Introduction
Nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City, Utah offers an impressive mix of urban sophistication, outdoor adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you’re looking for exciting things to do in Salt Lake City today, planning a weekend getaway, or exploring for an extended stay, this vibrant city has something special for everyone. From historic sites and museums to breathtaking natural wonders and family-friendly attractions, Salt Lake City delivers memorable experiences year-round. This guide highlights the 20 best things to do in Salt Lake City that showcase why Utah’s capital city should be on your travel radar.
Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City at a Glance
| Attraction Type | Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City | Perfect For | Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cultural | Temple Square | History Buffs | Year-round |
| Shopping | City Creek Center | Shoppers | Year-round |
| Outdoor | Ensign Peak Hike | Adventure Seekers | Spring-Fall |
| Family | Hogle Zoo | Families | Year-round |
| Unique | Great Salt Lake & Antelope Island | Nature Lovers | Summer |
| Entertainment | Utah Jazz Basketball Game | Sports Fans | Oct-April |
| Cultural | Natural History Museum | Everyone | Year-round |
| Day Trip | Park City | Skiers/Shoppers | Year-round |
| Recreation | Liberty Park | Families/Couples | Spring-Fall |
| Nightlife | Downtown Brewery Tour | Adults | Year-round |
1. Explore Downtown Salt Lake City
Temple Square
In the heart of downtown, Temple Square spans 35 acres and serves as the spiritual center for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This immaculately maintained complex features stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and fascinating historical exhibits. The iconic Salt Lake Temple (currently undergoing renovation until 2025) stands as the centerpiece, while the Tabernacle and Assembly Hall offer free concerts throughout the week. For visitors seeking cultural things to do in Salt Lake City, Temple Square should top your list.
Travel Tip: Book a guided tour with GetYourGuide to learn about the historical and spiritual significance of Temple Square and other downtown landmarks. Book your guided tour here!
City Creek Center
This modern open-air shopping destination offers a premium retail experience with over 100 stores and restaurants. What makes City Creek unique is its retractable glass roof, creek running through the property, and fountains choreographed to music. It’s the perfect place to spend a few hours shopping, dining, and people-watching when looking for indoor things to do in Salt Lake City.
Utah State Capitol
Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this neoclassical building offers free tours and spectacular views. The beautifully designed interior features marble columns, rotunda murals, and historical artifacts. Walk through the expansive grounds to appreciate the architecture and panoramic city vistas. The Capitol area provides some of the most photogenic things to do in Salt Lake City for architecture enthusiasts.
2. Discover Local Art and Culture
Utah Museum of Fine Arts
Located on the University of Utah campus, this premier art museum houses over 20,000 works spanning 5,000 years of human creativity. The diverse collection includes European masterpieces, Asian art, African sculptures, and contemporary works by local artists. Art lovers searching for cultural things to do in Salt Lake City will find this museum particularly rewarding.
Plan Your Visit: Check Tiqets for skip-the-line tickets and exclusive museum packages. Get your museum tickets here!
Natural History Museum of Utah
This award-winning museum showcases Utah’s incredible natural history through interactive exhibits, fascinating displays, and real dinosaur fossils. The striking copper-clad building literally built into the foothills provides spectacular views of the Salt Lake Valley, making it one of the most educational things to do in Salt Lake City with kids.
Eccles Theater
If you’re looking for entertainment this weekend, check the schedule at the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Theater. This state-of-the-art performing arts center hosts Broadway shows, concerts, comedy performances, and other cultural events in its stunning main theater and intimate black box space. For evening things to do in Salt Lake City, catching a performance here is highly recommended.
Salt Lake City Museums Comparison
| Museum | Focus | Admission | Time Needed | Family-Friendly Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural History Museum of Utah | Natural Sciences | $19.95 | 2-3 hours | ★★★★★ |
| Utah Museum of Fine Arts | Art | $15.95 | 1.5-2 hours | ★★★★☆ |
| The Leonardo | Science & Technology | $15 | 2-3 hours | ★★★★★ |
| Church History Museum | LDS History | Free | 1-2 hours | ★★★★☆ |
| Discovery Gateway | Children’s Museum | $12.50 | 2-3 hours | ★★★★★ |
| Utah State Capitol | History & Government | Free | 1 hour | ★★★☆☆ |
3. Outdoor Adventures Near the City
Hike Ensign Peak
For one of the best views in Salt Lake City, take the short (less than 1 mile) but moderately steep hike up Ensign Peak. You’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the entire valley, Great Salt Lake, and surrounding mountains. This hike is especially magical at sunset and ranks among the most scenic outdoor things to do in Salt Lake City.
Liberty Park and Tracy Aviary
Salt Lake City’s largest public park offers tennis courts, walking paths, paddle boats, and playgrounds. Within the park, Tracy Aviary is the oldest bird park in America, housing over 400 birds representing nearly 135 species. It’s a perfect nature escape right in the city and one of the most peaceful things to do in Salt Lake City on a pleasant day.
Bird Lover’s Deal: Buy discounted Tracy Aviary tickets through Trip.com and save on your family adventure. Book your aviary experience here!
Red Butte Garden
This 100-acre botanical garden and arboretum is one of Salt Lake City’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Featuring themed gardens, walking trails, and over 5,000 plant species, it also hosts popular outdoor concerts during summer months. The Children’s Garden makes it particularly family-friendly and offers refreshing things to do in Salt Lake City during warm weather.
Best Outdoor Things to Do in Salt Lake City by Season
| Season | Top Outdoor Activities | Weather | Crowd Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Red Butte Garden, City Creek, Liberty Park | 45-70°F | Moderate |
| Summer | Antelope Island, Hiking, Outdoor Concerts | 75-95°F | High |
| Fall | Ensign Peak, Fall Foliage in Canyons | 45-75°F | Low |
| Winter | Nearby Skiing, Ice Skating at Gallivan | 25-40°F | Moderate-High |
4. Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City Today
Visit The Leonardo Museum
Named after Leonardo da Vinci, this innovative science, technology, and art museum offers hands-on exhibits that encourage creativity and exploration. From interactive digital displays to engineering challenges, The Leonardo engages visitors of all ages with its multidisciplinary approach. For indoor things to do in Salt Lake City when the weather isn’t cooperating, this museum is ideal.
Take a Salt Lake Trolley Tour
Get oriented with a narrated sightseeing tour aboard a vintage-style trolley. These tours cover major attractions like Temple Square, the Capitol, historic neighborhoods, and Olympic venues while providing interesting facts about Salt Lake City’s history and culture. For newcomers seeking convenient things to do in Salt Lake City without extensive planning, this tour offers great value.
Exclusive Offer: Book your Salt Lake City sightseeing tour through GetYourGuide for the best rates and flexible cancellation. Reserve your spot now!
Check Local Farmers’ Markets or Pop-Up Events
If you’re in town today, see what’s happening at places like the Downtown Farmers Market (seasonally in Pioneer Park) or various pop-up food and art markets throughout the city. These events showcase local products, delicious food, and community spirit. For authentic things to do in Salt Lake City like a local, these markets are essential experiences.
5. Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City This Weekend
Attend a Live Concert or Festival
Salt Lake City has a thriving music scene with venues like The Depot, Urban Lounge, and The State Room hosting acts ranging from national touring bands to local musicians. Check event listings for weekend performances or seasonal festivals happening during your visit. Music enthusiasts looking for entertaining things to do in Salt Lake City will find plenty of options.
Concert Tip: Find great deals on shows and festival tickets through Tiqets for a memorable night out in Salt Lake City. Get tickets here!
Explore Breweries and Local Eateries
Despite Utah’s reputation for strict alcohol laws, Salt Lake City has developed an impressive craft brewery scene. Spend your weekend sampling local brews at places like Proper Brewing Co., Fisher Brewing Company, or Kiitos Brewing. Pair your drinks with meals from the city’s increasingly diverse restaurant scene. For culinary things to do in Salt Lake City, a brewery tour offers both delicious tastings and cultural insights.
Visit a Utah Jazz Basketball Game
If you’re visiting during basketball season, catch an NBA game at the Delta Center (formerly Vivint Arena) and cheer on the Utah Jazz. The electric atmosphere and passionate fans make this a quintessential Salt Lake City experience and one of the most exciting things to do in Salt Lake City for sports enthusiasts.
Top-Rated Breweries in Salt Lake City
| Brewery | Specialty | Food Options | Location | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Proper Brewing Co. | Belgian Ales | Full Menu | Downtown | ★★★★★ |
| Fisher Brewing | IPAs | Food Trucks | Granary District | ★★★★★ |
| Kiitos Brewing | Sustainable Brewing | Limited | Downtown | ★★★★☆ |
| Uinta Brewing | Diverse Selection | Pub Menu | Industrial Area | ★★★★☆ |
| Level Crossing | Innovative Flavors | Full Menu | South Salt Lake | ★★★★★ |
| RoHa Brewing | Small Batch | Food Trucks | Central City | ★★★★☆ |
6. Unique & Offbeat Attractions
Gilgal Gardens
This hidden sculpture garden created by Thomas Battersby Child Jr. features 12 original sculptures and over 70 stones engraved with scriptures, poems, and literary texts. The eccentric art installation includes a sphinx with Joseph Smith’s face and other unusual stone carvings. For quirky things to do in Salt Lake City off the typical tourist path, Gilgal Gardens offers a fascinating experience.
Haunted Salt Lake City Ghost Tour
Discover the spooky side of Salt Lake City on a guided ghost tour through historic neighborhoods. These entertaining walks combine local history with tales of the supernatural, revealing a different perspective on familiar landmarks. For evening things to do in Salt Lake City with a thrill, these tours provide entertainment and education.
Spooky Adventure: Book your ghost tour through GetYourGuide for an unforgettable evening exploring Salt Lake City’s haunted history. Secure your ghost tour here!
Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island
No visit to Salt Lake City is complete without experiencing its namesake natural wonder. Drive to Antelope Island State Park to see the Great Salt Lake up close, float effortlessly in its buoyant waters (seasonal), and spot bison, antelope, and other wildlife on the island. This iconic destination ranks among the essential natural things to do in Salt Lake City for any visitor.
Transportation Tip: Rent a car through Localrent.com to explore Antelope Island and other attractions at your own pace. Book your rental car here!
7. Family-Friendly Things to Do
Hogle Zoo
Located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, Utah’s Hogle Zoo houses over 800 animals across 42 acres. Popular exhibits include African Savanna, Asian Highlands, and Rocky Shores. Special events and educational programs make this a top choice for families seeking entertaining things to do in Salt Lake City with children.
Zoo Deal: Save on family admission through Trip.com and make your zoo visit more affordable. Get discounted tickets here!
Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum
This interactive children’s museum in downtown Salt Lake City encourages learning through play with exhibits on science, art, and everyday life. Kids can explore a miniature town, create in the art studio, or experiment in the science lab. For educational things to do in Salt Lake City with young children, this museum offers hours of engaging activities.
Classic Fun Center
With roller skating, laser tag, bowling, and arcade games all under one roof, this entertainment center in Sandy (just outside Salt Lake City) provides hours of fun for families, especially on weekends or rainy days. For indoor family things to do in Salt Lake City regardless of weather, this venue delivers variety and excitement.
Family-Friendly Attractions in Salt Lake City
| Attraction | Age Range | Cost | Indoor/Outdoor | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hogle Zoo | All Ages | $18.95 adults, $14.95 children | Both | African Safari section, Elephant Encounter |
| Discovery Gateway | 2-12 | $12.50 | Indoor | Kid-sized city, Art Studio |
| Classic Fun Center | 5-18 | Pay-per-activity | Indoor | Bowling, Laser Tag, Arcade |
| Tracy Aviary | All Ages | $12.95 adults, $8.95 children | Outdoor | Bird shows, Feeding experiences |
| Clark Planetarium | All Ages | Free (shows extra) | Indoor | Free exhibits, IMAX theater |
| This Is The Place Heritage Park | All Ages | $15.95 adults, $11.95 children | Outdoor | Pioneer village, Train rides |
8. Day Trips from Salt Lake City
Park City
Just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, Park City offers world-class skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer. Its charming Main Street features galleries, boutiques, and excellent restaurants. The annual Sundance Film Festival transforms the town into a celebrity hotspot each January. For scenic things to do in Salt Lake City’s surrounding areas, Park City ranks as a premier destination.
Ski Trip Deal: Book your Park City ski adventure through Trip.com for exclusive package deals on lift tickets and accommodations. Plan your ski trip here!
Bonneville Salt Flats
Drive about 1.5 hours west of Salt Lake City to experience this surreal landscape of white salt crust stretching for miles. Famous for land speed records and otherworldly photo opportunities, the salt flats feel like visiting another planet. For photographers seeking unique things to do in Salt Lake City’s vicinity, this natural wonder provides incredible backdrops.
Road Trip Essential: Ensure a smooth journey with a reliable rental car from Localrent.com. Reserve your vehicle here!
Big Cottonwood Canyon
Just 25 minutes from downtown, this scenic canyon offers hiking trails, rock climbing, and picnic areas in summer, plus excellent skiing at Brighton and Solitude resorts in winter. The alpine scenery provides a perfect nature escape close to the city. For outdoor enthusiasts seeking active things to do in Salt Lake City’s backyard, the canyon delivers year-round opportunities.
Guided Day Trips & Excursions from Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City serves as the perfect base for exploring Utah’s incredible natural wonders. With professional guides, transportation, and everything arranged for you, these day trips offer some of the most memorable things to do in Salt Lake City during your visit.
Yellowstone National Park Day Trip
Experience the majesty of America’s first national park on a day trip from Salt Lake City. This guided tour takes you to see the famous geysers, hot springs, and stunning landscapes of Yellowstone. Wildlife sightings including bison, elk, and possibly bears make this an unforgettable adventure.
Tour Highlight: Old Faithful Geyser erupts approximately every 90 minutes, shooting water up to 185 feet in the air.
Exclusive Day Trip: Book your Yellowstone adventure through GetYourGuide for a hassle-free experience with expert guides. Reserve your Yellowstone day trip here!
Grand Teton National Park Tour
The stunning peaks of Grand Teton National Park rise dramatically from the valley floor, creating one of America’s most photogenic landscapes. A guided day trip from Salt Lake City lets you experience the park’s incredible scenery, wildlife viewing opportunities, and pristine alpine lakes.
Tour Highlight: Stop at scenic Jenny Lake and enjoy views of the Cathedral Group, the park’s most iconic mountain formation.
Mountain Adventure: Experience the majesty of Grand Teton National Park with a professional guide. Book your Grand Teton tour here!
Antelope Island State Park Tour
For those seeking things to do in Salt Lake City that showcase Utah’s unique natural features, an organized tour to Antelope Island State Park offers the perfect combination of scenery, wildlife, and the Great Salt Lake experience. The island is home to free-roaming bison herds, antelope, and numerous bird species.
Tour Highlight: Opportunities to float in the buoyant waters of the Great Salt Lake and witness spectacular sunsets over the water.
Nature Excursion: Book your guided tour to Antelope Island through GetYourGuide for an educational and scenic experience. Reserve your Antelope Island adventure here!
Jackson Hole Day Trip
Combine stunning mountain scenery with Western charm on a day trip to Jackson Hole, Wyoming. This picturesque valley surrounded by the Teton Range offers unique shopping, dining, and photo opportunities including the famous elk antler arches in the town square.
Tour Highlight: Visit the National Elk Refuge (seasonal) and explore the charming western town of Jackson.
Western Experience: Book your Jackson Hole day trip through GetYourGuide for a comprehensive guided tour. Reserve your Jackson adventure here!
Snowbird and Alta Ski Resorts Tour
Experience world-class skiing or summer mountain activities at these legendary resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Just 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, these resorts offer some of the best powder skiing in the world during winter and breathtaking alpine scenery year-round.
Tour Highlight: Take the Snowbird Aerial Tram to the 11,000-foot summit for panoramic views of the Wasatch Mountains.
Mountain Excursion: Book your guided tour to these premier mountain resorts through GetYourGuide. Reserve your mountain adventure here!
Day Trips & Tours from Salt Lake City
| Destination | Distance | Duration | Highlights | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellowstone National Park | 325 miles | Full day | Geysers, Wildlife, Hot Springs | Summer/Fall |
| Grand Teton National Park | 280 miles | Full day | Mountain Views, Jenny Lake, Wildlife | Summer/Fall |
| Park City | 32 miles | Half day | Historic Main Street, Olympic Park | Year-round |
| Antelope Island | 60 miles | Half day | Bison, Great Salt Lake, Hiking | Spring/Summer/Fall |
| Jackson Hole | 270 miles | Full day | Western Town, Shopping, Scenery | Summer/Fall |
| Snowbird/Alta | 24 miles | Half day | Skiing, Mountain Activities, Tram | Year-round |
| Bonneville Salt Flats | 115 miles | Full day | Vast White Salt Plains, Photography | Spring/Fall |
| Big Cottonwood Canyon | 15 miles | Half day | Hiking, Scenic Drives, Skiing | Year-round |
9. Seasonal & Annual Events
Sundance Film Festival
While centered in Park City, this prestigious film festival spills over into Salt Lake City venues each January. Film enthusiasts can catch independent premieres and spot celebrities without staying in the more expensive Park City. For cultural things to do in Salt Lake City during winter, this world-renowned festival offers unparalleled entertainment.
Festival Planning: Book your Sundance accommodations through Expedia for the best selection and rates. Find your perfect stay here!
Utah Arts Festival
Held annually in June, this four-day festival transforms Library Square into a celebration of visual, performing, and culinary arts. With multiple stages for music and dance performances, plus hundreds of artist booths, it’s Utah’s largest outdoor arts event. For creative things to do in Salt Lake City during summer, this festival showcases local and national talent.
Downtown Farmers Market
Running Saturdays from June through October in Pioneer Park, this vibrant market features local produce, artisan foods, and handcrafted goods. The festive atmosphere includes live music and food trucks, making it a beloved weekend tradition and one of the most authentic things to do in Salt Lake City during growing season.
Annual Events Calendar for Salt Lake City
| Month | Major Events | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Sundance Film Festival | Film | Downtown & Park City |
| February | FanX Salt Lake Comic Convention (Winter) | Pop Culture | Salt Palace Convention Center |
| March | St. Patrick’s Day Parade | Cultural | Downtown |
| April | Utah Arts Festival | Arts | Library Square |
| May | Living Traditions Festival | Cultural | Washington Square |
| June | Utah Pride Festival | Cultural | Washington Square |
| July | Pioneer Day Celebration | Historical | Various |
| August | Salt Lake City Jazz Festival | Music | Gallivan Center |
| September | State Fair | Family | Utah State Fairpark |
| October | Witchstock | Halloween | Gardner Village |
| November | Festival of Trees | Holiday | Mountain America Expo Center |
| December | Temple Square Lights | Holiday | Temple Square |
10. Travel Tips for Visiting Salt Lake City
Getting Around the City
Salt Lake City’s grid layout makes navigation relatively simple. The efficient TRAX light rail system connects downtown with the University of Utah and southern suburbs. For maximum flexibility, consider renting a car, especially if you plan to explore beyond the city center and access more remote things to do in Salt Lake City’s surrounding areas.
Transportation Tip: Book convenient airport transfers through Kiwitaxi for hassle-free arrival and departure experiences. Book your airport transfer here!
When to Visit for the Best Experiences
Salt Lake City enjoys four distinct seasons, each offering unique advantages for different things to do in Salt Lake City:
- Summer (June-August): Perfect for outdoor activities and festivals, with warm days and cool evenings
- Fall (September-November): Beautiful foliage colors in the canyons with pleasant temperatures
- Winter (December-February): Prime time for world-class skiing and winter sports
- Spring (March-May): Blooming gardens and fewer crowds at major attractions
Flight Deal: Find the best prices on flights to Salt Lake City through Aviasales, no matter what season you choose to visit. Book your flights here!
Where to Stay for Access to Top Attractions
- Downtown: Ideal for first-time visitors wanting to explore Temple Square, museums, and dining
- The Avenues: Historic neighborhood with B&Bs and easy access to the Capitol and downtown
- Sugar House: Hip area with shops, restaurants, and proximity to parks
- Sandy/Cottonwood: Best for ski access to the canyons
Accommodation Tip: Find great hotel deals in any Salt Lake City neighborhood through Hotellook. Book your perfect hotel here!
Salt Lake City Transportation Options
| Mode | Cost | Convenience | Coverage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TRAX Light Rail | $2.50 one-way | ★★★★☆ | Downtown, University, South SLC | Urban exploration |
| UTA Bus | $2.50 one-way | ★★★☆☆ | Citywide | Budget travel |
| Rental Car | $40-80/day | ★★★★★ | Unlimited | Day trips, flexible schedule |
| Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) | $10-25/ride | ★★★★☆ | Citywide | Evening outings, airport transfers |
| Bike Share (GREENbike) | $7/day | ★★★☆☆ | Downtown, close neighborhoods | Good weather days |
| Walking | Free | ★★★★☆ | Downtown | Downtown exploration |
| Airport Express Shuttle | $15 one-way | ★★★☆☆ | Airport to hotels | Budget airport transfer |
Conclusion
Salt Lake City stands as one of the West’s most underrated urban destinations, offering an exceptional blend of outdoor recreation, cultural experiences, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re exploring its historic downtown today, enjoying weekend festivals, or venturing to nearby natural wonders on guided day trips, Utah’s capital delivers memorable experiences in a stunning mountain setting. With excellent transportation options, diverse accommodations, and activities for all interests and seasons, Salt Lake City deserves a prominent place on your travel wishlist. From seasonal festivals to year-round landmarks, the variety of things to do in Salt Lake City ensures every visitor finds their perfect adventure.
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Day Trips Made Easy: Maximize your Salt Lake City vacation with expert-guided day trips to Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and more through GetYourGuide. Browse all Salt Lake City day trips here!
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