Salt Lake City is beautiful for its peaceful places with a hub of natural beauty, a history of well-known things, and hidden, unknown adventures. If you want locals for SLC stuff to do or a traveler planning their next way, this step-by-step guide covers the best things to do in Salt Lake City. We can go on outdoor adventures with our family and friends and enjoy all the attractions and precious cultural gems. There’s something for everyone. Let’s explore the top Salt Lake City attractions and create unforgettable memories.
Step 1: Discover Downtown Salt Lake City
Start to explore the heart of things to do in Salt Lake City. Salt Lake also has some history and attractions of place.s
Highlights:
- Temple Square – A must-see historical site that includes the Salt Lake Temple, Tabernacle, and visitor centers. It’s free and open to the public.
- City Creek Center – Enjoy high-end shopping, dining, and even a trout-filled stream running through the mall.
- Salt Palace Convention Center – Check for events, expos, or conventions happening during your stay.
- Theatre – we can catch a ballet with the opera, and a Broadway show in a new historic venue.
Tip: The Salt Lake City Pass gives you access to multiple attractions at a discounted price, a great option for first-time visitors!
Step 2: Visit the Museums and Cultural Centers
Salt Lake City is home to a range of fascinating museums that reflect its rich heritage and artistic spirit.
Must-Visit Museums:
- Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA) – Located at the University of Utah, it features over 20,000 pieces of art from around the world.
- Natural History Museum of Utah – A family favorite with dinosaur fossils, geology exhibits, and interactive displays.
- Leonardo Museum – it may be known for the science, unique technology, and art in the museum that inspires all creative and innovative people.
Step 3: Explore the Great Outdoors
Salt Lake City has natural beauty. With the biggest draws and the beautiful Wasatch Mountains in Salt Lake fr all outdoor and indoor lovers’ dream.
Top Outdoor Activities:
- Hiking in Big Cottonwood Canyon – Just 30 minutes from downtown, with trails like Donut Falls and Lake Blanche.
- Liberty Park – A local favorite with paddle boats, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
- Red Butte Garden – A peaceful botanical garden ideal for nature walks and seasonal events.
- Great Salt Lake State Park – Float in the salty water, birdwatch, or take a scenic drive along the lake’s edge.
Want more things to do in SLC? Try snowboarding or skiing in winter at nearby resorts like Snowbird and Alta.
Step 4: Experience Salt Lake City’s Unique Attractions
No visit is complete without diving into SLC’s unique and offbeat attractions.
Don’t Miss:
- Antelope Island – you can go there when you come to Great Salt Lake, and it’s home to the bison and antelope, on the stunning sunsets.
- Gilgal Gardens – A hidden gem filled with whimsical sculptures and biblical references.
- Clark Planetarium – For space lovers, with 3D movies, star shows, and hands-on exhibits.
- Utah State Capitol – Offers free tours and panoramic views of the city.
Step 5: Enjoy SLC Family Activities
You will see here the caption for all to cover in ages. Like indoors or outdoors in the SLC offers wholesome fun for everyone.
Family-Friendly Fun:
- Hogle Zoo – Over 800 animals and fun exhibits like Rocky Shores and African Savanna.
- Tracy Aviary – One of the oldest aviaries in the U.S., located inside Liberty Park.
- Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum – Interactive learning and play zones for toddlers and young kids.
- The Living Planet Aquarium (nearby in Draper) – With sharks, penguins, and a rainforest adventure.
These are perfect SLC family activities that kids will love and parents will appreciate.
Step 6: Dive Into the Local Food Scene
SLC’s food culture is growing fast, offering everything from food trucks to fine dining.
Local Favorites:
- The Copper Onion – Upscale comfort food in a chic setting.
- Red Iguana – this is the spot for all-in-one Mexican mole.
- Eva’s Bakery – A cozy French-inspired café with amazing pastries.
- Ruth’s Diner – Located in Emigration Canyon, known for its mile-high biscuits.
Don’t forget to try fry sauce — Utah’s beloved condiment made of ketchup and mayo!
Step 7: Explore Seasonal and Annual Events
Salt Lake City shines during its annual events and seasonal festivities.
Events to Look For:
- Sundance Film Festival (nearby in Park City) – January.
- Utah Arts Festival – June.
- Twilight Concert Series – Summer live music.
- FanX Salt Lake Comic Convention – Fall.
Events are a fun way to experience Salt Lake City attractions from a local’s perspective.
Step 8: Enjoy a Day Trip or Scenic Drive
If you have extra time, take advantage of SLC’s central location.
Day Trip Ideas:
- Park City – A charming mountain town with skiing, shops, and historic Main Street.
- Bonneville Salt Flats – A surreal landscape perfect for photos and speed trials.
- Sundance Mountain Resort – Enjoy year-round recreation and Robert Redford’s artistic touch.
- Timpanogos Cave National Monument – Explore underground wonders through guided tours.
Conclusion
Salt Lake City is a beautiful place full of a blend with nature, its beautiful culture, and urban exploration may make your heart feel peaceful. Like you’re after history, outdoor adventure, or family fun, this city has it all. To make sure to follow up on these steps, we can learn about the best things to do in Salt Lake City to plan our itinerary, and we should not forget to grab the Salt Lake City Pass for discounts on top attractions. We can enjoy fun stuff in Salt Lake City, for enjoying peaceful moments in the mountain areas, and Salt Lake City is a destination that deserves a spot on your travel list.
FAQs About Things to Do in Salt Lake City
1. What time do you go to Salt Lake City?
Winter and summer are good for relaxation. Spring and fall have some mild weather.
2. Can Salt Lake City go with the family-friendly?
Yes! SLC has many family attractions. Yes, we can go on like Hogle Zoo and many Natural History Museums.
3. What are some free things to do in Salt Lake City?
We can go to Temple Square, and the Utah State Capitol also can take a tour to Liberty Park, and beautiful Gilgal Gardens are all free. Hiking is a low-cost option.
4. How can I save money on attractions?
Get the Salt Lake City Pass to save on admission to multiple sites like museums, the planetarium, and the zoo.
