Things to do · Salt Lake City, Utah, US

Things to Do in Salt Lake City

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Getting there
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) sits roughly 8 km west of downtown and handles most commercial flights, with typical connections from Denver, Phoenix and major coastal hubs. From the terminal, a 20‑minute taxi or rideshare drop‑off is common, and the Utah Transit Authority’s TRAX light‑rail line also links the airport to the city center. Seasonal ski‑season shuttles and interstate‑15 road trips are other popular ways to arrive.
Who goes
The metropolitan area welcomes around 25 million visitors annually, drawn by outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs and a growing foodie crowd. Peak travel falls in the winter ski season and summer hiking months, when streets feel busiest; the quieter stretch is late winter to early spring, when locals reclaim the downtown cafés. The city’s mix of families, solo adventurers and business travelers creates a balanced vibe year‑round.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend roughly $80‑$120 USD (≈ ¥300‑¥450 ¥) per day on meals, modest lodging and transit, while a comfortable stay often runs $150‑$250 USD (≈ ¥560‑¥940 ¥). Accommodations and dining typically consume the biggest share of the budget. To stretch dollars, consider staying in a nearby suburb such as Murray and using the free TRAX service to commute into the city core. Estimate →

  1. Temple Square

    attraction · 4.7 rating · Free

    The historic 10-acre religious and cultural complex at the heart of Salt Lake City, centered on the Salt Lake Temple and Tabernacle. A major landmark and the city's most recognized destination for history, architecture, and gardens.

  2. Natural History Museum of Utah

    attraction · 4.8 rating · $24.95

    A major museum in Salt Lake City showcasing Utah's natural history, including fossils, geology, and Native American culture, housed in a striking building near the foothills. A leading destination for science and nature exhibits.

  3. Utah State Capitol

    attraction · 4.7 rating · Free

    The neoclassical seat of Utah's government, set on a hill with commanding views of the Salt Lake Valley. Travelers come for the architecture, historical exhibits, and grounds.

  4. Salt Lake Tabernacle

    church · 4.6 rating · Free

    Home to the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Tabernacle Organ.

  5. Great Salt Lake Base and Meridian

    attraction · 3.9 rating · Free

    The initial survey point from which land in Utah is measured, marked as a historical geodetic reference. Travelers with an interest in surveying history or landmarks stop to see the marker.

  6. Utah's Hogle Zoo

    attraction · 4.1 rating · $26.95

    A large zoo home to animals from around the world, with habitats and family exhibits. Travelers visit to see wildlife up close and enjoy an outdoor day out.

  7. City Creek Park

    park · 4.5 rating · Free

    A downtown Salt Lake City park with landscaped grounds, a creek, and walking paths. Travelers visit for a peaceful green break in the city center.

  8. This Is The Place Heritage Park

    park · 4.4 rating · $25

    A large open-air living-history park recreating a 19th-century Utah pioneer village with historic buildings and interpreters. Travelers come to explore pioneer heritage and family-oriented activities.

  9. Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park

    park · 4.5 rating · $14.95

    A dedicated bird park and aviary set within Liberty Park, home to hundreds of birds and interactive exhibits. Travelers visit to observe birds and enjoy nature with family.

  10. Cathedral of the Madeleine

    church · 4.7 rating · Free

    A beautiful church known for its incredible stained glass.

  11. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

    attraction · $18

    A large botanical garden and arboretum in the foothills near the University of Utah, featuring themed gardens, trails, and a summer concert series. Travelers go for flowers, nature walks, and scenic views.

  12. Liberty Park

    theme park · Free

    Salt Lake City's largest and most popular urban park, featuring walking paths, an aviary, ponds, and open green space. A beloved spot for recreation and relaxation.

  13. Clark Planetarium

    attraction · Free

    A science museum and planetarium in Salt Lake City featuring space exhibits, a dome theater, and interactive displays. Travelers, especially families, visit for astronomy shows and hands-on science.

  14. Ensign Peak

    attraction · Free

    A short but steep trail leading to a hilltop with panoramic views over the Salt Lake Valley, historically significant as an early Mormon pioneer lookout point. Popular for sunset views and a quick outdoor escape near downtown.

  15. Gilgal Sculpture Garden

    attraction · Free

    An unusual hidden garden filled with idiosyncratic stone sculptures and engraved scriptures created by a local businessman. A quirky, peaceful spot for offbeat art and contemplation.

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