30 Best and Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City (Utah)

Sep 26

Salt Lake City in Utah is one of the most diverse cities in the US. It is bustling and vibrant, yet tidy, and does not feel congested at all. Attractions vary from ski resorts and outdoor recreations to temples and enormous quaint buildings, museums and heritage parks to exciting live sports, modern libraries and stunning canyons. Salt Lake City definitely has everything, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices. If you are visiting SLC for the first time, here are 30 of the best things to do in Salt Lake City.

Fun ways to go around the city

1. Ride the train

Most great cities have great public transportation systems, especially train systems. Utah is no different, and the train lets you discover much of the city on foot. If it is your first time flying into the city, then it is best to get around by hopping on and off the train, along with an occasional car-sharing app for transportation.

2. Rent a bike or e-scooter

If you are feeling a little adventurous, you can rent a bike or electric scooter. Many hotels charge parking fees, and this might increase your expenses when you rent a car. E-scooters offer fun, easy, and cheap ways to get around the city. Simply download the scooter apps to see any available scooters near you, and you will be on your way navigating the city at 15mph.

3. Salt Lake Trolley Tours

These tours offer a great way to see some of the best attractions Utah is known for.

Indoor attractions

4. Pioneer Memorial Museum

This museum has the biggest collection of historic artifacts devoted to the first settlers of the state – the Mormon people. It’s a fascinating and fun place to discover more about the city’s history and culture.

5. Utah State Museum of Fine Arts

This is easily one of the coolest places to see in Salt Lake City, and is an absolute treat for art and history lovers. This museum features more than 20 galleries with a wide variety of exhibits including Asian, American, and European arts displays.

6. Fisher Brewing Company

Established by a German immigrant named Albert Fisher, this brewing company has been keeping tradition since 1884. You can sample the well-crafted and delicious Fisher and pair it with food truck options near the entrance.

7. Salt Lake City Public Library

This library does not only house more than 500,000 books, it also has a great café, a rooftop garden, relaxing lounge areas, and more.

8. The Leonardo Museum

This museum offers one of the most unique experiences you will have in Salt Lake City as it combines science and technology with arts. Named after one of the greatest minds in history, the Leonardo Museum aims to inspire creativity and inspiration.

9. Wiseguys Comedy Club

Watch live comedy and laugh your hearts out at Wiseguys comedy club located at the Gateway Mall.

10. Utah Museum of Natural History

Housed inside the University of Utah campus, this museum is one of the many architectural beauties in the city.

11. Topgolf

Practice your swing and enjoy good times with your family and friends with good food and drinks.

12. The Grand America Hotel

Looking to add some luxurious experience to your trip? Check out this hotel and be pampered with 5-star hotel quality service. You can spend afternoon tea with family and friends, relax by the pool, or spend a day at the spa.

Outdoor attractions

13. The Great Salt Lake

No trip to Salt Lake City will ever be complete without seeing its namesake – the Great Salt Lake. Stretching 1,700 square miles, this lake is the biggest natural lake in Utah. The salty nature keeps the lake rich in mineral deposits, which are left behind when the water evaporates.

There are tons of fun activities for the whole family in the Great Lake. You can go swimming, boating, fishing, or just sit down and have a nice picnic while watching the horizon over the gorgeous lake.

14. Utah State Capitol

Another iconic must-see in Salt Lake City is the State Capitol. Located at the Capitol Hill, this architectural masterpiece stands 300 feet into the air and is opulently and elegantly ornamented with marble furnishings. It features a topping dome that can be seen from across the city. The best thing about this attraction is it is open to visitors.

15. Temple Square

Equally elegant, but quainter, is the Temple Square, which is also another must-see in Salt Lake City. You do not need to share the faith to wander and appreciate the beauty of the temple.

16. Utah’s Hogle Zoo

If you are visiting the city with kids, then this is a great way to spend the day with your little adventurers. It hosts a wide selection of animals, local and international, exotic in the state, and rare.

17. Liberty Park

If free sight-seeing is what you are after, then check out Liberty Park. Spanning 80 acres of land, this park is massive and gorgeous; it’s also flat, which makes it perfect for running and cycling. There are also tons of activities you can do in this park, from playing ball sports like basketball or volleyball, to swimming, etc.

18. Red Butte Garden

Run by the University of Utah, this garden boasts an amphitheater, an arboretum, and of course, a scenic botanical garden that is open to the public each spring. Concert series are held every summer.

19. Sugar House Park

Enjoy an afternoon alone or with your loved ones in this scenic park with a breathtaking view of 110 acres of lush greenery and rolling hills.

20. Memory Grove Park

Located at the base of the City Creek Canyon is this gorgeous memorial park which features beautiful landscapes, monuments, and fountains.

21. Tanner Park

If you are traveling with your furry friends, then you have to check out Tanner Park. It’s a family and pet friendly park that features a gully with a bridge and creeks for your pups to play in.

22. Redwood Drive-In Movie Theater

Looking for some unique and nostalgic entertainment? Head to this drive-in movie theater and recreate the popular entertainment of the 1950s.

Shopping Destinations

23. Euro Treasures

Looking for antique objects to add to your collection? This 400,000 square feet of space houses American, European, and African antiques that are waiting for new owners.

24. Decades

More vintage finds such as vintage jewelry, handbags, dresses, shoes, hats, etc., can be found here.

25. Salt Lake City Farmers Market

Spending your morning or afternoon with good food and drinks at the Farmers Market is easily one of the best things to do in Salt Lake City. Plenty of stores offer fresh and local produce, arts and crafts, and a delectable breakfast and lunch for everyone.

26. Trolley Square

What was once the original home of the historic trolley station in the 1800s has been transformed into a unique shopping center, and now also offers entertainment and plenty of dining options.

Snow Fun: Snowboarding and Skiing

27. Cross Country Skiing

Most people think of downhill skiing when in Salt Lake City, which is obviously not for everyone. Cross Country Skiing is less intimidating for novices and first-timers.

28. Snowbasin Resort

Skiing in the Ogden Valley gives you 3,000 acres to ski on, and around 3,000 vertical feet of pristine mountains.

Scenic Drives

29. Spiral Jetty

Watch the man-made earthwork sculpture from the comfort of your vehicle in this 2+ hour drive from Salt Lake City.

30. Alpine Loop

This may be the farthest from Salt Lake City, but it is also one of the most beautiful. It features a 20-mile drive over the American Fork Canyon all the way to Provo Canyon, which offers some of the best views of the Mt. Timpanogos.

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