Things To Do
in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City sits at the foothills of the Wasatch Range and was founded by Mormon pioneers in 1847, growing into a vibrant urban center. It offers a gateway to winter sports, outdoor adventure, and a growing arts and dining scene. The city blends western heritage with modern culture, museums, and music venues just minutes from open spaces.
With a high desert climate and clear skies, residents enjoy four distinct seasons and easy access to nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Salt Lake Temple, marveling at its intricate architecture and serene gardens. Afterward, stroll through Pioneer Park, where you can enjoy the fresh morning air and perhaps catch a glimpse of local artists at work. Take a moment to visit the nearby Church History Museum, which offers fascinating insights into the history of the area.
Indulge in a leisurely lunch at a local café in the downtown area, savoring some delicious Utah cuisine. Post-lunch, head to the Utah State Capitol for a guided tour, where you can learn about the state's history and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Spend the last part of your afternoon exploring the nearby City Creek Center, a beautiful shopping destination with both local and international brands.
Conclude your day with dinner at a trendy restaurant in downtown Salt Lake City, where you can taste farm-to-table dishes made from local ingredients. After dinner, catch a performance at the Eccles Theater, which hosts a variety of shows, from Broadway productions to concerts. If time allows, take an evening stroll through the illuminated streets of the downtown area, enjoying the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day with a visit to Red Butte Garden, where you can explore beautifully landscaped gardens and scenic trails. Take your time wandering through the various themed gardens, including the Rose Garden and the Medicinal Garden, while enjoying the tranquility of nature. Don't forget to stop by the Visitor Center for any special guided tours or events happening that day.
After a morning immersed in nature, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the garden's designated areas, surrounded by beautiful flora. Spend the afternoon hiking the nearby trails of the Wasatch Mountains, where you can enjoy stunning views of the valley below. Be sure to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and perhaps spot some local wildlife.
As dusk approaches, make your way to the Natural History Museum of Utah, where you can explore fascinating exhibits about the region's geology and ecology. Afterward, have dinner at a nearby restaurant that specializes in local dishes, offering a taste of Utah's unique flavors. End your evening with a stroll along the Jordan River Parkway, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature as the sun sets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏡Apartment rent (1 bedroom, city center) | $1,400-1,800 |
| 🚆Monthly public transportation pass | $79-100 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly basics) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to world-class skiing and outdoor recreation within quick reach of downtown
- Growing dining scene with a mix of local and international flavors
- Relatively affordable compared with other major west coast cities
- Strong sense of community, friendly locals, and safe urban environment
- Winter driving can be icy; mountain passes may require chains or 4-wheel drive
- Seasonal crowds around major festivals and ski resorts can affect wait times and parking
Places to Visit in Salt Lake City
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic grounds with the Salt Lake Temple, reflecting pools, and seasonal flora—excellent for architecture and landscape photography.
Golden-domed Capitol with panoramic city views, especially striking at sunset.
A short hike that rewards with sweeping views of downtown and the valley.
Forested canyon backdrop with streams and rugged granite walls behind the city.
Expansive skies and reflective salt flats ideal for sunrise or minimalist landscape shots.
Steep canyon walls, pine forests, and seasonal waterfalls providing dramatic nature photography opportunities.
Food in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy mayonnaise-ketchup dip that accompanies fries, burgers, and other fried goods; a Utah staple you’ll encounter in many eateries.
Must-Try!
A cheesy hash-brown casserole with sour cream, cheese, and chives, a comforting dish often served at potlucks and family meals.
Utah-style scones (often fried and served with honey or jam) popular for weekend breakfasts and cafe menus.
Jell-O is a widely enjoyed dessert in Utah, appearing on many menus and family gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal Saturday market offering locally grown produce, bread, prepared foods, and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Utah and Salt Lake City values courteous behavior and friendly greetings; a brief hello or nod goes a long way.
Mormon cultural influence is strong; avoid assumptions about beliefs and be respectful when discussing religion.
Tipping is an expected part of service industry compensation in the U.S.; plan to tip accordingly.
Safety
Tipping in Salt Lake City
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% before tax is standard; tip more for exceptional service. For bar service or quick-table service, $1-2 per drink or 15-20% is common.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is always useful for tips and small purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with hot valley temperatures and cool mountain air; great for hikes, festivals, and outdoor dining; bring sun protection and plan frequent water breaks.
Dry air and layered fall colors in the Wasatch foothills; comfortable hiking, football season vibes, and harvest events.
Snowy mountains nearby and sunny, dry canyon days in the valley; dress in layers and be prepared for icy sidewalks and mountain highways.
Mild temperatures with occasional showers; wildflowers start to bloom in foothills and city parks, ideal for neighborhood walks.
Salt Lake City at Night
Hiking in Salt Lake City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular alpine hike in Big Cottonwood Canyon featuring a lake and rocky scenery; moderate to challenging.
Steep but rewarding trail with panoramic views of the valley and mountains.
Accessible canyon hike with forested switchbacks and scenic overlooks.
Airports
How to reach Salt Lake City by plane.
Major gateway to the region with numerous domestic and international flights; convenient light-rail access to downtown.
Smaller regional airport serving general aviation and limited commercial flights; closer to northern Utah.
Regional airport serving the southern part of the Wasatch Front; convenient for southern Utah trips and private flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A growing mix of Latino, Asian, and Pacific Islander residents alongside long-standing White and Indigenous communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
World-class resorts like Alta and Snowbird nearby, drawing skiers from around the world.
Strong college and professional presence; community leagues and courts are common around the city.
College football culture and local high school games are popular in autumn.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Salt Lake City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Salt Lake City has many vegetarian-friendly options; look for veggie-forward menus, farm-to-table spots, and explicit meat-free dishes; ask for dairy-free options at places that use ghee or butter.