Prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure through a city that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with natural splendour and great big dollops of Wild West Americana!
From towering peaks to historic landmarks, and a culinary scene that will tantalise your taste buds, Salt Lake City is the ultimate urban destination getaway.
While usually falling under the travelling radar of most Aussies heading to the States, the city has undergone something of a renaissance over the last few years, evolving in all sorts of exciting directions.
These developments, coupled with its natural beauty and proximity to some of the USA’s most celebrated national parks, make a visit to Salt Lake City an absolute MUST visit on any American itinerary.
Ready to delve into the wonders that await in Salt Lake City?
Let’s start our journey with the great outdoors, where Salt Lake City truly shines. Surrounded by craggy mountains and pristine wilderness, this city is a haven (indeed heaven) for outdoor enthusiasts.
There are more than 20 national parks and monuments just a few hours’ drive from the city, such as Wasatch-Cache National Forest (30 minutes), Golden Spike National Historic Site (1.5 hours) and Dinosaur National Monument (3 hours). All these natural wonders present ample opportunities for hiking, skiing, mountain biking or more adrenaline-pumping adventures – basically, whatever you’re into!
Salt Lake City is also close to some of the natural gems of the American West, such as Yellowstone, Arches, Bryce Canyon, and Zion.
Also worth a visit is the Great Salt Lake. The largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere, this body of (salty) water was the inspiration behind the city’s name and is best admired from Antelope Island. Even better, book a half-day trip with Southwest Adventure Tours and learn more about this geological wonder less than an hour’s drive from downtown Salt Lake City.
But the allure of Salt Lake City doesn’t end with its rugged landscapes – it’s also a treasure trove of history and culture waiting to be explored. Locals here REALLY love the arts. And we mean really, really. In fact, per capita, Utah is ranked #1 in the USA for its live arts participation in the entire country! Tons of museums and galleries can be explored here, such as the Utah Museum of Fine Art, the Urban Arts Gallery and the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art.
You should also wander through the historic streets of Temple Square, where remnants of the pioneers who settled this land in 1847 still linger. Take a selfie in front of the awe-inspiring Utah State Capitol building, a testament to the city’s rich built heritage, and try and time your visit to coincide with the weekly choir practice every Thursday evening at the Tabernacle. This architectural marvel was constructed between 1863 an 1867 and is so acoustically sound you can literally hear a pin drop from one end to the other!
Across the street from the Tabernacle, the FamilySearch Library is one of the largest genealogical libraries on the planet, founded over a century ago and boasting genealogical data and records for over 3 billion deceased ancestors from all around the world. It’s free to use, too, with friendly experts onsite to help you learn more about your family history.
Don’t forget to indulge your taste buds in the local cuisine
The city’s culinary landscape is a feast for the senses, with award-winning restaurants and flavours from all over the world creating a delicious local scene of amazing coffee, cool food trucks and excellent fine dining. Indeed, from hearty comfort food to gourmet delights, you certainly won’t go hungry – or thirsty – here!
Now, let’s talk about Salt Lake City’s Olympic legacy. Having proudly hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics, the city is gearing up to welcome the world once again in 2034. It’s one of the favourites in the running, which shouldn’t really come as a surprise: with its state-of-the-art facilities, passion for winter sports, and super-friendly locals, it really is the perfect playground for athletes and spectators from all over the world!
And let’s not forget about the city’s vibrant calendar of events, which promises excitement and entertainment year-round. From the lively festivities of Oktoberfest to the colourful celebrations of Utah Pride, there’s always something happening in Salt Lake City. Definitely time your visit to see the Sandy Hot Air Balloon Festival in early August! These festivals are the perfect chance to immerse yourself in the local culture, mingle with friendly locals, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
So what are you waiting for – this destination really has it all! Check out these two and three-day sample itineraries for even more inspo and start planning your next unforgettable adventure to Salt Lake City today!
For more details head to www.visitsaltlake.com
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