A list of the ideal places and the best things to do if you plan to visit Salt Lake City on your vacation.
Salt Lake City, the capital of the state of Utah in the western U.S., was the site of the 19th Winter Olympics and is a city of unique museums, extensive shopping and lively urban life.
Unlike other U.S. metropolises, downtown is not at all overwhelming. It is manageable in size and has some interesting historic buildings. The valley was settled in 1847 by Mormon pioneers who crossed the country, facing incredible obstacles, hoping to practice their religion and lifestyle without hardship.
What to visit in Salt Lake City
Headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
Salt Lake City is probably best known for being the headquarters of the religious community known as the Mormons or, more correctly, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Thus, the city was founded in 1847 by Brigham Young, who came to Salt Lake City from Illinois and decided to establish a community. As a result, many of the city's buildings and attractions reflect Mormon history.
Watch a sunset at Ensign Peak
Salt Lake City is surrounded by mountains and unique nature. To see for yourself, a good option is to climb Ensign Peak, one of the most famous hills in the area. From there you will have a privileged view of the city and the mountains. It is a great option for a picnic or just to enjoy a sunset.
Some information about the trail:
1.5km round trip
Trail in good conditions
Easy for all types of people
State Capitol
The state capitol is the symbol of the state of Utah and sits 300 feet above the rest of the city, making it easy to see from multiple points. The neoclassical style building is topped with a dome, while the interior is decorated with marble.
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum of Utah was founded in 1963. Its location at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, just a few miles from downtown Salt Lake with panoramic views of the city. The museum's exhibits a wide range of interests, including astronomy, geography, geology and biology. There are more than 5,000 artifacts, a scientific research studio, and a sandbox where children can search for fossils.
The Antelope Island State Park
A must-see if you are in Salt Lake City. Located on Utah's Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island State Park is home to wildlife, white sand beaches, trails, and many opportunities for water sports. About an hour from Salt Lake City is Antelope Island State Park, sprawling yet easily accessible, with a beautiful view of snow-capped mountains.
You can also check out the Historic Fielding Garr Ranch. In the mid-19th century, a Mormon widower named Fielding Garr settled on the east side of the island with his nine children.
At the request of the Church, he built an adobe house and ranch to manage the Church's herds of cattle and sheep. At its peak, Fielding Garr Ranch was one of the largest sheep ranches in the country with 10,000 head of sheep.
A visit to Fielding Garr Ranch today allows you to step back in time. Explore the old adobe ranch house, silo, bunkhouse and barracks.
Great Salt Lake
The 1,700-square-mile Great Salt Lake is the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi River. Its name comes from the nature of the water as the evaporation process leaves salt mineral deposits.
Devereaux House
Another must-see in Salt Lake city is the Devereaux House, Salt Lake City's first mansion. Built in 1857 in Victorian style with French-influenced details, the house has a wide porch that wraps around two sides. The grand house and its large courtyard are still in the center of town.
Restaurant & coffee recommendation:
Garage on Beck
We found this authentic and original place hidden away from the downtown behind a factory. A rustic factory with an old west atmosphere.
If you are in Salt Lake City, I definitely recommend trying this place for some drinks or to eat. Their burgers were amazing and the stuff very friendly.
The place is big and cozy and has a fireplace in an outdoor area. They have live music as well.
Eva's Bakery
Searching for a coffee place we found this cozy little place. The owner is French and the truth is that as soon as you enter it seems that you are teleported to a coffee place in France. Everything looked very good and the decoration was very nice. We had a coffee and a croissant which were good.
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