Top tourist highlights in Salt Lake City include Temple Square, with its historic architecture and peaceful gardens, and the Great Salt Lake, offering unique floating experiences and stunning views from Antelope Island. Other notable attractions are the Natural History Museum of Utah, Utah State Capitol, and the beautiful Big Cottonwood Canyon for outdoor adventures.
SCHEDULE
May 7 (Thu) – Arrival
- 7:30 PM: Arrive by train and check into Grand American.
- Dinner: At the Laurel in the hotel
The airport from the Grand American Hotel is 8 minutes by car (38 minutes by bus)
- 8:00 AM: Breakfast at the hotel, Zimmermans leave
- 10:00 AM: Uber/Taxi to the airport to pickup rental car
- 11:30 AM: Tabernacle for organ recital (Temple Square and Assembly Hall)
- 1:00 PM: Antelope Island State Park (1 hr away) to visit Great Salt Lake
- 3:00 PM: Little Cottonwood Canyon. Ride the Snowbird Aerial Tram for panoramic mountain views.
The Big Cottonwood Canyon is 30 minutes from hotel.
- Dinner: Enjoy upscale dining at Copper Onion , the Roof Top Restaurant, or Current Fish & Oyster.
On Friday, May 8, 2026, the TABERNACLE is expected to host its daily organ recital, a long-standing tradition featuring Tabernacle and Temple Square organists. These recitals typically run for 30 minutes around noon, and are open to the public with no ticket required.
May 9 (Sat) – Grand Golden Spike
Grand Golden Spike Historic State Park is 90 minutes from hotel
- 7:30 AM: Breakfast at the hotel
- 8:30 AM: Head for GGSHP
- 11:00 AM: Arrive at GGSHP
May 10 (Sun) - Drop of car and head for home
- Tom leaves at 9:30 AM
The best way to observe the Great Salt Lake is to
visit Antelope Island State Park. Other excellent options for experiencing the lake include Great Salt Lake State Park various wetland preserves and viewpoints from the surrounding mountains. Your ideal observation point depends on what you want to see, such as wildlife, scenery, or the lake's famously salty water.
Historic & Cultural Sites
Temple Square: Explore the grounds of the Salt Lake Temple, visit the stunning gardens, and discover the rich history and architecture of this iconic site.
Utah State Capitol: Tour the state capitol building for impressive architecture and panoramic views of the city.
Cathedral of the Madeleine: Visit this stunning and historic Catholic cathedral.
The Place Heritage Park: Discover the history of the region and experience a pioneer-era village.
Nature & Outdoors
Great Salt Lake: Head to Antelope Island State Park for incredible views, the chance to see wildlife like bison, and a fun floating experience in the highly saline waters.
Big Cottonwood Canyon: Experience the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains with stunning vistas.
Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Liberty Park and visit one of the country's oldest aviaries.
Red Butte Garden: Explore this beautiful botanical garden, which also features an amphitheater.
Museums & Science
Natural History Museum of Utah: Learn about the natural and cultural history of Utah through engaging exhibits.
Clark Planetarium: Discover the wonders of the universe with interactive exhibits and shows.
The Leonardo: This museum explores the intersection of art, science, and innovation.
Tours & Passes
Salt Lake City Guided Bus Tour: A great way to see the city's highlights and learn about its history and hidden gems from local guides.
Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass: This pass offers admission to multiple top attractions, providing a convenient way to experience the city.
