Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Salt Lake City, UT

Salt Lake City is predominantly recognized as the center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the Mormons.

The city serves as the capital of Utah and is celebrated for its picturesque setting, nestled in a valley adjacent to the grand Jordan River.

Founded in 1847 by Brigham Young, who traveled from Illinois to establish a community, Salt Lake City has become a significant location for the Mormon faith, reflected in many of its buildings and attractions.

One notable site is a replica of a traditional Mormon village that illustrates daily life as it was during the city’s founding in the 1800s, providing a glimpse into the historical context of Salt Lake City.

While there is a wealth of information available regarding Mormonism, Salt Lake City offers more than just religious sites. Visitors can also explore zoos, vibrant museums, and planetariums.

1. Temple Square

Temple Square is regarded as a sacred area for Mormons, encompassing a beautifully maintained 10-acre square.

The square is adorned with trees and vibrant flowers, overlooking several noteworthy buildings, including the Mormon Temple, the Mormon Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and the Assembly Hall.

Additionally, there are various monuments and memorials within the square, alongside an information center offering further insights into Mormonism.

2. Liberty Park

Covering an extensive 80 acres, Liberty Park is the largest park in the Salt Lake City area.

Given its size, the park offers a multitude of activities, including walking, hiking, or cycling along its lush pathways.

Sports and recreation facilities available include basketball courts, volleyball nets, and a swimming pool.

The picturesque scenery features abundant greenery, native flowers, and numerous mature trees, some of which are centuries old.

3. Clark Planetarium

The Clark Planetarium, located in the Gateway District, provides an excellent opportunity to explore the mysteries of the night sky.

Among its key attractions are the Hansen Dome Theater, featuring a dome under which a simulated galaxy is displayed, and an IMAX theater hosting immersive 3D films about space.

In addition to cinematic experiences, visitors can explore extensive exhibits and galleries covering over 10,000 square feet.

4. Mormon Temple

The Mormon Temple stands as one of Salt Lake City’s most significant religious edifices, completed in 1893. Its impressive architecture features three prominent towers constructed from granite.

The tallest tower, located on the eastern side, is adorned with a gilt statue representing Moroni, an angel of great significance within the Mormon faith.

While visitors may admire the temple from the exterior, entry is permitted only to baptized Mormons.

5. State Capitol

The State Capitol, located on Capitol Hill, is an emblematic representation of Utah.

Perched 300 feet above the surrounding area, the building is visible from various locations throughout the city and is designed in the Neo-Classical architectural style.

A significant dome crowns the building, while its interior showcases opulent marble finishes.

Visitors can access several rooms, including the Golden Room, which serves as the Governor’s reception area, as well as a gallery featuring rotating exhibitions related to Utah’s heritage.

6. Tracy Aviary

Situated within Liberty Park, the Tracy Aviary is an ideal venue for bird enthusiasts.

Founded by a prominent local banker in 1938, the aviary exhibits a diverse range of bird species that attract many visitors.

While many avian species are native to North America, the aviary also showcases an array of remarkable birds from various parts of the globe.

As one of the oldest aviaries worldwide, it boasts a rich history dating back to the 1930s.

7. Mormon Tabernacle

The Mormon Tabernacle, situated in Temple Square, features an oval structure topped with a dome.

Notably, this dome is supported by 44 sandstone pillars, showcasing remarkable engineering skills.

Designed to seat over 6,000 individuals, the interior is renowned for its exceptional acoustics, partly due to the dome’s construction.

The Tabernacle Choir regularly performs here, complemented by a magnificent organ.

8. This is the Place Monument

Within the Mormon tradition, followers embarked on a 1,300-mile journey, culminating when Brigham Young emerged from Emigration Canyon and recognized a valley revealed to him in a vision.

Upon witnessing this valley, he proclaimed, “This is the place!” Consequently, a monument was erected to honor the Mormons’ arrival and settlement in Salt Lake City.

The monument, inaugurated in 1947, commemorates the centenary of the Mormons’ arrival.

9. The Beehive House

The aptly named Beehive House, constructed in 1854, was once the residence of Brigham Young, a key figure in the Mormon faith and former Governor of Utah.

Brigham Young resided here with his 19 wives and 56 children, and the house exhibits features reflective of Mormon principles.

The turret of the house showcases a beehive, symbolizing the industrious nature of the Mormon community, a motif further represented in Utah’s state coat of arms.

10. Hogle Zoo

Hogle Zoo spans an impressive 42 acres and is renowned for its diverse range of ecosystems, all housed within one location.

Positioned at the entrance of Emigration Canyon, where the Mormons first set foot in Utah, the zoo opened its gates in 1931.

The zoo is organized into distinct sections, each showcasing animals from different global regions, including the Asian Highlands, Rocky Shores, African Savannah, and an Elephant Encounter exhibit.

11. Joseph Smith Memorial Building

Another notable structure on Temple Square is the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, established in 1911. Formerly known as the Hotel Utah, it was renamed to honor the first president of the Mormon Church and features remarkable design elements, including intricate glasswork, sweeping staircases, and grand marble columns.

In the Joseph Smith Building, visitors will find the FamilySearch Center, numerous dining options, and the renowned Legacy Theater.

12. Utah Museum of Fine Arts

If you have an interest in culture and the arts, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts is a must-visit destination.

Located on the campus of the University of Utah, it operates as both a state and university museum.

Established in the 1950s, the museum boasts over 20 galleries that feature both permanent and temporary exhibitions.

The extensive collection includes over 17,000 objects, showcasing art from regions including Asia, Europe, and America, with both classical and contemporary works represented to cater to diverse tastes.

13. Discovery Gateway: The Children’s Museum of Utah

Encompassing over 60,000 square feet, Discovery Gateway: The Children’s Museum of Utah serves as a hands-on learning center focused on a wide array of scientific topics.

This venue is ideal for families, particularly as a refuge during inclement weather, allowing guests to engage with multiple interactive exhibits that enhance their understanding of science and the functioning of the world.

14. Marmalade Hill Historic District

The Marmalade Hill Historic District derives its name from the numerous street names inspired by fruit trees and plants introduced to the area by early Salt Lake City settlers.

This compact area features several historic buildings, including the John Platts House and Thomas Quayle House, providing a window into the architectural style prevalent in the city during earlier times. It is an excellent spot for history enthusiasts seeking a walking tour.

15. Old Deseret Village

Adjacent to the This is the Place Monument in Salt Lake City lies Old Deseret Village, a reconstructed traditional village intended to commemorate the arrival of the Mormons in Utah.

This site features a variety of homes and period buildings, with some authentic restorations and replicas, providing visitors with an insight into 1800s life in Salt Lake City.

Actors donning period attire enhance the atmosphere as guests wander through the 440-acre village, exploring historic streets and immersing themselves in the bygone era.

Highlighted attractions include a traditional inn and a heritage farmhouse replica, offering educational insights into the operations of a historic Mormon village.