Gilgal Sculpture Garden
Nestled between downtown and the University of Utah campus, Gilgal Sculpture Garden is a quirky outdoor art space featuring ancient symbols and philosophical quotes. The garden was designed by Thomas Battersby Child Jr. and took over 40 years to complete. Wander winding pathways to see sculptures like the Sphinx and statues depicting important religious figures. The centerpiece is a giant stone block engraved with scenes and scripts from the Old Testament. Let your imagination run wild in this eccentric urban oasis! Gilgal Sculpture Garden is open 7 days a week from 8am to dusk. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Address: 749 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102.
Phone: 801-972-7860
This Is The Place Heritage Park
Immerse yourself in Utah’s pioneer past at This Is The Place Heritage Park, located at the base of the Wasatch Mountains. The sprawling park features historic homes and buildings to tour as well as activities like gold panning, pony rides, and train rides. Costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts and trades while sharing stories of the early Mormon pioneers. With lush gardens, farm animals to pet, and trails to hike, it’s easy to spend a whole day at this living history park. This Is The Place Heritage Park is open Monday through Saturday from 9am to 5pm.
Address: 2601 E Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.
Phone: 801-582-1847
Natural History Museum of Utah
At the stunning Rio Tinto Center, the Natural History Museum of Utah chronicles the state’s diverse landscapes and ecosystems. Check out exhibits on red rock geology, dinosaurs, native wildlife, fossils, and more. Don’t miss the Past Worlds paleontology gallery displaying real dinosaur fossils found right here in Utah’s own backyard! This world-class museum is as educational as it is beautiful. Outside, stroll the museum’s nature trail showcasing native plants and rock formations. The Natural History Museum is open daily from 10am to 5pm with extended hours on Wednesdays until 9pm.
Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.
Phone: 801-581-6927
Bonneville Shoreline Trail
For an easy outdoor adventure close to the city, hit the trails along the Bonneville Shoreline. This network of trails contours along the foothills overlooking Salt Lake Valley, offering stellar views. The trails are great for hiking, trail running, mountain biking, and even horseback riding. Bring your camera to capture the valley scenery and to spot local wildlife. The trails range from beginner-friendly to more advanced routes. Popular access points include Emigration Canyon, City Creek Canyon, and Parleys Canyon. Just be sure to stay on designated paths to respect private property.
Trolley Square
Once home to Salt Lake City’s streetcar system, Trolley Square today is one of the city’s hippest shopping and dining districts. The historic trolley barns now house locally-owned boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries. Spend an afternoon browsing antiques, handmade crafts, and funky vintage finds. When you work up an appetite, choose from cuisines like Spanish tapas, wood-fired pizza, ramen, Indian, and more. Don’t forget dessert at cooling spots like Craft by Proper and Delia’s Cookie Cafe. Trolley Square is open daily with varying hours by shop. Restaurants typically open from 11am to 9pm.
Address: Trolley Square spans 600 S 700 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84102.
Utah Museum of Fine Arts
Boasting an impressive global collection, the Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA) is a must-visit gallery for art lovers. View ancient artifacts, European masterworks, modern sculptures, and rotating exhibits highlighting both local and international artists. With free general admission, it’s easy to pop in for an hour or spend an entire afternoon admiring the works on display. Don’t miss browsing the unique gift shop too! UMFA hosts regular artist talks and adult art classes as well. The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is open Tuesday through Friday from 10am to 5pm and on weekends from 11am to 5pm. General admission is free, with varying fees for special exhibitions.
Address: 410 Campus Center Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84112.
Phone: 801-581-7332
Wheeler Historic Farm
Step back in time with a visit to Wheeler Historic Farm, a pioneer homestead from the late 1800s. Tour the charming farmhouse and outbuildings while costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional chores and crafts. See heritage breeds of farm animals and watch blacksmithing demos at the working barnyard. The farm also features gardens, picnic spots, and seasonal events like harvest festivals. Don’t miss the famous Wheeler baked goods and ice cream! Wheeler Farm is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30am to 4:30pm.
Address: 6351 S 900 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84121.
Phone: 385-468-1755
Red Butte Garden
Escape the city and wander through more than 21 acres of stunning gardens at Red Butte Garden. This University of Utah botanical garden features walking paths that wind through colorful perennial beds, rose gardens, and native plants. Check out art and sculpture installations, enjoy panoramic views from the outdoor amphitheater, and don’t miss the serene medicinal garden. Red Butte Garden is open daily from 9am to dusk.
Address: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108.
Phone: 801-585-0556
Temple Square
While it’s one of Salt Lake’s most famous attractions, the ornate Temple Square is still worth a visit to admire the intricate architecture. Walk the temple grounds and tour the visitor centers to learn about Mormon history and beliefs. Listen to the famous choir rehearse, view pioneer artifacts, and get a glimpse inside the iconic Salt Lake Temple if you can snag a ticket. Temple Square is open daily from 9am to 9pm, with varying hours by site. Free tours run regularly along with organ recitals.
Great Salt Lake
You can’t talk about Utah’s natural wonders without mentioning the Great Salt Lake! Drive just 20 minutes outside the city to check out this salty lake and one of America’s biggest wetland habitats. Hike lakeside trails, go rock hunting for salt crystals, and spot over 250 species of birds attracted to the area. The Great Salt Lake is visible from multiple access points around Salt Lake City. Popular beaches include Antelope Island and the Great Salt Lake Marina. Entrance fees vary by recreation area.
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