Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City: A Guide to Utah’s Capital

Nestled at the base of the stunning Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City, Utah, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, and historical significance. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast looking to explore its natural beauty or a culture lover drawn to its rich history, Salt Lake City has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in Salt Lake City.

1. Visit Temple Square

One of Salt Lake City’s most iconic landmarks is Temple Square, the headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Spread over 35 acres, Temple Square features beautifully landscaped gardens, historic buildings, and some of the most significant structures in the city.

At the heart of Temple Square is the Salt Lake Temple, though it's not open to the public, visitors can admire its impressive architecture. Nearby, you’ll find the Tabernacle, home to the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir. Visitors can take guided tours of the area and learn about the city’s religious and historical roots.

2. Explore the Great Salt Lake

Just outside the city lies the body of water that gives Salt Lake City its name—the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. A visit to the lake offers a variety of activities including boating, kayaking, and birdwatching. The high salinity of the lake makes swimming a unique experience, as you'll float more easily than in fresh water.

For a scenic experience, head to Antelope Island State Park, located in the middle of the lake, where you can hike, camp, and spot wildlife like bison and antelope. The sunsets over the lake are stunning, making this a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.

3. Hike the Wasatch Mountains

Outdoor lovers will be thrilled by the proximity of the Wasatch Mountains, which offer some of the best hiking in the region. Whether you're looking for a short day hike or a more challenging trek, there are plenty of trails to choose from.

Popular hikes include:

Donut Falls: A family-friendly hike with a beautiful waterfall at the end.

Mount Olympus: A challenging hike for experienced hikers that offers panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley.

Ensign Peak: A shorter hike that provides stunning views of the city and is historically significant as the point where Brigham Young surveyed the valley.

In winter, the Wasatch Mountains also become a playground for snow sports, with world-class ski resorts like Snowbird, Alta, and Park City just a short drive from downtown.

4. Discover the Natural History Museum of Utah

For those interested in learning more about the region's natural wonders, the Natural History Museum of Utah is a must-see. The museum is located in a striking, modern building on the University of Utah campus and offers a range of exhibits that explore the state's geology, paleontology, anthropology, and ecology.

Highlights include an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils, displays about Utah's Native American cultures, and interactive exhibits on the Great Salt Lake and Utah’s diverse ecosystems.

5. Stroll Through Liberty Park

Liberty Park is Salt Lake City’s largest and most beloved public park, offering a wide range of recreational activities for locals and visitors alike. This 80-acre green space is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a jog, or a picnic. The park also features tennis courts, playgrounds, and paddleboat rentals for those wanting to enjoy the pond.

Within the park, you’ll find Tracy Aviary, home to over 400 birds from around the world, and the historic Isaac Chase Mill, the oldest commercial building in Utah. Liberty Park is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some fresh air in the heart of the city.

6. Explore the Utah State Capitol

Perched on a hill overlooking the city, the Utah State Capitol is one of the most impressive architectural structures in Salt Lake City. This grand building, made of local granite, houses the state government and offers free guided tours where you can learn about Utah’s history and the functions of its government.

The Capitol grounds are also a lovely place for a walk, with sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley and the surrounding mountains. During the spring, the area around the Capitol is adorned with blooming cherry blossoms, making it an especially scenic spot to visit.

7. Shop and Dine at City Creek Center

If you’re in the mood for some shopping or dining, City Creek Center is the place to go. This upscale, open-air shopping center in downtown Salt Lake City offers a wide range of retailers, from high-end brands to local boutiques. The mall is beautifully designed with a retractable glass roof, flowing creek, and pedestrian