Salt Lake City, Utah: Nature, Slopes and City Charm

Start the day at Utah’s second-oldest restaurant, Ruth's Diner. Housed in a vintage trolley car, this iconic Salt Lake City spot offers cozy mountain views and a dining room filled with history and charm. With a classic American menu and a warm, quirky vibe, it’s a favorite for families, couples and locals alike.

Alongside Ruth’s Diner, other Salt Lake City dining gems include La Caille, a refined French dining experience in a picturesque setting; Log Haven, a romantic mountain retreat with a top-notch wine list; and Pago, serving fresh farm-to-table fare.

Head to Clark Planetarium and explore the wonders of space through hands-on exhibits and immersive shows. Located downtown, it’s a must-see for space enthusiasts and anyone with a curious mind.

Just a short distance away, you can also discover The Leonardo Museum, blending science, technology and art, or admire the striking architecture of the Salt Lake City Public Library.

Drive north of Salt Lake City to experience the magical beauty of Antelope Island State Park. The mountain reflections on the Great Salt Lake feel almost surreal. With bison and eagles in their natural habitat, plus plenty of scenic pull-offs, it’s the perfect place to slow down and take it all in.

For more natural wonders, just 90 minutes west of Salt Lake City are the Bonneville Salt Flats, known for their vast salt crust – a prime spot for Instagram-worthy photos and stargazing. Big Cottonwood Canyon, only 30 minutes from downtown, offers hiking and mountain biking trails with breathtaking views of the Wasatch Mountains.

Right in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, you’ll find the Gallivan Center Ice Rink, a winter favorite. Surrounded by city lights and mountain views, it’s the perfect spot to skate, hang out and enjoy the season with friends.

Nearby, City Creek Shopping Center offers over 90 shops and restaurants, with retractable glass roofs and a creek flowing below, providing a climate-controlled shopping experience year-round. Just two blocks away, the Delta Center is home to thrilling Utah Jazz basketball games, Utah Hockey Club matchups, and incredible concerts throughout the year.

End your day with an exhilarating snowmobiling adventure just an hour from downtown. Club Rec offers guided tours of the stunning Monte Cristo Peak, perfect for all experience levels. Glide through deep powder, scenic trails and vast terrain, with the chance to spot the adjacent state of Wyoming on a clear day. And when the snow melts, Club Rec offers UTV tours through rugged terrain, along with a variety of water activities, including high-end wakeboard and ski boat rentals.

With 11 world-class ski resorts nearby, Salt Lake City is a prime destination for winter sports enthusiasts.