Exploring Utah: Things to Do in Salt Lake City
As the capital of Utah and the religious center of The Church of Latter Day Saints, Salt Lake City is a place of history and a place of wonder situated in a high valley of the Jordan River. The astonishing Great Salt Lake lies just to the northwest of the city, while the Great Salt Lake Desert stretches to the west. In 1847 Brigham Young led his Mormon followers from their home in Illinois to this wild country that in 1890, officially became the 45th state. Salt Lake City today is a vibrant, modern community worth exploring.
01 The Beehive House
The Beehive House is called that because of the impressive beehive structure on one of the residence's turrets. The beehive appears on the state's coat of arms, which symbolizes the industriousness of the state's citizens. Brigham Young built the home in 1855 to house his 19 wives and 56 children. It served as his headquarters as both the Governor of Utah and the president of the Mormon church.
02 Tracy Aviary
The Tracy Aviary, located on the south side of Liberty Park, is one of the world's oldest aviaries, opened in 1938. This refuge for birds from around the globe contains a huge variety of fowls. The aviary offers both self-guided and guided group tours of the exhibits as well as sponsoring numerous educational activities for both kids and adults. Check out the Bird Feeder Café, where all foods and drinks are freshly prepared in a building created from four used shipping containers.
03 Liberty Park
Salt Lake City's second largest park and its oldest is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and contains an assortment of recreational activities, sports fields, and playgrounds, as well as natural wonders tucked inside the park's nature retreat. The park's more than 80 acres feature a pond with two islands, a pool, and lots of green spaces.
04 Joseph Smith Memorial Building
This building was originally built as the Hotel Utah in 1911. Later it was renamed to honor Joseph Smith, the first president of the Mormon Church. The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is located in Temple Square. Here visitors can search their genealogy at the FamilySearch Center or watch the Meet the Mormons films in the Legacy Theater. There are two restaurants, the Nauvoo Cafe and The Roof and The Garden Restaurants.
05 This is the Place Monument
Brigham Young supposedly exclaimed, "This is the place!" when he first saw the Great Salt Lake Valley stretching before him after the Mormons' 1,300-mile journey to find a new home. Built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Mormons' arrival in Salt Lake City, This Is The Place Monument was created in 1947. Here visitors also find a living history museum called Old Deseret Village that resembles a modest Mormon community of the early years.
06 The Mormon Tabernacle
This is where the internationally-famous Tabernacle Choir performs before crowds of up to 6,500 people. The west end of the massive gallery is the Tabernacle Choir's legendary grand organ, which has 11,623 pipes. The Tabernacle's dome rests on 44 sandstone pillars and is renowned as one of the most acoustically sensitive music halls in the world. A pin dropped at the pulpit is clearly heard all the way to the back of the hall, a mere 170 feet away.
07 Utah State Capitol
The Neo-Classical domed building sits on a rise that is nearly 300 feet above the rest of the city in the celebrated Marmalade Historic District. Here you will find the heart of Utah politics because the capitol contains the House of Representatives, Senate, and Supreme Court of Utah. Inside, visitors marvel at the marble rotunda and the Golden Room, where the governor holds receptions.
08 The Mormon Temple
The Mormon Temple is a fascinating piece of architecture that took some 40 years to complete. But only Mormons may enter the Temple. However, the building is impressive from the outside. Made of granite and featuring three huge towers, the highest tower at the east end of the Temple has a 13-foot-high gilded statue of the angel Moroni.
09 Temple Square
When the Mormons first settled in Salt Lake City, they used Temple Square as the center of a bold grid plan that still defines the modern layout of the city. This is the holiest of places for Mormons. Here are found the Mormon Temple, the Mormon Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, the Assembly Hall, and several other monuments. But don't worry about getting confused on this ten-acre square because there are numerous information centers where visitors can learn the history and creed of the Mormon faith.
10 Where to Stay in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City features a wide range of lodging accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to budget lodges. For luxury, try the Grand America Hotel, located just a short walk from Temple Square. The Hotel Monaco and the Salt Lake City Marriott City Center also put visitors close to the downtown venues.
There are a few mid-range hotels, such as the Hilton Garden Inn, located near downtown, but not far away is the University Guest House which offers a shuttle to attractions across the city. For skiers, the best bet is Home2 Suites by Hilton, located near the ski runs. The frugal visitor will find good but inexpensive rooms near Temple Square, such as The Comfort Inn, the Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites, and the Metropolitan Inn, which are all pet-friendly.
11 Natural History Museum of Utah
Anyone with even a passing interest in history and the natural world should stop by the Natural History Museum of Utah. This massive window into the past—and the world around us—has 10 galleries spanning five floors that house an ever-growing collection of flora, fauna, fossils, and Native American artifacts. The museum also hosts a constantly changing rotation of special events that will educate and entertain adults and children alike. As if that wasn't enough, the entire complex is nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, offering panoramic views of the entire valley.
12 Great Salt Lake State Park
Open all year-round, Great Salt Lake State Park is one of the most remarkable natural wonders of the American West. The park stands on the Great Salt Lake's southern shore, providing plenty of opportunities to snap a gorgeous pic of the largest lake in the Western Hemisphere—and the eighth largest in the world. Fill an entire vacation with birdwatching, camping, paddle boarding, or a variety of other activities. If you want to relive some 90s nostalgia, the lake is full of brine shrimp, better known as sea monkeys. Either check them out in a tank or take home a set from the gift shop.
13 Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
Just a few miles from downtown Salt Lake City lies one of the best places for sightseeing in the entire region: Red Butte Garden and Arboretum. This must-visit destination sits on 100 acres of land with 22 acres of sensational gardens. The Garden combines the science of horticulture with the whimsy of frolicking through a field of flowers. Plus, thanks to the building hosting a variety of events each year, there's always something new to experience.
14 Utah Olympic Park
Over 20 years ago, Salt Lake City hosted the 2002 Olympic games. While many years may have passed, the area never lost its Olympic spirit. Follow in the footsteps—or snow tracks— of legendary athletes and zoom face-first down the Olympic bobsled track. You can also try some zip lining or take on the challenging ropes course. Alternatively, take it easy and walk through the two museums present at the park. Visitors can also take the opportunity to observe future Olympic champions leaping into a 1.25 million-gallon training pool.
15 Antelope Island State Park
While it's not technically within Salt Lake City, Antelope Island State Park is well worth the 25-mile drive out of the metropolis. This iconic park is actually an island that sits in the Great Salt Lake. Animal lovers will absolutely love finding the free-roaming herds of bison and antelope, along with many other majestic creatures. Explore the island while cycling, on horseback, or even by sailing around the coastline. And, if you want to make some truly unforgettable memories, stay out after the sunset. Antelope Island State Park is an internationally-certified dark sky park thanks to its mind-blowing view of the stars above.
16 The Leonardo
It's not an exaggeration to say that Leonardo da Vinci was one of humanity's greatest minds. The Leonardo is a museum that honors da Vinci's life by allowing you to freely wander amongst his works. From summer camps and immersive laboratory experiments to figure drawing and educational wine tastings, The Leonardo has something for people of all ages. Guests can also experience the works of other iconic artists and thinkers, like Van Gogh, Monet, and even local creatives.
17 Salt Lake City's vibrant art scene
While Salt Lake City's abundance of outdoor activities may take center stage—and for good reason—some of its best offerings are its art and culture. From the Utah Museum of Fine Art to the Urban Arts Gallery or the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors have so many opportunities to see what lies at the heart of the city. But, when it comes to awe-inspiring art, nothing beats the Utah Arts Festival. Every year, artists from around the world journey to Salt Lake City for three incredible days of creative celebration. If that's not enough, there are also plenty of smaller events like the Chalk Art Festival.
18 Historic Trolley Square
Back in 1908, railroad tycoon E.H. Harriman constructed several barns to house Salt Lake City's many streetcars. Many years later, once the streetcar system had been dismantled, the city converted Trolley Square's historic barns into a shopping center full of winding hallways, wrought-iron balconies, and other unusual architecture. Whether you're there for the shopping or just to experience the 100-foot water tower or the long sky bridge, Trolley Square is a must-see for any history fan.
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19 The food and dining scene in Salt Lake City
For many years, Salt Lake City has been pushing its food and dining scene to be greater than ever before. Now, the city is a legitimate foodie paradise, full of minimalist cafes, trendy bars, and award-winning restaurants. Try the Salt Lake City Food Walking Tour to learn about the city around you while experiencing some of the best food you'll ever taste. Some key locations to try are Caputo's Market and Deli, Rose Establishment, 9th & 9th, and Jim Santangelo's Whiskey Walk.
20 Ski resorts and winter sports activities
As you might've guessed from the city's hosting of the 2002 Winter Olympics, Salt Lake City has long been a prime location for winter sports. World-class ski resorts lie just outside of the city, so feel free to hit the slopes on those crisp, snowy mornings. You could also strap on your snowshoes and take a winter hike via one of many guided tours. If your interests are a bit icier, head downtown to the Gallivan Center and race around the rink.
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