best things to do in salt lake city utah
Salt Lake City, Utah, is a vibrant city surrounded by the beautiful Wasatch Mountains and offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors. Here are some of the best things to do in Salt Lake City:
- Temple Square: Explore the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, featuring beautiful gardens, historic buildings, and the stunning Salt Lake Temple.
- Natural History Museum of Utah: Discover Utah’s rich natural history, from dinosaurs to ancient cultures, at this world-class museum.
- Snowbird Ski Resort: Hit the slopes at one of Utah’s premier ski resorts, offering year-round activities like hiking, mountain biking, and zip lining.
- The Great Salt Lake: Take a scenic drive or boat tour of the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi River, known for its unique geology and birdlife.
- Utah State Capitol: Tour the historic Capitol building, offering stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
- Red Butte Garden: Stroll through this beautiful botanical garden, featuring over 21 acres of gardens, walking trails, and natural areas.
- City Creek Canyon: Hike, bike, or take a scenic drive through this stunning canyon, offering breathtaking views of the city and the mountains.
- Utah Museum of Contemporary Art: Explore the latest exhibits and installations at this cutting-edge art museum.
- The Gateway: Shop, dine, and enjoy entertainment options at this outdoor shopping center, located near the Jordan River.
- Salt Lake City Public Library: Visit this stunning library, featuring a unique design, rooftop garden, and regular events and exhibitions.
- Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing: Explore the beautiful winter landscapes of the Wasatch Mountains on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
- Hogle Zoo: Visit this popular zoo, home to over 800 animals from around the world, including elephants, tigers, and giraffes.
- Utah Olympic Oval: Take a guided tour of this Olympic speed skating venue, built for the 2002 Winter Olympics.
- LDS Church History Museum: Learn about the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at this interactive museum.
- Old Town Salt Lake City: Explore the historic heart of the city, featuring charming shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Some popular events and festivals in Salt Lake City include:
- Sundance Film Festival (January)
- Utah Pride Festival (June)
- Days of ’47 Parade (July)
- Salt Lake City Marathon (April)
- Utah State Fair (September)
Remember to also try some of Salt Lake City’s famous cuisine, including:
- Fry sauce: A Utah staple made from a combination of mayonnaise and ketchup.
- Jell-O: Utah is the birthplace of Jell-O, and you can find it on many menus throughout the city.
- Pastrami burgers: A popular twist on the classic burger.
- Aggie ice cream: Delicious ice cream made at Utah State University.
Overall, Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern attractions that make it a great destination for visitors.