Though travelers often rush through Salt Lake City on their way to the nearby ski resorts and surreal red-rock landscapes of Utah’s national parks, this increasingly cosmopolitan city is well worth thoroughly exploring. Learn about the city’s Mormon heritage, browse exhibitions in its fascinating museums and sample local beers and regional fare in its new wave of trendy restaurants.
Stroll around town and admire the numerous examples of interesting architecture. Look for the striking glass façade and curved sweep of the Moshe Safdie-designed Salt Lake City Public Library and the imposing turreted Salt Lake Temple, which is topped by a gold-leaf covered statue of the Angel Moroni. Only members of the Latter-day Saints (LDS) church are allowed to enter.
While you’re on Temple Square, be sure to stop by the visitors centers. Staff here will be happy to answer your questions on the Mormon faith. Join a 45-minute guide-led tour of the square to find out more about its significance to the Mormon community.
When it comes to museums, Salt Lake City excels, with its highly regarded museums and educational institutions. Examine paleontological displays at the Natural History Museum of Utah, go stargazing at the Clark Planetarium and survey artworks ranging from tribal to modern in style at the Utah Museum of Fine Arts. Children will be kept agog at the interactive Discovery Gateway museum and the Hogle Zoo. Salt Lake City is also a common destination for family history researchers. Find out more about your ancestors at the Family History Library.
For outdoor adventurers, fun is never far in Salt Lake City, with the Wasatch Mountains and Antelope Island on the city’s doorstep. Venture southeast of the city to Snowbird for snow sports in the winter months and hiking and biking in summer.
Salt Lake City is located in northern Utah. Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport. To get around the downtown area, use the public bus network or the bike-share system. For destinations outside the city center, it’s advisable to rent a car.
