Salt Lake City (SLC), the capital of Utah, might just be the most underrated destination in the western U.S. Set against the dramatic Wasatch Mountains, this vibrant city offers a mix of natural beauty, fascinating history, and modern city vibes.
Whether we’re planning a weekend escape or using it as a base for exploring Utah’s iconic national parks, SLC gives us more than we expect—and then some.
Temple Square: A Cultural Landmark Worth Visiting
One of the first places we should explore is Temple Square, the spiritual and historical heart of the city. The beautifully landscaped grounds surround the Salt Lake Temple and the Tabernacle, home of the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir.
- Admission: Free
- Opening Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., daily
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall, when the gardens are in full bloom or bursting with color
- Tips: Free guided tours are available in many languages, and the Christmas lights display in December is magical.
Nature on Our Doorstep: The Great Salt Lake & Antelope Island
We can’t say we’ve visited Salt Lake City without seeing the Great Salt Lake, the city’s namesake and one of the largest saltwater lakes in the Western Hemisphere. The best way to experience it is to visit Antelope Island State Park, where we can hike, bike, or even spot wild animals like pronghorns and coyotes up close.
- Entry Fee: $15 per vehicle
- Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- How to Get There: About a 1-hour drive from downtown SLC
- Tips: Bring insect repellent in summer (brine flies), and try visiting at sunset for incredible views over the lake.
Museums and Family Fun in Downtown SLC
Salt Lake City is full of educational yet fun attractions, perfect for solo travelers, couples, and families.
Natural History Museum of Utah: Features dinosaur fossils, geology exhibits, and stunning mountain views.
- Ticket: $22 adults, $17 youth, free under 3
- Hours: Daily 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (Wednesdays until 9:00 p.m.)
The Leonardo Museum: Combines science, tech, and art in hands-on exhibits.
- Ticket: $15 adults, $8 children
- Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Local Tip: Many museums offer free or discounted admission on the first Wednesday of the month.
Getting Around Salt Lake City
SLC is one of the easiest cities to navigate in the western U.S.
- From the Airport: Just 10 minutes to downtown by car, or take the UTA TRAX Green Line ($2.50).
- Public Transit: The TRAX light rail system connects downtown, the university, and major suburbs.
- Rental Options: GREENbike, Uber, and scooter rentals are widely available.
- Tip: Parking is affordable downtown, but public transit is more convenient for visiting multiple locations.
Seasonal Activities: Skiing, Hiking, and Festivals
One of Salt Lake City’s biggest draws is year-round outdoor adventure.
- Winter: Hit world-class ski resorts like Snowbird, Alta, or Park City. These are just 30–45 minutes from the city.
- Ski passes: $130–$160/day
- Ski season: November – April
- Summer/Fall: Great time for hiking, mountain biking, and festivals like the Utah Arts Festival or Twilight Concert Series.
- Best Time to Visit: May–October for outdoor activities and festivals; December–February for skiing and snow fun.
Dining & Shopping: Local Favorites and Hidden Gems
Salt Lake City’s food scene surprises visitors with everything from upscale restaurants to quirky diners.
- Red Iguana: A local institution for mole and Mexican dishes.
- The Copper Onion: Great for brunch or dinner with a modern American twist.
- Eva: Small plates and stylish ambiance downtown.
For shopping, head to City Creek Center, an open-air shopping mall with a creek running through it, or check out local art at 9th & 9th, a trendy neighborhood full of boutiques and cafes.
- Tip: Many restaurants take reservations via OpenTable—recommended for weekends!
Ready to Explore Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City offers more than just a stop on the way to Utah’s national parks—it’s a place where city life blends effortlessly with outdoor adventure. We might find ourselves standing in awe of the sunset at Antelope Island, getting inspired at a local museum, or carving fresh powder at a nearby ski resort. Every corner of the city invites discovery and excitement.
Planning a road trip through Utah? Dreaming of a snowy mountain escape? Tell us what you’re looking for—we’d love to help you build the perfect Salt Lake City journey!
Salt Lake City Utah: 10 BEST Things To Do In 2025 (Travel Guide)
Video by TravelScout
