Snow-capped mountains, vibrant city life, and endless outdoor adventures make Salt Lake City a destination filled with unforgettable moments. Whether it’s wandering through historic districts, enjoying world-class skiing, or exploring the city’s thriving arts and food scenes, visitors are guaranteed a diverse range of activities to enjoy year-round. Salt Lake City seamlessly blends natural beauty with urban energy, offering unique experiences that cater to every kind of traveler. From scenic trails to cultural gems, each corner reveals something new to love. Planning a visit here ensures a memorable escape filled with exploration, relaxation, and a true sense of adventure.
Experience the Immersive Cosm Dome
Interactive technology meets storytelling at the Cosm Dome, offering an unforgettable visual journey. Nestled within Salt Lake City’s vibrant district, this dome redefines immersive experiences through state-of-the-art projection and crystal-clear audio. Visitors find themselves completely enveloped in larger-than-life narratives, natural wonders, and innovative art shows. Seating arrangements prioritize comfort while allowing optimal viewing angles for every attendee. Each curated show combines science, nature, and entertainment, appealing to families, solo travelers, and art enthusiasts alike. The Cosm Dome’s carefully scheduled events throughout the week ensure there’s always something new to experience. Convenient access from central Salt Lake City and nearby dining options make it easy to plan an enriching evening. Ticket prices vary depending on the show, but early reservations are highly recommended due to high demand. Anyone seeking a cutting-edge way to experience art and storytelling in 2025 will find the Cosm Dome an unmissable Salt Lake City attraction.
Attend the 2025 Sundance Film Festival
Film enthusiasts worldwide converge at the Sundance Film Festival, creating an electrifying atmosphere each January. Recognized globally for launching some of the most iconic independent films, this prestigious festival offers a unique blend of storytelling, networking, and cultural exchange. Attendees can expect a lineup featuring premieres, thought-provoking documentaries, and panel discussions with directors and actors. Besides the cinematic magic, the snowy backdrop of Salt Lake City and nearby Park City adds to the festival’s charm. Purchasing tickets early ensures access to the most anticipated screenings and exclusive events. Local accommodations fill up quickly during this period, so planning lodging in advance is essential. Beyond the theaters, the festival buzz spills into cafes, lounges, and pop-up exhibitions scattered throughout the city. For travelers wanting an authentic taste of creativity, culture, and innovation, the 2025 Sundance Film Festival promises an inspiring and memorable experience unlike any other on the calendar.
Visit the Gilgal Sculpture Garden
Hidden within a quiet neighborhood, Gilgal Sculpture Garden presents an otherworldly experience blending art, history, and spirituality. Created by Thomas Battersby Child Jr., this unconventional garden showcases 12 original sculptures and over 70 engraved stones, each telling a story layered with personal meaning and biblical references. Visitors are drawn to the intricate stonework, most notably the Sphinx with the sculptor’s own face, a testament to imagination without limits. Open daily without an entrance fee, the garden invites contemplative walks among its symbolic installations. Interpretative plaques help decode the rich symbolism scattered throughout the space. Because of its intimate size, visits are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, allowing guests to absorb the thought-provoking atmosphere fully. Photography is encouraged, and many travelers find themselves returning for second visits to uncover new layers of meaning. Gilgal Sculpture Garden remains one of Salt Lake City’s most unusual, fascinating hidden gems in 2025.
Explore the Natural History Museum of Utah
Educational adventure awaits at the Natural History Museum of Utah, housed within the architecturally stunning Rio Tinto Center. Perched against the foothills, the museum offers breathtaking views of Salt Lake City alongside its renowned exhibitions. Guests encounter a rich array of interactive displays covering paleontology, anthropology, ecosystems, and indigenous cultures. Highlights include the expansive dinosaur hall, where towering fossil skeletons captivate visitors of all ages. Seasonal exhibits ensure returning guests always have something new to explore. Beyond the galleries, the rooftop terrace provides panoramic landscapes that are especially stunning at sunset. The museum’s proximity to Red Butte Garden allows visitors to combine two iconic attractions in a single day. Accessibility features and an onsite café enhance the overall visitor experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a curious child, or a family looking for engaging education, the Natural History Museum of Utah remains a top destination for cultural enrichment in 2025.
Enjoy the Red Butte Garden Concert Series
Outdoor music under the stars takes center stage during the Red Butte Garden Concert Series. Set within the picturesque botanical gardens, this beloved summer event features a lineup that spans rock, jazz, folk, and indie artists. The amphitheater’s natural slope provides excellent sightlines and acoustics, ensuring every ticket holder enjoys an exceptional auditory experience. Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets, low-back chairs, and picnic baskets to create a cozy evening setup. Food trucks and beverage stands enhance the festive atmosphere, offering diverse culinary options. Tickets typically sell out fast, especially for major headliners, so securing them as early as possible is advised. Parking and shuttle services are thoughtfully organized, making logistics seamless for attendees. With the Wasatch Mountains as a backdrop, the Red Butte Garden Concert Series captures the essence of Salt Lake City’s vibrant summer culture. Every performance feels like an enchanting escape into music, nature, and community spirit.
Stroll through the Maker’s Hive Market
Handmade goods and local craftsmanship shine at the Maker’s Hive Market, offering a lively alternative to traditional shopping. This indoor market features dozens of vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry and ceramics to organic skincare and artisanal foods. Visitors enjoy a personal connection with makers, learning the stories behind their creations while supporting small businesses. Rotating vendors keep the offerings fresh and seasonal, making each visit unique. Special events, such as DIY workshops and tasting nights, further enrich the experience. Located conveniently near downtown Salt Lake City, Maker’s Hive Market welcomes visitors year-round, making it an excellent stop for tourists seeking authentic local flair. Admission is typically free, encouraging browsing without pressure. The warm, communal atmosphere, coupled with one-of-a-kind finds, ensures that everyone leaves with both memorable treasures and a deeper appreciation for Salt Lake’s creative community. Perfect for gift hunting or simply enjoying a day of discovery.
Attend the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point
Spring bursts into color during the Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point, attracting thousands to its stunning floral displays. Over 250,000 tulips in vibrant hues blanket the gardens, creating postcard-worthy vistas at every turn. Visitors stroll along winding paths framed by waterfalls, ponds, and themed landscapes, making it easy to lose track of time amid the blooms. Garden maps help guests navigate key highlights, including themed gardens like the Secret Garden and Italian Garden. Special festival activities such as photography workshops, live music performances, and artisan markets add layers of entertainment to the floral showcase. Family-friendly attractions, including trolley rides and interactive children’s gardens, ensure that visitors of all ages are engaged. The festival typically runs from mid-April to early May, with peak blooms depending on weather patterns. Early morning visits offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. For anyone visiting Salt Lake City in spring 2025, this breathtaking event is a must-see.
Visit the Melancholy Wine Bar
Tucked away in downtown Salt Lake City, Melancholy Wine Bar offers an intimate, thoughtfully curated experience for wine lovers. Featuring an extensive selection of natural wines from around the world, the bar emphasizes small producers and rare finds. The cozy, minimalist interior—with soft lighting and contemporary art—sets a sophisticated yet approachable tone. Guests often praise the knowledgeable staff who help guide selections without pretension. In addition to its impressive wine menu, Melancholy offers light bites that pair beautifully with every pour, from artisanal cheeses to house-made flatbreads. Regular events such as winemaker nights and tasting flights create a dynamic atmosphere that rewards repeat visits. Reservations are recommended, particularly on weekends, though the walk-in ambiance remains welcoming for impromptu gatherings. Whether savoring a solo glass or celebrating a special evening, Melancholy Wine Bar promises a refined yet relaxed escape for anyone exploring Salt Lake City’s emerging culinary scene in 2025.
Explore the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island
Shimmering under the sun, the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island offer breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters. Visitors are captivated by the lake’s surreal, otherworldly quality, especially during sunset when the waters reflect brilliant hues. Antelope Island, the largest island within the lake, serves as a natural preserve for bison, antelope, and migratory birds. Well-marked trails accommodate both casual walkers and avid hikers, while beaches provide opportunities for unique saltwater floating experiences. Interpretive centers offer insights into the lake’s ecology and history, deepening appreciation for this ancient body of water. Picnicking areas, campsites, and scenic viewpoints make it easy to extend your visit into a full day of adventure. Minimal entrance fees and easy access from Salt Lake City contribute to its popularity among locals and tourists alike. Exploring the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island offers a rare glimpse into Utah’s raw natural beauty, ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts in 2025.
Take a Mural Tour in Downtown Salt Lake
Downtown Salt Lake City becomes an open-air gallery with its growing collection of vibrant murals. Guided tours and self-guided walks allow visitors to admire large-scale artworks that transform alleyways, parking structures, and building facades into masterpieces. Each mural tells a story, reflecting themes ranging from social justice to indigenous heritage and pop culture. Local artists as well as international creators contribute to the city’s ever-changing urban canvas. Walking maps and mobile apps make it simple to locate the most iconic installations while uncovering hidden gems along the way. Tours often weave through some of the city’s most dynamic neighborhoods, offering opportunities to discover cafes, boutiques, and galleries en route. Bringing comfortable shoes and a fully charged phone for photo opportunities enhances the experience. Downtown Salt Lake’s mural tour is more than a visual feast—it’s a celebration of creativity and diversity, making it a must-do cultural exploration in 2025.
Attend the Salt Lake City Marathon
Thousands of participants and spectators gather each spring to experience the energy of the Salt Lake City Marathon. The racecourse weaves through some of the city’s most scenic neighborhoods, offering runners breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains and historic architecture. Options include a full marathon, half marathon, 10K, 5K, and even a bike tour, allowing individuals of all fitness levels to participate. Spectator zones along the course feature live music and cheering squads, creating an uplifting, community-centered atmosphere. Runners appreciate the well-organized logistics, including aid stations, medical support, and finish-line festivities with food and entertainment. For those traveling to Salt Lake City in April 2025, registering early ensures the best experience and access to official race events. Even non-runners find joy in attending, soaking in the high-energy environment and celebrating the determination of athletes. Whether racing or cheering, the marathon marks a proud, inspiring moment in the city’s calendar.
Experience the Salt Lake City Drone Show
Night skies light up in breathtaking spectacle during the Salt Lake City Drone Show, a futuristic alternative to traditional fireworks. Hundreds of synchronized drones dance across the evening sky, forming intricate animations, messages, and 3D effects set to a custom musical soundtrack. Families, couples, and solo travelers gather at designated viewing areas, often accompanied by live entertainment and food vendors to complete the festive atmosphere. Organizers prioritize sustainability and safety, offering a zero-emissions event that minimizes wildfire risks—a major advantage compared to pyrotechnics. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early for the best vantage points and to bring blankets or folding chairs for comfort. Local businesses often tie into the festivities with special promotions, creating a lively citywide celebration. Scheduled periodically throughout the year, the Salt Lake City Drone Show offers an unforgettable visual experience blending technology, creativity, and community spirit, making it an essential event for visitors in 2025.
Visit the Spiral Jetty
Out in the remote north arm of the Great Salt Lake lies the Spiral Jetty, one of the world’s most renowned examples of land art. Created by artist Robert Smithson in 1970, this massive, coil-shaped structure made from basalt rock and earth interacts constantly with the changing lake environment. Depending on water levels, the Spiral Jetty may be fully exposed or partially submerged, offering a different visual experience with each visit. Travelers often describe the journey to the site as part of the adventure, with unpaved roads leading to the quiet, isolated shoreline. Packing water, snacks, and sun protection is highly recommended due to the area’s remoteness. Interpretive signage near the site offers valuable background on Smithson’s vision and the environmental factors influencing the artwork. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply seeking solitude amidst surreal landscapes, visiting the Spiral Jetty provides a profoundly moving experience unlike anything else in Utah.
Explore the Bonneville Salt Flats
Expanses of shimmering white stretch as far as the eye can see at the Bonneville Salt Flats, one of Utah’s most iconic natural wonders. Formed from the remnants of ancient Lake Bonneville, this vast, flat landscape has an ethereal beauty that draws visitors year-round. Travelers often marvel at the mirror-like effect after rainfall or the cracked, dry patterns under the summer sun. Adventure seekers can time their visit with speed events, where racers test the limits of land speed records on the hard salt surface. Easy access via Interstate 80 makes the Salt Flats an ideal day trip from Salt Lake City. Essential preparation includes bringing sunglasses, sunscreen, and plenty of water, as there is little shade. Photography enthusiasts find endless inspiration here, particularly during sunrise and sunset. Visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats in 2025 offers an unforgettable glimpse into the raw, awe-inspiring power of nature’s artistry in Utah’s desert landscape.
Attend the Utah Symphony at Abravanel Hall
Acclaimed musicians and world-class orchestral performances come alive at Abravanel Hall, the proud home of the Utah Symphony. This architectural gem in downtown Salt Lake City impresses visitors with its elegant design and exceptional acoustics, ensuring every note resonates perfectly throughout the hall. A visit often begins with a stroll through the grand lobby, adorned with Dale Chihuly’s iconic glass sculpture “The Olympic Tower.” Concertgoers can expect a diverse program ranging from classical masterworks to modern symphonic collaborations and movie score performances. Tickets are available for single events or subscription series, offering flexible options for music lovers. Attending a Utah Symphony concert allows guests to dress up, savor a sophisticated night out, and enjoy refreshments at the venue’s bar before and after the show. Whether attending a casual matinee or a black-tie gala, experiencing the Utah Symphony at Abravanel Hall ranks among the finest cultural offerings in Salt Lake City for 2025.