Part of our Utah guide.
Salt Lake City’s best sights and experiences, from hikes and wildlife to food and hidden corners, are gathered here in one practical guide. This page rounds up nine of our most useful articles on the city, so you can plan a trip that balances outdoor adventure, family-friendly attractions, and local flavor.
Related travel guides: Salt Lake City's Travel Guide, Uncover History At Salt Lake City's Fort Douglas Museum, Where Is Brighton Ski Resort, Secrets Of Salt Harvesting At Utah's Great Salt Lake, and Swim In The Unique Waters Of Great Salt Lake.
12 Scenic Hikes To Take In Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City sits right against the Wasatch Mountains, which means you can be on a trail within 20 minutes of downtown. The hikes below range from easy lakeside strolls to strenuous summit pushes. For a classic view of the valley, try the Living Room Trail, a 2.5-mile round trip that ends at a natural stone “living room” with sweeping city vistas. If you prefer alpine scenery, head to Lake Blanche, a 6.8-mile out-and-back that rewards you with turquoise water and towering peaks. For a shorter option, the Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers miles of rolling singletrack with direct access from the city. Always pack at least a liter of water per person, even on short hikes, and start early in summer to avoid the heat. Many of these trails connect to longer routes into the backcountry. Check trail conditions before you go, as snow can linger on higher paths into June.
Wild Wonders Await At Hogle Zoo In Salt Lake City
Hogle Zoo, located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, houses over 800 animals across 42 acres. You can see everything from African lions to Asian elephants, and the interactive exhibits let you get closer than you might expect. The Great Ape Building and the Rocky Shores area are highlights, and the daily feedings and keeper talks add extra value. Plan for at least three hours to see the whole zoo at a relaxed pace. The zoo is open year-round, but weekdays are quieter than weekends. If you’re visiting in summer, go early to beat the heat and the crowds. Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent, and there are plenty of shaded spots for a picnic lunch.
9 Relaxing Retreats To Enjoy In Salt Lake City, Utah
When you need a break from the city’s energy, these nine retreats offer a chance to slow down. Red Butte Garden, just above the University of Utah, features 18 acres of themed gardens and a mile of nature trails with views of the valley. Nearby, the Natural History Museum of Utah provides quiet galleries and a rooftop terrace. For a soak, head to the hot springs at Crystal Hot Springs, about 30 minutes north of downtown, where the mineral pools stay warm year-round. In the city itself, Liberty Park’s shaded lawns and pond offer a peaceful escape without leaving the urban core. Each of these spots works well for a half-day visit, and several are free or low-cost. If you’re looking for a guided experience, check out the Utah guide for seasonal events like outdoor yoga or garden tours.
6 Vibrant Festivals/Events To Attend In Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City’s event calendar fills up fast, especially in summer and fall. The Utah Arts Festival, held each June in Library Square, draws local and national artists for a weekend of live music, food, and hands-on art. In July, the Days of ’47 parade and fireworks celebrate the city’s pioneer heritage. For food lovers, the Downtown Farmers Market runs every Saturday from June through October, offering fresh produce and prepared foods from regional vendors. The Twilight Concert Series, also in summer, brings free outdoor concerts to Pioneer Park. And in December, the Christmas Electric Light Parade turns downtown into a winter wonderland. Check each event’s website for exact dates and ticket prices, as they change yearly.
Unveil The Magic Of City Creek Center In Salt Lake City
City Creek Center is an open-air shopping district with a retractable glass roof and a man-made creek running through the center, complete with bridges and fountains. You’ll find high-end brands like Nordstrom and Macy’s alongside local boutiques and a food court. The center connects directly to Temple Square via a pedestrian bridge, making it easy to combine shopping with sightseeing. Parking is available on-site, and the first two hours are free with validation. If you’re not in the mood to buy, the architecture and landscaping alone are worth a stroll. For a break, grab a coffee at one of the cafes and watch the water features.
Wings Of Wonder At Tracy Aviary In Salt Lake City
Tracy Aviary, located inside Liberty Park, is home to over 400 birds representing more than 130 species. The walk-through exhibits let you get up close with parrots, owls, and shorebirds, and daily shows highlight the birds’ natural behaviors. Kids can feed lorikeets in the interactive exhibit, and the educational programs are designed for all ages. Plan for two to three hours to explore the grounds, which include a boardwalk through a wetland habitat. The aviary is open daily, and admission is around $12 for adults, with discounts for children and seniors. Combine your visit with time in Liberty Park itself, which offers playgrounds, a pond, and plenty of open grass for a picnic.
6 Best Local Eateries In Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City’s food scene has grown well beyond the classic fry sauce and funeral potatoes. For a taste of the local favorite, head to Crown Burgers, where the pastrami burger is a city institution. If you want something fancier, Table X offers a rotating seasonal menu that showcases Utah produce. For casual Mexican, Red Iguana is famous for its mole, and the line is worth the wait. Coffee lovers should stop by Publik Coffee Roasters, which sources beans from small farms and roasts them in-house. For dessert, head to the Chocolate Conspiracy for handcrafted truffles and bars. Most of these spots are within a 10-minute drive of downtown, and several have multiple locations. Reservations are recommended for dinner at the sit-down places, especially on weekends.
Salt Lake City: Secret Honey Chamber Archives
Tucked away from the main tourist path, the Hidden Beehive Museum offers a niche look at the history of beekeeping. You’ll see vintage hives, tools, and photographs that trace the craft from the 1800s to today. The museum’s collection includes a working observation hive, so you can watch bees at work up close. Tastings are available, and the gift shop sells local honey and beeswax products. The museum is small—plan for about an hour—and is best for visitors with a specific interest in apiculture or local history. It’s located in a residential neighborhood, so look for the small sign out front. Check the website for opening hours, as they vary by season.
Unveil The Charm Of Liberty Park In Salt Lake City
Liberty Park is the city’s largest urban green space, covering 80 acres just south of downtown. The park has a large pond where you can rent paddle boats, plus tennis courts, a swimming pool, and plenty of shaded walking paths. The Tracy Aviary sits on the park’s south side, and the park’s trees are some of the oldest in the city. On weekends, you’ll find food trucks and families enjoying the open lawns. It’s an easy place to spend a few hours, whether you’re reading a book, having a picnic, or just watching the ducks. The park is open from dawn to dusk, and admission is free, though some attractions like the aviary charge a separate fee.
