Salt Lake City, Utah: 10 Amazing Things to Do Nearby
10 Fun Things to Do Near Salt Lake City, Utah
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| From Temple Square to canyon tram rides and Great Salt Lake sunsets, Salt Lake City blends easy city exploring with mountain adventure. |
If you're planning a trip to Salt Lake City, Utah, you're in for a treat. This mountain-backed city in Salt Lake County has a little bit of everything: scenic views, family-friendly spots, outdoor fun, and easy day trips. Whether you're visiting for a weekend or you live nearby and want fresh ideas, there are plenty of great things to do near Salt Lake City.
I’ve always thought Salt Lake City is one of those places that surprises people. At first glance, it feels calm and easygoing. Then you look closer and realize you can go from downtown streets to hiking trails in what feels like no time at all. That mix is part of what makes it so fun.
Below are 10 great places and activities to add to your list.
1. Walk Around Temple Square
One of the most well-known places in Salt Lake City, Utah is Temple Square. Even if you're not visiting for religious reasons, this area is worth seeing. The grounds are beautiful, and the buildings give you a sense of the city's history.
It's a nice place for a relaxed stroll, especially if you enjoy gardens, architecture, and photo spots. During the holiday season, the lights here can make the whole area feel a bit like a snow globe come to life.
- Great for first-time visitors
- Easy downtown stop
- Beautiful in every season
2. Ride Up to Snowbird or Alta
If you love mountain views, head up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird or Alta. In winter, these are top ski areas near Salt Lake City. In summer, they’re still just as appealing, with hiking, scenic tram rides, and cool air that feels amazing on a hot day.
Even if you don’t ski, the drive alone is worth it. The canyon walls rise around you like nature built its own grand hallway. It’s one of those trips where you’ll probably want to stop every few minutes for a photo.
3. Explore Big Cottonwood Canyon
Looking for outdoor things to do near Salt Lake City? Big Cottonwood Canyon is a local favorite. It's a great spot for hiking, picnics, scenic drives, and just getting away from city noise for a while.
Trails range from easy walks to more challenging climbs, so there’s something for most skill levels. If you're the kind of traveler who likes to pack snacks and spend a half day outside, this is a smart pick.
Tip: Bring a light jacket. Even when the city feels warm, the canyon can be a good bit cooler.
4. Visit the Great Salt Lake
You really can’t talk about Salt Lake City, Utah attractions without mentioning the Great Salt Lake. It’s one of the most unique natural spots in the state, and seeing it in person is different from just reading about it.
The salty water, wide-open views, and quiet feel make it memorable. Antelope Island is one of the best nearby areas to explore if you want hiking, wildlife viewing, and lake scenery all in one trip.
Have you ever seen a landscape that feels almost otherworldly? That’s what this area can be like, especially at sunset.
5. Spend Time at Red Butte Garden
If you want something peaceful, Red Butte Garden is a wonderful stop near downtown Salt Lake City. It’s part botanical garden, part walking escape, and part scenic overlook.
This is the kind of place where you can slow down and breathe a little deeper. Paths wind through colorful plants and seasonal displays, and the mountain views in the background make it even better. Spring and summer are especially pretty, but there’s charm here all year.
6. Tour Utah's Hogle Zoo
Traveling with kids? Utah's Hogle Zoo is a fun and easy choice. It’s close to the city and offers a full day of family-friendly entertainment without needing a long drive.
You’ll find animals from around the world, shaded walking paths, and exhibits that are easy to enjoy at your own pace. Sometimes the best travel memories are simple ones, like watching a child get excited over a giraffe or hearing everyone debate which animal is the funniest.
- Good for families
- Easy to pair with other city attractions
- Works well for a laid-back afternoon
7. Check Out the Natural History Museum of Utah
For a mix of fun and learning, stop by the Natural History Museum of Utah. This museum is packed with exhibits about dinosaurs, local landscapes, science, and the history of the region.
It’s a great rainy-day option, but honestly, it’s worth visiting even when the weather is perfect. The building itself is impressive, and the views from the area are excellent too. If you like places that make you say, “I didn’t know that,” this one delivers.
8. Stroll Through Liberty Park
Liberty Park is one of the best easygoing spots in Salt Lake City. If you need a break between bigger attractions, this is a great place to unwind. You can walk the paths, sit under the trees, or simply enjoy some fresh air.
Sometimes travel doesn’t need to be packed from morning to night. A park break can reset your day like charging your phone after it dips into the red. Liberty Park is perfect for that.
There’s also space for kids to play, and it’s a nice place for a casual picnic if you want to keep things simple.
9. Take a Day Trip to Park City
One of the best day trips from Salt Lake City, Utah is Park City. It’s about a 35-minute drive, depending on traffic, and it offers a different vibe with mountain-town charm, local shops, dining, and year-round outdoor activities.
In winter, people head there for skiing and snowboarding. In warmer months, you’ll find hiking, alpine slides, festivals, and scenic chairlift rides. Main Street is also fun to wander if you like browsing shops and grabbing a bite to eat.
If you only have time for one short trip outside the city, this is a strong option.
10. Catch the Views at Ensign Peak
For a quick outdoor adventure, hike Ensign Peak. This short trail gives you sweeping views over Salt Lake City and the surrounding valley. It’s not a huge journey, which makes it great if you want a rewarding outing without committing to a full-day hike.
Sunrise and sunset are especially popular here. Watching the city light shift as the sky changes color is a simple but memorable experience. Sometimes the best travel moments aren’t the busiest ones. They’re the quiet ones where you just stop and take it all in.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do Near Salt Lake City, Utah
From mountain canyons and lake views to museums, gardens, and easy day trips, there are so many great things to do near Salt Lake City, Utah. That’s what makes this area such a solid travel pick. You can keep your trip active, relaxing, family-focused, or a little of everything.
If you’ve been to Salt Lake City, which spot would you recommend first? And if you’re planning a visit, which one is going on your list? Leave a comment and share this post with someone who’s dreaming about Utah travel. It might help them plan their next getaway.
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