Salt Lake City has a reputation for being family friendly, and it certainly doesn’t disappoint in this department. However, things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah, can appeal to any type of traveler. From casinos to national parks, there is a diverse array of activities in this city. Take a guided bike tour, visit your favorite underwater creatures at the nearby Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, or spend at day at the city’s namesake body of water: Great Salt Lake. Whether you head to Utah to explore the great outdoors, look into your family tree, or find some great eats, you will find attractions in Salt Lake City right up your alley.
Areas & Neighborhoods
Salt Lake City neighborhoods range from the downtown district, rich with art and culture, to outskirt districts covered with wildlife. No matter the speed of your trip, there is a district here to meet your needs.
Capitol Hill — This neighborhood gets its name from its proximity to the state capitol. Situated just north of the important building, the area offers interesting architecture, impressive views of downtown, and a few independent businesses.
The Avenues — The Avenues region is east of Capitol Hill. In this relatively progressive neighborhood, you can find lots of people roaming on bicycles, plenty of cafes, and an eclectic collection of both residents and visitors. Visit the famous mansions here, many of which are historic and open to the public, and grab a wheatgrass shot.
Poplar Grove — One of the largest neighborhoods in Salt Lake City, Poplar Grove is named for the trees that are found in abundance in the area. The neighborhoods is the site of 9 Line, a trail that welcomes bikers, joggers, and walkers to travel along the old railroad corridor.
Downtown — Home to Temple Square, downtown is the oldest part of the city. Aside from housing the Salt Lake Temple, the district also boasts a bounty of restaurants, theaters, and museums. Many city tours in Salt Lake City center around the bounty of activities in this region.
Things to See in Salt Lake City
From natural beauty to performing arts, there are plenty of things to see in Salt Lake City before you put on a pair of tennis shoes and get more active. Grab a camera and take some postcard-worthy shots at Big Cottonwood Canyon, or practice your floral photo taking at Red Butte Garden. Things to see in Salt Lake City also include arts and culture, including Broadway performances at venues like Capitol Theater downtown.
Things to Do & Attractions in Salt Lake City
Once you’re ready to hit the streets of Utah running, you will find plenty of activities in Salt Lake City that entertain you while burning some calories. Hike one of the local canyons, or travel through the city on a bike. The outskirts of the city also offer horseback riding through forestland, and summer is an excellent time to hit the links on a local golf course. If you are more interested in Salt Lake City tours from above, take a hot air balloon ride across the lake. Of course, other things to do in the city are bit tamer, such as researching your family history at the famed Family Search Center.
