SALT LAKE CITY
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.
Historic & Cultural Sites
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.
SCHEDULE
Day 1: May 7 – Arrival & Downtown Discovery
- Afternoon: Arrive by train and pick up your rental car. Check into Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City.
- Evening:
- Walk or drive to Temple Square.
- Visit the Salt Lake Tabernacle: explore its historic interior and, if timing allows, catch a rehearsal or organ recital (typically offered weekdays at noon).
- Stroll past the Salt Lake Temple and Assembly Hall.
- Head up to the Utah State Capitol for sunset views.
- Dinner: Enjoy upscale dining at Copper Onion or Current Fish & Oyster.
On Thursday, May 7, 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.
While the Tabernacle Choir rehearsals usually occur on Thursday evenings, they are held in the Conference Center from June through September, so our visit in May means the rehearsal will likely still be in the Tabernacle itself—a perfect opportunity to experience its legendary acoustics. The rehearsal typically runs from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., and is also free to attend.
Optional: If we arrive early enough, catch the organ recital around noon before hotel check-in.
- Morning: Drive to Big Cottonwood Canyon (30 mins). Hike the Donut Falls Trail or enjoy scenic overlooks.
- Afternoon: Continue to Little Cottonwood Canyon. Ride the Snowbird Aerial Tram for panoramic mountain views.
Evening: Return to the city. Optional stop at Red Butte Garden or relax at the hotel.
- Dinner: Try The Roof Restaurant for elegant dining with views of Temple Square.
Day 3: May 9 – Great Salt Lake & Hot Springs
- Morning: Drive to Antelope Island State Park (1 hr). Spot bison, hike, and enjoy lake vistas.
- Afternoon: Head to Homestead Crater in Midway (1 hr 15 mins) for a geothermal soak (book ahead).
- Evening: Return to Salt Lake City. Optional visit to the Natural History Museum of Utah if time allows.
- Dinner: Explore local favorites or unwind with room service.
Day 4: May 10 – Departure
- Morning: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or nearby café. Return rental car and head to the airport.
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.
