Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is a metropolis lying in a valley between two impressive mountain ranges. This dramatic backdrop to the city makes for amazing views and plenty of fun outdoor activities. Salt Lake City is a great destination, especially for those in love with winter sports and recreation. Salt Lake City is also recognized for its rich religious culture and significance as the center of Mormonism. We’ve put together some ideas of the top places to visit in the area to find what suits your needs.
Although Salt Lake City does have a light-rail system along with commuter trains, having a rental car is the most convenient way of getting around and making it to all the attractions on your must-see list. Book an SUV to fit ski gear and navigate the mountains comfortably, or a premium sedan if you’re just planning on exploring the city.
- 1. Big Cottonwood Canyon
- 2. Red Butte Garden
- 3. Temple Square
- 4. Utah State Capitol
- 5. Natural History Museum of Utah
- 6. Antelope Island State Park
- 7. Bonneville Salt Flats
- 8. Lagoon Amusement Park
- 9. Clark Planetarium
- 10. Liberty Park
- Best Places to Eat & Drink in Salt Lake City
Must-see attractions in Salt Lake City
1. Big Cottonwood Canyon
This beautiful canyon is in the Wasatch Range, just a short drive into the mountains from the city. Visit Big Cottonwood Canyon during whichever season to enjoy hikes, picnics or rock-climbing; and its two ski-resorts are very popular among skiers and snowboarders when there’s snow.
Address: S Big Cottonwood Canyon Road, Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Entry fees: Free. Campsites and some picnic areas have fees
Hours: Open 24/7
Time required to see the attraction: Just driving the scenic route takes about 1 hour. Hikes can take from around 2 to 4 hours.
2. Red Butte Garden
Take your whole family to spend some time at Red Butte Garden. This botanical garden reaches its peak splendor during springtime when the assortment of plants and flowers are in full bloom. It’s just minutes from the city center and worth the visit. During the summer you may even be able to experience an outdoor concert among the lush garden.
Address: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: You can easily spend 2 hours meandering through the gardens.
3. Temple Square
Temple Square is most likely one of the most famous things to see in Salt Lake City. The complex includes the Salt Lake Temple and Tabernacle among other Mormon historic landmarks and gardens. Explore Temple Square to get a feel of its unique history and architecture as well as enjoying the colorful grounds around it.
Address: 50 N. Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: You can spend as much time here as you want.
4. Utah State Capitol
The Utah State Capitol is just a smaller version of our nation’s capitol building. You will easily spot it since it sits on the top of a hill for all to see. The beautiful architecture is worth seeing and it often offers various exhibits and tours to learn the history around it.
Address: 350 State St., Salt Lake City, UT 84103
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: 30 minutes to 1 hour
5. Natural History Museum of Utah
Visiting the Natural History Museum of Utah is a must when in Salt Lake City, especially for those traveling with children. The museum is full of fossils, gems and other prehistoric artifacts. It offers interactive areas and seasonal exhibits. You should also take advantage of the breathtaking views of the city and mountains from the observatory deck. Right behind the museum you can access the Bonneville Shoreline trail.
Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: An average visit can take 2-3 hours.
6. Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island is just northwest of the center of Salt Lake City. It’s the perfect place to go for a picnic and to get a panoramic view of the Great Salt Lake. Spend some time away from the city’s bustle and enjoy the scenic beauty and hiking trails at Antelope Island State Park. It’s also home to free-roaming bison and other desert animals such as antelope and bighorn sheep.
Address: : 4528 W. 1700 S, Syracuse, UT 84075
Entry fees: Cost to enter
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: The drive around the island can take about 2 hours. The amount of time you spend here depends on whether you want to hike or not.
7. Bonneville Salt Flats
You can find this unique salt pan in the neighboring county just west of Salt Lake City. Take advantage of having a rental car to experience driving through the salt flats that are just the remainder of ancient Lake Bonneville from the last Ice Age. The Bonneville Salt Flats is a great day trip from Salt Lake City; it will feel like you’re on another planet. Just make sure to use the restroom before you go, because there aren’t any facilities in the area.
Address: Bonneville Speedway Road, Wendover, UT 84083
Entry fees: Free
Hours: Open 24/7. There may be seasonal closures due to precipitation; signs will be posted
Time required to see the attraction: You can spend as much or little time here as you want.
8. Lagoon Amusement Park
Take a break from sightseeing and plan a fun day with family and friends at the Lagoon Amusement Park. The park offers plenty of rides, eateries and fun events and shows, along with campgrounds for those who are up for it. Get a group discount if you’re planning on making it a big outing, and check which rides the young ones are allowed on beforehand if you’re going with children.
Address: 375 North Lagoon Drive, Farmington, UT 84025
Entry fees: Tickets
Hours: When to visit The park is closed during the winter season.
Time required to see the attraction: A full day.
9. Clark Planetarium
Clark Planetarium is a top destination for visitors of all ages and is the place to be to learn all there is to know about space and science. Enjoy hands-on exhibits as well as special productions at the IMAX and dome theaters inside. Remember to reserve your visit online, even if you’re only going to see the exhibitions that are free of charge.
Address: 110 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Entry fees: Exhibits are free. There is a fee for shows and events.
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: It depends on the event and exhibits you plan to see. Plan on at least 2 hours.
10. Liberty Park
Appreciate a sunny stroll around this popular city park. It’s a great place to go to find some peace, and to enjoy sitting by the ponds and people watching. There are walking and running paths if you’re up for a morning jog, along with playgrounds for children to enjoy and picnic areas.
Address: 600 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Entry fees: Free
Hours: When to visit
Time required to see the attraction: You can send as much time here as you like.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Salt Lake City
Utah is known for loving is fried-onion burgers, fry sauce, barbecue and Japanese cuisine. Here are some great dining and drinking choices around Salt Lake City.
The Copper Onion: There are many places in Salt Lake City where you can find a tasty fried-onion burger. Try this spot with a modern setting right on East Broadway.
Takashi: Japanese food is a big hit in Salt Lake City. Takashi is just one of the great restaurants to try, with a variety of sushi along with some sake on the side.
Bodega and the Rest: Look for this Salt Lake City speakeasy underground right on Main Street. It’s a great place to go for creative cocktails and a nice vibe. They also serve food options you can enjoy for both lunch and dinner.
White Horse: Just next door you can get great cocktails in a stylish brick-walled bar with a relaxed atmosphere.
