Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, often shortened to Salt Lake or SLC, is the capital and most populous city of the U.S. state of Utah. It is the county seat of Salt Lake County, the most populous county in the state. Wikipedia.

When is your trip?

–

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Salt Lake City Trip Planner

Ready to plan your trip to Salt Lake City? Organize and map your itinerary with our free trip planner.

Top attractions in Salt Lake City

1. Temple Square

4.7

(19821)

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Slide 1 of 8

In July 2025, we visited Temple Square in Downtown Salt Lake City, as we had a work-related conference to attend. Temple Square is undergoing construction, as the Temple and some of the surrounding buildings are being restored and/or rebuilt. Temple Square is exceedingly clean and peaceful. The landscaping is amazing, and there are many walkways on the 2 adjacent city blocks to escape from the surrounding city and traffic. There are also water fountains and statues, and the surrounding buildings add to the ambience. We enjoyed our Temple Square visit and we would highly recommend others to visit Temple Square and experience this amazing place for themselves.

John C — Google review

In SLC for a couple of days and decided to take a stroll through the downtown area. Came across Temple Square — a beautiful and peaceful space with lots of Mormon history to learn about. It was quiet when we visited, so it felt like a self-guided tour. None of the buildings were open, so we couldn’t check inside, but it was still worth walking through and taking in the grounds.

Scott W — Google review

Even if you are not part of the Church of Latter Day Saints this is worth a visit. There are church members everywhere in pairs willing to answer any questions. Everyone is very kind. We enjoyed walking the outdoor spaces and spent time inside the tabernacle, the family research center, and the conference center. No entry fees.

Jennifer A — Google review

⭐️ Temple Square – Historic Heart of Salt Lake City 🏛️✨ A must-see when exploring downtown SLC! Beautiful architecture, peaceful gardens, and plenty of history everywhere you look. 🌿 From the Brigham Young Monument to the Joseph Smith Building and City Creek Canyon nearby — everything is within walking distance. 🚶‍♂️ Clean, scenic, and full of charm — perfect for photos, short walks, or just soaking in the local spirit. 📸🌸

Lior M — Google review

Beautiful public square with impressive statuary, a lovely garden, wide walking paths and plenty of benches, gondolas and shady spots for rest and contemplation. An inspiring place to meander, even as someone who is not Mormon, and take in the beauty of the grounds and architecture of the Temple, Tabernacle and other sanctuaries. On a side note, this place also has the cleanest, classiest public restrooms I've ever encountered. There is currently a lot of construction taking place - Summer 2025 - but there are many areas of beauty still accessible that make it worth a visit regardless.

Lisa G — Google review

The new sculpture and landscaping at temple square is so classy. They have benches placed around the area for contemplating and appreciating the atmosphere. Inside the Conference Center, the architecture of the flooring, pillars and paintings on the walls seems to compete with the great museums and places of higher learning in the world.

Aaron M — Google review

I was very excited about my trip to Salt Lake City. Years ago, during my university research titled “A Century of Olympic Graphics,” I came across the name of this city, which had hosted the Winter Olympics, and I’d always been eager to see it in person. One of the main attractions I wanted to visit was the Mormon Temple, but unfortunately, it was closed for renovations. However, just across the street, the city’s Convention Center caught my attention, and I hurried to explore it , it was quite an interesting experience. I also enjoyed visiting the Utah State Capitol building, surrounded by a beautiful landscape of colorful autumn trees.

Farshid E — Google review

This place was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen! I’m not Mormon but it was still really cool to check out and see all the history. They had the most beautiful garden here! 🌷💖

Trella G — Google review

2. Salt Lake Utah Temple

4.8

(5525)

Temporarily Closed

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Sights & Landmarks

The 1893, ornate centerpiece of Temple Square & The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Slide 1 of 8

This temple is so beautiful and so historic. I have loved coming here! We'll see what it is like after the seismic renovations. It will still be amazing! A great place to come and visit!

Tamilisa M — Google review

This looks a lot like an office building near Pattaya, Thailand. The lookalike building is located at WWXM+P7V, Pattaya City, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri 20150, Thailand

Darin P — Google review

they're making great progress. President Russell M Nelson would be proud. I believe he'll be overseeing the work from the other side of the veil 👍

Tige — Google review

Wonderful downtown view, and the landscaping is phenomenal all year round. Winter with the lights, Spring with the flowers, Summer with the beautiful mature trees and water fountains, Fall with the mountains surrounding and crisp air. 5/5!

Isaac P — Google review

I love temple square especially in the spring and winter with the beautiful smelling flowers or Christmas lights. Even now with all of the construction, it is still so fun to check out the family history museum and the foundational work going on.

Scot C — Google review

Temple Square is so beautiful. The museum is such an interesting segway to see how the religion began and understanding who the people are and what they stand for. The volunteers were so knowledgeable and friendly, ready to talk, and answer any and all questions you may have! Free!

Corey — Google review

This was one of the most remarkable pieces of architecture I've ever beheld in my life, and I am in awe of the craftsmanship, detail and commanding beauty of this timeless edifice. the experience of touring the Temple square and the visitor center and the conference center will be a cherished long memory. I hope to return again future, and highly recommend this experience to literally anyone and everyone.

Tommy B — Google review

The temple is only opened to members of the LDS church. It is a beautiful edifice, but as a Christian I feel any structure dedicated to the worship of God should be open and welcoming. If you happen to be a member, be aware that the renovation has been ongoing for five years. As of this post, it still has not reopened.

Steve M — Google review

3. Natural History Museum of Utah

4.8

(7242)

Natural history museum

Museums

Modern venue with 10 galleries exploring earth science & Utah’s native cultures in a scenic locale.

Slide 1 of 8

We come here once or twice a year and look forward to their special exhibits they have. Our kids always love coming here, but especially with the family over school field trips. They love spending time in each section reading and learning something new everyday. The staff is great at the special exhibits. They are informative and friendly. They have free puppet shows at various times. We loved the Teen Explainers that they've added too. I think it's such a great way for teens to spend their time working a job that allows them to contribute to younger children's educational experience.

Christina — Google review

This Museum was very fun to visit. I got a free pass. So I took me and my wife we enjoyed looking at dinosaurs. There's a part where you had to put dinosaur bones together to recreate a skull. It was much more challenging than I initially thought. There's a nice Sun deck where you can enjoy the good weather and have a beautiful scenic view. I also like the Ice Age exhibit that they have and the exhibit about the natives of Utah the Navajo. I think we spent maybe around 3 hours at the Museum. It was fun and not too crowded. It is a good place for children to learn about natural history. Have a nice little gift shop and they also have clean bathrooms. It is a good place for families. One thing that I like is that they had a sense so that you could smell how certain dinosaurs or certain berries or plants from the dinosaur age. You can learn how they smelled like. They have some very large dinosaur displays and they also have like I Spy game thing throughout the museum where you have to find like little mamas that are hidden around the the whole museum. It's a good activity for kids or if you have a membership pass it is fun to do to do something different every once in a while.

Sam — Google review

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Natural History Museum of Utah is a true gem for families and curious minds of all ages. The striking modern architecture sets the tone for an experience where science and storytelling come alive. Inside, you’ll find an engaging mix of education and entertainment—from towering dinosaur skeletons and ancient fossils to immersive geology exhibits. The interactive, hands-on elements are a hit with both kids and adults. A highlight is the Discovery Room, where younger visitors can dig for fossils, solve puzzles, and explore in a fun, educational space. The museum also features rotating exhibits, workshops, and knowledgeable staff who are always ready to share their passion. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always something new to discover. A captivating, well-curated destination that truly inspires a love for the natural world. Highly recommended!

DJ — Google review

WOW, this place blew my mind. I spent 2.5 hours here, but there were so many interactive things to do, I could have been there all day. I have been to Salt Lake many times. I had never been here before. It was amazing. I took so many pictures. I highly recommend this to anyone. Especially families with kids. It was such a wonderful learning experience. I don't know how I missed this place all these years.

Carolyn H — Google review

Ones of my all-time favorite museum visits! The exhibits are extensive and thought-provoking. I love that the interpretation encourages visitors to think from different perspectives. The exhibit design is logical and had plenty of interaction opportunity that reinforce what you just viewed. I saw people from age 2 to 82 enjoying and learning. Don't miss the outdoor views of SLC and the surrounding mountains. The cafe was really good too!

S P — Google review

We went on a Thursday afternoon and it took about 2.5 hrs to go through, and there was no wait to get tickets. It was busy, kids summer camps, but not crowded. The overall atmosphere was relaxed and informative. The facility is clean, modern, and nicely laid out. They have many hands-on activities for kids, and plenty of staff and volunteers to guide you or answer questions. Obviously, it shows cases Utah's unique history and people.

PB F — Google review

What an absolute treat! We’ve been to some pretty amazing museums- this one is definitely in the top 3 GOAT’s. New and contemporary- with great exhibits. Another great aspect is the flow of the tour. The staff is super helpful and very knowledgeable. Definitely going back.

Cindy N — Google review

Over the years, we have visited a great many museums and it is very rare to find one as interesting and professionally done as this one. It is in a class with the Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC. Visiting this museum was not part of our plans for our trip but it would have been horrible if we had missed this magnificent place. If you go, allow yourself plenty of time to marvel at the scale of the artifacts presented here.

Don W — Google review

4. Utah State Capitol

4.7

(3944)

State government office

Sights & Landmarks

Built in 1916, the renovated neoclassical revival building offers original murals, exhibits & tours.

Slide 1 of 8

Our visit to the Utah State Capitol was fantastic! We started at the visitor center, which provided great insight into the state's history and the Capitol's architecture. The Capitol building itself is stunning, with a beautiful rotunda and impressive views of Salt Lake City and the surrounding mountains. It's a popular spot for wedding photos, and it's easy to see why. We highly recommend visiting, but be prepared for a short climb up a hill. The views from the top are breathtaking, and there's plenty of free parking available

Mohit G — Google review

The Salt Lake Capitol building is the first I have ever visited. I study architectural history so I was overly excited to finally see a Capitol in person. I was not disappointed. I spent 2 to 3 hours on a Sunday exploring and people watching. The state and assembly rooms were not open on Sunday but I could pee through the slits in the door The gathering/meeting room was open though. If you are into geological materials you will also love the construction, arches, granite, marble and limestone. I was fascinated by the marble relief in front with the carved fruit and vines. Definitely worth the visit and is a photographer's dream.

Renaissance A — Google review

⭐️ Utah State Capitol & Memory Grove Park – Must-See in SLC! 🇺🇸 Explored the Utah State Capitol area and it was absolutely beautiful and well-maintained. 🏛️✨ The building itself is open to the public, and the interior is stunning — I even saw a few wedding photo sessions taking place inside! 💍📸 There’s free parking available around the grounds (depending on space), and the view from the Capitol steps overlooking Salt Lake City Valley is breathtaking. 🌄 You can easily walk down the hill through scenic paths to Memory Grove Park, which is peaceful, green, and full of monuments honoring veterans. 🌿🇺🇸 Perfect area for a relaxed stroll, photos, or just enjoying the Utah sunshine. ☀️ 📍 Free entry | Great for photos | Historical landmark | Beautiful garden views

Life N — Google review

Beautiful capital building - perfect for viewing over the SLC downtown and also to take pictures inside. There are murals painted on the ceilings, some on walls, and two grand staircases in the center. The first floor had an exhibit hall which shared the story of how the capital building was constructed and founded along with other smaller historical buildings in the area. We also noticed that they are constructing another panel for education downstairs. At the time we visited, the entrance was blocked off due to construction so we couldn't get a good look at the exterior but definitely will be coming back for future photos!

Katlynn C — Google review

What an incredible day I had exploring the heart of Salt Lake City! The Capitol building was absolutely stunning—its grand architecture is a sight to behold. But the real highlight? An unforgettable conversation with two local officers who shared a treasure trove of fascinating stories and history about Salt Lake City and Utah. They brought the past to life with such passion and detail, I felt like I was walking through time. Between the breathtaking views, the friendly people, and the deep dive into the region’s rich heritage, this spot easily ranks as one of the must-visit gems of Salt Lake City!

Captain C — Google review

Beautiful building inside and out! You can spend about an hour or more, it's a very big building with lots to see. We parked across the street in front of the gift shop. It was a very hot day, I recommend taking water because it was a bit of a walk to get inside the building and lots of walking inside also.

Maria C — Google review

I had a nice time at the Utah State Capitol. It was pretty inside and easy to get into. But please be aware that the capital and visitor gift shop is on a large hill so I DO NOT recommend walking up it! Rent a lime or spin scooter or calling a taxi.

Benjamin B — Google review

Great tour of the State Capitol! Lots of interesting facts and a very beautiful building with a museum inside. Highly recommend visiting if you’re in Salt Lake City.

Iryna S — Google review

5. Salt Lake City Tabernacle

4.8

(3980)

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Slide 1 of 8

We flew into Salt Lake on our way to Yellowstone Park. We aren't Mormon, but I thought it important to explore Temple Square while we were in the city. We arrived on a Sunday evening around 5:30 and took a walk around the lovely grounds and gardens and were excited to discover we could go INSIDE the Tabernacle! We were met by some welcoming volunteers who cheerfully shared info about the historic Tabernacle and invited us to a free pipe organ recital the following day. As a music lover - and my son is a music major! - we know how impressive the Mormon Tabernacle Choir is. The Tabernacle itself is beautiful and to be in the historic space with the maroon risers and amazing pipe organ that I've seen many times on television and album covers was very special. We came back the next day for the recital. Due to organ maintenance the concert was over at the Conference Center (they have a second massive pipe organ there) about a block away. Initially disappointed we wouldn't be in the Tabernacle itself, we were awed by that massive space and had a wonderful experience. Currently (Summer 2025) the free, 30 minute recitals are at 12 :00 Monday- Saturday and at 2:00 on Sundays at the Conference Center. Seriously a sight to behold (and to hear!) if you have the time. I didn't realize they also allow the general public to attend Mormon Tabernacle Choir rehearsals and the Sunday performances for free! The rehearsals are Thursday evenings at 7:30 and the Sunday performances of "Music and the Spoken Word" begin at 9:30. Had I known this was a possibility, I'd have planned our trip a little differently so my family could have experienced one of the most celebrated choirs on the planet!

Lisa G — Google review

A very beautiful organ hall with a special atmosphere. We didn’t attend a concert but listened to the volunteers’ story about its history — very interesting! We’d love to come back, maybe for a concert next time.

Iryna S — Google review

It's quite a campus. We caught the Tabernacle Choir practicing. It's open to the public. The organ is absolutely gorgeous. It has almost 12,000 pipes! The choir was exceptional. A very nice visit.

Suzy L — Google review

Mormon Tabernacle It is egg-shaped, so the acoustics are magnificent. The pipe organ has more than 11,000 pipes, and the choir is 360 voices. There is also a 100-piece orchestra, and the lighting is phenomenal.

Barry K — Google review

Open to public visits but you need to find the right door. 2 in the middle of either side leada you into the hall. Organ recitals few times a week. Best to check timing beforehand. As you enter there will be guides to explain and show you around.

Pog E — Google review

Very friendly and welcoming. I was so pleased to see the choir rehearsal recommended by my koa camp host and booked an extra day to stick around for the event. Magnificent!

Christina B — Google review

Went there as part of a tour. Very impressive and unique. We saw an organ recital. It was a hot day but Inside it was nice and cool.

Ariana D — Google review

We missed the music but visit the site: a beautiful hall and structure. Many missionaries are stationed inside, serving as docents. built from 1863 to 1875 to house meetings for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church).

Irene E — Google review

6. Big Cottonwood Canyon

4.9

(102)

Ravine

Nature & Parks

Scenic canyon in the Wasatch mountain range offering hiking, climbing & camping, plus skiing.

Slide 1 of 8

Beautiful we camped at Spruces campground. Moose in campground

Suzette L — Google review

This place is beautiful for hiking and picnics. I've been coming here since I was little. The river provides a nice ambiance and there's plenty of shade.

Chelsey F — Google review

The drive through the canyon was incredible, despite the haze from the California wildfires. We made a few stops along the way and hiked up to Twin Lakes from the Silver Lake Education Center. The hike was steep (for us, as novice hikers) but the views were well worth it.

Dagny M — Google review

Big Cottonwood Canyon unfortunately it's turning into a money extortion place! The canyons are maintained and supported by OUR tax money and is ridiculous that we now on to of that have to pay $10 per DAY just to be park or receive a ticket! That's double taxation and illegal!

Rob C — Google review

We went for a ride up Big Cottonwood Canyon to see the snow. It was so beautiful to see, the snow on the trees and the absence of leaves is a beautiful contrast. You feel like you can see every detail of the mountains. Roads were busy due to all the skiers. However the roads were clear and it was a great ride.

P ( — Google review

Always beautiful. As colorful as I'd hoped. I do wish people could remember that they don't need to ride their brakes coming back down.

Patricia W — Google review

This area is magnificent! Be it Spring, Summer, Fall or Winter. It offers a plethora of sights and scenes for your senses to experience and wonder, places for fun activities and an awesome and scenic drive too. Go have fun and make sure to leave it more exquisite than when you first show up 🏞

Niko P — Google review

If you're ever looking for a location to take any sort of photos in the mountains, this would be the place I would recommend as a photographer. It's so beautiful, easily accessible (about 30 minutes from Salt Lake City), and a great opportunity to get some fresh air as well! I got to take some bridal photos in Big Cottonwood Canyon near Solitude Mt. Resort and loved the scenery. Photos below! Photos by Marina Rey Photography LLC - marinareyphoto.com

Marina L — Google review

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more

What users say about the app

Love love love! ❤️ Planning travel has actually been fun instead of tedious because of this app.

Julie G.

Exactly what I needed to plan a trip. I can’t imagine anyone not loving this app!

Jen S.

Wanderlog makes planning a trip so effortless. Seriously, this app does it all!

Brad C.

This site and app let me do all the planning for our 15 day trip in a little over 6 hours! I can’t recommend it enough!

Amanda W.

Amazing!! The organization this app provides has taken a huge weight off my shoulders.

Garrett V.

This is the crème de la crème of planning apps! Don’t think about it - just click download right this minute.

Chris C.

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Other notable attractions

Great Salt Lake State Park

State park

Sights & Landmarks

Recreation area providing boat slips, panoramic viewing areas of the lake & interpretive exhibits.

Conference Center

Conference center

Sights & Landmarks

Large, modern building with space for religious events, meetings, music concerts & other activities.

Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

Botanical garden

Nature & Parks

University of Utah's botanical garden features nature trails, workshops & an outdoor concert series.

Utah's Hogle Zoo

Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

Modern, 42-acre zoo boasting hundreds of animals & tropical gardens, plus a train & carousel.

Joseph Smith Memorial Building

Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

Social & welcome complex in a landmark former hotel with dining, theater & family genealogy center.

City Creek Center

Shopping mall

Shopping

Upmarket retailers & diverse, casual dining options in polished surrounds with a water fountain.

Salt Lake City Public Library

Public library

Libraries

Modern library known for its natural light & curved 6-story walkable wall built with high-UV glass.

Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park

Zoo

Zoos & Aquariums

Liberty Park’s 9-acre aviary offers exhibits, shows & encounters where guests can view & feed birds.

Cathedral of the Madeleine

Catholic cathedral

Sights & Landmarks

Romanesque cathedral from 1909 with a Gothic interior of ceiling frescoes & colorful stained glass.

Clark Planetarium

Planetarium

Museums

State-of-the-art venue featuring 3-D IMAX films, laser light shows & exhibits about space & science.

Best-of categories in Salt Lake City

Popular road trips from Salt Lake City

Slide 1 of 30

Yellowstone National Park

Grand Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park

Yosemite National Park

All road trips from Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Salt Lake City?

Get inspired for your trip to Salt Lake City with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

Q&A about Salt Lake City

What are general tips for a road trip and car camping around Utah, California, Arizona, and Colorado?

Drive the whole lake while in Tahoe. The views from the drive alone were worth the trip. Kayak at sand harbor beach we went on a Tuesday morning and it was so peaceful. Check out South of North and Sidellis breweries. Grab lunch at whitecaps pizza on kings beach.

Ayden Boehm

View 1 response

Should I drive to Salt Lake City, Sedona, or Los Angels after visiting Grand Canyon?

What do they like to do? Watersports? Hiking and camping? Eating? Beach?

Matilde Bogan

View 1 response

Weather in Salt Lake City

Here's the historical average temperature in Salt Lake City over a full year based on data compiled by NASA: for more details by month, see the weather in Salt Lake City in January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, or December

Monthly temperature highs and lows in Salt Lake City

Ready to plan your trip to Salt Lake City?

Use our free trip planner for the easiest way to plan your vacation. No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Add places from guides with 1 click

We crawled the web so you don’t have to. Easily save mentioned places.

Collaborate with friends in real time

Plan along with your friends with live syncing and collaborative editing.

Import flight and hotel reservations

Connect or forward your emails to get them magically added into your trip plan.

Expense tracking and splitting

Keep track of your budget and split the cost between your tripmates.

Checklists for anything

Stay organized with a packing list, to-do list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Get personalized suggestions

Find the best places to visit with smart recommendations based on your itinerary.

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Plan on the go with our free travel app

With Wanderlog's mobile travel planner on Android and iOS, access and edit your trips wherever you go — even while offline.

Access and edit your trips wherever you go — even without a connection.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City Trip Planner

Salt Lake City Trip Planner

Top attractions in Salt Lake City

Your itinerary and your map in one view

Other notable attractions

Top searches in Salt Lake City

Popular road trips from Salt Lake City

All road trips from Salt Lake City

Explore nearby places

All related maps of Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City throughout the year

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Salt Lake City?

Q&A about Salt Lake City

Weather in Salt Lake City

Add places from guides with 1 click

Collaborate with friends in real time

Import flight and hotel reservations

Expense tracking and splitting

Checklists for anything

Get personalized suggestions