35 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah 2027

Salt Lake City, Utah, offers a diverse mix of historic landmarks, interactive museums, mountain adventures, scenic parks, shopping destinations, and memorable food experiences. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway, a family vacation, or an outdoor adventure, the city provides plenty of ways to fill your itinerary.

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One of the biggest advantages of visiting Salt Lake City is the combination of urban attractions and nearby natural landscapes. You can explore historic buildings in downtown, learn about dinosaurs and local history, hike in the Wasatch Mountains, visit the Great Salt Lake, or take a day trip to Park City.

This guide covers 35 things to do in Salt Lake City and the surrounding area, including practical travel information, seasonal suggestions, outdoor activities, and local dining options. Use the category headings and comparison tables to find experiences that match your interests, available time, and travel style.

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35 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City Utah

Visiting Salt Lake City, Utah? Below are 35 best things to do, covering top attractions, activities, and must-see spots nearby.

1. Explore Historic Attractions in Downtown Salt Lake City

Downtown is a convenient starting point for first-time visitors. Several historic landmarks, cultural attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas can be combined into a walking itinerary.

1. Visit Temple Square

Temple Square is one of Salt Lake City’s best-known landmarks. The historic complex covers approximately 10 acres and includes the Salt Lake Temple, gardens, historic buildings, and visitor centers.

Visitors can explore the surrounding grounds, learn about the city’s pioneer history, and appreciate the architecture. Seasonal decorations, including Christmas lights, can also make the area particularly appealing during winter.

Best for: History enthusiasts, architecture lovers, families, and first-time visitors.

2. Tour the Utah State Capitol

The Utah State Capitol stands on Capitol Hill and is known for its impressive architecture, landscaped grounds, and views across Salt Lake Valley.

The building was completed in 1916. Visitors can explore its public spaces, learn about Utah’s government, and enjoy the surrounding gardens.

Allow extra time if you want to walk around the exterior and appreciate the views rather than simply stopping for photographs.

Visitor tip: Check the current public visiting schedule before planning your visit, especially around state holidays.

3. Discover the Walker Center

The Walker Center offers a different perspective on the city’s architectural history. A rooftop tour can combine historical storytelling with panoramic views of downtown.

One distinctive feature is the rooftop Bird Nest platform, surrounded by 16 stone eagles. Reaching the rooftop involves an elevator ascent of approximately 20 floors, followed by access to the viewing area.

This experience is especially appealing to travelers who enjoy unusual city tours and historical buildings.

4. Walk Through Memory Grove Park

Memory Grove Park provides a peaceful green space below the Utah State Capitol. Its paths and memorial areas offer a quieter alternative to busy downtown streets.

The park is suitable for a relaxed walk, a short break during sightseeing, or a peaceful outdoor stop between historic attractions.

5. Explore the Marmalade Hill Historic District

Marmalade Hill is known for historic homes, narrow streets, and distinctive architecture. It offers an opportunity to experience a different side of Salt Lake City’s built environment beyond the major downtown landmarks.

Walk slowly, observe the architectural details, and be respectful of residents and private property while exploring the neighborhood.

2. Visit Museums and Educational Attractions

Salt Lake City’s museums provide engaging options for visitors interested in science, dinosaurs, technology, astronomy, and local heritage. They are also useful alternatives when the weather makes outdoor activities less comfortable.

6. Discover the Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a major attraction for families and curious travelers. Its exhibits cover geology, paleontology, archaeology, ecosystems, and Indigenous cultural history.

Dinosaur displays are a major highlight, while the building’s elevated location provides views of Salt Lake Valley from its terrace and balconies.

A visit can take several hours if you want to explore the exhibits carefully. Travelers with children may want to prioritize the dinosaur displays and interactive learning areas.

Planning tip: Check current opening hours, ticket prices, and any available guided experiences before visiting.

7. Explore The Leonardo Museum

The Leonardo connects art, science, and technology through interactive exhibits. It is a good choice for visitors who enjoy learning through experimentation rather than viewing traditional displays alone.

Exhibitions can cover topics such as human anatomy, innovation, and flight. The museum works well as part of a downtown itinerary, particularly for families and visitors interested in creative learning.

8. Visit Clark Planetarium

Clark Planetarium focuses on astronomy and science through interactive exhibits and immersive presentations.

It is a useful indoor activity for families, science enthusiasts, and travelers seeking something different from conventional sightseeing. Laser shows and other scheduled programs can add another dimension to the visit.

Check the current program schedule to choose a presentation that fits your itinerary.

9. Explore the Family History Library

The Family History Library is an important destination for genealogy enthusiasts and visitors interested in researching family records.

Its collections include historical books and microfilm resources. The library is particularly relevant to travelers researching ancestors or exploring the city’s connections to family history.

Because research visits can take longer than ordinary sightseeing, consider preparing names, dates, and family records before arriving.

10. Visit Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a distinctive outdoor attraction featuring 12 sculptures and dozens of engraved stones.

The garden combines artistic expression, inscriptions, and unusual stonework in a compact setting. It offers a different experience from larger botanical gardens and conventional museums.

Visitors interested in photography, public art, and lesser-known attractions may find it especially rewarding.

3. Enjoy Parks, Gardens, and Wildlife

Salt Lake City has several green spaces where visitors can slow down, walk among landscaped gardens, or observe wildlife. These destinations can also help balance a busy sightseeing schedule.

11. Stroll Through Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden features cultivated landscapes, walking paths, seasonal flowers, and an amphitheater used for outdoor performances.

The garden is described as covering approximately 100 acres, with around 5 miles of hiking trails. Spring flowers and autumn colors provide different experiences throughout the year.

Set aside enough time to enjoy the gardens without rushing. Comfortable walking shoes are useful, particularly if you intend to explore the trails as well as the landscaped areas.

12. Spend Time at Liberty Park

Liberty Park is a large urban park covering approximately 80 acres. Its features include walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, a small lake, and Tracy Aviary.

It is a practical destination for families who want a combination of outdoor recreation and wildlife experiences without leaving the city.

Bring water and allow time for a relaxed walk rather than treating the park as a quick stop.

13. Discover Tracy Aviary

Tracy Aviary, located within Liberty Park, provides opportunities to observe birds and learn about wildlife.

Depending on the current program, visitors may encounter bird presentations, feeding experiences, and educational activities. It can be combined with a walk through Liberty Park for a more complete outing.

Check the current schedule before visiting if a particular presentation or activity is important to your plans.

14. Visit Hogle Zoo

Hogle Zoo is another option for families and wildlife enthusiasts. Its animal exhibits provide an opportunity to observe different species and learn about wildlife.

The attraction is best suited to visitors who want to spend a substantial part of their day exploring exhibits at a comfortable pace.

15. Walk Through City Creek Center

City Creek Center combines shopping, dining, and an attractive open-air environment in downtown Salt Lake City.

Its features include fountains, a stream running through the complex, and a retractable glass roof. The setting makes it a convenient place to take a break between historic attractions.

Visitors can browse shops, stop for a meal, or simply enjoy the architecture and landscaped surroundings.

4. Experience the Great Salt Lake and Nearby Mountains

Outdoor adventures are a major reason to explore the area around Salt Lake City. The Great Salt Lake, nearby canyons, and the Wasatch Mountains offer options ranging from gentle walks to more demanding hikes and seasonal mountain activities.

16. Visit the Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake is known for its high salinity and distinctive landscape. Depending on the conditions and access point, visitors may experience broad lake views, unusual shoreline scenery, and excellent opportunities for photography.

The lake’s high salt concentration can create a floating sensation in suitable conditions, although the experience depends on water levels and other environmental factors.

Important: Follow local guidance about safe access and swimming conditions, and protect yourself from the sun when exploring exposed shoreline areas.

17. Explore Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island State Park provides opportunities to experience the Great Salt Lake landscape more closely.

The island is known for its wildlife, open scenery, hiking, and sunset views. Bison and pronghorn antelope are among the animals associated with the area.

A guided wildlife safari is another option for travelers who want to learn more about the island’s landscape and animals. One guided experience described for the area lasts approximately 4 hours.

Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and follow all park instructions.

18. Ride the Snowbird Tram

The Snowbird Tram offers an elevated journey into the Wasatch Mountains, providing sweeping views of the surrounding landscape.

The destination elevation is approximately 11,000 feet, and the ride takes around 10 minutes. The tram uses 2 cars, each with a stated capacity of approximately 125 people.

At the top, visitors can enjoy mountain scenery, explore available walking routes, or take a break at a mountain café when operating.

Remember that temperatures and weather conditions at higher elevations can differ significantly from downtown.

19. Explore Big Cottonwood Canyon

Big Cottonwood Canyon is a mountain destination for hiking, scenic drives, seasonal foliage, and winter recreation.

The canyon extends for approximately 15 miles, and the drive from downtown Salt Lake City is described as taking around 20 minutes, depending on the destination and road conditions.

Popular outdoor experiences include lakeside walks, hiking, and exploring the mountain scenery. Conditions vary by season, so check road access and trail information before leaving the city.

20. Discover Little Cottonwood Canyon

Little Cottonwood Canyon provides another route into the Wasatch Mountains. Visitors can explore mountain landscapes, enjoy seasonal scenery, and access outdoor recreation areas.

It is particularly appealing to travelers interested in hiking and winter sports. The precise activity options depend on the season, weather, and access restrictions.

If you are visiting multiple canyon destinations, plan your route before departing rather than assuming all trailheads and mountain areas are close together.

21. Hike to Ensign Peak

Ensign Peak is an appealing option for travelers who want a short hike with views over Salt Lake City and the surrounding valley.

The trail is described as approximately 1 mile long, with a typical hiking duration of around 25 minutes, although individual times vary.

The route is short compared with many mountain hikes, but it can still feel strenuous in warm weather or for visitors unaccustomed to walking uphill.

Carry water, wear appropriate shoes, and allow additional time for photographs and rest stops.

22. Find the Living Room Lookout

The Living Room Lookout is a popular hiking destination known for rock formations that resemble chairs and for views across the valley.

The route is described as short but steep. Visitors should be prepared for uphill walking and avoid underestimating the effort required.

It can be an attractive option for travelers who want a rewarding viewpoint without committing to a full-day mountain excursion.

23. Enjoy Seasonal Outdoor Activities

The mountains around Salt Lake City offer different experiences throughout the year.

Spring: Explore gardens and choose hiking routes according to trail conditions.
Summer: Enjoy outdoor dining, mountain scenery, hiking, and lake visits.
Fall: Look for changing foliage and cooler hiking weather.
Winter: Consider skiing and other mountain activities when conditions and facilities permit.

These are broad seasonal suggestions rather than guarantees of specific weather or operating conditions. Check current forecasts and access information before planning an outdoor excursion.

5. Discover Local Food, Coffee, and Shopping

A trip to Salt Lake City is not only about sightseeing. Local restaurants, coffee shops, shopping centers, and specialty food experiences provide opportunities to experience the city’s everyday culture.

24. Try Mexican Food at Red Iguana

Red Iguana is known for Mexican cuisine, particularly its selection of mole sauces.

The restaurant’s menu has been described as offering 11 varieties of mole, with recipes that can involve approximately 20–30 ingredients. A mole sampler can help diners compare different flavors before choosing a favorite.

If you are visiting at a busy time, check the restaurant’s current hours and consider allowing time for a possible wait.

25. Eat at Ruth’s Diner

Ruth’s Diner offers a traditional American dining experience. It is a useful option for travelers seeking a relaxed meal rather than a formal dining setting.

Its location also makes it a potential addition to an itinerary that includes outdoor scenery.

Confirm current opening days and hours before traveling specifically to the restaurant.

26. Explore Salt Lake City’s Coffee Scene

Coffee shops provide an easy way to take a break between activities or begin a morning of sightseeing.

The People’s Coffee, Beans and Brews, and Sodalicious are among the businesses highlighted in the collected travel information. Beverage options discussed include chai lattes and cortados, as well as specialty drinks.

Consider choosing a café near your next attraction to minimize unnecessary travel across the city.

27. Visit Ritual Chocolate

Ritual Chocolate is a specialty chocolate destination associated with Heber Valley.

Visitors interested in chocolate production may wish to investigate available tours and tasting experiences. It can be combined with a wider excursion into the surrounding area.

Because this experience is outside the central downtown sightseeing circuit, check the travel time and availability before making it part of a day trip.

28. Browse City Creek Center

City Creek Center deserves consideration not only as a landmark but also as a practical shopping destination.

Visitors can browse retail stores, enjoy cafés and restaurants, and appreciate its distinctive outdoor design. It is especially convenient when combined with Temple Square and other downtown attractions.

29. Discover Local Records and Street Art

Randy’s Record Shop is associated with vinyl records and local music culture, while downtown murals and street art offer another way to explore the city’s creative side.

These experiences are best suited to visitors who enjoy discovering smaller businesses and cultural details beyond the main tourist attractions.

Check current business information before planning a visit to a particular shop.

6. Enjoy Sports, Music, and Entertainment

Visitors interested in live events can add sports and performing arts to a sightseeing itinerary. Availability depends on the event calendar, so planning is useful.

30. Watch a Utah Jazz Basketball Game

Vivint Arena is associated with the Utah Jazz and hosts basketball games, concerts, and other major events.

The venue has been described as having approximately 18,000 seats. If you want to attend a game, check the current schedule and ticket availability before choosing your travel dates.

An event can be a good evening activity after a day spent exploring downtown.

31. Attend a Utah Symphony Performance

The Utah Symphony performs at Abravanel Hall and provides an option for travelers interested in classical music and live performances.

The orchestra has been described as employing approximately 85 full-time professional musicians and presenting more than 150 performances per season.

Review the performance calendar to find a concert that fits your interests and schedule.

32. Explore Live Entertainment and Laser Shows

Salt Lake City offers additional entertainment through planetarium programs, performances, and scheduled events.

Clark Planetarium’s laser shows are one option for visitors seeking a different evening activity. Other live performances can be explored through local venues and event schedules.

Plan around the actual performance date rather than assuming that a particular show runs every day.

7. Take Day Trips Around Salt Lake City

If you have extra time, destinations outside downtown can add variety to your trip. These excursions are especially suitable for travelers who enjoy mountain scenery, small towns, outdoor adventures, and local food.

33. Explore Heber Valley

Heber Valley is associated with outdoor activities, mountain views, zip-lining, and specialty chocolate experiences.

Zipline Utah offers an adventure experience with views of Deer Creek Reservoir and the Wasatch Mountains. The drive from Salt Lake City is described as taking approximately 45 minutes, although the actual journey depends on traffic and the starting point.

Visitors can consider pairing the activity with a visit to Ritual Chocolate, subject to current opening times and tour availability.

34. Spend a Day in Park City

Park City offers shopping, dining, mountain scenery, and seasonal outdoor activities. It is particularly well suited to travelers who want to explore a mountain town beyond Salt Lake City’s urban center.

The drive from downtown Salt Lake City is described as taking less than 1 hour under suitable conditions.

Depending on the season, you can explore the town, enjoy a meal, browse shops, or investigate available outdoor activities.

35. Visit Juab County or the Bonneville Salt Flats

For a longer excursion, consider exploring Juab County or the Bonneville Salt Flats.

Juab County offers small-town exploration, mountain scenery, and the possibility of searching for topaz in appropriate locations. The Bonneville Salt Flats provide a distinctive landscape that contrasts with the city’s urban environment.

These trips require more planning than downtown attractions. Check driving distances, access conditions, weather, and any relevant restrictions before setting out.

Where to Stay

Practical Planning Guide: How Much Time Do You Need?

The right itinerary depends on whether you prefer history, outdoor activities, family attractions, or nearby excursions.

Available time	Suggested itinerary
1 day	Temple Square, Utah State Capitol, City Creek Center, and one museum or downtown dining experience
2 days	Add Red Butte Garden, Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary, and a mountain or lake excursion
3 days	Include the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island, or a canyon visit, plus local food and entertainment
4 days or more	Consider Park City, Heber Valley, Juab County, or additional hiking and museum visits

These are suggested itineraries rather than fixed schedules. Travel time, weather, opening hours, and the number of attractions you want to explore will influence how much you can comfortably fit into each day.

Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City can be visited throughout the year, but the best season depends on your preferred activities.

Spring: April to June

Spring is suitable for garden visits, sightseeing, and outdoor walks. Red Butte Garden is particularly appealing when seasonal flowers are in bloom.

Check trail conditions before planning mountain hikes, as conditions can vary at higher elevations.

Summer: July to August

Summer offers opportunities for hiking, outdoor dining, lake visits, festivals, and mountain excursions.

Carry water, wear sun protection, and check conditions before undertaking longer outdoor activities.

Fall: September to October

Autumn is a good period to explore mountain scenery and look for changing foliage. It can also be suitable for city walks and outdoor photography.

Mountain temperatures can change quickly, so bring layers when traveling outside downtown.

Winter: December to March

Winter is associated with skiing and other mountain activities. Visitors can also explore museums, restaurants, shopping centers, and indoor entertainment.

Before traveling to a ski destination, check current snow conditions, transportation arrangements, and facility operating schedules.

FAQ

1. What are the best things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah?

Temple Square, the Natural History Museum of Utah, Red Butte Garden, Liberty Park, the Great Salt Lake, the Utah State Capitol, and City Creek Center are excellent starting points for a first visit.

2. How many days should I spend in Salt Lake City?

Two to three days provide a useful starting point for exploring downtown attractions, museums, parks, and at least one outdoor destination. Add more time if you want to visit Park City, Heber Valley, or several mountain areas.

3. Is Salt Lake City suitable for families?

Yes. Families can explore interactive museums, Tracy Aviary, Hogle Zoo, Liberty Park, botanical gardens, and educational attractions. Choose activities according to children’s ages, interests, and walking abilities.

4. Can I visit the Great Salt Lake from downtown Salt Lake City?

Yes. The Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island are possible excursions from the city. Allow sufficient time for transportation and outdoor exploration, and check current access conditions before leaving.

5. What outdoor activities are available near Salt Lake City?

Popular options include hiking in the Wasatch Mountains, visiting Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, exploring Antelope Island, riding the Snowbird Tram, and walking to viewpoints such as Ensign Peak and the Living Room Lookout.

6. What can I do in Salt Lake City when it rains or snows?

Indoor options include the Natural History Museum of Utah, The Leonardo, Clark Planetarium, shopping at City Creek Center, dining at local restaurants, and attending available performances or sporting events.

7. When is the best time to visit Salt Lake City?

Spring and fall are appealing for gardens and sightseeing, summer is useful for outdoor activities, and winter is suitable for visitors interested in skiing and seasonal mountain recreation. Your ideal dates depend on weather and activity preferences.

8. Is Park City worth visiting on a Salt Lake City trip?

Park City can be a worthwhile day trip for visitors interested in mountain scenery, shopping, dining, and seasonal outdoor activities. The drive is described as taking less than an hour under suitable conditions.

9. What should I pack for a Salt Lake City vacation?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a reusable water bottle, and suitable hiking footwear if you plan to explore trails. Winter visitors should bring appropriate cold-weather clothing and gear for their planned activities.

10. Are the attractions and prices the same throughout the year?

No. Opening hours, admission prices, guided tours, mountain access, and seasonal activities may change. Verify details with the relevant attraction or service before making reservations or traveling.

Final Thoughts

Salt Lake City offers a rewarding combination of urban attractions, cultural experiences, outdoor recreation, and nearby mountain destinations. From exploring Temple Square and the Natural History Museum of Utah to hiking Ensign Peak, visiting the Great Salt Lake, and taking a trip to Park City, there are options for different budgets, interests, and travel schedules.

For a first visit, begin with downtown landmarks and one major museum, then reserve time for a garden, wildlife attraction, or mountain excursion. If you have three or more days, consider expanding your itinerary to include Antelope Island, Heber Valley, or Park City.

The most useful approach is to choose activities based on your available time, check current conditions before departing, and leave room for unexpected discoveries along the way. With a little planning, you can build a Salt Lake City itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and outdoor adventure.

Hi, I’m Marcus! I love exploring the outdoors and discovering incredible places. Through ExploreNatureTrips blog, I share my travel experiences, useful tips, and recommendations for the best sights, trails, and destinations to visit.