34 Fun Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah in 2024

LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN SALT LAKE CITY?

You’ve come to the right place. We’ve both been traveling to Utah since we were kids and we visit the Salt Lake area frequently with our own family now. There are many really fun things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Every time we visit there is something different. Whether you’re looking for some city vibes or want to spend time outdoors, SLC is a great place to visit.

We hope our comprehensive list will give you great ideas on what to do in town because there are a lot of fun and adventurous things to do in Salt Lake City and nearby.

Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Utah

1. Tour The Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake Guided Bus Tour from Salt Lake City is a fun activity for anyone visiting the area. The tour takes you through some of the most beautiful and secluded parts of the Great Salt Lake, providing stunning views and an up-close look at the diverse wildlife that calls the lake home.

You’ll also learn about the history and geology of the lake and how it has shaped the development of Utah. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about sharing their love for the lake. If you’re a local or a visitor, this tour is a great way to enjoy all that the Great Salt Lake has to offer.

▶ BOOK Great Salt Lake Tour

2. Tabernacle Choir Performance

The Tabernacle at Temple Square is a choir made up of 360 men and women. They have performed worldwide at acclaimed concert halls, World Fairs, inaugurations of U.S. presidents, and the Olympics. While a religious choir, they have non-religious performances as well.

You can find their schedule online. If you aren’t lucky enough to be in town during one of their performances, every Thursday from 7:30 to 9:30 pm, they have a practice that is open to the public that is held in the Tabernacle on Temple Square.

We went to one of their practices, and they were rehearsing music from The Sound of Music. It was fantastic.

The Tabernacle Choir Performance + Salt Lake City Bus Tour takes you to see everything that Salt Lake City has to offer and a visit to Temple Square, the home of the Tabernacle Choir, as well as a performance by the choir.

The tour also takes in some of the other attractions in Salt Lake City, such as the City and County building, Salt Lake Temple, and the Mormon Battalion Visitor Center. The bus tour is an excellent way to see the city and learn about its history and culture. The tour guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making sure that everyone on the tour enjoys themselves.

▶ BOOK Choir Performance and Bus Tour

3. Bike Tour

The Salt Lake City Big City Loop Bike Tour is a great way to see the city and get some exercise at the same time. The tour takes you through some of the most scenic parts of the city, and it’s a great way to get to know your way around.

The tour includes stops at landmarks such as the State Capitol, Temple Square, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Conference Center.

You’ll also get a chance to see some of the city’s unique architecture up close. People enjoy this tour because it is a great way to see the city, learn about its history, and get some exercise all at the same time.

▶ BOOK Salt Lake City Bike Tour

4. Salt Lake Trolley Tour

Our sightseeing trolley tour with Salt Lake Trolley Tours was one of our favorite things we did on our trip to SLC. The tour lasts about two hours and takes you through the historical districts of Salt Lake City.

We had about three days for our last visit, which was a great way to get an overview of the town. We learned so much about the history of Salt Lake and saw a ton of things we wouldn’t have seen otherwise.

The tour starts at historic Temple Square with many different stops along the way. Some of our favorite stops were at Union Square, the Capitol, and the Cathedral of the Madeleine. There are a couple of places you can get off the trolley and take pictures which is a lot of fun.

5. Red Butte Garden

The Red Butte Garden in Salt Lake City is a botanical garden and arboretum. It has around 100 acres of gardens with different themes and paths with almost 5 miles of trails to explore. The garden is the largest botanical garden on the intermountain west.

They also have events that are lots of fun. This is a self-guided tour and is something children and adults will enjoy. The garden is accessible by wheelchairs and strollers.

6. Real Salt Lake Game

Real Salt Lake is a professional soccer team based in Salt Lake City. Their stadium is a little south of Salt Lake in Sandy, Utah, but a trip down for a game is well worth it.

The fans are die-hards, and the games have such a fun and energetic atmosphere. The game we went to had a weather delay due to a thunderstorm. It was pouring rain. Like – pouring rain!

We were huddled under the bleachers underneath a group of drummers. They played through the entire rain storm and continued when the game resumed. Now that is dedication to your team!

7. City Creek

City Creek is a great place to spend an afternoon. This area is much more than a shopping mall. It has a fully-retractable glass roof, choreographed fountain shows, waterfalls, and a creek that runs through it. There are many delicious places to eat if you’re hungry.

There are about 110 premier stores and restaurants. City Creek has a splash fountain that the kids can play in as well, which our kids loved. Right next to the fountain is Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, and we do like some chocolate from time to time.

8. Hogle Zoo

Utah’s Hogle Zoo is an outing that everyone in your family will enjoy. The zoo has eight different exhibits and many different programs held throughout the day. They even have a giraffe feeding during the summer months. The exhibits are set up in a way that makes it easy to see and get close to the animals.

We loved the giraffes, elephants, and polar bears. Don’t miss the Rocky Shores exhibit. It is home to bears, sea lions, seals, and otters. It was the highlight of our trip to Hogle Zoo.

If you’re looking for other fun things to do with kids, check out our guide here.

9. Utah State Capitol

Considered one of Utah’s most prominent landmarks, the Capitol Building is a beautiful building with incredible views of the Salt Lake Valley. If you’re planning on going on the Trolley Tour, you won’t need to come here on your own. The Utah Capitol is a stop where you can get off the trolley at.

The Capitol is open Monday-Friday, 7 am-8 pm. There is a great Visitors Center you can stop by for more information and take a guided tour. If you’re going on a tour with less than 10 people, you can go without a reservation.

If you would prefer a self-guided tour, pick up a pamphlet at the entrance and make sure you see the gold room. It is beautiful!

10. Day Trip to Bear Lake

Bear Lake is a gorgeous destination that should be on everyone’s list of places to visit. The lake has some of the most beautiful tortoise water and one of the best lake beaches in the United States. The lake and surrounding area are great for fishing, hiking, biking, and picnicking.

One of our favorite things to do around the lake that does not involve being on the lake is riding the mounts on an OHV or SXS. These can be rented in town, and they are so much fun.

It is also enjoyable to just drive around the lake and look at the different cabins and houses along the lake and mountains. Bear Lake is a truly unique place and a location we have returned to for many years.

If you’re going up to Bear Lake, be sure to check out our guide: 26 Awesome Things to Do in Bear Lake.

11. Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats are a truly unique destination. Situated in the Utah desert, the flats are covered in a thick layer of salt that has been left behind by evaporating lakes. The salt creates a flat, level surface that is perfect for speed trials and land-speed records.

As a result, the Bonneville Salt Flats have become an iconic destination for racing fans from all over the world. Every year, thousands of people flock to the flats to watch the land-speed record attempts. And while the speeds reached are truly impressive, it is the fascinating landscape that really captivates visitors.

Standing on the salt flats, it is easy to feel like you are on another planet. The vast expanse of white is mesmerizing, and the sun’s reflections create an otherworldly effect. It is no wonder that the Bonneville Salt Flats have become such a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers alike.

The Bonneville Salt Flats are located about 60 miles west of SLC, Utah.

12. Hike Ensign Peak 

Ensign Peak is one of the fun things to do in Salt Lake City and is a great way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors. There are few hikes more scenic than Ensign Peak. Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, Ensign Peak is just under a mile long and offers stunning views of the city below.

The hike is relatively easy, making it accessible for hikers of all skill levels. I did this hike by myself with my young twins, and we had a great time.

Because the trailhead is located just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City, it’s the perfect hike for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

13. Temple Square Tour

Temple Square is a 10-acre center owned by the LDS Church. The square is found in the center of Salt Lake City and is the base for the road names found throughout Salt Lake.

In 1964 it was designated as a national historic landmark district to recognize the Mormons settling in Utah.

There is so much to do and see on Temple Square. The Family History Library is the world’s largest genealogical library in the world and is open to the public. It uses the same databases as Ancestry.com.

You can find information for a self-guided tour here or request a free tour here.

14. Beehive House

The Beehive House was built in 1854. It was the home of Brigham Young, the second leader of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the first governor of Utah, and offices for the Church.

A beehive was put on top of the house to symbolize the strength of bees working together. This is why Utah became known as the beehive state. Today, it is a museum housing the personal belongings of Brigham Young and his family.

There are free tours of the Beehive House every day from 9:00 am to 8:30 pm.

15. Joseph Smith Memorial Building

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is located at 15 East South Temple in Salt Lake City, Utah. The building was originally built as the Hotel Utah in 1911 and was later remodeled in memory of Joseph Smith, the founding prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is now a hotel and a conference center that hosts more than 600 events yearly.

The building is also home to a restaurant, a theatre, and a museum. The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is an iconic landmark in Salt Lake City and is a popular tourist destination. More than 1 million people visit the building each year.

The Legacy Theater is also found inside. It is a 500-seat theater featuring short films from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

16. Eccles Theater

Eccles Theater is a popular destination in Salt Lake City. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy acts. What makes Eccles Theater so special is its incredible acoustics. The theater was designed specifically with sound in mind, and it truly is a remarkable place to see a show.

In addition to great acoustics, Eccles Theater also has comfortable seats and a spacious lobby area. The theater is easily accessible by public transportation, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby for pre- or post-show dining. This is a great place to enjoy yourself with your significant other.

17. Day Trip to Park City

Park City is about 45 minutes west of Salt Lake City and is a great place to spend some time in the mountains. Whether you visit in the summer or winter, Park City has something for everyone to enjoy.

We visited in the summer and had a great time at Park City Mountain and Utah Olympic Park. For dinner, check out Grub Steak Restaurant.

For our full list of Park City recommendations, check out our 25 Memorable Things to Do in Park City. The mountain air will do you some good!

18. Hale Center Theatre

Hale Centre Theatre is a Saturday date night tradition for many Utah families. It’s an affordable way to get away from the kids for a few hours and enjoy some quality time together. The theatre offers a wide variety of shows, from classics like “My Fair Lady” and “The Sound of Music” to modern hits like “Elf the Musical!” and “Newsies.”

There’s something for everyone at Hale Centre Theatre. The best part is that the seats are always comfortable and the view is perfect, no matter where you’re sitting in the house.

Whether you’re seeing a show for the first time or the hundredth time, Hale Centre Theatre is always a great night out.

19. Tulip Festival and Thanksgiving Point

Held at Thanksgiving Point usually during the last two weeks of April, the Tulip Festival is something you must check out if you’re in town. The Tulip Festival has been happening for almost 20 years. We went a couple of years ago, and it was so pretty.

Each year there are about 280,000 tulips in bloom, representing hundreds of different varieties. The Tulip Festival also features many different events such as a kids’ playland, concerts, and more.

20. Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a world-renowned research and collections institution dedicated to providing fascinating exhibitions and educational programs about the natural history of our state and the planet. The museum is situated on the campus of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City and is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Utah.

It features an array of exciting permanent exhibits, including the popular Dinosaur Gallery, as well as rotating special exhibitions that highlight the work of contemporary artists, scientists, and historians.

The Museum also offers a variety of educational programs for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families and school groups. With its commitment to excellence in research and education, the Natural History Museum of Utah provides visitors with a unique and enlightening experience.

21. Utah Museum of Fine Arts 

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is a great museum that features a wide variety of art from different cultures and periods. The museum offers a variety of programs and classes that help people learn about the different types of art on display. The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions that showcase the work of specific artists or groups.

These exhibitions allow people to see rare and unique art pieces up close. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is a place where people can come to appreciate the beauty and diversity of art from around the world.

22. Liberty Park

Liberty Park is a popular park in the city because it has something for everyone. It has a playground for children, a basketball court for athletes, and a family picnic area. There is also a pond where people can go fishing and a walking trail that is perfect for a morning jog or an afternoon stroll.

Liberty Park is also located in the city’s heart, making it easy to get to.

23. Marmalade Hill Historic District

The Marmalade Hill Historic District is one of the most unique and interesting places in Salt Lake City. It gets its name, the Marmalade Hill Historic District, from the early settlers in the area and the fruit trees and plants they planted in the area.

It is a small area from 300 North on the South and 500 North on the North. The main street is going to be Quince Street.

The area is home to various historic buildings, including the Marmalade Branch Library and the Marmalade Schoolhouse. Visitors can explore the district’s history through various walking tours, museum exhibits, and events.

The district is also home to several businesses, including several restaurants, cafes, shops, and galleries.

24. This is the Place Monument

This is the Place Monument is a popular tourist destination in Salt Lake City, Utah. The monument is situated on a small hill overlooking the valley below. Visitors can take in the panoramic view of the city and surrounding mountains.

There are also picnic tables and benches nearby, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the scenery. In addition, This is the Place Monument is a great place to learn about Utah’s history.

The monument commemorates the arrival of Mormon pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. There are also several interactive displays that provide information about the early days of settlement in Utah. As a result, This is the Place Monument is a great way to spend an afternoon in Salt Lake City.

To learn more about the This is the Place Monument and different activities in the area, you can check out their website here.

25. Utah Jazz Game

If you are in the area, going to see the Utah Jazz play is a very fun experience. The Utah Jazz are the professional basketball team in Salt Lake City, with some of their more famous players being Carl Malone and John Stockton.

You can see the Utah Jazz schedule here.

26. Pioneer Memorial Museum

The Pioneer Memorial Museum is one of the fun things to do in Salt Lake City. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the pioneers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints who settled in Utah. Visitors can see how the pioneers lived and worked, as well as how they built their homes and communities.

There are also exhibits on the Mormon Trail, the handcart companies, and the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. In addition, the museum has an extensive collection of pioneer artifacts, including furniture, tools, dishes, and clothing.

The Pioneer Memorial Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Utah and the Mormon pioneers.

27. Salt Lake City Public Library

The Salt Lake City Public Library is a beautiful place with plenty to do. There are plenty of books to read, items to check out, and quiet places to study or work. The staff is very friendly and helpful, and they offer a variety of programs for all ages.

If you are going to Salt Lake City with kids, be sure to check out the kids’ section in the basement. My kids love all of the fun toys and great displays they have there.

If you are interested in checking out their schedule and upcoming events, you can visit their website.

28. Big Cottonwood Canyon

The Big Cottonwood Canyon is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Salt Lake City, Utah. It is known for its scenic beauty, as well as its many hiking and biking trails. There are also several campgrounds located within the canyon, making it a great destination for any nature lover.

The canyon is home to two ski resorts, Brighton and Solitude, both being very popular with those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding. A visit to these resorts is one of the best things to do in winter in Salt Lake City. In the summer, people enjoy rock climbing and the tranquil picnic areas.

If you are visiting in the Fall, there is beautiful foliage if you drive up the canyon. This is one of my favorite places to see the fall colors in Utah.

Some of the most popular hiking trails are:

• Lake Blanche
• Mineral Fork
• Donut Falls
• Dog Lake
• Desolation Lake
• Silver Lake

29. Tracy Aviary

The Tracy Aviary is a great attraction in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Aviary is open year-round, where you can see the birds play in the snow and the beautiful grounds. Visitors can get up close with a wide variety of birds like flamingos and raptors or participate in the keeper job shadow program and see behind the scenes with those who feed the bird.

In addition to bird watching, the aviary also offers a variety of educational programs and events. The staff is passionate about educating the public about the importance of bird conservation, and they offer a variety of resources to help visitors learn more about these amazing creatures.

Learn more about the aviary and its programs on its website.

30. Clark Planetarium

The Clark Planetarium is a popular destination in Salt Lake City, Utah. Located in the heart of the city, the planetarium offers an opportunity to view the night sky in all its beauty. The planetarium also houses a number of exhibits on astronomy and space science.

In addition, the planetarium offers a variety of educational programs for both children and adults. Whether you are interested in learning about the stars and planets or simply want to enjoy a night out under the stars, the Clark Planetarium is sure to offer an enjoyable experience.

We really enjoyed our visit to the Clark Planetarium with our kids and even if you aren’t visiting with kids, a visit can be fun if you’re interested in Outer Space. Plus, entrance to the Clark Planetarium is free!

You can learn more about the Clark Planetarium and its events, programs, and exhibits online.

31. City Creek Natural Area

The City Creek Natural Area is a beautiful place to visit, located in Salt Lake City. There are hiking and biking trails that wind through the area and a variety of plant and animal life to see.

The Natural Area is home to a wide variety of birds, making it a great place for bird-watching. If you are interested in checking out the City Creek Natural Area, the address is 375 120 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84103.

32. Spitz

Spitz is a restaurant in the heart of downtown that specializes in Mediterranean street food. It is home to the döner kebab or “spit” of rotating meat. The restaurant has such a fun atmosphere with SUCH delicious food.

They have an awesome outside dining area which was perfect for eating out with our kids. We ordered the street cart fries, street cart döner, and the döner salad. All of the entrees were delicious.

You can’t really go wrong with dinner plans when fries are the main course!

33. Fillings & Emulsions

After a long day of just about anything, it’s time to reward yourself with some sweets from Fillings and Emulsions! The pastry menu contains unique combinations of French culinary and Latin flavors. Key Lime Cheesecake. Pistachio Black Cherry Macarons. Churro dulce de Leche Cruffin. The list goes on and on.

On their website, it says you will be happy just by looking at their brightly colored macarons, and it’s the truth. The macarons have a perfect combination of flavor, are delightfully light, and are almost too pretty to eat. Then our taste buds kicked in, and we tried almost every flavor!

34. Feldman’s Deli

Feldman’s Deli is an authentic Jewish deli that will make you feel like you’ve traveled to New York for a meal out. Their ½-pound sandwiches are truly a unique flavor to Utah and something you must try while you are in town. We ordered the signature sloppy Joe, the Rachel, and a kid’s grilled cheese.

All of the sandwiches were delicious. If you’re looking for a unique place to eat, this is it! You just can’t go wrong with smoked meats, pickles, rye bread, and spicy brown mustard.

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City

Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown

The Le Meridien is a brand new hotel in the heart of downtown Salt Lake. It has a convenient location to get to all of the fun things to do in Salt Lake City. Le Meridien offers standard hotel room options, many of which have stunning city views.

It is within a short walking distance of many great attractions like Pioneer Park, the Gallivan Center Ice Rink, and City Creek Park. There are also lots of great restaurants within a few minutes of walking.

There is a rooftop saltwater pool on the roof with stunning city views. This is especially beautiful at sunset.

This is a pet-friendly hotel if you’re traveling with a furry friend; however, charges may apply.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Le Meridien

Getting to Le Meridien

📍 Le Meridien Address: 131 South 300 West, Salt Lake City, Utah, 84101 | Google Maps | Book Le Meridien Now

Hilton Salt Lake City Center

The Hilton Salt Lake City Center is a beautiful hotel with a long history of great customer service and high value. It has a great downtown location with lots of great perks like baggage storage, a swimming pool, and a fitness center.

Some of the best restaurants within a short walk are Trofi, 50 West Club & Cafe, and Button Down.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Hilton Salt Lake City Center

⭐ Hilton Salt Lake City Center Reviews (7.7 out of 10 Stars)

The hotel was centralized in the area of downtown SLC where we needed to be. Great staff, clean rooms – Tami (Booking Review)

Beautiful establishment top to bottom. Loved the friendly customer service and polite employees. Spencer’s was a fantastic bonus to our stay! – John (Booking Review)

▶ Check Rates & Book: Hilton Salt Lake City Center

Getting to Hilton Salt Lake City Center

📍 Hilton Salt Lake City Center Address: 255 South West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101 | Google Maps | Book Hilton Salt Lake City Center Now

Marriott Salt Lake City Center

The Marriott Salt Lake City Center is a beautiful 4-star hotel conveniently located downtown. There is a delicious Italian restaurant on-site open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This is a great location for those traveling for business and families. The Salt Palace Convention Center is within 10 minutes of walking. The Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, a place my kids LOVE, is 1.5 miles away.

▶ Check Rates & Book: Marriott Salt Lake City Center

⭐ Marriott Salt Lake City Center Reviews (8.6 out of 10 Stars)

I was in and out of Salt Lake City from London for meetings and the hotel was exactly what I needed – comfortable room, good gym, healthy food – perfect. Even managed to squeeze in a city walk due to the great location. – Jonathan (Booking Review)

The staff!! I can’t say enough about them from the servers to the concierges to the valets. They all were so customer focused and happy in their jobs. – Georgia (Booking Review)

▶ Check Rates & Book: Marriott Salt Lake City Center

Getting to Marriott Salt Lake City Center

📍 Marriott Salt Lake City Center Address: 220 South State Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84111 | Google Maps | Book Marriott Salt Lake City Center

FAQ: Things to Do in Salt Lake City

What is Salt Lake popular for?

Salt Lake City is a popular tourist destination for various reasons but is most famous for the Salt Lake City Temple at Temple Square. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby Wasatch Mountains.

What are some other popular tourist destinations in Salt Lake City?

The most famous destination in Salt Lake City is Temple Square, which is home to the Salt Lake City Temple. During holidays the lights on Temple Square are a must-see.

Is Salt Lake City worth visiting?

Salt Lake City is a fun city to visit. It has some unique areas and is home to the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.

What do people do at the Salt Lake? 

Many people in the Salt Lake Valley enjoy the outdoors. There are lots of beautiful canyons and ski resorts. The city has some very unique history and beautiful sights.

Conclusion: Things to Do in Salt Lake City 

We hope our comprehensive list of what to do in Salt Lake City has given you some great ideas of what to do when you visit this beautiful city. We have family in this area and in nearby Provo, so we find ourselves here several times a year.

There are so many great places to spend time outdoors, and the downtown area has lots of fun things to do. If you are starting a road trip here, be sure to consider going on a road trip from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone National Park. Or other national park adventures like Zion and Bryce!