Salt Lake City, nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Wasatch Range and the serene waters of the Great Salt Lake, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re an avid skier, a history buff, or a fan of the arts, Utah’s capital city has something exciting for you. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 things to do in Salt Lake City that will ensure your visit is unforgettable.
1. **Visit Temple Square**: This 10-acre complex is among the most visited attractions in Salt Lake City. Home to the stunning Salt Lake Temple, this area is vital not just religiously but also historically to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While you can’t enter the temple itself unless you’re a church member, the surrounding gardens and visitor centers are open to all.
2. **Explore Utah State Capitol**: Sitting atop Capitol Hill with sweeping views over downtown Salt Lake City and beyond, visiting the State Capitol building can be both educational and inspiring. Free guided tours are available that offer insights into Utah’s history and government.
3. **Take a Walk Around Great Salt Lake**: Known as America’s Dead Sea, Great Salt Lake is famous for its high salinity which allows people to float effortlessly on its waters. Antelope Island State Park offers spectacular views and numerous wildlife viewing opportunities including bison herds.
4. **Enjoy Skiing at Nearby Resorts**: Thanks to its proximity to several top-rated ski resorts like Alta, Snowbird, and Park City Mountain Resort (just an hour’s drive away), winter sports enthusiasts flock to SLC for some of the best skiing in North America.
5. **Discover The Leonardo Museum**: This museum blends science, technology, art, and creativity seamlessly—perfect for curious minds! Interactive exhibits encourage visitors of all ages to engage deeply with contemporary issues through innovative approaches.
6. **Catch a Performance at Eccles Theater**: Opened in 2016 as part of downtown’s cultural renaissance, this state-of-the-art performance venue hosts Broadway shows, concerts and other performances throughout the year.
7. **Visit Liberty Park**: As SLC’s second-largest public park it offers everything from paddle boats on its lake to tennis courts and picnic areas – ideal for families looking for outdoor fun within city limits.
8. **Hike Ensign Peak**: For those who appreciate mild hikes with rewarding views at their end points – Ensign Peak is perfect. Just a short drive from downtown leads you to this historical hill where you can look out over Salt Lake Valley below – particularly stunning at sunset!
9. **Browse Historic Sugar House**: One of SLC’s oldest neighborhoods offers quaint shops, trendy eateries and hip coffee shops alongside cozy bookstores brimming with local character—and don’t miss Sugar House Park for yet another delightful urban green space.
10. **Tour Red Butte Garden**: Located on University of Utah campus grounds this botanical garden isn’t just about plants; it also hosts outdoor concerts throughout summer months under starry nights making it an enchanting escape from city life.
Whether your interests lie in exploring urban landscapes or embracing nature’s wonders firsthand; whether it’s winter sports that excite you or quiet moments in museums—Salt Lake City has plenty waiting just for you!