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Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA [Updated-2026]

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November 4, 2025

Best Places to Visit & Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA [Updated-2026]

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Between the Mountains and the Metro: 30+ Unforgettable Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah

Nestled in a valley framed by the dramatic Wasatch Range, Salt Lake City is a destination of breathtaking contrasts. It’s a place where a bustling, modern downtown sits just 20 minutes from untamed wilderness, where a deep-rooted pioneer history coexists with a progressive, innovative spirit, and where the serene beauty of a Great Salt Lake meets the adrenaline rush of the “Greatest Snow on Earth.”

This is your guide to the real Salt Lake City—a city that will surprise you with its complexity and charm. We’ve curated over 30 experiences that take you from iconic landmarks to hidden local gems, proving that SLC is so much more than a gateway to the national parks.

The Great Outdoors: Alpine Adventures & Unique Landscapes

Salt Lake City’s backyard is a world-class playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The mountains aren’t just a view; they’re an invitation.

1. Conquer the “Y” on the Y Mountain Trail

A rite of passage for visitors and locals alike. This steep but rewarding 2.4-mile round-trip hike leads you to the massive, concrete “Y” overlooking the valley. The switchbacks are a workout, but the panoramic view of Utah Lake, the Salt Lake Valley, and the entire city skyline is worth every step.

2. Hike or Snowshoe to Donut Falls

One of the most popular and family-friendly hikes in the Wasatch, Donut Falls is a year-round delight. The trail leads to a unique waterfall that pours through a hole in the rock, resembling a donut. In the winter, the frozen waterfall becomes a magical ice sculpture perfect for snowshoeing.

3. Ski or Mountain Bike the “Greatest Snow on Earth”

SLC is a legendary winter sports destination, with several world-class resorts within a short drive.

Park City Mountain Resort: The largest ski resort in the U.S.
Snowbird & Alta: Neighboring resorts known for their steep terrain, deep powder, and old-school charm (Alta is skiers-only).
Brighton & Solitude: Fantastic, slightly more low-key options with great terrain for all levels.
In the summer, these same mountains transform into a world-class network for hiking and mountain biking.

4. Witness the Otherworldly Great Salt Lake

A visit to the namesake lake is a surreal experience. Its high salinity makes you incredibly buoyant, allowing you to float effortlessly. Visit Antelope Island State Park for the most accessible experience, where you can float in the lake, hike through grasslands, and spot a herd of American bison against a stunning backdrop.

5. Explore the Natural Waterslides at Battle Creek Falls

A short drive south in Pleasant Grove, this easy 1.2-mile hike leads to a beautiful waterfall with smooth, water-carved rock slides that are perfect for a cool, thrilling dip on a hot summer day.

6. Wander Through Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

A 100-acre living museum nestled in the foothills above the University of Utah. With beautifully curated themed gardens, a stunning amphitheater that hosts summer concerts, and miles of walking paths, it’s a peaceful oasis of color and fragrance.

Downtown Culture, History & Urban Energy

SLC’s downtown is clean, walkable, and rich with history, culture, and a surprising urban buzz.

7. Explore the Salt Lake Temple Square

The spiritual and historical heart of the city. While the Salt Lake Temple itself is undergoing a seismic renovation until 2026, the 10-acre plaza remains a must-see. Take a free tour from friendly guides, listen to the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir rehearse or perform, and admire the exquisite architecture and beautiful gardens.

8. Be Inspired at the Natural History Museum of Utah

Perched on the foothills in the Rio Tinto Center, this architectural marvel is a destination in itself. Its exhibits on Utah’s natural world, from dinosaur fossils found in the state to Native American artifacts, are world-class. The view from the terrace is one of the best in the city.

9. Discover a Hidden World at the Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, this is one of Salt Lake’s quirkiest and most fascinating spots. It’s a “visionary art environment” created by a single man, featuring 12 original sculptures and over 70 stones inscribed with philosophical texts, including a sphinx with the head of Mormon prophet Joseph Smith.

10. Catch a Performance at the Capitol Theatre

Home to the renowned Ballet West and the Utah Opera, this historic theater is a downtown jewel. Catching a performance here is a sophisticated and memorable night out.

11. Admire the “Circle of Life” Mural and Downtown Street Art

While exploring downtown, keep your eyes peeled for incredible public art. The most famous is the “Circle of Life” mural by Canadian artist Chad Artist on the side of a parking structure, but numerous other murals add color and creativity to the urban landscape.

12. Tour the Utah State Capitol Building

Sitting majestically on a hill overlooking the city, this stunning neoclassical building is open for free self-guided tours. The marble interior, rotunda, and murals depicting Utah history are magnificent. The views of the city from the front steps are unparalleled.

Arts, Museums & Quirky Collections

Salt Lake City has a thriving and diverse arts scene that goes far beyond its historic roots.

13. Get Cultured at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA)

Located on the University of Utah campus, the UMFA boasts a collection of over 20,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of artistic achievement. From Renaissance paintings to contemporary installations and ancient Greek vases, it’s a quiet, world-class museum.

14. Step Back in Time at This Is The Place Heritage Park

Located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, where Brigham Young famously said, “This is the right place,” this living history park recreates a pioneer village. With historic homes, blacksmith demonstrations, pony rides, and a petting zoo, it’s a fun and educational trip to the 19th century.

15. See the Planes at the Hill Aerospace Museum

A short drive north at Hill Air Force Base, this free museum is a hidden gem for aviation buffs. It houses over 90 aircraft, from historic warbirds and fighters to massive bombers, all meticulously preserved.

16. Experience the Leonardo Museum

A hands-on, interactive museum of science, technology, and art. Named for Leonardo da Vinci, the ultimate Renaissance man, its rotating exhibits are designed to spark creativity and curiosity in visitors of all ages.

Food, Drink & Local Flavors

SLC’s food scene has exploded in recent years, shedding its old stereotypes and embracing a dynamic, local-first culinary identity.

17. Explore the Local Food Halls

SLC has embraced the food hall trend with gusto. The Gateway is home to HallPass, a trendy spot with diverse international vendors. Meanwhile, Urban Hill offers a more upscale, chef-driven collective experience.

18. Indulge in a Pastrami Burger

A Utah original that you have to try. A juicy burger patty is topped with a heap of hot, thinly-sliced pastrami, creating a savory, salty, and utterly delicious combination. Crown Burgers and Apollo Burger are the iconic local chains to visit for this specialty.

19. Sip a Cocktail (Yes, You Can!)

Utah’s liquor laws have loosened significantly. You can enjoy a craft cocktail at a trendy bar like Water Witch or Under Current, or visit one of the city’s many local breweries, like Fisher Brewing Company or Proper Brewing Co., which also serve great food.

20. Grab a Coffee at a Local Roaster

The coffee scene in SLC is robust and excellent. Skip the chains and head to local favorites like Blue Copper Coffee Room, The Rose Establishment, or Three Pines Coffee for a perfectly crafted cup.

21. Shop and Taste at the Downtown Farmers Market

Held on Saturdays from June to October, this is one of the best farmers markets in the West. It’s a vibrant community event with local produce, artisan cheeses, baked goods, food trucks, and live music.

22. Try “Funeral Potatoes”

No guide to Utah cuisine is complete without this classic comfort food. A cheesy, potato casserole, often topped with cornflakes, is a staple at family gatherings and potlucks. Many local comfort-food restaurants and diners feature their own version.

Unique & Offbeat SLC Experiences

For the traveler who wants to go beyond the conventional.

23. Attend a Live Recording of the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square

Experiencing the 360-voice Mormon Tabernacle Choir is a moving experience, regardless of your faith. Their weekly “Music & the Spoken Word” broadcast is free to attend and showcases an unparalleled level of musical artistry.

24. Go Stargazing at the South Physics Observatory

The University of Utah’s observatory offers free public viewings on clear Friday nights. Peer through powerful telescopes at the moon, planets, and distant galaxies with the help of knowledgeable astronomy students.

25. Visit the Tracy Aviary in Liberty Park

A beautiful and well-maintained aviary located within the city’s largest park, Liberty Park. It’s home to hundreds of birds from around the world and offers engaging bird shows and feeding experiences.

26. Take a Scenic Drive Through Big or Little Cottonwood Canyon

Even if you don’t hike, the drive itself is a spectacular activity. In the fall, the canyons are ablaze with color. In the summer, they offer a cool escape, and in the winter, they are a snowy wonderland. Stop at Snowbird for a tram ride to the top of Hidden Peak for 360-degree views.

27. See the Pando Aspen Grove (A Trembling Giant)

A few hours south of SLC, Pando is a massive grove of quaking aspen that is actually a single organism connected by one root system. It’s one of the oldest and largest living things on Earth. Walking among its 47,000 stems is a humbling and unique natural experience.

28. Relax at the Homestead Crater

Located in Midway, about 45 minutes from SLC, this is a geothermal spring hidden inside a 55-foot tall, beehive-shaped limestone rock. You can swim, scuba dive, or paddleboard in the warm, mineral-rich water—a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

29. Catch a Utah Jazz NBA Game

The energy at the Vivint Arena during a Jazz game is electric. The crowd is passionate, and it’s a fantastic way to experience the city’s modern, professional side.

30. Simply Wander Through the Avenues Neighborhood

This historic, hilly neighborhood just north of the Capitol is a beautiful area for a walk. Its charming, tree-lined streets are filled with unique Victorian and Craftsman homes, offering a peaceful and picturesque glimpse into local life.

Your Salt Lake City Story Awaits

Salt Lake City is a city of profound beauty and compelling duality. It’s the quiet reverence of Temple Square and the roaring crowd at a Jazz game. It’s the crisp, thin air on a mountain summit and the rich aroma of coffee in a downtown cafe. It’s a place where ancient lakebeds meet a skyline of innovation.

This list is just the beginning. The real SLC reveals itself when you strike up a conversation with a local on a trail, discover a hidden waterfall, or simply stand at the edge of the Great Salt Lake, feeling the vast, silent wonder of it all.

So, pack your hiking boots and your curiosity. An unforgettable adventure, where the urban and the wild exist in perfect harmony, is waiting for you.