Salt Lake City is a fascinating destination, located in the northern part of Utah in the Southwest USA. Best known for its monuments and buildings of special historic interest, there are also some great outdoor activities to be enjoyed in the area. The Great Salt Lake is a short drive away, and the city is close to mountains famous for their hiking trails, winter ski resorts and the site of the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Admission to the 400 acre Utah Olympic Park is free. Inside the park is a Museum of Ski History, and another museum devoted to the story of the Olympic Games that were held there. Visitors can take a guided tour and enjoy year-round activities, as well as exciting opportunities to sample some winter sports and to watch athletes in training.
Many people travel to Salt Lake City for the places of interest associated with the city’s founder, Brigham Young, and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. One of the best known attractions is the Mormon Tabernacle, where it is possible to see the famous choir rehearse and perform. The Tabernacle is situated in Temple Square, which can be visited on one of the city’s downtown walking tours.
The gardens surrounding the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints have more than seven hundred types of plant collected from around the world. One-hour guided tours of the gardens are scheduled throughout the summer months.
Displays of art, artefacts and information about the history of the Mormon religion are to be found in The Church History Museum, which is also located in Temple Square. The Brigham Young Monument and the Joseph Smith Memorial Building are among the worthy of a visit.
Salt Lake City provides easy access to some of the most popular national parks including Zion, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Arches and Yellowstone and is a popular choice to begin or end a vacation in the area.
Our favorite walk:
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail, starting from opposite the Hogle Zoo. This trail is 28 miles long but it has many pleasant paths for short walks across the foothills to the north east of the city.
Why we love it:
There is plenty to do and see all year round in Salt Lake City.
Tip:
Stop by the fire fountain at the City Creek Center one evening to see a spectacular display of fire and water accompanied by music.