As a frequent traveler and outdoor enthusiast, I’m always looking for new places to explore.So when I recently had the chance to spend a weekend in Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah, I jumped at the opportunity.
Known for its proximity to gorgeous mountain ranges and national parks, Salt Lake City has so much to offer visitors.
During my short time there, I packed in as many sights, activities, and restaurants as I could.
If you’re planning a trip this year, here are my recommendations for the top 9 things to do in Salt Lake City!
Here Are The Top Things to do in Salt Lake City this weekend
1. Visit Temple Square
Regardless of your religious affiliation, Temple Square is one of the must-see things to do in Salt Lake City this weekend.
This beautifully landscaped 10-acre plot contains the iconic Salt Lake Temple, Tabernacle, and Assembly Hall of the Latter-day Saints.
I was awe-struck by the architecture and attention to detail, especially inside the Temple.
While only church members can enter the Temple itself, anyone is welcome to stroll the grounds and visit the other buildings.
I suggest allocating at least a couple of hours to fully appreciate everything Temple Square has to offer.
2. Ride the Tram to the Top of Ensign Peak
For unbeatable panoramic views of the valley and Great Salt Lake, take the short tram ride to the top of Ensign Peak.
The hike to the peak is only about a mile round-trip, but the tram makes it accessible to people of all abilities.
I went just before sunset and watching the valley light up as the sun went down was mesmerizing.
This one of the fun things to do in Salt Lake City is free to visit and open year-round until 10 p.m., so head up at night if you want to see the city lights!
3. Wander Through Red Butte Garden
Stretching across over 100 acres just minutes from downtown, Red Butte Garden is a lovely oasis with botanical collections, outdoor sculptures, and walking trails.
I spent a peaceful afternoon meandering through the various gardens like the Medicinal Trail, Camellia Way, and Children’s Garden.
Be sure to allow time to stroll through the Rose Garden when it’s in full bloom! Admission is $12 for adults and is worth every penny.
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4. Hit the Slopes at One of the Local Resorts
Utah is synonymous with incredible skiing and boarding.
Even if it’s summer, the resorts offer fun activities like mountain biking, roller coasters, alpine slides, and more.
Deer Valley, Park City, Snowbird, Alta, Brighton, and Solitude Mountain are all less than an hour’s drive from Salt Lake.
I spent an exhilarating day hitting the slopes at Deer Valley followed by an epic apres session in town.
5. Shop and Dine on Historic 25th Street
If you are looking for amazing things to do in Salt Lake City, then visit this Historic 25th Street. Downtown Salt Lake City has lots of great shops and restaurants, but 25th Street is particularly charming.
Lined with cute boutiques, coffee shops, and eateries, it’s very walkable and lively.
I had a fantastic brunch at Pig & A Jelly Jar followed by browsing the Saturday farmers market.
Later at dinner, Current Fish & Oyster totally exceeded my expectations. Save room for dessert at Amy’s Organic Ice Cream!
6. Tour the Utah State Capitol
Even if you’re not into politics or history and looking for fun things to do in Salt Lake City, the Utah State Capitol is worth a quick visit, especially since guided tours are free!
The grand building was constructed in 1916 and has some very interesting architecture.
My favorite part was viewing the copper-covered dome from the inside and learning about the building’s symbolic details on the tour.
7. Spend a Day in Park City
Just a 35-minute drive from downtown, Park City is a charming mountain town with a fun main street, restaurants, hiking trails, and more.
I drove up early, grabbed a coffee and scone at Atticus Coffee Books & Teahouse, and then laced up my hiking boots to tackle the scenic Spiro Trail.
After working up an appetite, I wandered Main Street ducking into shops and cooling off with ice cream at Salt & Straw.
I ended my day in Park City with a delicious dinner at Riverhorse on Main.
8. Visit the Great Salt Lake
You can’t visit Salt Lake City without seeing the Great Salt Lake! Spanning over 1800 square miles, it’s the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.
I drove 30 minutes north and spent a sunny morning beach combing and watching birds at Antelope Island State Park.
There are several good vantage points around the lake to take in the views. Many companies also offer boat cruises or kayak tours. However you choose to experience it, the lake is a must-see and one of the fun things to do in Salt Lake City.
9. Check Out the Local Craft Beer Scene
Did you know Utah has one of the fastest-growing craft beer cultures in the US? There are so many great local breweries and brewpubs to sample.
Some of my favorites were Squatters Pub Brewery (don’t miss the Chasing Tail Golden Ale), Red Rock Brewery (killer Tomato Beer), and Fisher Brewing Company (unique Utah Bees Knees Honey Hefeweizen).
Most places offer 4-5 oz tasters so you can try a variety without getting overwhelmed.
