Salt Lake County Map

Introduction

Salt Lake County is a vibrant and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do here. This comprehensive travel guide will help you discover the top attractions, hidden gems, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that make Salt Lake County such a unique and exciting place to visit.

Top Attractions

Temple Square

Temple Square is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Salt Lake City. This 10-acre complex is home to the Salt Lake Temple, the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and several other historic buildings and monuments. Visitors can take a free tour of the grounds and learn about the history and culture of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

If you love nature and the outdoors, you won’t want to miss Red Butte Garden and Arboretum. This 100-acre botanical garden features over 21,000 plants from around the world, as well as hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The garden also hosts a variety of events and concerts throughout the year.

Hidden Gems

Bonneville Shoreline Trail

The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a 100-mile hiking and biking trail that follows the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville. The trail offers spectacular views of the city and the mountains, as well as opportunities to see wildlife and explore hidden canyons and valleys.

Gilgal Sculpture Garden

The Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a quirky and unique attraction that features over a dozen sculptures and mosaics created by local artist Thomas Battersby Child Jr. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and visitors are invited to explore the sculptures and reflect on their meanings and messages.

Food Scene

Feldman’s Deli

Feldman’s Deli is a Jewish deli that serves up some of the best pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup in Salt Lake City. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Jewish delicacies, such as bagels and lox, knishes, and latkes.

Takashi

Takashi is a Japanese restaurant that is known for its fresh sushi and sashimi. The restaurant also offers a variety of other Japanese dishes, such as ramen, udon, and tempura. Be sure to try the Takashi Roll, which is made with crab, avocado, and cucumber, and topped with salmon, tuna, and spicy mayo.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Museum Days

Many of Salt Lake City’s museums offer free admission on certain days of the month. For example, the Natural History Museum of Utah is free on the first Wednesday of every month, and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts is free on the first Wednesday and third Saturday of every month.

Public Transportation

Salt Lake City has a convenient and affordable public transportation system that includes buses, light rail, and commuter trains. Visitors can purchase a day pass for just $5, which allows unlimited rides on all modes of transportation.

Outdoor Adventures

Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort

Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort is a year-round destination that offers skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. The resort is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.

Antelope Island State Park

Antelope Island State Park is a 28,000-acre park that is located in the middle of the Great Salt Lake. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, antelope, and coyotes, as well as several hiking and biking trails and a marina for boating and fishing.

Family-Friendly Activities

Hogle Zoo

Hogle Zoo is a popular attraction for families with kids. The zoo is home to over 800 animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and tigers. The zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events throughout the year.

The Leonardo

The Leonardo is a hands-on museum that is dedicated to exploring the intersection of science, technology, and art. The museum features several interactive exhibits and installations that are designed to engage and inspire visitors of all ages.

Natural Wonders

Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats are a surreal and otherworldly landscape that stretches for miles in all directions. The flats are a popular destination for photographers and adventurers, and are also used for land speed racing and other events.

Big Cottonwood Canyon

Big Cottonwood Canyon is a stunningly beautiful canyon that is located just east of Salt Lake City. The canyon offers hiking, biking, camping, and fishing opportunities, as well as breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Vibrant Nightlife

The Depot

The Depot is a historic music venue that is located in downtown Salt Lake City. The venue has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, and offers a variety of shows and events throughout the year.

Bar X

Bar X is a classic cocktail bar that is known for its expertly crafted drinks and cozy atmosphere. The bar is located in downtown Salt Lake City and is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Local Markets

Downtown Farmers Market

The Downtown Farmers Market is a weekly market that is held every Saturday from June to October. The market features local farmers, artisans, and food vendors, as well as live music and other entertainment.

Wheeler Historic Farm

Wheeler Historic Farm is a working farm that is located in Murray, just south of Salt Lake City. The farm offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including a weekly farmers market that features local produce, crafts, and other goods.

Beaches and Mountains

Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach is located on the shores of the Great Salt Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Alta Ski Area

Alta Ski Area is a world-renowned ski resort that is located in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The resort offers some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the world, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains and canyons.

Cultural Immersion

Salt Lake City Public Library

The Salt Lake City Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books. The library is a cultural hub that offers a variety of programs and events throughout the year, including author readings, concerts, and art exhibits.

Utah Cultural Celebration Center

The Utah Cultural Celebration Center is a community center that is dedicated to promoting diversity and cultural understanding. The center offers a variety of programs and events that showcase the arts, music, and traditions of different cultures from around the world.

Art and Music Scene

Utah Museum of Contemporary Art

The Utah Museum of Contemporary Art is a contemporary art museum that is located in downtown Salt Lake City. The museum features a variety of exhibitions and installations that showcase the work of local and international artists.

Red Butte Garden Outdoor Concert Series

The Red Butte Garden Outdoor Concert Series is a summer tradition in Salt Lake City. The series features a variety of concerts and performances by local and national musicians, as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains and gardens.

Walking Tours

Historic Temple Square Tour

The Historic Temple Square Tour is a free guided tour that takes visitors through the historic buildings and monuments of Temple Square. The tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Downtown Salt Lake City Walking Tour

The Downtown Salt Lake City Walking Tour is a self-guided tour that takes visitors through the historic and cultural landmarks of downtown Salt Lake City. The tour includes stops at the Utah State Capitol, the City Creek Center, and the Cathedral of the Madeleine.

Architectural Marvels

Salt Lake Temple

The Salt Lake Temple is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture and craftsmanship. The temple took over 40 years to build and features intricate carvings, murals, and stained glass windows.