Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City for Locals and Visitors

September 11, 2025

If you’re living in Salt Lake City or planning a move here, you’ll quickly discover that this place offers a perfect mix of city life, outdoor adventure, history, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re settling in long-term or just exploring while your boxes are still packed away in storage units in Salt Lake City, there’s always something new to see and do. 


From downtown architecture and hidden bookstores to hiking trails and day trips that take your breath away, Salt Lake is packed with experiences that make it a unique and welcoming place to call home.


Why Visit Salt Lake City


Salt Lake City has a little bit of everything: world-class skiing, fascinating history, a thriving food scene, and plenty of cultural attractions. Locals love how quickly you can get from downtown to the mountains, while visitors appreciate the balance between laid-back city living and endless outdoor options. 


Families find it approachable, solo travelers enjoy the mix of walkable downtown streets and easy drives to nearby attractions, and food lovers will be surprised at how much variety the city packs in. Salt Lake’s diversity of experiences is what keeps people coming back and what makes it a great place to live.


Best Time to Visit Salt Lake City


Salt Lake City is truly a year-round destination. Winters are all about skiing and snowboarding in nearby resorts like Park City and Snowbird. Spring brings blooming gardens, perfect hiking weather, and fewer crowds. 


Summers are hot but ideal for exploring the Great Salt Lake, catching outdoor concerts, and enjoying long evenings in the mountains. Fall is a favorite for many locals thanks to crisp air, colorful canyon drives, and seasonal festivals. 


No matter the season, there’s always a reason to get out and explore.


Where to Stay in Salt Lake City


Downtown is the best choice for first-time visitors since it puts you near top attractions like Temple Square, the Capitol, and plenty of restaurants. Sugar House is a popular neighborhood for those who want a more local, artsy vibe with trendy cafes and boutiques. 


If you’re passing through or catching an early flight, staying near the airport can be convenient. Each area has its own personality, so it depends on what type of trip you’re after.


Exploring Downtown Salt Lake City


Downtown is the heart of the city, and there’s plenty to see within just a few blocks. Temple Square is probably the most famous landmark, known for its historic buildings and beautifully maintained grounds. The Utah State Capitol offers excellent views of the city and mountains, plus free tours if you’re interested in history. 


Architecture fans should stop at the Salt Lake City Public Library, a modern and striking building that’s worth exploring inside and out. The city is also home to colorful murals and street art scattered around downtown—perfect for a walking tour or quick photo stops. 


For something different, Ken Sanders Rare Books is a beloved local shop where you can browse unique finds and soak in the old-school bookshop atmosphere.


Outdoor Adventures & Scenic Spots


One of Salt Lake City’s biggest draws is how quickly you can access outdoor adventures. The Great Salt Lake is an iconic stop, especially if you’ve never seen its unusual landscape. 


For something truly unique, the Bonneville Salt Flats offer surreal scenery just over an hour from the city. Closer to home, Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood Canyons are must-visit destinations for hiking, skiing, or simply taking a scenic drive. 


If you prefer something quick but rewarding, try the Living Room Hike or Ensign Peak, both offering panoramic views of the valley and downtown.


Family-Friendly Things to Do


Families moving to or visiting Salt Lake will find no shortage of activities. The Hogle Zoo is always a hit with kids and is just the right size for a day trip. Clark Planetarium downtown offers interactive exhibits and fun shows for all ages. 


Tracy Aviary, located in Liberty Park, is another family favorite where you can see birds from around the world in a relaxing outdoor setting. Red Butte Garden rounds out the list with wide open spaces, beautiful blooms, and family-friendly walking paths.


Arts, Culture & Local History


For those who enjoy arts and culture, Salt Lake City delivers. The Natural History Museum of Utah is one of the best in the region, with exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs to local geology. 


The Utah Museum of Fine Arts showcases both classic and contemporary works, while the Family History Library is world-renowned for genealogy research. If you’re into live entertainment, check out the local theater and music scene—venues like the Eccles Theater and The Depot bring in touring shows and concerts year-round.


Food & Drink in Salt Lake City


Salt Lake has quietly built a fantastic food and drink scene. The Red Iguana is legendary for its Mexican food, especially the moles. Eva’s Bakery is perfect for a French-style breakfast, while Sweet Lake Biscuits and Limeade serves up comfort food with a twist. 


Breweries are popular here, with local names like Fisher Brewing and Red Rock Brewery worth checking out. Coffee culture is strong too, with plenty of independent cafes around town.


One thing newcomers notice is the strong soda shop culture. Local chains like Swig and Sodalicious have become gathering spots, serving up custom soda mixes with playful names and add-ins. It’s something you won’t find in most cities and is worth trying at least once. For a true Utah staple, funeral potatoes are a must. 


This cheesy potato casserole is beloved at family gatherings but has also made its way onto restaurant menus. If you’re into exploring food culture, Salt Lake is a fun city to dive into, especially with guides like Salt Lake Magazine highlighting new and established spots.


Day Trips from Salt Lake City


One of the best things about living here is the easy access to day trips. Park City is less than an hour away and offers skiing, dining, and a charming main street. Mystic Hot Springs is a quirky and relaxing getaway with natural soaking pools. 


If you’re willing to go a bit further, Zion National Park and Arches National Park are both within driving distance and make unforgettable weekend trips.


Seasonal & Festival Highlights


Salt Lake’s calendar is filled with events worth planning around. Oktoberfest at Snowbird is a tradition that combines mountain views with music and beer. Fall is also a great time to drive through the canyons for spectacular foliage. 


During the summer, the Twilight Concert Series brings big-name performers to outdoor venues, while smaller neighborhood festivals celebrate art, food, and culture. Winter brings holiday markets and light displays that transform the city into a festive destination. 


These seasonal highlights make it easy to plan fun outings year-round, whether you’re a long-time resident or brand new to the area.


Insider Tips for Visiting Salt Lake City


Getting around is easier than you might expect. Downtown is walkable, but you’ll want a car to explore the canyons and day trips. The TRAX light rail system is also helpful for reaching some neighborhoods and the airport. 


Liquor laws in Utah can surprise newcomers, so it’s worth reading up before heading to bars or buying alcohol. For example, draft beer is limited to 5% ABV, and liquor can only be purchased at state-run stores.


Locals are friendly, and the city overall has a family-focused feel, but you’ll also find plenty of hidden gems if you ask around. Small venues like Kilby Court host up-and-coming bands, and tucked-away restaurants often serve better food than the big names downtown. Hiking trails like Neff’s Canyon or Bell Canyon are just outside the city and provide a quieter alternative to the more popular routes. 


The balance between mainstream attractions and these off-the-radar spots is what makes living in Salt Lake so enjoyable.


Conclusion: Planning Your Salt Lake Adventure


Salt Lake City offers a rare combination of urban convenience and natural beauty. Whether you’re walking around Temple Square, hiking in the canyons, catching a show, or just grabbing a great meal, you’ll find the city has something for every interest and lifestyle. 


It’s one of those places where you can spend a morning in a museum, an afternoon on a trail, and an evening at a brewery—all without leaving town. 

If you’re moving here and need a little extra space while you settle in, check out some Salt Lake City storage solutions to make your transition smoother. With the right balance of exploring and planning, Salt Lake quickly starts to feel like home.

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By Admin • May 15, 2024
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