Things to Do in Salt Lake City

The first thing to do in Salt Lake City is to visit Temple Square, home to nearly 20 attractions related to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's anchored by the towering Salt Lake Temple – where weekly meetings of the church's governing bodies are held – and other fascinating buildings like the expansive Tabernacle and the Gothic Revival-style Assembly Hall, which offer insight into the history and development of the church. You should also stop by the Family History Library, the largest genealogy library in the world. Once you've toured the sites, stroll through the square's scenic gardens and past the gurgling fountains. You can spend half or full days with your loved ones at this attraction. 

The Great Salt Lake is the largest natural saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere of Salt Lake City. The lake's name comes from the nature of the water, as the evaporation process (the only exit available for the lake's water) leaves behind salty mineral deposits. Enjoy the area's many hiking trails, ample picnic spots, and swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. Travelers will find a marina, a small beach trail, and restrooms here. While you'll be able to access the same scenery as Great Salt Lake Park, Antelope Island also features plenty of wildlife to spot, including bison and antelope. You can only reach the island by driving around the lake's southeast shore, about 60 miles one-way. 

Filled with attractive landscapes, gurgling fountains, and pleasant pathways, Red Butte Garden is a great place for nature lovers and visitors looking for a quiet escape in the city. Housed on the University of Utah campus in east Salt Lake City, the garden is divided into sections, each devoted to a specific type of plant or ecosystem. Prepare to spend a good chunk of your day here, as there's plenty to see. Red Butte Garden also hosts a variety of educational lectures and kid-friendly activities, making it one of the best fun things to do in Salt Lake City. You can walk through the gardens, admiring the flowers and plants, or bring a picnic and take a break in one of the many picnic areas. The park also features a theater hosting concerts and other events yearly. 

If you want to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the city, head to Liberty Park for any outdoor activities in Salt Lake City. There's a pond, bike paths, concession stands, rides, picnic areas, playgrounds, and tennis and volleyball courts. Liberty Park is also home to an aquarium and a swimming pool; you can simply enjoy the peace and tranquility. This park is the best place for families, with plenty of kid-friendly activities. This park sits well in central Salt Lake. It's open every day from about 8 a.m. until 11 p.m., and admission is free (although a small fee is required to use some of the sporting facilities). 

Explore the Natural History Museum to discover the creation of the region's parks, mountain ranges, lakes, and basins, along with displays on Utah's Native American tribes, anthropology, entomology, zoology, mineralogy, botany, and more. Make sure to visit The Great Salt Lake exhibit, which offers interactive displays showcasing one of the area's most distinctive characteristics. Children will particularly love the Our Backyard exhibit, featuring numerous interactive activities to ignite their interest. The entire museum is suitable for families, offering a variety of activities to do in Salt Lake City. The design of the building is captivating: a sustainable structure covered in copper nestled in the hills overlooking Salt Lake City. The museum's collections offer a glimpse into the region's ancient past, from towering dinosaur skeletons to sparkling minerals and fossils. 

Whether you're just starting or a seasoned pro, Salt Lake City has a variety of mountain biking trails to explore for a different view of the city. Explorers can experience a range of terrains, from the mild slopes of nearby foothills to challenging ridges with breathtaking views. Mountain biking fans of all experience levels can appreciate stunning views, challenging climbs, and thrilling descents on the Wasatch Crest Trail. For those seeking a challenge, the Bobsled Trail offers an opportunity to put your downhill skills to the test. Exploring the great outdoors is a breeze, thanks to numerous adventure things in Salt Lake City that suit all experience levels. There are hiking options suitable for children, like Ensign Peak and Grandeur Peak. Bring the entire family and a furry friend as you enjoy a day basking in the sunshine and breathing in the fresh air.

Considering Utah's abundant natural beauty, the Bonneville Salt Flats may not be the most obvious choice, but this is worth exploring. Viewed from different perspectives, the expansive salt flats can resemble a desert submerged in water, snow, or even picturesque mountains and hills in certain areas. After ancient Lake Bonneville dried up, salt flats were created. Travelers can witness this incredible natural phenomenon and the unique design of the flats, which are easily visible from the road. Get ready for desert conditions with hot summer days and subzero winter temperatures. The Bonneville Salt Flats provide an otherworldly backdrop for photography, stargazing, and quiet contemplation. Whether you're drawn by its natural beauty or its adrenaline-fueled events, visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats is one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City, and it promises a truly unforgettable experience. 

Perched atop a hill in Salt Lake City, the Utah State Capitol symbolizes the state's governance and history. With its stunning neoclassical architecture and commanding presence, the Capitol building is both a seat of government and a cultural landmark. Visitors to the Utah State Capitol can explore its grand halls adorned with beautiful murals, intricate marble work, and historic artifacts. Taking guided tours to gain insight into the state's legislative process and the significance of the building itself is another best thing to do in Salt Lake City. The Capitol's grounds also feature statues, memorials, and panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Every corner of the Utah State Capitol exudes a sense of pride and heritage, from the ornate rotunda to the legislative chambers. 

Located in Farmington, just north of Salt Lake City, Lagoon Amusement Park is a thrilling destination for families and thrill-seekers alike. With a history dating back over 130 years, Lagoon offers a perfect blend of classic charm and modern excitement. The park boasts diverse rides and attractions, from exhilarating roller coasters to gentle kiddie rides. Visitors can cool off in the water park area, featuring slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. Live entertainment, games, and delicious food add to the fun-filled atmosphere. Lagoon's scenic setting, nestled against the backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, provides a picturesque backdrop for a day of adventure. Whether racing down roller coasters, spinning on thrill rides, or enjoying a stroll through the gardens, Lagoon Amusement Park promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

In Salt Lake City, skiing isn't just a sport—it's a way of life. With world-class resorts nestled in the nearby mountains, skiing is one of the best activities in Salt Lake City. The city’s proximity to renowned ski resorts like Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, and Park City makes it a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a variety of slopes catering to all skill levels, from gentle beginner runs to challenging expert terrain. Beyond skiing, these resorts offer many amenities, including cozy lodges, delicious dining options, and exhilarating activities like snowboarding, snowshoeing, and snow tubing. Whether you're a seasoned skier or hitting the slopes for the first time, Salt Lake City's ski resorts provide an unbeatable opportunity to embrace the winter wonderland of the Wasatch Mountains and create unforgettable memories in the snow.