Salt Lake City is a friendly place surrounded by picturesque snow-capped mountains and forestry, as well as being widely known as the home of Mormonism.
The unique opportunity to mix urban exploration with outdoor adventure and cultural insight attracts thousands of travellers every year. Try local Mormon dishes like crisp funeral potatoes – an oddly named but super satisfying cheesy casserole – then take a journey through the remarkable culture and history of this beautiful valley.
Spiritual excursions
Salt Lake City is one of the most spiritual settings in the United States. In fact, the city was founded by a group of Mormon pioneers in 1847, who designed the city as a religious sanctuary.
Much of their vision is still visible in the towering architecture, most famously the Salt Lake City Temple. This fairy-tale structure is set in the beautiful 35-acre gardens of Temple Square, where choirs meet to sing, and you can see a free screening of Meet the Mormons in the Legacy Theater. The Salt Lake Tabernacle is a beautiful building that houses a huge organ. Step inside to hear it in all its thunderous glory.
Wander the interiors of this grand temple to see more of the sacred architecture that took 40 years to complete. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Conference Center is nearby, creating a modern space for religious music concerts, meetings and events.
Many other top attractions in Salt Lake City feature Mormon themes, including the Mormon Arts Center, where you can learn about the intriguing history of Mormon film and see exquisite paintings.
Step through history
Salt Lake City is one of the oldest settlements in the Wild West, so its streets are paved with centuries of history. The city’s unique appeal is tied to its spiritual culture and many of its historical exhibits are based around this theme.
The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is set in the beautiful premises of a former hotel. If its century-old chandeliers aren’t enough, you can also experience fine dining in the Roof Restaurant, Garden Restaurant or Nauvoo Cafe and learn about the founder of Mormonism. There’s even a Family History Library showcasing the city’s records and heritage.
The Church History Museum is located next to Temple Square and it’s a great place to find religious exhibits and learn more about the history of Utah. Its displays include a visual journal of Henry B Eyring’s artwork, plus information on the trails walked by Mormon pioneers, including 3D maps and treasured artifacts from centuries ago.
The Museum of Ancient Life is a great place to take a step back further still, seeing dinosaur bones and fossil specimens from every period.
Wheeler Historic Farm is a leading farmstead attraction, perfect for families who want to learn more about Utah life. You can milk cows, churn butter and feed animals in the South Valley.
Nature on your doorstep
With a vast number of national forests, hiking trails and local fauna at Salt Lake’s doorstep, venture further in your hire car and get in touch with nature. Hogle Zoo is one place to see ferocious wildlife in the eastern part of the city. In this neighbourhood you’ll find theatres, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, as well as many top parks and golf courses.
The Natural History Museum of Utah provides a great introduction to the earth science of this part of America, plus the historical relationship between native people and the land.
The best way to experience nature, however, is first-hand, so the nature trails leading from Red Butte Garden are well worth exploring. Take the drive up to the icy mountains to find Snowbird – Salt Lake City’s ski resort of choice.
In the opposite direction, the Great Salt Lake itself is simply unmissable. Float on its buoyant waters, see roaming bison at Antelope Island State Park, or visit the amusements and country clubs at nearby Farmington.
Discover more of the Beehive State when you rent a car from Salt Lake City International Airport.
