Salt Lake City is the only place where nobody’s bored, but everyone’s on board—that is snowboards and paddleboards. Salt Lake City offers year-round access to a plethora of outdoor activities in the Wasatch Mountains, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and mountain biking. It’s a true haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
However, Salt Lake City offers an equally thrilling experience for city goers! Downtown’s rich culture, top-notch entertainment, and endless shopping and dining options ensure everyone has a good time in the Salt Lake Valley.
If you’re visiting Salt Lake City soon, keep reading. We’ve rounded up the top 10 things to do in Salt Lake City, plus five free activities you and your budget will love.
The Best Things About Living in Salt Lake City
According to Niche, Salt Lake City ranks as one of the best places to live in Utah—and while the proximity to world-class ski resorts is a major perk, it’s just the tip of the iceberg.
The city boasts a thriving job market with an unemployment rate below the national average, ensuring plenty of opportunities for its residents. While the city’s cost of living is slightly higher than the national average, it remains more affordable than other large metros like Chicago.
The real estate market is thriving too, with a median sale price of $549,000 in October 2024, reflecting a 7.6% year-over-year increase.
Additionally, getting around this big city is a breeze, thanks to Salt Lake City’s efficient public transportation system. The city offers light rail, commuter trains, and buses—perfect for both residents and visitors traveling in and around the city.
10 Things to Do in Salt Lake City
Without further ado, here are the top things to do in beautiful Salt Lake City!
1. Park City
No matter the season, a trip to Salt Lake City isn’t complete without a day in Park City, located just a 40-minute drive from downtown. Visiting in winter? Ski, sled, or après-ski to your heart’s content. Come summer, continue the adventure—hiking, mountain biking, or boating on Jordanelle Reservoir.
2. Utah’s Hogle Zoo
Featuring 800 species spread over 40 acres, Utah’s Hogle Zoo ensures every kid and kid at heart sees their favorite animal. If you love giraffes, you’re in for a treat—and so are the giraffes! You can feed them right from your hand, but ensure you sign up before your visit.
3. Downtown Salt Lake City
Immerse yourself in Salt Lake City’s charm with a day exploring downtown. Start with retail therapy at City Creek Center, a modern open-air mall with shops, restaurants, and a retractable glass roof. Then, visit historic landmarks like the Joseph Smith Memorial Building before ending your day with a performance at the Eccles Theater or an outdoor concert at the Gallivan Center.
4. Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
Smell the roses at the Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, located at the University of Utah. The Garden, one of the largest botanical gardens in the Intermountain West, features themed gardens, over 590,000 springtime blooming bulbs, and an outdoor concert series. It also has award-winning educational programs, great for the young and old alike.
5. Natural History Museum of Utah
Explore earth science and Utah’s native cultures all in one location at the Natural History Museum of Utah. From dinosaurs and gems to Native American cultures and earthquakes, the museum’s 10 galleries feature interactive displays great for all ages.
6. Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park
The Tracy Aviary is for the birds—literally! Located in scenic Liberty Park, the Tracy Aviary features 300 birds representing over 135 species. Enjoy interactive bird shows from afar, or get up close with your feathered friends by feeding them or shadowing a zookeeper.
7. Clark Planetarium
See the stars any time of the day at Clark Planetarium. The planetarium features 10,000 feet of free, hands-on exhibits (yes, seriously!), plus out-of-this-world laser light shows and 3-D IMAX films for a small entrance fee. Don’t forget a souvenir—the planetarium has one of the best science gift shops in all of Utah!
8. Sundance Film Festival
Experience the magic of cinema at the Sundance Film Festival, where indie filmmakers and Hollywood stars come together. Catch world premieres, engage in thought-provoking panels, and enjoy the buzz of creativity and storytelling. It’s a must-attend event for film lovers and culture enthusiasts alike!
9. Antelope Island State Park
Escape the city with a day trip to Antelope Island State Park, a peaceful haven on the Great Salt Lake. Hike scenic trails, spot free-ranging bison and antelope, or relax by the lake's salty shores. If you can’t get enough of one of the saltiest lakes on earth, explore more of its shoreline from the Great Salt Lake State Park.
10. Lagoon Amusement Park
Get your adrenaline fix at Lagoon, a thrilling amusement park outside Salt Lake City. Experience heart-pounding roller coasters, rides for all ages, and a water park for cooling off on hot days. With live evening entertainment, it’s the perfect place to spend the whole day.
Bonus: 5 Free Activities in Salt Lake City
1. Hike in the Wasatch Mountains
Thanks to the Wasatch Mountains, there’s never a shortage of trails to explore near Salt Lake City. Donut Falls, located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, offers a wide, easy-to-navigate trail that’s perfect for any group. The trail winds along a river before ending at a small waterfall, the idyllic backdrop for a summer picnic. Check out these additional free hikes near Salt Lake City!
2. Stroll through the City’s Farmers Markets
Salt Lake City is home to over 10 popular seasonal farmers markets. Get handmade goods and locally grown produce, or simply take in the sights and sounds of the city’s culture and people as you stroll through the market.
3. Visit Temple Square and Church History Museum
Explore the rich heritage of the Church of Jesus Christ at Temple Square and the Church History Museum, two must-visit attractions in Salt Lake City. Stroll through beautifully landscaped grounds, admire stunning architecture, and delve into the faith’s history through interactive exhibits—all for free.
4. See the Great Salt Lake
You can see the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere without spending a dime. That’s right! At the Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve, you can take a free audio tour along their mile-long boardwalk trail, allowing you to immerse yourself in the beauty of wetlands, spot diverse bird species, and learn about the lake’s unique ecosystem.
5. Picnic at Liberty Park
While it's home to the popular Tracy Aviary, Liberty Park offers much more than fanciful birds. The dog-friendly park is perfect for an afternoon picnic or an easy stroll around the park’s 1.4-mile loop trail. It also features a duck pond and play park, great for groups with kids. Liberty Park isn’t the only park in town. Fairmont, Mountainview Park, and Amphitheater Park are also worthy picnic spots.
Salt Lake City: Where the Fun Never Ends
With endless options for outdoor activities, entertainment, and a rich blend of culture and history, it’s easy to see why someone would want to visit Salt Lake City—or even buy a home here.
If you’re considering moving to Salt Lake City, explore our brand-new homes available today. Visit our communities in person, or purchase your dream home on your laptop (yes, seriously!), using our streamlined online homebuying process.
