10 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City Utah Plus Hidden Gems
Salt Lake City, Utah, often called the “Crossroads of the West,” is where rugged mountain landscapes meet modern urban life. This vibrant city combines outdoor adventure, fascinating history, and a lively cultural scene, all within minutes of one another. Whether you’re soaking in the serenity of the Great Salt Lake, wandering through historic Temple Square, or taking in panoramic views from the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City offers experiences that delight every kind of traveler.
Overview
Founded in 1847 by Mormon pioneers, Salt Lake City has evolved into one of the most dynamic cities in the American West. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and scenic desert valleys, it offers an unbeatable mix of outdoor recreation and metropolitan energy. Visitors can explore world-class museums, dine at innovative restaurants, or venture into the nearby canyons for hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing.
Salt Lake City is also the perfect gateway to Utah’s renowned national parks, with Arches, Zion, and Bryce Canyon all within a few hours’ drive. But even if you stay local, you’ll find plenty to do—from art galleries and gardens to mountain trams and lake adventures.
10 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City Utah
1. Visit Temple Square
At the heart of downtown lies Temple Square, a 10-acre spiritual and cultural center featuring beautifully manicured gardens, historic buildings, and the world-famous Salt Lake Temple. While the temple itself is closed to the public, the visitor centers offer fascinating insights into the city’s pioneer origins and architecture. During spring and summer, flowers bloom across the grounds, while Christmas transforms the square into a magical light display.
2. Explore the Natural History Museum of Utah
Located on the University of Utah campus, this stunning museum blends natural wonder with architectural beauty. Inside, you’ll discover exhibits on geology, paleontology, anthropology, and Utah’s unique ecosystems. Don’t miss the dinosaur hall, home to full skeletons of species found in Utah’s deserts. The rooftop terrace also provides sweeping views of Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding mountains.
3. Wander Through the Red Butte Garden
Adjacent to the museum, Red Butte Garden is one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West. Its 100 acres of cultivated gardens and five miles of hiking trails are perfect for a peaceful stroll. Seasonal highlights include spring tulip blooms, summer concerts under the stars, and vibrant fall colors in the foothills. It’s also a great spot for photographers looking to capture the beauty of Utah’s natural flora.
4. Take a Dip in the Great Salt Lake
No trip to Salt Lake City is complete without visiting the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Due to its high salinity, swimming here offers a unique “floating” experience. Head to Antelope Island State Park for the best access, where you can spot bison, hike scenic trails, or enjoy a breathtaking sunset reflecting off the lake’s shimmering surface.
5. Stroll Through Liberty Park
A local favorite since the late 1800s, Liberty Park is an oasis of green in the city. With wide walking paths, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a small lake for paddle boating, it’s perfect for a relaxing day outdoors. The park is also home to the Tracy Aviary, one of the oldest bird sanctuaries in the U.S., where visitors can see eagles, flamingos, and owls up close.
6. Ride the Snowbird Tram
Just 30 minutes from downtown, the Snowbird Aerial Tram whisks you to 11,000 feet atop Hidden Peak. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Wasatch Mountains — stunning in any season. In winter, the resort is a world-class skiing destination, while summer offers hiking, mountain biking, and even Oktoberfest celebrations. It’s an easy half-day trip that showcases Utah’s alpine beauty.
7. Discover the Utah State Capitol
Perched on Capitol Hill, this majestic building overlooks the entire Salt Lake Valley. The Utah State Capitol is not only a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture but also an excellent spot for panoramic city views. Visitors can take guided or self-guided tours to see historical exhibits, marble staircases, and local art. The surrounding gardens are a popular spot for spring picnics and photography.
8. Visit the Leonardo Museum
The Leonardo is where art, science, and technology meet. Through interactive exhibits, you can explore everything from human anatomy to innovation and flight. It’s a hands-on experience that encourages curiosity and creativity, making it perfect for both kids and adults. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits on design, culture, and sustainability, ensuring there’s always something new to discover.
9. Catch a Game or Concert at Vivint Arena
If you want a taste of Salt Lake City’s lively side, head to Vivint Arena — home to the NBA’s Utah Jazz and a major venue for concerts and events. The energy during a basketball game is contagious, with passionate fans filling the stands. Between sports seasons, the arena hosts international performers and major shows, so it’s worth checking the schedule before your visit.
10. Explore City Creek Center
City Creek Center offers a refreshing blend of shopping, dining, and architecture in the heart of downtown. This open-air complex features a retractable glass roof, beautiful fountains, and a stream that runs through it. Whether you’re enjoying a meal at one of the terrace restaurants or browsing local boutiques, it’s a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Hidden Gems
The Living Room Lookout
This short, steep hike rewards adventurers with one of the best sunset views in the city. The summit features rock “chairs” overlooking downtown — a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection.
Gilgal Gardens
Tucked away behind a residential street, this sculpture garden is one of Salt Lake City’s most unusual attractions. Featuring 12 sculptures and 70 engraved stones filled with biblical references and hidden meanings, it’s a place where art and mystery collide.
Memory Grove Park
Located below the State Capitol, this serene park is a local secret for morning walks and picnics. Follow the trail along City Creek for a peaceful escape within minutes of downtown.
Em’s Restaurant
For an intimate dining experience, Em’s offers seasonal farm-to-table dishes in a cozy setting. It’s especially charming at night, with a view of the Capitol Hill lights.
Even more things to do
Best Times to Visit
The best times to visit Salt Lake City are spring (April–June) and fall (September–October). These seasons bring mild temperatures, blooming gardens, and vibrant mountain colors — ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Winter (December–March) transforms the nearby mountains into a skiing paradise, while summer (July–August) offers festivals, patio dining, and lake adventures, though the afternoons can be quite warm.
7 Day Itinerary for Salt Lake City
Day 1: Explore downtown — Temple Square, City Creek Center, and the Utah State Capitol.
Day 2: Visit the Natural History Museum of Utah and Red Butte Garden.
Day 3: Take a day trip to Antelope Island for hiking, wildlife, and lake views.
Day 4: Ride the Snowbird Tram and explore Little Cottonwood Canyon trails.
Day 5: Relax at Liberty Park, visit the Tracy Aviary, and end at the Leonardo Museum.
Day 6: Discover hidden gems — Gilgal Gardens, Memory Grove Park, and the Living Room Lookout.
Day 7: Enjoy brunch at Em’s Restaurant and catch a concert or game at Vivint Arena before heading home.
Where to Stay
Packing List
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Lightweight layers and a jacket for changing weather
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Swimsuit and towel (for the Great Salt Lake or hotel pool)
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Daypack and reusable water bottle
- Winter gear if visiting during ski season
Related
Final Thoughts
Salt Lake City is more than a stopover, it’s a destination that combines natural beauty, cultural richness, and genuine hospitality. From the tranquil shores of the Great Salt Lake to the lively downtown scene and surrounding mountain adventures, it’s a city that invites exploration and connection.
Whether you’re planning a week-long vacation or just passing through on your Utah road trip, the 10 best things to do in Salt Lake City Utah will help you experience the very best this remarkable city has to offer.
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