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Salt Lake City
Utah
Visit Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City, the vibrant capital of Utah, is a gateway to the vast, scenic landscapes of the American West and a bustling urban center with a rich cultural tapestry. Nestled in the shadow of the majestic Wasatch Range and bordered by the expansive Great Salt Lake, the city offers a unique blend of natural beauty and metropolitan conveniences. Visitors are often captivated by the city's stunning backdrop, where outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking thrive due to the easy access to several world-class ski resorts and picturesque mountain trails.
The city itself is steeped in history and culture, with its roots stretching back to its founding by Brigham Young and his Mormon pioneers in 1847. The centerpiece is Temple Square, home to the impressive Salt Lake Temple, which, although not open to the public, can be admired from the outside. The square also features the domed Tabernacle, home to the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir. The nearby Family History Library, the largest genealogical library in the world, offers visitors a chance to trace their ancestry. The Utah State Capitol, with its beautiful neoclassical architecture and public artworks, offers another glimpse into the state's history and government.
Beyond its historical and cultural offerings, Salt Lake City is also a hub for foodies and craft beer enthusiasts. The city's culinary scene is booming, featuring everything from high-end dining to casual eateries, with many places showcasing locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes. The downtown area, particularly around the historic 9th and 9th district, buzzes with eclectic shops, cafes, and a lively nightlife. Seasonal events, like the Utah Arts Festival, Sundance Film Festival, and Salt Lake City Marathon, bring a dynamic energy to the city, ensuring that there's always something exciting happening. Whether you're exploring its outdoor wonders, delving into its rich pioneer history, or enjoying its modern urban offerings, Salt Lake City offers a diverse and enriching experience for all who visit.
Salt Lake City Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
22°F
37°F
9
February
27°F
45°F
8
March
35°F
54°F
9
April
42°F
61°F
9
May
47°F
72°F
8
June
59°F
83°F
5
July
67°F
91°F
5
August
66°F
89°F
5
September
57°F
79°F
6
October
44°F
65°F
8
November
34°F
50°F
8
December
24°F
37°F
9
Need to Know Before You Go To Salt Lake City
Nickname:
Crossroads of the West
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Denver
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
1.4 million
Primary Export:
Gold
Busiest Travel Months:
January, March, February
Quietest Travel Months:
May, April, November
Find your Next Adventure in Salt Lake City
Explore Salt Lake City
Iconic Landmarks
Temple Square
This is the most visited attraction in Utah, located in the heart of Salt Lake City. The 10-acre complex is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and includes the impressive Salt Lake Temple, which is not open to the public, but its Gothic and Romanesque architecture can be admired from the outside. The square also includes the Tabernacle, home to the famous Tabernacle Choir.
Utah State Capitol
Situated on Capitol Hill, overlooking downtown Salt Lake City, the Utah State Capitol is an example of Neoclassical revival architecture and houses the offices and chambers of the Utah State Legislature, the governor, and other state officials.
The Great Salt Lake
Known as America's Dead Sea, this is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and the eighth-largest terminal lake in the world. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as sailing and exploring nearby Antelope Island, which is home to free-roaming bison and other wildlife.
This is the Place Heritage Park
This park marks the end of the Mormon Trail and the area where Brigham Young declared, "This is the right place," signaling to his fellow settlers to begin establishing their new community. The park features a village comprising restored buildings and replicas from the settlement period.
Natural History Museum of Utah
Located in the Rio Tinto Center on the campus of the University of Utah, this museum offers visitors insights into the natural history and geological diversity of Utah through interactive exhibits and vast collections of dinosaur fossils.
Liberty Park
As the oldest and most prominent park in Utah, Liberty Park offers a range of recreational activities and is home to the Tracy Aviary, one of the oldest and largest aviaries in the nation, where visitors can learn about various bird species.
Cultural Experiences
Temple Square
This is the most visited attraction in Utah, located in the heart of Salt Lake City. The 35-acre area contains more than 15 attractions related to the history and beliefs of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The stunning Salt Lake Temple, although not open to the public, is an iconic structure, and the surrounding gardens and historic buildings, such as the Tabernacle and Assembly Hall, are open for tours.
Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA)
Located on the campus of the University of Utah, UMFA showcases a dynamic collection of art from around the world, ranging from ancient objects to contemporary pieces. The museum's diverse exhibitions and permanent collections make it a must-visit for art lovers.
Utah Symphony
Experience world-class performances by the Utah Symphony at Abravanel Hall. The symphony offers a wide range of classical, pops, and special concerts throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to enjoy superb musical artistry in a stunning architectural setting.
Natural History Museum of Utah
Also located at the University of Utah, this museum offers visitors insights into the natural world and the region's history. With exhibits on the geology, ecology, and paleontology of Utah, it's a fascinating place for both adults and children.
The State Capitol
Touring the Utah State Capitol provides a deep dive into the state's governmental and historical roots. The building itself is an architectural marvel, and visitors can learn about Utah's history and legislative processes through various exhibits and guided tours.
Ballet West
Attend a performance by Ballet West, one of the premier ballet companies in the U.S. Known for its versatile and dynamic repertoire, Ballet West performs a mix of classical ballets and modern dance works at the Capitol Theatre.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking in Big Cottonwood Canyon
This canyon offers a variety of trails for all skill levels, with breathtaking views of rugged mountain landscapes and serene lakes. Don't miss the hike to Donut Falls, which is particularly popular for its unique waterfall that drops through a hole in the rock.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Salt Lake City is famously known as the gateway to some of the best skiing in the United States. Resorts like Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, and Solitude are just a short drive away and offer world-class skiing and snowboarding, abundant snowfall, and terrain for all levels.
Mountain Biking in the Wasatch Range
The Wasatch Range has numerous trails that cater to mountain bikers of all abilities. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail extends for miles and provides not only great riding but also panoramic views of the city and the Great Salt Lake.
Rock Climbing in Little Cottonwood Canyon
Home to some of the best granite climbing in the country, Little Cottonwood Canyon offers a range of routes from bouldering to long multi-pitch climbs. The area is renowned for its challenging climbs and beautiful settings.
Paddleboarding on the Great Salt Lake
Experience the unique buoyancy of the Great Salt Lake by paddleboarding across its vast, tranquil waters. Antelope Island State Park is a great launching point, and you might see some of the local wildlife, including bison and antelope.
Paragliding from Point of the Mountain
For a real thrill, take to the skies by paragliding from the famous Point of the Mountain. It's known for its consistent and smooth winds that are ideal for both beginners and experienced flyers. Tandem flights are available for those new to the sport.
Off the Beaten Path
Antelope Island Night Hike
Antelope Island State Park offers more than just daytime wildlife viewing and beaches. Joining a night hike or arranging for a stargazing trip can be a magical experience. The island's remote location away from city lights makes it an ideal spot for stargazing and encountering nocturnal wildlife.
Gilgal Sculpture Garden
Tucked away in a residential neighborhood, this hidden gem features 12 original sculptures and over 70 stones engraved with scriptures, poems, and philosophical texts—all created by Thomas Battersby Child, Jr. in the mid-20th century. It's a quirky and contemplative spot that many visitors overlook.
The Great Salt Lake Shorelands Preserve
A bit north of Salt Lake City, this preserve spans over 4,000 acres and offers a peaceful escape with a boardwalk that winds through wetlands. It's a fantastic spot for bird watching, especially during migration seasons.
Silver Lake up Big Cottonwood Canyon
While not completely unknown, Silver Lake offers a more tranquil alternative to the busier trails and lakes near Salt Lake City. It's accessible for all ages and skill levels and particularly beautiful in the fall when the aspen trees turn golden.
Historic Marmalade Hill District Walking Tour
Explore this less-traveled neighborhood known for its quaint, eclectic architecture and steep streets. The area has a rich history tied to the early settlers of Utah and offers a different vibe compared to the more frequented avenues of downtown Salt Lake City.
Benson Grist Mill
Located just outside Salt Lake City in Stansbury Park, this historic mill dates back to the 1850s and offers a glimpse into the pioneer life of Utah. The site has been restored and now serves as a cultural center with various events and a small museum.
Salt Lake City Fun Facts
Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is known for its stunning natural surroundings, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. Here are the top 10 fun facts about Salt Lake City:
- Great Salt Lake
Salt Lake City is named after the nearby Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. The lake is several times saltier than the ocean, which makes swimming similar to floating!
- Temple Square
The 10-acre Temple Square is the center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and one of Utah's top tourist attractions. It features the majestic Salt Lake Temple, which took 40 years to complete, from 1853 to 1893.
- Skiing and Snowboarding
Known as the "Ski City," Salt Lake City is just a short drive away from several world-class ski resorts, including Alta, Snowbird, Solitude, and Brighton. The city famously hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics.
- Genealogy Capital
The Family History Library in Salt Lake City is the largest genealogical library in the world, attracting visitors from across the globe who come to trace their ancestry.
- Bonneville Salt Flats
Located west of Salt Lake City, this densely packed salt pan is famous for land speed records. The flat, expansive terrain creates a natural racetrack that has been used for motor racing since 1914.
- The Utah State Capitol
An architectural marvel, the Utah State Capitol sits on over 40 acres with a panoramic view of the city. The building is adorned with a beautiful dome that is covered in 24-karat gold leaf.
- The Great Salt Lake Desert
Part of the remnants of the ancient Lake Bonneville, the desert is known for its vast salt pans and unique ecological and geological characteristics.
- Pioneer History
Salt Lake City was founded by Brigham Young and his Mormon followers in 1847. They were the first permanent settlers in the valley.
- Diverse Cuisine
Reflecting its multicultural population, Salt Lake City offers a surprisingly diverse range of dining options, including a strong presence of Mexican, Italian, and Asian cuisines, as well as traditional American and Mormon dishes.
- Liberty Park
As the city's second-largest public park, Liberty Park offers a range of recreational activities including a pond with two islands, and Tracy Aviary, one of the oldest and largest bird parks in the U.S.
Featured Picture Gallery
Salt Lake City lies within the Wasatch Mountain Valley
Visit the Christus Statue in the North Visitors Center in Temple Square
The Great Salt Lake is the Largest Saltwater Lake in the Western Hemisphere
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