according to visitors, but that doesn't mean it's not frightening: The twisting turns and dramatic drops may make your stomach churn. The road is only open from May to October because of its dangerous winter weather conditions.

Rocky Mountain National Park operates on a timed entry reservation system during the summer (May to October), and entry to the park during every season requires a vehicle entrance pass. Keep in mind that backpacking requires a wilderness permit. If you're planning to visit multiple national parks in a year, consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Interagency Annual Pass .

Insider tip: The 9.4-mile trek to Sky Pond is worth doing for gorgeous views of surrounding peaks.

The Mile High City is full of educational museums, trendy restaurants, historical sites and top-notch views. For a taste of culture, stop at the Denver Art Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver and the Denver Botanic Gardens. Or, catch a Broadway show at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. If you're visiting with children, the Denver Zoo is a great place to spend the day, as is the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. The many unique tour offerings , including brewery outings and graffiti tours, can help you experience as much of Denver as possible. For a low-budget activity, plan a picnic in City Park, which offers views of the surrounding mountains and lots of space for the kids to run around.

When night comes, stroll through Larimer Square to find breweries and bars. Some top-rated breweries include Great Divide Brewing Company and Ratio Beerworks. The Five Points area is also an excellent place to explore in the evening thanks to its vibrant nightlife scene, live musical performances and noteworthy street art. Colorado's capital city offers plenty of lodging options as well, from upscale hotels like the Four Seasons Hotel Denver to boutique hotels like Hotel Teatro to more budget-friendly alternatives .

In November, attend Denver Arts Week, where artists, filmmakers, performers and more flock to Denver to showcase their creative projects. Entire neighborhoods, such as the RiNo Art District, are transformed into alfresco art museums during this week as artists paint colorful murals on storefronts and walls. One of Denver Arts Week's most noteworthy events is the Denver Film Festival, which showcases critically acclaimed films and features a star-studded red carpet event.

Insider tip: In terms of food and drink, you can't go wrong with Barcelona Wine Bar, which boasts a plethora of delicious tapas and a variety of wines. (Just make sure you book a reservation for this popular restaurant.) If you're a fan of speakeasies, try Williams & Graham – where you enter the bar through a bookcase – or Retrograde, where you enter the space-themed bar through a freezer in the Frozen Matter ice cream shop.

Surf or sled at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve

While you won't find any traditional surfing experiences in landlocked Colorado, that doesn't mean you can't try your hand at the sport. Armed with a sandboard or sand sled (made specifically for sand, as snowboards, snow sleds and skis won't work unless the sand is very wet) as well as a bit of courage, visitors can surf or sled down the massive dunes at Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

Keep in mind that there are no equipment rental facilities within the park; instead, you'll have to rent a board or sled from a shop in the nearby San Luis Valley. Oasis Store, located 4 miles from the entrance, is the closest rental store option. The first dunes are located about half a mile from the main parking area, but surfing and sledding are allowed anywhere on the dunefield away from vegetated areas. There are plenty of other activities you can enjoy throughout Great Sand Dunes, including hiking and swimming in Medano Creek. The park is also a top Colorado camping location .

Insider tip: Make sure to bring appropriate footwear as the sand can get very hot.

Stay at the famed Stanley Hotel

An inspiration for Stephen King's "The Shining," The Stanley Hotel in Estes Park – about 5 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park – embraces its position as one of the most haunted hotels in America . The historic hotel offers several visitor-recommended tours, including The Shining Tour, where you can peek at one of the axes used in the movie.

Despite these sinister ties, the Stanley Hotel is one of the best hotels in Estes Park for good reason: It touts renovated premium suites, spa treatments, guided outdoor excursions and a plethora of premier dining options. There's plenty to do in the greater town of Estes Park, too, like horseback riding , attending the fall Elk Fest and exploring the free Estes Park Museum.

Insider tip: Visit Estes Park in the fall to hear the beautiful yet eerie elk bugling.

Address: 333 E. Wonderview Ave., Estes Park, CO 80517

Garden of the Gods

There are several ways to explore the towering red rock formations in Garden of the Gods , located 5 miles northwest of downtown Colorado Springs , one of which is hiking. Some highly recommended hiking routes include the easy Central Garden Trail and the moderate Palmer Trail.

Jeep tours are another way to explore Garden of the Gods. Visitors can take a 90-minute narrated Jeep tour to Balanced Rock and hear about the history of the park; embark on a 90-minute outing to Glen Eyrie's Queens Canyon and enjoy a scenic overlook; or ride to waterfalls, tunnels and other picturesque areas on a two-hour excursion. Or, step back in time with a trolley tour, offered hourly.

Insider tip: After a day of exploring Garden of the Gods, grab a bite to eat at Pizzeria Rustica in the Old Colorado City area of Colorado Springs. The quattro formaggi (four cheese) pizza is to die for, and the gelato is a delicious way to cool down after hiking.

Summit Pikes Peak

Pikes Peak, a 14er located approximately 30 miles west of Colorado Springs, has inspired many stories and songs, including "America the Beautiful." You can ascend the mountain in a number of ways. Driving is the easiest way to summit, and there are plenty of places to pull over and admire the views on the way up. Keep in mind that the drive requires reservations and can be difficult, especially for those afraid of heights (which is why guided shuttle tours are also available).

Another popular way to reach the top is via The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. The railway offers breathtaking vistas as it sweeps passengers up the mountain. At the top, passengers can soak in the scenery before boarding the train down. The entire trip lasts about three hours. You can purchase tickets online before you go; keep in mind that tickets sell out about two weeks in advance in the summer.

The last way up the mountain is on foot. Only skilled hikers and bikers should attempt to scale Pikes Peak via the Barr Trail, which is about a 25-mile round trip. Summiting via the Crags Campground route is shorter, at 14.5 miles, but still difficult. Either way, the grueling hike will be worth it once you make it to the top and witness incredible panoramas of Colorado Springs and the surrounding area. Plus, you can reward yourself with a Pikes Peak doughnut or other treat at the Summit Visitor Center, which sits at 14,115 feet in elevation.

Insider tip: Afternoon storms in the summer are a common occurrence in Colorado, so if you're hiking, make sure you're descending around noon to avoid dangerous lightning.

Many visitors appreciate the charming, small-town vibe of Boulder, located 25 miles northwest of Denver. Pearl Street Mall is a top Boulder attraction , as the alfresco shopping area is lined with a plethora of boutiques and cafes. You'll probably see your fair share of street performers as well. Plus, with the University of Colorado Boulder in close proximity, there are many trendy restaurants and nightlife options.

Past visitors recommend The Buff for breakfast, The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for lunch or afternoon tea, and The Sink for dinner – and don't forget to grab a drink at one of the city's many breweries in between meals. If you're visiting in the summer, check out the Boulder Farmers Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays for farm-fresh produce, live music and more. For convenient lodging options near downtown, book a stay at the St Julien Hotel & Spa or Hotel Boulderado .

If you do find yourself in the Boulder area, hiking the Flatirons is a must. These giant sandstone peaks are intertwined with miles of hiking trails, and there are routes for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Most hikes begin at the popular Chautauqua Trailhead, which also offers an expansive park area perfect for relaxing and admiring the Flatirons if you're not in the mood to climb or hike.

Insider tip: A great hike away from the hustle and bustle of Boulder life is the 7.9-mile Walker Ranch Loop, an 8-mile drive from Chautauqua. For a less heart-pumping experience, touring the Celestial Seasonings tea factory is a blast and includes free tea sampling.

Mesa Verde National Park

It's not too often that scenic hiking areas are also steeped in history, but Mesa Verde National Park in southwest Colorado certainly has both. This national park consists of an array of preserved cliff dwellings originally built centuries ago by Ancestral Puebloans, who lived and worked in the cliffside quarters for 700 years until finally abandoning them in late A.D. 1200. Now, the remnants of this ancient civilization draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Additionally, the park is associated with 26 Native American tribes.

During your visit, make time to see Cliff Palace – the largest cliff dwelling in North America. The site features 150 rooms and 23 kivas (ceremonial underground rooms) that you can view only by guided tour. There are also plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding area. A visitor-favorite path is the moderate Point Lookout Trail (2.1 miles out and back), which boasts sweeping views of the park. The Petroglyph Point Trail (a 2.4-mile loop) is also popular, as you can admire the petroglyphs drawn on the canyon walls.

Ski in Aspen

Millions of visitors travel to this town, located about 200 miles west of Denver, each year for its ideal ski conditions and massive slopes. Aspen Snowmass is one of the country's largest ski resorts , one of Colorado's top ski destinations and one of Aspen's most popular attractions . The resort offers more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain and nearly 50 chairlifts across four mountains – Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk – making it a prime ski destination for intermediate and advanced skiers. There are also some trails for beginners, as well as many opportunities for lessons.

Even if you're not a fan of skiing, the après-ski scene makes Aspen worth a visit. You'll find skiers flocking to the town's lounges, taverns and upscale eateries after a day on the mountain. There are several award-winning hotels in the area – such as The Little Nell and Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection – where guests can stay close to the slopes, making for an extra easy ski day.

Catch a concert at Red Rocks Amphitheatre

A trip to this venue will take any concert experience to the next level. The bleacher-style seats at Red Rocks Amphitheatre are built into a cliff and surrounded by towering sandstone structures. Visitors rave about the venue's acoustics, saying it's one of the best and most unique places to witness a live performance. Concerts are usually scheduled between April and November; consult the event schedule to see when your favorite artists are performing.

Even if you can't make it for a show, Red Rocks is still a great place to visit during the day. There are several hiking trails around the concert area, including the easy Trading Post Trail (1.4 miles) and the intermediate Red Rocks and Morrison Slide trails (3 miles). Plus, from high up in the stands, you'll get panoramic views of the surrounding area. In the summer, the venue even presents drive-in movie events and morning yoga sessions.

Insider tip: You can also find plenty of beautiful hiking in nearby Mount Falcon Park, including the highly rated 3.2-mile Turkey Trot Trail loop.

Address: 18300 W. Alameda Parkway, Morrison, CO 80465

Relax in the hot springs of Glenwood Springs

The small town of Glenwood Springs is situated along the Colorado River and surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. The mineral waters responsible for the town's fame come from the nearby Yampah spring, which naturally heats to about 122 degrees. In town, there are three main areas for visitors to enjoy the hot springs. Glenwood Hot Springs Resort is home to the world's largest hot springs pool, big enough for visitors to swim laps in the 90- to 93-degree water. The venue is kid-friendly and doesn't require reservations.

Another option is Iron Mountain Hot Springs, which offers a quieter atmosphere complete with 17 soaking pools – heated between 98 and 108 degrees and connected by heated walkways – and rain showers to ensure visitors can cool off when necessary. Reservations are required and weekend access often sells out, so make sure to book a time slot in advance. The Yampah Spa and Vapor Caves is another thermal attraction in Glenwood Springs, and it's one of the only vapor caves on the continent. This underground area naturally releases therapeutic steam, which visitors can enjoy by descending into the caves and lounging on the benches. Reservations for the caves are required.

Go whitewater rafting

The Arkansas River – which starts in central Colorado and runs all the way to Arkansas – features miles of fast-flowing water, perfect for adventurous rafters. Though it might seem intimidating, there are plenty of easy routes for first-time rafters or those looking for a relaxing excursion.

Lower Browns Canyon offers a few mild rapids with enough time in between to enjoy the mountain scenery. Similarly, a trip to Little Gore Canyon is sure to be leisurely and may appeal to families with younger children. The Royal Gorge trip, however, is reserved for adventurous travelers seeking steep drops, big splashes and constant rapids. The Pine Creek route, which originates near the Granite Gorge, is another strenuous option for advanced rafters. Check out U.S. News' roundup of the best whitewater rafting tours in Colorado to plan your trip.

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A mining village that flourished in the late 1800s, this southwestern Colorado town maintains its Wild West charm to this day. The main street is lined with quaint stores and restaurants, which are set against the dramatic backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. You won't see many fast food restaurants or chain stores here, but you will find plenty of outdoor activities in Telluride . The town offers noteworthy skiing options at Telluride Ski Resort. The free gondola is also a great activity, as it'll bring you on a scenic ride to the mountains.

While there are numerous winter adventures to be had, the spring, summer and fall months are what make this town stand out. Telluride has a thriving arts district and is a hot spot for festivals, including popular festivals for film, jazz and bluegrass. Visitors enjoy Telluride for its small-town atmosphere and history.

Drive the Million Dollar Highway

There are many theories as to how this scenic highway got its name, but no matter what you believe, it's certain that the road provides million-dollar views. Start your drive in Ouray, a small town northwest of Telluride that's known as the "Switzerland of America" thanks to its European-looking storefronts and the surrounding mountains.

The 25-mile highway stretches from Ouray to Silverton and features awe-inspiring vistas, but be warned that the drive is not for the faint of heart. The road clings to the side of a cliff and provides dizzying views of the canyon below – and the lack of guardrails only adds to the danger. The road does eventually level out so drivers can relax and enjoy the scenery, but keep in mind that if you're scared of heights, this drive might not be the one for you. Be sure to check for icy or snowy conditions before making the journey.

Grand Lake is one of the best spots in Colorado for swimming, fishing, boating and soaking up some sun. This top Colorado lake – the largest in the state – is located a few miles southeast of the Grand Lake entrance to Rocky Mountain National Park and about 100 miles northwest of Denver. On the sandy shores of the lake, you'll find plenty of kids playing, adults sunbathing, and maybe even a moose or two testing the waters.

Visitors say the area is well maintained, and they appreciate the designated picnic spots. Not to mention, the jaw-dropping view of the surrounding mountains reflecting off the lake is sure to take your beach day to the next level. The lake offers a marina where visitors can opt to rent motorboats or kayaks to explore the water. The small town around the water – also called Grand Lake – features several cafes, restaurants and shops to enjoy during your visit. If you venture to Grand Lake in winter, there will still be many activities to partake in, such as ice fishing and ice hockey.

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

This national park packs plenty of scenery into a small area. Dark, jagged peaks slice into the earth, creating dramatic canyons and breathtaking views. Black Canyon of the Gunnison doesn't have as many easy hiking opportunities as other parks due to the steep nature of the canyon. For this reason, many visitors say driving is the best way to take in the views. The park is small enough that if you're driving, you can see it all in a day – though there's a good chance it'll take a long drive to get there, as it's located about 260 miles from Denver.

When arriving at the park, you can choose to explore either the North Rim or the South Rim. The North Rim offers three trails and five overlooks that you can visit by car but is overall less developed than its counterpart; many visitors prefer the South Rim for its four hiking trails and 12 overlooks. Each rim features a campground as well, but the South Rim Campground is much larger and includes more amenities.

Insider tip: Bring a canopy tent if you plan to stay in the South Rim Campground as the trees are short and don't offer much in the way of shade. Also, make sure to drive around the park at sunset for spectacular views.

Ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad

Take a train back in time on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Construction on this historic railroad began in 1881; once it was completed in 1882, the railroad brought tons of gold and silver from the mountains to the towns. People also used this train to travel between towns, and they quickly realized the scenery along the way was nothing short of stunning. The railroad winds through the San Juan Mountains and chugs up Cascade Canyon – a visitor-favorite view.

The train from Durango to Silverton takes less than four hours; passengers can explore the historic mining town of Silverton for two hours before returning for the train ride back. You'll have to reserve tickets in advance online or by calling.

Breckenridge

If you're looking for an easy getaway from Denver, head to Breckenridge for some of the best ski conditions in the state. Breckenridge Ski Resort has a whopping 187 trails and 35 lifts as well as several terrain parks. The free gondola, which runs from the downtown area to the base of the ski mountain, is a great way to enjoy the mountain views even if you don't plan on hitting the slopes.

Downtown Breckenridge has plenty to offer in the way of food, beverages and treats as well as clothing stores, souvenir shops and a thriving arts district. The surrounding area offers a variety of hiking and biking trails – such as the highly rated McCullough Gulch Trail, the Hoosier Pass Loop and the Sawmill Reservoir trail.

Insider tip: A romantic dinner at Hearthstone Restaurant can't be beat. Give the lamb a try; it's spectacular!

Visit Colorado's wine country

Most people associate Colorado with craft beer and countless breweries . However, you may be surprised to learn that Colorado also produces its fair share of wine. The state's "wine country" is located on the western edge of Colorado near the city of Grand Junction, where the cool, dry mountain climate and high elevation work together to create an ideal wine-making environment.

You'll find wineries and tasting rooms galore in Grand Junction and nearby Palisade. According to recent visitors, some of the top options include Carlson Vineyards Winery & Tasting Room, Varaison Vineyards and Winery, and Peach Street Distillers. Some visitors recommend touring Colorado's wine country on an e-bike for an extra dose of fun. When it comes time to rest, turn down at one of the best hotels in Grand Junction , most of which are conveniently located near the bars and restaurants of Main Street.

Insider tip: A stay at Palisade's Wine Country Inn makes for the perfect romantic getaway in Colorado . Make sure to take advantage of the property's daily complimentary wine tasting in the afternoon. In addition to wine, Palisade is known for its peaches; consider taking a peach farm tour with Suncrest Orchard Alpacas – which includes walking with your very own fluffy alpaca.

While this Colorado town is famous for its excellent ski offerings, Vail is also a great place to kick back and spend your time getting pampered. During the day, shop (or window-shop) for everything from outdoor gear to art, before taking a relaxing stroll through the meticulously landscaped Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Afternoon wine tastings at 4 Eagle Ranch or Root & Flower will make your day extra indulgent. When evening comes, splurge on upscale Japanese cuisine at Matsuhisa or contemporary American favorites at Sweet Basil.

Luxurious accommodation options also abound in Vail. If you're looking for top-notch spa offerings, book a stay at the European-inspired Sonnenalp hotel. The on-site spa offers massages, body treatments, scrubs, facials, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, and even an oxygen bar if the altitude gets to you. If you'd rather relax in the comfort of your guest room, consider staying at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail , where certain accommodations feature spacious living room areas, cozy furniture and gas fireplaces alongside mountain views.

Cross the Royal Gorge Bridge

If you want to get your heart pumping, look no further than the Royal Gorge Bridge & Park , located about 60 miles southwest of Colorado Springs. The bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the U.S. at 956 feet above the Arkansas River. Crossing the bridge is not for the faint of heart, but don't worry – the engineering feat is supported by 4,100 sturdy cables and can hold more than 2 million pounds. If you're still (understandably) nervous about walking over the bridge, however, some visitors recommend riding the Aerial Gondola across it first.

There's an activity for everyone at the park, from the three-story Playland for kids to the Cloudscraper Zip Line – the highest zip line in America – and the Royal Rush Skycoaster for thrill-seekers. Travelers recommend going in the offseason for smaller crowds.

Address: 4218 County Road 3A, Cañon City, CO 81212

Enjoy family-friendly fun in Steamboat Springs

This northwestern Colorado city is known for its ski offerings and hot springs. The ski mountain offers 182 trails, 23 lifts and four terrain parks, each for a different skill level. After skiing, pay a visit to the Old Town Hot Springs in the heart of downtown, which features several designated pools as well as two waterslides open seasonally. If you're not into downhill skiing, you can still enjoy other Steamboat Springs activities , including cross-country skiing , horseback riding, snowmobiling , ice skating, tubing and scenic gondola rides. In the summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking and fly-fishing; there are also many local lakes perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.

If you're planning to spend the night in Steamboat Springs , recent travelers recommend staying at the Sheraton Steamboat Resort for modern appliances and gorgeous views.

Go leaf peeping

The fall season in Colorado is particularly stunning as the trees, most notably aspens, start to change color. You can hike among the vivid yellow, orange and red leaves in a multitude of mountain destinations, such as Kenosha Pass located 65 miles from Denver (but be warned that this is one of the most popular leaf-peeping spots ). To avoid the crowds, head to Kebler Pass near Crested Butte, which boasts one of the largest and most photographed aspen groves in the country. The leaf-peeping season typically runs from September to mid-October, but the exact timing depends on a variety of factors, such as whether there's an early freeze.

Insider tip: If you're heading to Kebler Pass, spend some time in the charming town of Crested Butte. The Secret Stash offers a range of pizzas as well as the delicious and popular "Crack Fries."

Drive the highest road in North America

The Scenic Byway to Blue Sky, which begins 33 miles west of Denver, climbs to the peak of Mount Blue Sky (formerly Mount Evans) and offers stunning mountain views along the way. You'll start in Idaho Springs, then gain about 7,000 feet in elevation as you twist and turn along the 28-mile road to the 14,130-foot summit. Keep your eyes peeled for wild animals such as mountain goats, bighorn sheep and marmots.

Due to potentially dangerous winter conditions, cars are only permitted to drive to the peak from Memorial Day to Labor Day, and reservations are required. If you're an avid hiker, you also have the option to complete the challenging hike to the peak, but note that it's one of the more popular 14ers to climb.

Experience small-town life in Salida

Visiting small towns like Salida is one of the best ways to experience the Centennial State. Salida sits about 140 miles south of Denver and offers plenty of quaint Colorado charm. As you walk down F Street, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time thanks to preserved buildings reminiscent of the Wild West and retro stores like the F Street Five & Dime and the Salida Pharmacy & Fountain. The downtown area is the state's largest historic district. At the end of the street, you'll find the Arkansas River and the adjacent Riverside Park, which is a perfect spot for lounging, picnicking or exploring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Skiing and snowboarding might be the first activities that come to mind when putting together your winter Colorado itinerary, but consider a variety of cold weather offerings across the state:

• Take the family dog-sledding
• Go snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park
• Enjoy a sleigh ride dinner in Steamboat Springs
• Head to Breckenridge for the International Snow Sculpture Championships
• Ride the Polar Express Train from Durango to Silverton
• Eat pierogies at the Denver Christkindlmarket
• Explore more than 70 installations at Meow Wolf

It's no surprise that a summer in Colorado means partaking in myriad outdoor adventures:

• Rock climb in Eldorado State Park (and receive a stamp in your Colorado Parks Passport )
• Get your adrenaline pumping on a zip line
• Visit Hanging Lake near Glenwood Springs
• Ride the Alpine Slide in Winter Park (the longest alpine slide in the state)
• See the stunning Maroon Bells
• Explore the colorful Paint Mines Interpretive Park in Colorado Springs
• Hike around Dinosaur National Monument

And plenty of other activities await if you're not in the mood to lace up your hiking boots:

• Watch a play at the Shakespeare Festival in Boulder
• Take a flight in a hot air balloon above the Rocky Mountains
• Catch a baseball game at Coors Field
• Attend the Colorado State Fair in Pueblo, south of Colorado Springs
• Explore a ghost town like St. Elmo or Independence Ghost Town near Aspen

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Leilani Osmundson has lived in Colorado for most of her life, including four years in Boulder while she attended the University of Colorado Boulder . She spends her free time hiking, backpacking, camping, skiing and paddleboarding around the state, and has experienced much on this list.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Colorado
• The Best Places to Hike in the U.S.
• The Best National Parks in the U.S.
• The Best Dude Ranch Vacations in the U.S.
• The Best Carry-on Backpacks

Tags: Travel , Colorado Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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