Salt Lake City’s Beat: Art, Altitude & Alpine Moments

Salt Lake City, Utah, is this cool mix of city buzz and outdoor adventure. If you’re into hiking the Wasatch Mountains, checking out museums, or sampling local eats, you’ll find plenty to do. Top picks? Temple Square, quirky neighborhoods, and a food and brewery scene that’s honestly better than you’d expect.

There’s also a bunch of street art, live music, and a farmers market that’s worth a stroll if you’re around on the right day. The Great Salt Lake and hiking trails are just a quick drive from downtown, so you can go from city to nature in no time. It’s one of those rare places where you can squeeze in culture and scenery without a lot of hassle.

Explore Temple Square

Temple Square has a lot of history, striking buildings, and gardens that are actually pretty peaceful for a city center. You can learn about the LDS Church’s beginnings, hear music, and see the kind of architecture that really put Salt Lake on the map. Whether you’ve got an hour or a whole afternoon, wandering around here is time well spent.

Salt Lake Temple and Grounds

The Salt Lake Temple sits right at the heart of Temple Square. It took more than 40 years to build and was finished in 1893. The six towers and stonework are impressive, even if you can’t go inside unless you’re a member. The gardens and statues outside are open to everyone and make for great photos.

Walking paths wrap around the temple, lined with flowers and old monuments. If you’re into photography or just want a quiet stroll, this is a good spot. Don’t forget to look up—the Angel Moroni statue at the top is kind of iconic here.

Tabernacle Performances

The Tabernacle is famous for its acoustics and its history. Mormon pioneers built it back in 1876, and it still draws crowds, especially because of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir.

You can catch live music here—organ recitals and choir broadcasts are free, which is rare these days. The place feels grand but welcoming. Just check the schedule ahead of time, since performances aren’t every day.

Church History Museum

The Church History Museum lets you dig into the LDS Church’s past and see how early members shaped Utah. There are pioneer artifacts, old documents, and art that tells the story in a personal way.

It’s a solid stop if you’re curious about Utah’s roots and how the church played a part. Admission is free, and you can wander at your own pace or join a guided tour for extra details.

Gardens and Visitor Centers

The gardens at Temple Square are full of flowers and green lawns, making them a chill place to hang out between tours or snap a few photos.

There are two visitor centers. The South Visitor Center dives into the temple’s history and has a detailed model of the inside. The North Visitor Center features an 11-foot marble statue of Christ and stories about His life and teachings.

Guides are friendly and always up for questions, so don’t be shy if you want to know more.

Discover Downtown Salt Lake City

Downtown Salt Lake City packs shopping, entertainment, and sports into a walkable area. You’ll find indie shops, theaters, and big sporting events all just a few blocks apart. It’s easy to bounce from one thing to the next without much planning.

City Creek Center Shopping

City Creek Center stands out with its retractable roof and an actual creek running through the mall. It feels open and airy, and you’ll spot brands like Anthropologie mixed with local boutiques—good for gifts or just browsing.

For fewer crowds, try weekday mornings. The creek-side benches and outdoor fountains are nice spots to rest, especially when the weather’s good. Plenty of cafes are close by if you need coffee or a snack break.

Eccles Theater Shows

Eccles Theater brings in Broadway shows, concerts, and more. The mountain views from the lobby are a bonus, honestly. It’s a fun way to catch top-tier entertainment without leaving downtown.

Arrive a bit early—maybe 30 minutes—to grab a drink at Ivy & Varley or another nearby spot. It’s a good way to settle in before the curtain goes up. Evening shows here are a solid way to wrap up a busy day downtown.

Delta Center Events

The Delta Center is where you’ll find Utah Jazz games and hockey with the new Utah Hockey Club. It’s an easy walk from City Creek and other downtown spots.

Show up early to grab a bite at Beer Bar or Flanker Kitchen, both local favorites. If it’s playoff season, expect a wild, fun crowd. The energy is contagious, even if you’re not a die-hard fan.

Outdoor Adventures and Parks

Salt Lake City has a bunch of outdoor spaces where you can unwind, get active, or just enjoy some fresh air. Whether you’re into sports, art, or just a walk in the park, there’s something for you.

Liberty Park Activities

Liberty Park is huge and just minutes from downtown. Rent a paddle boat and float on the pond with mountain views all around. There’s a splash pad for kids, tennis and volleyball courts, and plenty of grassy space for picnics or tossing a frisbee.

Tracy Aviary sits inside the park, so you can watch colorful birds and catch the afternoon Bird Talk if you’re interested. In winter, the south end turns into a sledding hill, so it’s busy year-round.

Memory Grove Park Walks

Memory Grove Park is tucked by City Creek Canyon, five minutes from downtown. You’ll see historic memorials and a little canal with mountain water running through it. It’s a calm spot for a walk or jog, especially in the fall when the leaves go wild with color.

If parking’s tight, leave your car near the Capitol and walk down for some extra views. It’s also an off-leash dog park, so expect happy pups along the trails.

Sugar House Park Recreation

Sugar House Park is a local favorite about 15 minutes from the city center. With 110 acres of rolling hills, it’s perfect for picnics, casual sports, or just lying back to watch the clouds and mountains.

There are playgrounds for kids, and sunrise or sunset here is worth catching—just bring a jacket, evenings can get chilly. In winter, the hills fill up with sledders, so there’s always something happening.

Gilgal Sculpture Garden Exploration

Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a quirky little park with stone sculptures that blend religion, history, and a bit of mystery. There’s even a giant sphinx tucked among the flowers.

If you like offbeat art or just want a quiet spot, this is a fun detour. It’s close to downtown, so you can swing by during a walk or ride around the city. Kids and adults both seem to find something odd and interesting here.

Art, Science and Culture

Salt Lake City’s museums and festivals cover everything from natural history to fine art. You can check out dinosaur fossils, global artwork, or just wander through a festival and see what grabs your attention. Each spot has its own vibe and something to teach you.

Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah walks you through the state’s landscapes, animals, and people. The exhibits are hands-on and easy to follow, so you don’t need to be a science buff to enjoy it.

Dinosaur fossils, gems, and minerals are big hits, and the top floor gives you panoramic city and mountain views. It’s a great pick for families or anyone curious about how Utah came to be.

Utah Museum of Fine Arts

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts has everything from ancient sculptures to modern paintings. The galleries are bright and open, and you’ll see art from around the world, with a strong showing of American pieces.

Special exhibits rotate in regularly, so there’s usually something new to see. If you’re looking for a quiet afternoon surrounded by creativity, this is your place.

Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Art

Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Art highlights local crafts—quilts, pottery, woodwork, and more. The pieces tell stories about everyday life and the traditions passed down through generations.

It’s a small museum, but it’s packed with color and meaning. If you want a closer look at Utah’s culture, this is a personal way to do it.

Utah Arts Festival

The Utah Arts Festival takes over downtown every summer with music, dance, food, and art. It’s outdoors, lively, and draws a crowd that’s up for anything.

You’ll find vendors, food trucks, and performances that range from jazz bands to modern dance. There’s stuff for kids, too, so families can make a day of it. If you’re in Salt Lake in the summer, don’t miss this—it’s one of the city’s best events for meeting artists and soaking up the creative energy.

Gardens, Zoos and Family Fun

Salt Lake City has plenty of spots where you can hang out with animals, wander through gardens, and just enjoy some good old-fashioned family time. Whether you’re into exotic animals, colorful plants, or bird watching, there’s a place for you.

Hogle Zoo Experiences

Hogle Zoo brings animals from all over the world together in big, natural-feeling spaces. The African Savanna is a highlight—giraffes and zebras with mountains as their backdrop. Kids go nuts for the sea lions swimming through underwater tunnels, and honestly, it’s fun for adults too.

The splash pad is a lifesaver on hot days, and the train ride is a relaxing way to see the park. If you show up early, you’ll catch the animals when they’re most active. It’s a quick trip from downtown, so you won’t waste time in traffic.

Tracy Aviary in Liberty Park

Tracy Aviary is tucked inside Liberty Park and is a quiet spot to see birds up close. Daily bird shows get hawks swooping right over your head, and flamingo feeding is a fun, quirky highlight.

The paths are shaded, so even on sunny days it’s comfortable. Bring a picnic or grab something from the food trucks parked nearby. It’s a laid-back, educational spot that’s perfect for families looking to mix learning with a little outdoor fun.

Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

Red Butte Garden weaves together walking paths, gardens, and lots of kid-friendly events. The flower beds and trees change throughout the year, so you never really see the same thing twice. Kids love wandering the special play areas and watching butterflies or birds flutter around.

In summer, you might catch a family concert—kids dance on grassy hills while grownups chill out nearby. There are plenty of spots to toss down a blanket and take in the mountain views. It’s a laid-back way to enjoy some fresh air.

Fragrance Garden

The Fragrance Garden is a small, standout corner of Red Butte. Walking through, you’ll notice a mix of plants and flowers picked for their scents. It’s set up to engage your sense of smell while you learn a bit about what’s growing.

Kids can wander here on their own or with you tagging along. Since the scents shift with the seasons, you might catch something new every time. The place just kind of asks you to slow down and enjoy nature’s little details.

Scenic Natural Wonders

Salt Lake City sits close to some wild natural spots—think great views, hiking, and a bunch of unique outdoor adventures. You can check out salty lakes, islands, or mountain canyons, all just a quick drive away. It’s surprisingly easy to get into nature without leaving the city far behind.

Great Salt Lake Excursions

The Great Salt Lake is a pretty odd and fascinating place near the city. This huge salty lake creates weirdly beautiful landscapes and draws birdwatchers from all over. You can visit the Spiral Jetty, a rock art sculpture curling out into the water, and it adds something unexpected to the scenery.

Walk along the shore, take in the views, or even float in the salty water—yep, it’s buoyant like the Dead Sea. Bring your camera; sunsets here can get wild, with the colors bouncing off the lake.

Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island is the biggest island in the Great Salt Lake and a favorite for a reason. Buffalo roam freely here, and there’s tons of open space to explore. The Buffalo Point Trail lets you spot these massive animals and gives you sweeping views of the lake and mountains.

Bridger Bay Beach is another highlight, great for relaxing, swimming, or just having a picnic. Hiking, biking, and wildlife watching are all on the menu. The trails cut through dry desert and grassy plains, making it a peaceful spot for a full day outside.

Big Cottonwood Canyon Hiking

Big Cottonwood Canyon is a go-to for locals who want to get outdoors. There’s a trail for everyone, from easy walks to more challenging hikes. You’ll wind through forests, over rocky ridges, and past waterfalls.

Some favorites: Donut Falls, where the water drops right through a hole in the rock, and the Mike Schultz Trail for big views and wildflowers. It’s also a nice place for a picnic or to spot deer and birds. The crisp air and tall pines make everything feel fresh.

Little Cottonwood Canyon and Emigration Canyon

Little Cottonwood Canyon is packed with steep cliffs and spots for rock climbing. The hiking trails here, like the ones to Red Pine Lakes and Cecret Lake, are just gorgeous—meadows, wildflowers, and snowy peaks in the distance.

Emigration Canyon, just next door, is a softer, quieter option. It’s good for easy hikes or biking, and the roads along the canyon floor stay pretty peaceful. Both canyons are part of the Wasatch Mountains, letting you dip into the wilderness without going far from town.

Unique Local Experiences & Day Trips

Salt Lake City serves up a mix of markets, outdoor fun, and historic places. You can shop for fresh produce, check out mountain resorts, dive into pioneer history, or take a quick trip to a ski town. These experiences really show off Utah’s culture and scenery.

Downtown Farmers Market

If fresh food and local crafts are your thing, the Downtown Farmers Market is worth checking out. Every Saturday from spring through fall, the place buzzes with fruits, veggies, baked treats, and handmade goods.

You’ll meet farmers, try samples, and probably spot something you haven’t seen before. There’s usually live music and food trucks serving up everything from tacos to vegan snacks. It’s a chill spot to grab a bite and soak up the city’s vibe.

Snowbird Mountain Resort

Snowbird sits about half an hour from Salt Lake City and packs a punch year-round. Winter means skiing and snowboarding for all skill levels. Once it warms up, you’ve got hiking, mountain biking, and a tram ride with killer views.

Take a break in a cozy lodge or hit the spa after a day outside. The mountain scenery and clean air make it a solid escape, no matter when you go.

This Is The Place Heritage Park

This Is The Place Heritage Park lets you step into Utah’s pioneer days. The park recreates a 19th-century village, complete with cabins, a blacksmith, and an old schoolhouse.

Kids can try wagon rides, gold panning, or watch old-school crafts in action. It’s a hands-on way to get a feel for history. There are picnic spots and events throughout the year that show off Utah’s traditions.

Day Trip to Park City

Park City is just 40 minutes from Salt Lake, famous for its ski resorts and Main Street charm. Spend the day popping into galleries, boutique shops, or grabbing coffee at a café.

Outdoor fun is year-round—mountain biking, hiking, and ziplining in summer, world-class skiing in winter. The combo of small-town feel and big adventure makes it a super easy day trip.

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

Picking your place to stay can really change the trip. Some hotels go all out on luxury, others keep it simple and budget-friendly.

Grand America Hotel

If you’re after something fancy, the Grand America Hotel is hard to beat.

Rooms are elegant, with plush beds and roomy bathrooms. You’ll have a full-service spa, outdoor pool, and fine dining right on site. The location’s handy—close to downtown, so you can walk or take a quick drive to spots like Temple Square or City Creek Center.

The staff gets high marks for friendliness. You’ll also spot beautiful gardens and art throughout the place, giving it a classy but relaxed vibe.

Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City

If you’re watching your budget, Comfort Inn & Suites Salt Lake City might be your spot. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the price feels fair for what you get.

They throw in free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking, which honestly helps if you hate paying for every little extra. The location’s handy, too—close to public transportation, so getting downtown or anywhere else is a breeze. No need to stress about traffic or parking in the city.

The rooms are pretty basic, but they’re tidy and do the job. If you just want somewhere practical to crash after a day exploring Salt Lake City, this place works.