top 10 tourism destinations in utah

21 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Utah

Written by Lana Law Updated Feb 15, 2022

Utah is one of the nation's great outdoor states, with fabulous ski resorts, incredible national and state parks , and natural wonders like you won't find anywhere else in the world. A road trip through Utah is one the best ways to see the sights, and scenic drives are everywhere throughout the state.

For cultural highlights or nearby skiing, head to Salt Lake City . If you're looking for outdoor adventures, from hiking, mountain biking, and camping to ATV motorcycle riding and off-road pursuits, be sure to check out Moab and St. George . You'll even find lakes in Utah where you can bask on a beach or enjoy a boat ride.

Keep in mind, Utah's elevation varies considerably, and while it's hot and sunny in some areas, it may be snowing in others. Some parks have only limited accessibility in winter, and some towns almost shut down during this season , but most of the best places to visit are open year-round. For more ideas, see our guide to the top attractions in Utah.

1. Zion National Park

2. arches national park, 3. monument valley, 4. canyonlands national park, 5. bryce canyon national park, 6. salt lake city temple, 7. utah's ski resorts, 8. park city, 10. grand staircase-escalante national monument, 11. dead horse point state park, 12. capitol reef national park, 13. st. george, 14. sand hollow state park, 15. snow canyon state park, 16. cedar breaks national monument, 17. natural bridges national monument, 18. dinosaur national monument, 19. great salt lake, 20. bonneville salt flats, 21. coral pink sand dunes state park.

Zion National Park, less than a three-hour drive from Las Vegas , features some of Utah's most outstanding scenery. Red rock cliffs, waterfalls, and stunning vistas are some of the key attractions.

Many of the park's most impressive sites are found in Zion Canyon, along the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive , which follows the valley floor. From spring until fall, a sightseeing bus takes visitors through the park along this route, stopping at all the major sites and trailheads. This makes touring the park very simple. In winter, you can drive this route in your own vehicle.

The Zion-Mount Carmel Highway runs east-west through the park and is also a must-do drive. This self-drive route takes you high above the valley and offers incredible views from the lookouts.

Sometimes referred to as a vertical park due to its sheer vertical walls, Zion is a hiker's paradise. The most popular hikes in Zion are accessed off the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive and the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. Here, you'll find everything from simple walks along the valley floor to cliff-side trails, like the famous Angel's Landing trail, which is not for the faint of heart or anyone with a fear of heights.

If you are here to truly experience the outdoors, you'll find quality campgrounds and RV parks in and near Zion National Park .

• Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Zion National Park

Stunning stone arches and rolling petrified dunes, backed by the often snow-capped peaks of the La Sal Mountains, make this one of the most scenic parks in Utah. Arches National Park is home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches. The most famous of these, and the most photographed, is Delicate Arch , standing like a horseshoe jutting out of the ground, framing the distant mountains.

Numerous walking trails and hikes lead to the most popular arches and other interesting rock formations. But many of the main highlights can be seen right from the scenic drives through the park and easily accessed from the parking areas.

The best places to visit in the park are Devil's Garden, Delicate Arch, Fiery Furnace, Double Arch, Park Avenue, Balanced Rock, the Windows, Broken Arch, and Sandstone Arch.

Arches National Park is located just outside Moab , a town well-known by mountain bikers and outdoor adventurers. The park is considerably higher than the town and reached via a winding road with impressive views. You'll find several other scenic parks in the vicinity and a variety of good campgrounds in the area.

Like a scene from an old western film, red rock buttes rise up from the orange desert floor, and occasionally a horse and rider even wanders by. This is Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park , located on the Navajo Indian Reservation on the Utah-Arizona border.

Numerous films and commercials have been shot in this scenic area, which is famous for its spectacular red mesas and stone pinnacles. Within the park is Valley Drive, a one-way, 17-mile, self-drive dirt road running between the buttes and through the dramatic landscape. Pullouts all along the route offer great opportunities for photography and soaking up the scenery.

If you want to go beyond this one road to explore the park more fully, you must use a guide, which can be arranged at the visitor center. If you don't have time for the drive, which is usually done at a snail's pace due to the curves and sightseeing stops, the view from the Monument Valley Visitor Center is spectacular, and one of the best viewpoints in Monument Valley.

Canyonlands National Park is Utah's version of the Grand Canyon, without the crowds. The park has three sections, but the main portion, which attracts the majority of sightseers, is Island in the Sky . This area offers incredible vistas looking out over carved canyons and beyond to the snow-capped mountains. It is arguably as impressive as the Grand Canyon in its own unique way, and far less visited.

One of the main attractions in Island in the Sky is Mesa Arch . This beautiful stone arch, particularly stunning in the early morning hours or late afternoon, forms a window to the canyons, buttes, and torn landscape below. Also of note in this section is the White Rim Road , which runs down from the park to the valley below, following a dirt road of switchbacks along sheer cliff walls. This road is only for the brave. Visitors can catch a glimpse of the White Rim Road, across the road from the Island in the Sky Visitors Center.

Canyonlands' Island in the Sky section is located not far from the town of Moab. The main access point is reached by heading north along Highway 191, beyond Arches National Park. The Needles District is located in the opposite direction, off Highway 191 heading south from Moab and takes about two hours to reach.

The other two sections of the park, the Needles District and The Maze , offer a slightly different type of landscape but are also impressive. These areas are more remote. The Needles area is one of the best places for hiking in the park, and The Maze is a popular place for 4x4 road trips.

The brightly colored and tightly packed hoodoos that dominate the landscape at Bryce Canyon are what set this national park apart from the rest of the spectacular sites in Utah. Stone pillars, glowing in shades of orange, pink, cream, and cinnamon, jut up from the floor of a huge natural amphitheater, creating a magical landscape that almost begs to be explored.

A scenic drive runs through the park and provides numerous lookouts all along the canyon. However, it's worth venturing down into the forest of hoodoos on one of the numerous hiking trails in the park to fully appreciate the size and unique shapes of these formations. Bristlecone pine trees are another surprise attraction found in Bryce.

Bryce Canyon National Park is located at an elevation of 8,000 to over 9,000 feet and receives snowfall during the winter months and into spring. Temperatures up here, even in summer, can be cool to very cold. The best time to visit is from April to October, particularly if you are planning on staying at one of the campgrounds in the area .

This park might feel like it's a long way from anywhere, but there are several options for visiting Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas .

Salt Lake City is often associated with skiing and winter activities, and certainly many of the best ski resorts in the state can be reached within an hour's drive of here. But this is a city worth visiting, regardless of the season, and offers numerous attractions and things to do .

Standing on Temple Square is the late 19th-century Temple , the largest Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and one of Salt Lake City's principal sites. The temple may only be entered by church members, but it is definitely worth walking by to have a look. Another site in the area worth checking out is the Salt Lake Tabernacle.

The entire complex is in the midst of a massive multi-year renovation and revitalization, with different buildings under construction at different times. Be sure to check to see what is open before visiting to avoid disappointment.

If you're a skier and haven't been to Utah, it's time to go. While other states like Colorado and California tend to steal the spotlight, Utah has some fantastic ski resorts .

Utah gets a surprisingly large amount of snow every year, and the snow that does fall is light and fluffy, making powder days especially amazing. Fun fact: The largest ski resort in the United States is located in Utah.

Many of the best resorts are located within an hour of Salt Lake City, either in the Little Cottonwood Canyon, where you'll find Snowbird and Alta; or Big Cottonwood Canyon, where Solitude and Brighton call home; or up by the town of Park City, where Deer Valley and Park City Resort are located. Other popular ski resorts in Utah are Snowbird, Alta, Snowbasin, Sundance, and Powder Mountain .

Park City is a fun mountain town, about 45 minutes southeast of Salt Lake City, and home to some of Utah's best ski resorts . Park City is an actual historical town not something artificially created for the skiing crowd. As a result, you'll find an authentic main street with buildings, now full of restaurants and shops, dating from the town's mining days.

One of Park City's most famous events, the annual Sundance Film Festival , is held in late January. At this time, the town is buzzing with creative energy, and regular celebrity sightings are the norm.

On the town's doorstep is Park City Mountain Resort , with lifts operating right from town, and just down the road is Deer Valley Resort , one of Utah's poshest ski resorts. Both of these offer outstanding terrain for all levels of skiers.

Utah Olympic Park , also located in the vicinity, was used as a venue for the 2002 Winter Olympics. Today, it offers year-round activities for kids and adults, from ziplining and hiking in summer to bobsledding in winter.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Park City, UT

For outdoor adventures in the Southwest, it's hard to beat the town of Moab. As the closest community to Arches National Park , Canyonlands National Park , and Dead Horse Point State Park , this area offers endless opportunities for hiking, biking, rafting, off-road adventures , and more. The rolling petrified dunes and surrounding mountains provide breathtaking scenery and offer a playground for numerous outdoor pursuits.

Mountain bikers come here in droves in the spring and fall for the outstanding riding. Although the town is known among mountain bikers for being the home of the famous and challenging Slickrock Trail , you can find trails here for all levels of bikers. When it comes to hiking, the trails in the nearby parks offer amazing scenery, including Utah's famous Delicate Arch . You'll also find some incredible campgrounds near Moab .

In winter, this area receives snow, and the adventure opportunities diminish. The best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) and fall (September to October) . You can still enjoy yourself here in summer, but daytime temperatures get very hot.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a huge area of rugged terrain, with a landscape of canyons, arches, hills, waterfalls, forest, and scrubland. It offers a sense of remoteness that is hard to find in other parks.

Dirt roads, where you can drive great distances without ever passing another vehicle, are all part of the experience. Covering 1.9 million acres, this is the largest national monument in the United States, and it's managed by the Bureau of Land Management, not the National Park Service.

Hiking is a popular way to explore the region. Lower Calf Creek Falls Trail offers some fabulous scenery and is one of the most photographed locations in Grand Staircase-Escalante.

In the southern part of the monument is Paria , a town near the Paria River, founded in 1865, but abandoned by 1920. Remnants of the town and the nearby areas have been used in a number of western films.

The park offers camping, but if you're looking for a little more luxury, one of the best resorts in Utah is right next to Grand Staircase-Escalante.

Dead Horse Point State Park, just outside of Moab , delivers one of the best lookouts of any state park in Utah . The main viewpoint looks over a gooseneck in the Colorado River carving through the colorful landscape. Cliff walls rising 2,000 feet and plateaus at various levels stretch out into the distance.

On a shelf of land below the viewpoint, the Potash Road runs along a ledge. Looking to the left along this road, you can see Thelma and Louise Point , where the final scene of the motion picture Thelma and Louise was filmed.

The best way to see the sights at Dead Horse Point State Park is to take a stroll on the walking trail along the rim.

Capitol Reef National Park is another great place to explore Utah's interesting landscapes. Located directly west of Canyonlands National Park, Capitol Reef reveals a huge wall of banded sandstone rising above the Fremont River.

The canyons, rock spires, cliff walls, arches, and gorges are an inspiration for anyone with an interest in photography. From a distance, the wall dominates the landscape and glows an almost purple color in the late-day sun.

Most people come here for sightseeing, but you'll also find a variety of hiking trails in the area. This park sees far fewer tourists than most of the other big parks in Utah, which can be a refreshing treat.

The nearest town to Capitol Reef is Torrey , to the west of the park, where you can find accommodation and camping options . The park's visitor center is 15 minutes from town and located at the start of the beautiful Capitol Reef Scenic Drive , one of the main highlights of a visit to the park.

St. George's position in southern Utah, near some incredible parks, makes it a convenient city to base yourself if you're interested in outdoor activities. But, even if you're not, the town has its own attractions and is worth a visit.

Zion National Park is just an hour away, and one of Utah's great undiscovered natural areas, Snow Canyon State Park , is less than 20 minutes away. Within a half-hour drive of St. George, you'll find outstanding hiking trails , as well as beautiful areas to camp .

The city of St. George has a number of attractions and things to do related to its Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints history, including the St. George Temple and the Brigham Young Winter Home Historical Site . Pioneer Park and the adjoining Red Hills Desert Garden are also must-see sites.

Just down the road from St. George is one of Utah's best state parks , Sand Hollow. This unique park holds a large lake with several unique features. At one end, exposed sandstone rocks descend into the clear waters; at the other, sand dunes extend towards the water's edge, making for wide and wonderful beaches, some of the best in Utah.

The park is one of the most popular places to camp near St. George , with sandy, but tight sites located just back from the beach at the Sandpit campground, or for the RV set, the West Side campground is near the entrance and is more spread out.

The park is full of great things to do, like motorized off-road riding in the 15,000 acres of sand dunes, swimming in the warm waters, kayaking, and pleasure boating.

Located mere minutes from downtown St. George is Snow Canyon State Park. Somewhat overshadowed by the famous national parks nearby, this amazing state park has the best of everything the big parks have but all packed into a relatively small area, and without the crowds.

Take one of the many wonderful hiking trails across petrified sand dunes to see the spectacular red and tan rocks tower up from the valley floor against impossibly blue skies. If you'd like to get underground, climb down into one of the lava tubes , and give some thought to what fiery events once took place here. If slot canyons are your thing, the park has those, too.

A popular campground attracts RVers and tenters from across the country to its scenic sites.

The same forces of nature that shaped Bryce Canyon were at work in Cedar Breaks, creating a smaller but equally dynamic-looking amphitheater. Dominated by colorful hoodoos, the amphitheater is more than 2,000 feet deep and three miles in diameter.

Located at an elevation of 10,000 feet, the park sees full on winter conditions, with snow covering the monument from fall until spring. Cedar Breaks is open year-round, but the scenic drive through the park (Highway 148) is closed from approximately mid-November to late May or June.

The best views can be seen from the Rim Drive . A number of short hikes along the rim and through alpine meadows and forest offer good views of the canyon and access to a few bristlecone pines.

The Spectra Point and Ramparts Overlook Trail is a popular four-mile route along the edge of the plateau that leads to a viewpoint of the spectacular Cedar Breaks Amphitheater.

Less spectacular, but interesting nonetheless, is the Alpine Pond Trail , a circular, two-mile hike to a subalpine forest glade and a pond at the end of the trail.

South of Canyonlands National Park, but somewhat out of the way, is Natural Bridges National Monument, protecting some outstanding formations. If you are in the vicinity, or if you haven't had an opportunity to view a natural bridge before, this park is definitely worth a stop. The main tourist attractions are three natural bridges ; Kachina, Owachomo, and Sipapu, all of which are accessible by short hikes.

If you are only going to visit one, make it Sipapu , the largest and most impressive of the three. The walk in is a moderately strenuous, 1.2-mile round-trip hike, and it involves navigating steep sections and climbing a few stairs and ladders.

Kachina Bridge is reached by a 1.5-mile round-trip hike, but the trail is easier, although it still has some steep sections.

Owachomo Bridge is the easiest to reach, requiring less than a half-mile round-trip walk. It is the smallest of the three but still worth seeing.

Also of interest in the park are the Horsecollar Ruins , revealing the remains of ancient Native American buildings inhabited more than 700 years ago.

Dinosaur National Monument is known not only for the large number of Jurassic period fossils that have been discovered here but also for the surrounding terrain. The main highlight is the collection of more than 1,500 dinosaur fossils, which can be seen embedded in the cliff wall of Carnegie Quarry.

The new Quarry Hall has been built right over top of a section of the rock, allowing for close up access and comfortable conditions for visitors. Hiking, rafting, and camping are also popular activities at Dinosaur National Monument.

The Great Salt Lake, a half-hour drive northwest of Salt Lake City, is the largest inland lake west of the Mississippi, measuring 72 miles long, 34 miles wide, and up to 50 feet deep. It is a remnant of a much larger freshwater lake, Lake Bonneville.

Following a fall in the water table, this lake was left with no outlet and shrank as a result of evaporation, leaving the Great Salt Lake Desert. The combination of evaporation with the inflow of surface waters rich in minerals led the salt content of the lake to rise steadily, and at one stage it reached 27 percent (eight times as high as the world's oceans).

At the south end of the lake are bathing beaches and a recreation park . Like the Dead Sea in Israel, Great Salt Lake is salty enough to allow bathers to float without sinking.

About 90 minutes west of Salt Lake City along I-80, near Wendover, is an unassuming area of flat land, extending off into the distance as far as the eye can see. But during certain times of the year, this area becomes the world's fastest race course .

This natural salt flat is perfectly flat, devoid of all vegetation, and most of the time has a hard surface, making it perfect for high speeds. Speed Week is held here each year in August and World of Speed is held in September. These races have produced world land-speed record runs.

Most of the time it's completely empty, and you can try it out for yourself. If you venture out here when no event is taking place, you'll find little more than a sign on the side of the road and endless miles of salt flats. Take exit 4 off I-80 , turn right, and drive past the truck stop. There is nothing else out here. Eventually, you'll come to a sign and an area where you can drive onto the flats at your own risk.

In winter, some areas of the salt flats are covered in a thin layer of water and are not drivable.

The coral pink color of the sands at this park make for an interesting twist when it comes to sand dunes. Sculpted by the wind, the shifting dunes and rolling hills are also a fun place to play. Popular things to do here, beyond simply climbing the soft sand mountains, are sandboarding, ATVing, and of course, photographing the scene.

While the park is mainly used for day-use visits, a pleasant campground is located on the edge of the dunes, with sites sheltered by small trees.

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24 Best Places to Visit in Utah — Including National Parks, Turquoise Lakes, and Giant Salt Flats

Red sandstone arches, turquoise lakes, and epic skiing are some of the many standout attractions in Utah.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

Utah doesn't get as much attention as some of its neighbors (ahem, Colorado), but anyone who's visited the Beehive State knows that it's in a class of its own. Its motto is "Life Elevated," after all. The landscape goes from desert marked with red sandstone arches to giant, snow-covered ski mountains and bright-white salt flats. In fact, the terrain is so stunning and varied that much of the natural landscape is designated national park, national monument, or national forest land.

It's impossible to check out every site the state has to offer in one visit, but certain places stand out. In addition to housing five phenomenal national parks, there are endless ski areas, state parks, hot springs, lakes, and mountain towns that are all worth exploring.

With that in mind, here are 24 of the best places to visit in Utah.

Zion National Park

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

Utah has five renowned national parks, but Zion was the state's first — and there's a reason why. Hiking below the steep red cliffs surrounding Zion Canyon is truly awe-inspiring, as are the park's slot canyons, emerald-colored pools, and waterfalls with hanging gardens.

Park City is one of those places where you can have it all. It's just over 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, but has a mountain town feel that's complemented by a huge network of biking and hiking trails in the summer and two great ski areas — Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort — in the winter.

Goblin Valley State Park

In addition to camping among Goblin Valley State Park 's hoodoos, you can spend the day exploring Little Wild Horse slot canyon, which includes a stretch where the walls are so tight that you have to turn sideways to get through.

Powder Mountain

With the most skiable acreage in North America, Powder Mountain is the place to be when the snow starts flying in Utah. In addition to cruising down the resort's 154 trails, you can go off piste, exploring the mountain's untracked in-bounds terrain. (Oh, and the area receives an average of more than 500 inches of snow annually.)

Paria Canyon

This natural wonder lies on the Utah-Arizona border, but is still on the Utah side. Paria Canyon is one of the longest and deepest slot canyons in the world, found within the wildly beautiful Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness.

Arches National Park

The reddish-orange sandstone arches of this national park feel like they belong in another world. In addition to hiking under or walking over the arches (there are more than 2,000 of them), you'll find other geological wonders, including Balanced Rock, which towers over the desert landscape.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is unlike any other state capital in the U.S. It sits at the base of the Wasatch Range, providing a mountain backdrop to even the most urban downtown area. To see the two sides of the city, you can walk the Temple Square , headquarters for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, before grabbing lunch at the Mark of the Beastro , a vegan diner with a devil theme.

Unlike other parts of the state, the city of St. George boasts year-round warm weather and easy access to endless recreation — from the dunes and red sandstone cliffs of Snow Canyon State Park to the reservoir of Sand Hollow State Park to the iconic Zion National Park . This destination also has incredible dining and great golfing.

Canyonlands National Park

The desert landscape of Canyonlands National Park is marked with towering rock pinnacles, remote canyons, and Native American rock paintings. Meanwhile, the Colorado River cuts through the dry scenery, providing whitewater rapids sought out by rafters and kayakers.

This city in eastern Utah is a gateway to the red rock wonders of the state — many of which are found within neighboring Arches and Canyonlands national parks. In addition to the parks, Moab is home to myriad petroglyphs and real-life dinosaur tracks.

Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is as rugged and remote as it gets, which is why it was one of the last places in the continental U.S. to be mapped. These days, you can view rock art by the ancient Anasazi and Fremont cultures, see dinosaur fossils, and explore the monument's slot canyons, arches, and monoliths.

Dead Horse Point State Park

This state park is as dry as it is immense. With a high-desert landscape of canyons crisscrossed with trails, travelers come to look out over the dramatic Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. Note: When the sun drops, stick around — Dead Horse Point State Park also has stellar stargazing.

Bonneville Salt Flats

You don't have to travel all the way to South America to see the Uyuni Salt Flat; you just have to get to northwestern Utah, where the Bonneville Salt Flats sprawl over 46 square miles. The flats, which resemble snow, are actually a blinding-white salt crust that's five feet thick in some areas.

Bryce Canyon National Park

The largest concentration of hoodoos (columns of rock jutting out of the ground) can be found in Bryce Canyon National Park . In addition to the red sandstone wonders, the park provides stunning sunrise and sunset views and dark skies perfect for stargazing.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

Admiring the sunset on the mounds of red sand in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park should be on every travel wish list. Visitors can hike, drive, and even slide down the dunes, which are estimated to be between 10,000 and 15,000 years old. (Sandboards and sleds are available to rent.)

Mystic Hot Springs

This unique take on natural hot springs funnels the mineral water into a series of reclaimed bathtubs and pools where you can soak the day away. For the full experience, stick around for some on-site live music or sleep in one of Mystic Hot Springs ' many buses (including one that followed the Grateful Dead ).

Not far from Salt Lake city in the Wasatch Range of the Rocky Mountains lies this ski area that boasts 3,240 feet of vertical terrain and around 500 inches of snow annually (it has the longest ski season in the state). In the summer, you can play on Snowbird 's alpine slide or take the tram to the top.

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaurs once roamed much of Utah, and there's no better place to see and learn about it than at Dinosaur National Monument . The remains of these great wonders are still visibly embedded in the rocks, while petroglyphs showcase the area's first human populations.

Fifth Water Hot Springs

It doesn't get much better than hiking to hot springs. After just over two miles on the trail, you'll come upon a waterfall and the Fifth Water Hot Springs or Diamond Fork Hot Springs. Sit back and relax, but keep in mind you have to hike back to your car.

Homestead Crater

One of Utah's lesser-known natural wonders, the Homestead Crater is a geothermal hot spring set in a limestone dome. Inside, under the "natural skylight" created by the dome's opening, you can swim, scuba dive, or snorkel. (Fun fact: This is the only warm-water dive site in the continental U.S.)

Bear Lake State Park

Everything in Bear Lake State Park revolves around the park's shining jewel: Bear Lake. This freshwater spot is nicknamed the "Caribbean of the Rockies" because of its bright turquoise color, which is thanks to an abundance of calcium carbonate deposits in the water. In addition to sunbathing on the sandy shores, fishing, jet skiing, and sailing are popular activities.

Mount Timpanogos

One of Utah's most popular and recognizable mountains, Mount Timpanogos tops out at 11,752 feet above sea level. To summit the mountain — nicknamed "Timp" — it's a 14-mile hike round-trip. Along the way, hikers are treated to views of glacial lakes, waterfalls, and wildflowers.

Capitol Reef National Park

Everything in Capitol Reef National Park revolves around a literal wrinkle on the earth that consists of layered sandstone, canyons, and rock formations. Known as the Waterpocket Fold, the geologic monocline extends almost 100 miles and is surrounded by white sandstone domes, towering monoliths, and otherworldly pillars and arches.

Goosenecks State Park

Goosenecks State Park is tiny, but mighty. It's renowned for its clifftop vistas over the roaring San Juan River. And the views don't stop when night falls — you just have to look up. The park was recently even given an International Dark Sky designation .

Places To Go

Utah is made up of vibrant and historic cities and towns, all surrounded by natural beauty. These natural landscapes are designated as national parks, national monuments, national forests, state parks and millions of additional acres of open spaces with no official designation save for "Utah."

Mighty 5 National Parks Ski Resorts

Parks & Outdoors

Dark Sky Parks

Cities & Towns

Ski Resorts

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The Complete Capitol Reef Trip

Planning a trip to Capitol Reef National Park? Explore these local-favorite destinations in the Capitol Reef region to make the most of your trip!

Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

• Capitol Reef National Park
• Petroglyphs
• Stargazing Capitol Reef
• Explore the town of Torrey, Utah
• Fremont Indian State Park

See Itinerary

Ski City Downhill + Downtown

Big city amenities support 10 different resorts within an hour of SLC International, which means the best in downhill meets the best in downtown.

Community, Kid-Friendly, Non-ski Winter Activities, Ski and Snowboard, Urban Experiences

• Craft coffee, dining and spirits
• Alta Ski Area or Snowbird Ski Resort
• Solitude Mountain Resort or Brighton Ski Resort
• Performing arts, après-ski and live music

Red Rock & Dark Skies: Stargazing the National Parks

This road trip through southwest Utah takes you to four of Utah’s best places to see the Milky Way — Capitol Reef National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and Cedar Breaks National Monument.

Adventure, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Solitude, Stargazing

• Hell's Backbone Grill
• Bryce Canyon Lodge
• Ranger-led Star Programs
• Road Trip Southwest Utah

Base Camp Kanab

From the vermilion, white and pink cliffs and wide expanses of Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument, to the twisting sandstone bottlenecks of Buckskin Gulch, even the vertigo-inducing views of Zion National Park if you've never been, this six-day itinerary will show you why Kanab is the perfect base camp for adventure.

Cycling, Hiking, Scenic Drives/Road Trips

• Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument
• Lake Powell
• North Rim Grand Canyon
• Zion National Park

Play The Hits: Exploring Salt Lake City's Iconic Sights

Utah’s capital city boasts a unique history. It is rich in frontier history for sure but its story didn’t end (or begin) there. Experience the many layers of history, prehistory and contemporary culture.

Arts, History and Heritage, Urban Experiences

• Temple Square
• Utah Museum of Contemporary Art
• Natural History Museum of Utah
• Red Butte Gardens

Alpine, Après and Arches

Timed perfectly for winter, this journey takes you to some of the finest mountain resorts in the world, then to the most spectacular vistas of the scarlet-hued desert.

Hiking, Non-ski Winter Activities, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Ski and Snowboard

• Ski Northern Utah
• Explore Southern Utah in Winter
• Alpine Mountains to Red Rock Expanses
• Ski Boots to Hiking Boots

Outdoor Beauty

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Head to one of Utah’s many Certified International Dark Sky Parks for the best celestial views on earth. You can find a dark sky experience that fits every itinerary.

Lakes & Reservoirs

Utah's reservoirs and lakes are some of the biggest in the country.

Utah is known as the home to Life Elevated®, and the abundance and proximity of incredible mountain ranges is at the heart of Utah's identity.

Utah State Parks

There are more than 40 state parks that stretch across Utah, from the rich blue waters at Bear Lake to the hot, orange and pink sands of Coral Pink Sand Dunes.

Utah's National Parks

Known as the Mighty 5, each national park can be an entire vacation all in itself. The best visits include a mix of activities inside and outside of the park, and guided experiences to bring the stories of these remarkable landscapes to the forefront.

Utah's Scenic Byways

In total, Utah’s distinct topography provides the surface for 28 scenic byways, which add up to hundreds of miles of vivid travel experiences wherein the road trip is as memorable as the destination.

Top Traveler Cities

Moab is surrounded by a sea of buckled, twisted and worn sandstone sculpted by millennia of sun, wind and rain

Park City, UT

Park City is the perfect mountain town. The winter slopes were once featured in the Olympics, and in summer the mountains and nearby state parks and reservoirs transform into a hiking, mountain biking, fishing and camping mecca.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, UT

Salt Lake City makes a great gateway for travelers making a trip to Utah's ski resorts or southward to Utah’s renowned red rock country.

St. George, UT

St. George is perfect for family adventures, luxury spas, extensive shopping, championship golf and nearby outdoor recreation assets.

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18 Best Places to Visit in Utah

Utah translates to people of the mountains. Its rich heritage is borne in exploration, one that led to the discoveries of some of America’s most treasured destinations. Its sun-soaked desert landscapes filled with mesas, buttes and hoodoos along with world-class winter adventures make the Beehive State a worthy destination all year long.

Utah has been delivering epic road trips for generations. Journeying between the state’s Big Five national parks is, for many, a rite of passage. They are, of course, some of the top places to visit in Utah but as you’ll soon realize, there are many more layers to discover.

Map of Places to visit in Utah

State parks and monuments are spread throughout. These bring more local culture and history, plus significant Native American heritage. In addition, the state’s capital, Salt Lake City, proves to be far more than just a launchpad for adventures.

18. Dead Horse Point State Park

One of several must-see destinations minutes from Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park, boasts one of the best views in Utah. The state park is home to high desert woodland that leads to jaw-dropping canyons which sparkle when the sun rises and falls.

But the star of the show is Dead Horse Point. The point is a mesa that continues to narrow until there’s nothing but cliffs ahead, to the left and right. Back in the day, cowboys corralled horses here. Today, it’s an incredible overlook that showcases the Colorado River, making close to a 360-degree turn through a landscape packed with buttes and canyons.

From this point you can head along the East or West Rim trails to further views. The latter being more popular for its addition detours and views towards Canyonlands National Park.

17. Goblin Valley State Park

If you get bored with hoodoos, take things to another level by admiring the hobbit like rocks within Goblin Valley State Park. Not far from Bryce Canyon, this park takes your regular hoodoo and transforms them into mythical looking creatures.

However, these peculiar, mushroom-shaped formations are, in fact, Entrada Sandstone pillars that have been eroded over millions of years. They are spread apart like a kooky looking community. It makes for a different experience than neighboring Bryce, ensuring you should visit both.

There are three hikes through the mystical Goblin Valley State Park, which will deliver an up-close experience with the rock residents. But it also presents the opportunity to admire ancient petroglyphs created by the Fremont and Paiute tribes.

Aside from hiking, travelers can try their hand at canyoneering or explore on a mountain bike.

16. Bonneville Salt Flats

Whether you’re interested in head scratching optical illusions or just want to drive fast, there are plenty of reasons to travel to Bonneville Salt Flats. A fun ninety-minute drive west of Salt Lake City, you’ll venture from one salty expanse to another. However, rather than a lake, the inch (or sometimes five feet) of salt creates some marvelous photography.

Getting to the flats is easy. What you choose to do when there is up to you. The road it ends abruptly, and you’re welcome to drive onto the salty flats. The temptation for speed is ever present, but beware – the ground is not always solid.

After taking a quick spin, place your camera close to the ground so your reflection and distant self come into view. The best time to visit is at sunrise or sunset, when the mix of colors creates a stunning landscape.

15. Dinosaur National Monument

A designated UNESCO cultural site, the Dinosaur National Monument, is a wondrous look into the discovery of thousands of prehistoric fossils. These bones date back 160 million years and can be seen embedded into the vast cliff within the Carnegie Quarry.

It all began in 1909 when paleontologist, Earl Douglass discovered eight dinosaur tailbones. Over time, that number grew to 1,500 fossils, providing the quarry with international fame. But why so many in one place? The amount is unusual, leading scientist to believe the quarry was a prehistoric watering hole.

In 1915 it became Dinosaur National Monument. Today you can admire the cliff wall and embark on several short hikes around the monument, where you’ll uncover a vast rolling desert punctuated by a river that offers great rafting.

14. Monument Valley

It’s a picture you can hear, the red rock buttes of Monument Valley complemented with the distinct twang of rustic guitar. For generations, old Western films used this very image as a backdrop to iconic flicks. But it’s a real place, one found within the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park.

Straddling the border between Utah and Arizona, the park is home to the 17-mile Valley Drive. This is a road whose stark black color is interrupted only by straight yellow lines. On either side is a vast expanse of red and orange, with a tinge of green desert flora hanging on for dear life.

It’s a dramatic landscape that has been made famous by van lifers showcasing the road as it heads straight well into the distance. Along the way, there are numerous pullouts, but to explore further, one needs a Navajo guide.

13. Bears Ears National Monument

The fight to protect Bears Ears National Monument has been splashed across our TV screens over the last few years. It’s all the more reason to visit this important place to learn more about its importance to Native American communities such as the Zuni, Ute and Hopis.

Visitors to Bears Ears National Monument won’t have to go far to find fascinating rock art, ancient cliff dwellings and significant sites that have been at the forefront of local life for hundreds of years. This is a land that has long been sacred and it’s easy to see why.

Wide open mountain meadows quickly dissipate as they reach the edge of sandstone canyons. On the edge of the San Juan, cliff dwellings such as the River House Ruin, once home to generations of tribes, offer a glimpse into the past as the land now stands frozen in time.

12. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

For thousands of years, Native American tribes such as the Paiute, Navajo and Hopi called the breathtaking Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument home. In 1996, it became a protected monument, ensuring the significant cultural and historic sites are protected for generations to come.

The monument is a massive expanse of land hiding secrets around every corner. The archaeological sites, along with the Escalante canyons, are the star attraction. Here, centuries of river flow have carved deep and slender slot canyons that make for epic day hikes and even multi-day expeditions.

With no official entrances, the monument can often feel remote and a true desert wilderness. As travelers converge within the more popular national parks, it’s easy to escape the crowds whether on foot or via 4WD. If you choose the latter, Cottonwood Canyon Road provides 47 miles of epic views, including the main canyons, the Paria River Valley and Grosvenor Arch.

11. Cedar Breaks National Monument

If you fell in love with Bryce Canyon, then you’ll want to spend time exploring Cedar Breaks National Monument. The monument is a smaller, yet equally beautiful landscape filled with hoodoos and a sprawling amphitheater 2,000 feet deep.

Like Bryce, Cedar Breaks erodes from the top down, exposing the eye-catching platforms in the valley. From the rim, you’ll stand at over 10,000 feet above sea level. From fall to spring, you can expect the massive expanse of yellow, orange and red to be complemented by a hearty dose of snow.

Just as in the more famous national parks in Utah, you can see Cedar Breaks National Monument along a scenic road. The Rim Drive delivers views and memorable hikes. Spectra Point and Ramparts Overlook Trail is the cream of the crop, taking you from the plateau to the edge of Cedar Breaks Amphitheater across four miles.

10. Lake Powell

The winding, slender nature of Lake Powell sets it apart from other famous lakes in America’s west, including Lake Tahoe. Lake Powell accentuates the red rock canyon vibe of Utah by adding an enormous body of water that has a longer coastline that most American states.

Lake Powell is surrounded by soaring canyon walls and meandering across Utah and into Arizona in a snake-like manner. Because of this, from any given perspective, you’ll never understand the sheer scale of this impressive lake. Thankfully, there are many ways to explore the lake that will have you appreciating its unique beauty.

Hiking trails spread along the lake’s shoreline, bringing you to postcard-worthy views. But getting around the 280 square mile lake is no easy task. Thanks to the rolling rock walls, driving is limited. You’re best off exploring on a boat to explore the flooded canyon country.

Numerous attractions can also be found here, including canyons that are home to Anasazi ruins. The lake has also served as a shooting location for dozens of television series and films, including both the 1968 and 2001 versions of Planet of the Apes.

9. Antelope Island

Around 90 minutes from Salt Lake City, Antelope Island presents impressive views of the Great Salt Lake with plenty more to discover. The island is the largest on the record-breaking lake at 15 miles long and is named after the pronghorn antelope that roamed the space when it was discovered in 1845.

Three years later, Antelope Island’s began what would become a rich ranching heritage before becoming a state park. It was during this time that 12 bison were introduced, the beginnings of what would become a modern day herd of over 550 beasts.

A winding road takes you through the state park, allowing you to see the herd and quickly load up on photographs. But the chance to see pronghorn antelope, the continent’s fastest animal (and distant relative to the giraffe) attracts many visitors. Mule deer, bighorn sheep and coyotes are other common sights.

In eastern Utah, Moab has become America’s face of outdoor recreation. It’s here that mountain bikers, rock climbers and hikers converge into a mass of outdoor enthusiasts, it what will become a long season under the Utah sun.

Wherever you find yourself in Moab, you’re just minutes from some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. This includes both Arches and Canyonlands. It’s no surprise that the rather remote town boasts such a transient community, which is also why it’s such a fun place to be.

With an official population of just over 5,000 folks, it’s both a small village yet a bustling town with a fabulous atmosphere. When you aren’t ripping up the trails on Potash Road or rafting down the nearby Colorado River on world class rapids, Woody’s Tavern is the place to trade stories with seasoned adventurers.

7. Park City

After a simple yet scenic drive from the state capital, you’ll find yourself in one of the United States’ best adventure playgrounds. Park City may be famous for its role in the 2002 Winter Olympics, but you can rest assured that it’s a year-round destination.

Long before skiers and snowboarders came to town in droves, Park City was a 19th century mining town. It boomed upon the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad and thus, has plenty of historic architecture and a charming main street.

This part of town is where you’ll find a great collection of restaurants and bars, ready to help reflect on a day of fun. In the summer, you’ll have a packed itinerary of local hikes, fishing, rafting and swimming. Come winter, prepare for a memorable day on the slopes and the arrival of January’s Sundance Film Festival.

6. Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is the most common gateway to the many highlights around Utah. From the state’s capital you can access the Big Five national parks, go skiing in Park City and biking in Moab. However, there are plenty of reasons to stick around for a little first.

The city is the home of the Mormon church and some of the top attractions in Salt Lake City include Temple Square home to the Salt Lake Temple. The square features memorable architecture, including the temple, plus the Gothic-Revival Assembly Hall and the Tabernacle, home to the church’s famous choir.

From Temple Square, you’ll find the remainder of downtown SLC to be extremely walkable. But within a quick drive, you’ll find yourself on the edge of Great Salt Lake, the largest of its kind in North America. To see it from above, make your way to the summit of Ensign Peak.

5. Capitol Reef National Park

Out of Utah’s Big Five, Capitol Reef National Park can get lost among the flurry of hoodoos, arches and canyon. However, place this national park in a different state and explorers would be singing a different tune. Thus, it’s not a place to be missed.

Capitol Reef was formed thanks to a collection of major geological events that saw a conglomerate of different rock as old as 270 million years settle in the region. Then a major mountain building event saw the Waterpocket Fold expose these rocks, placing them thousands of feet higher than the valley below.

Overtime, literal pockets of water continue to erode the rock, creating more hoodoos, arches, rugged cliffs and narrow gorges. When viewing the fold from a distance, it indeed looks like a sedimentary reef and an eye-opening collection of warm colors.

Hikes such the Rim Overlook and Capitol Gorge bring you away from the main drag and into the heart of the park.

4. Canyonlands

Back in the 1800s, the Wild West was in full swing. It was here, in what is now Canyonlands National Park, that Butch Cassidy and the Wild Bunch Gang would hide out for weeks on end until the heat from their latest heist subsided.

Fast forward to the modern day and hikers can make their way to Robbers Roost, the infamous canyon home to the old outlaws. It’s just one of the many worthwhile hikes that allows you to dive deep into exploring this magical place.

Despite this historic connection, the most popular part of Canyonlands is the Island in the Sky. The name alone should pique your interest and it doesn’t disappoint. At the center of the island is Mesa Arch. The arch itself is impressive, but the views are more so. From elevation, you can gaze upon a maze of canyons spread as far as the eye can see.

3. Arches National Park

The name Arches National Park is an apt description of this incredible landscape. Yep, spoiler alert, there are a ton of natural stone arches here. In fact, there are more than 2,000. Each was painstakingly formed across the span of 100 million years.

It’s hard to imagine what this landscape may have looked like back then. But it now is home to some of Mother Nature’s best work, featuring the largest collection of arches on earth. The best part? You don’t even have to work hard to see them.

Arches National Park presents visitors with a 36-mile scenic drive that is a veritable highlight reel. Spread along the road are famous arches such as Delicate Arch and the Fiery Furnace. The former being the largest free-standing arch in the national park and the latter the perfect sunset spot.

But there’s more than just arches here. Short side trails take you into the desert wilderness where you’ll uncover such memorable gems as Balanced Rock.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park

In southern Utah, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to towering spires and a gorgeous amphitheater carved by wind and time. The spires, aka hoodoos, aren’t uncommon throughout the world. Yet here, you’ll find the largest collection of these fascinating rock columns on earth.

As you enter the park, you’ll already find yourself at a high elevation. In fact, as you explore, you’ll mostly stand above the marvelous creations below. Erosion, which has occurred over thousands of years, has essentially carved the park from the top down.

Bryce Canyon is particularly arresting during sunrise and sunset. It’s here, in the low hanging light, that the shadows do their best work, illuminating and darkening different hoodoos and canyons to create a living piece of art.

Utah does a great job of making its parks accessible. That trend continues here with wheelchair accessible trails and an abundance of short treks that take to the park’s best spots like the Fairyland amphitheater and Bryce Point.

1. Zion National Park

Even among America’s National Parks, few can match the stunning beauty of Zion National Park. Situated near Springdale in southern Utah, is the cream of the crop in a state that arguably has the best collection of national parks. It’s the pinnacle of the Big Five and the centerpiece of epic road trips that connect them all.

Nothing can quite prepare you for the majestic landscapes within Zion. It’s a place that is so utterly Utah, yet out of this world. Unlike many other parks in the American Southwest, where visitors look down from the rim of a canyon, visitors to Zion walk on the canyon floor and look up. The sprawling mix of burnt orange rocks, lush desert flora and startling cliffs make for unforgettable views and photographs wherever you look.

Running east to west through the national park is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway. This winding road will deliver you to a litany of spectacular pullouts and trailheads that allow you to venture deep into the park, particularly the mesmerizing Zion Canyon.

Boasting a thousand-foot drop, the canyon’s shadows dance as the sun moves and is home to famous short hikes such as Angel’s Landing. It’s a hiker’s paradise. But one should be warned, the views are as grand as the cliffs are daunting.

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The 8 greatest places to visit in Utah: experience the outdoors at its best

Dec 2, 2021 • 6 min read

Hiking beneath Golden Cathedral's high arches in Utah © Federica Grassi / Getty Images

With soaring sandstone arches, serpentine slot canyons, slickrock domes, and hoodoos of all shapes and sizes, Utah boasts some of the most otherworldly panoramas on planet Earth.

Public lands cover two-thirds of the state, offering vast opportunities to hike, bike, raft, ski, climb and camp – or simply gape at epic views from behind the wheel of a car. If the outdoors is your thing, Utah is your place. Here are the best places to go for a uniquely Utah experience.

Base yourself in Moab for outdoor adventures

On the doorstep of two national parks, a national forest with summits over 12,000ft, and endless acres of slickrock-clad Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, Moab is ground zero for outdoor action in Utah. A variety of restaurants, shops, hotels and outfitters line the streets downtown.

Just to the north, Arches National Park is graced with some of the most spectacular examples of what wind, water, freezing, and thawing can do to rock over time. If there is one must-see destination in Utah, this might be it, though in peak season the crowds can be the stuff of nightmares.

Nearby Canyonlands National Park (Utah’s largest) sees far fewer visitors while offering countless spots to view a Martian-like landscape from the rims or the bottoms of huge canyons, or among formations such as The Needles , Chocolate Drops, or Land of Standing Rocks. The Green and the Colorado Rivers meet in the heart of the park.

Moab also offers easy access to some of the best mountain biking anywhere, as well as prime desert rock climbing, river rafting, and more.

Canyons of the Escalante is a great hiking region

Prepare to get wet and dirty hiking this sinuous canyon system that’s hewn into a massive field of petrified sand dunes. Spanning some 1500 sq miles, including sections of both Grand-Staircase Escalante National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , the Escalante is wild, rugged country. Though you’ll probably end up wading through pools and creeks, struggling among tamarisk groves, and scrambling over rocks, it’s more than worth it. The sublime beauty of the sensuous red- and orange-hued walls, streaked with desert varnish, inspires a sense of gratitude for life itself. Each side canyon has its own character – some feel private, intimate, while others are impressively grand. Aim for highlights such as the Golden Cathedral and Stevens Arch, or pick a route where you’re less likely to run into other people. Either way, you’ll be glad to be wherever you are.

Wasatch Range has world-class skiing

Home to the alpine events during the 2002 Olympic Games, the Wasatch Range features world-class skiing on the western fringe of the Rocky Mountains. Want to hit the varied terrain at the largest ski area in the US? Head for Park City . Want to ski on slopes that ban snowboarding? Deer Valley and Alta are for you. And these are just a few of the top resorts in a region that receives some 500 inches of powder each winter. But snow sports aren’t the only draw. Each January you can join the filmmakers, celebrities, and movie lovers who flock to the Wasatch for the prestigious Sundance Film Festival . Perfect for even a quick getaway, all of this is within an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City airport.

Bears Ears National Monument is home to Ancestral Puebloan Sites

Covering 1.36 million acres of land sacred to the region’s Native American tribes, Bears Ears National Monument features some of the most remarkable Ancestral Puebloan sites in Utah. Regardless of how much time (and energy) you have, there’s something here for everyone. You can practically drive right up to the petroglyphs that crowd onto Newspaper Rock . Hiking for a few hours on Cedar Mesa will take you to ruins with names like Moon House and House on Fire – named for the effect of the morning sunlight reflecting on the rocks around the stone structure. And on a multi-day backpacking trip in Grand Gulch , you’ll find cliff dwellings, kivas and granaries set between burly canyon walls. Wherever you choose to go, you can’t fail to wonder about the lives of the people who lived on this land some 2000 years ago, and what they were expressing through their art.

Highway 12 is perfect for a scenic drive

In a state with no shortage of scenic roads, this route may well top the list. At one end, you’ll drive among the huge, surrealistic domes of Capitol Reef National Park , where the rock is every color of the rainbow. Just to the west, Highway 12 then plunges south, over a 9400ft pass, and down into the exquisite geology of Grand Staircase – Escalante National Monument. Some of the most eye-popping views from the road are found between the towns of Boulder and Escalante, but there’s plenty to explore along the way, too. Take a quick side trip east of Boulder along the Burr Trail Scenic Byway, or get out from behind the wheel and hike around the drip-castle world of Bryce Canyon National Park , near the western end of the highway.

San Juan River is the best spot for rafting trips

Meandering through Utah’s southeastern corner, the San Juan carves a gorgeous route through 300 million years of geologic time. On rafting trips, ranging from two to seven days, you’ll float between sheer canyon walls, past cliffs etched with hundreds of petroglyphs, and through miles of twisting “goosenecks.” At night, you’ll camp on sandy beaches gazing at pristine starry skies. Since most of the rapids rarely rise above class II, this trip is less about white water and more about the scenery and experiencing the rhythm of the river. It’s perfect for families with kids and hardcore outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Dinosaur National Monument is packed with fossils

Back in Jurassic times, animal carcasses washed down a river, ran aground on a sandy bank, and settled into the sediment. Many of these creatures were deposited in the same place, forming a densely packed pile of bones, now preserved as fossils in exposed layers of sandstone in Dinosaur National Monument . Quarry Exhibit Hall was built around one such formation, making it easy to see about 1500 fossils "‘in the wild" – in an air-conditioned space. More fossil beds can be viewed on trails, including a 1.2-mile loop from the visitor center. More than just one of the richest dinosaur caches in the world, the park, which stretches into Colorado, also features stunning scenery within the Green and Yampa river corridors that can be hiked and rafted.

Salt Lake City has excellent dining options

Hands down the best culinary scene in Utah is in its capital. You’ll find everything from innovative farm-to-table restaurants to family-run diners. Salt Lake’s top-notch international cuisine includes Mexican, Ethiopian, Greek and Nepalese. There’s even a New York-style deli that Jewish publication,  The Forward , calls “a must.” Brew pubs and coffeeshops abound. For a more serendipitous exploration of the Salt Lake City food scene, the neighborhoods of downtown, Liberty Park or Sugar House are abundant with a diverse selection of restaurants and coffee shops.

You might also like: The best ski resorts in Utah for everyone    See the best of the Mighty Five on these best hikes in Utah    Zion or Bryce Canyon? How to choose between Utah's top national parks   

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25 Best Places to Visit in Utah (Vacation Spots Not to Miss!)

If there’s one word that sums up all of the best places to visit in Utah, it’s unique.

With its enormous variety of landscapes, its incredible collection of national and state parks, and its huge number of interesting things to do, Utah just may be one of our favorite US states to explore!

If you’re looking for the best Utah vacation spots to add to your itinerary, this travel guide is for you.

We teamed up with several other travel writers for this roundup of the best travel destinations in Utah, and one thing is for certain: they definitely show off just how diverse Utah is.

From beloved national parks set in the desert to cherished ski towns located high in the mountains, the Beehive State is a year-round destination that is deserving of a very long bucket list.

Here are the best places to visit in Utah!

Table of Contents

Best State + National Parks to Visit in Utah

Cool utah vacation spots in cities + towns, other beautiful places to visit in utah, map of the best places to visit in utah.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Arches National Park

With over 2,000 sandstone arches within its borders, Arches National Park definitely ranks among the most unique places to visit in Utah–or, in fact, the entire USA.

Packed with trails and desert views, a visit to Arches National Park feels a bit like visiting a playground that’s big enough for adults.

The best hikes in Arches are exciting but not too difficult, the views of and through the arches themselves are magnificent, and the variety of places to visit will ensure that you’d need to spend several days in the park in order to cover most of its most famous arches.

(But that being said, even one day in Arches NP is worth the effort to get there).

Located just outside of Moab in southeastern Utah, Arches National Park is easily combined with a visit to Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park–but more on those below.

Dead Horse Point State Park

From Allison of Eternal Arrival

If you’re in Moab enjoying all the amazing hikes there are to do in nearby Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, don’t forget about some of the lesser-known hidden gems in the Moab area as well!

One of these such gems is Dead Horse Point State Park, just a 45-minute drive from Moab.

This little-known state park offers one of the most marvelous vistas in all of Utah, which is saying quite a bit given how many incredible views there are in the state.

Dead Horse Point is best known for its incredibly impressive outlook over the Colorado River, in a particularly beautiful canyon where the powerful river has etched a gorgeous landscape over the millennia.

At this point, you can look out from the mesa over the Colorado River 2,000 feet below you.

It’s an incredible spot for sunset and you’ll often find plenty of keen photographers prepping their tripods each night at the overlook. 

Despite its famous overlook, there are other reasons to visit Dead Horse Point State Park, including hiking and mountain biking trails.

The landscape itself is really interesting, an arid high desert nearly 6,000 feet in the sky, a riot of red rock strewn with purplish and orange tones as well.

The colors become even more impressive during the golden hour and time just after sunset, when the reds richen and turn even more vibrant. 

It’s possible to camp at Dead Horse Park State Park: there are 40-some-odd spots for RVs, a few yurts you can rent, and some spots for tent camping as well.

However, there is also plentiful  free camping in Utah even in the pricy Moab area, so there are plenty of places to get even more lost out in Utah’s beautiful nature.

Canyonlands National Park

From Adriana of Czech the World

Breathtaking canyons, beautiful views, and fantastically formed buttes: welcome to Canyonlands, the largest national park in Utah!

If you want to see the true wild west, this is the place.

One can sit at these magical viewpoints for hours and it doesn’t get old!

Canyonlands is perfect for everyone – either you just drive from one viewpoint to another or you are searching for a real backcountry adventure like hiking or cycling.

Canyonlands National Park is divided into four districts: the Island in the Sky, the Needles, and the Maze.

The Island in the Sky is the closest district to Moab, and can easily be enjoyed while driving your car on a paved park loop.

This is also where you’ll find the famous Mesa Arch.

The Needles District is the perfect place for hikers because there are more than 100 hikes leading into the backcountry full of amazing sandstone spires!

The Maze is the least accessible district of Canyonlands and requires more time, proper equipment, and self-sufficiency.

In case you want to enjoy the rivers, several rafting companies offer guided tours from half-day excursions to week-long floats.

If you are staying overnight in the park, don’t forget about stargazing!

Canyonlands is one of the International Dark-Sky Reserves and it’s possible to see up to 15,000 stars throughout the night.

Canyonlands National Park is simply an amazing destination and shouldn’t be left out of any  western road trip .

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park should definitely be on your Utah travel bucket list!

The sand dunes were formed from the erosion of Navajo sandstone, which is where it gets its light pink coloring, and the dunes are nestled between red sandstone cliffs.

Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is very picturesque and one of the best state parks in Utah .

Located near the town of Kanab, Utah, about 30 minutes southeast of Zion National Park, Coral Pink Sand Dunes is a great stop along a southwest Utah road trip .

I recommend visiting for a day to hike, go sandboarding down the dunes, or just capture some epic photos!

However, there’s also a campground in the park if you want to spend more time there. 

Entrance to Coral Pink Sand Dunes costs $10 per car

I recommend hiking up to the top of the dunes to soak in the views!

It’s harder than it looks to walk up to the top, and it might help to keep your shoes on if the sand is hot.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a sled or sandboard from the front office to slide down the dunes once you reach the top!

Go early in the morning to have the place to yourself, before people start riding ATVs, and also for a chance to see wildlife tracks in the sand. 

Natural Bridges National Monument

From Cosette of KarsTravels

Natural Bridges National Monument is in Southeast Utah and has 3 beautiful natural bridges, named Sipapu, Owachomo, and Kachina.

It was the first national monument of Utah on April 16th, 1908, and definitely belongs on your Utah bucket list!

The Owachomo bridge is the oldest, smallest, best accessible, and the most photographed of the 3.

Sipapu Bridge is the largest of the 3 and the second-largest natural bridge in the USA.

Kachina bridge is the widest and youngest of the 3 bridges.

To reach all the natural bridges you can use a trail and an overlook. They’re along the main driving loop.

The overlooks are 10-minute hikes and a must-visit for everyone.

With more time on your hands try one of the hikes leading to the bridges, they take 1 to 2 hours.

For more strenuous hiking go on one of the 3 loop trails, they pass all 3 or 2 of the natural bridges and the canyon. The hikes vary from 5.7 to 9.8 miles.

The natural bridges are the main attraction at the national monument, but not the only ones.

There’s also the Horse Collar Ruin, an ancestral Pueblo site, which is exceptionally well preserved.

The overlook for the ruin is a little further than the others, it’s a 30-45 minute hike, and well worth it to learn more about the human history of the monument.

For lovers of stars and dark sky, Natural Bridges National Monument has some of the darkest skies in the USA and was the first International Dark Sky Park.

Zion National Park

Home to what is arguably Utah’s most famous hike–the formidable yet widely loved Angel’s Landing–Zion National Park is the most visited of all of Utah’s Mighty Five National Parks.

Standing in the stunning canyon and looking down on the Virgin River, it’s not hard to see why!

Zion National Park is stunningly beautiful, and home to a wide variety of hikes.

In addition to ascending high into the air at Angel’s Landing, you can also go completely in the opposite direction by hiking in the bottom of a canyon right through the river in The Narrows .

Other popular hikes in the park include the Canyon Overlook Trail , the Subway (permits required), and the Observation Point Trail.

Whatever your skill level, there is definitely an unforgettable hike for you within Zion National Park!

Due to its popularity, Zion is also one of the most crowded vacation spots in Utah–if you have your heart set on visiting, be sure to plan ahead and/or visit during winter!

Winter trips to Zion, while a bit different than more typical spring and fall trips, can be magical.

Kodachrome Basin State Park

From Daria of The Discovery Nut

Located 20 miles away from Bryce Canyon National Park , Kodachrome Basin State Park is one of Utah’s best hidden gems.

Compared to more popular national parks in Utah, Kodachrome isn’t crowded.

The area boasts over 2,000 acres of prime wilderness with bright orange colors and clear blue skies.

It’s surrounded by the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument and can be accessed through the northern entrance from Cannonville.

What makes this park special is the sandstone spire-like formations and towering sand pipes, that dominate its bright-orange landscape.

These geologic formations are believed to be the remains of geysers that once populated this area.

After the sandstone eroded, these colorful layers of sediment became exposed giving the area an array of unique colors that change under the bright sun. 

Kodachrome offers multiple hiking trails with relatively low elevation gain which makes it a perfect place for hikers of all levels.

Some of the best trails are the 1.5-mile Angel’s Palace Trail, and Shakespeare Arch and Sentinel Trail, a 1.7-mile loop that offers a stunning overlook of the Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument. 

Aside from being an excellent hiking destination, Kodachrome is also a photographer’s paradise. Many people come here to snap photos of amazing bright rock formations, especially during sunrise and sunset. 

Unfortunately, the arch collapsed in April 2019, but although you no longer can see it, you can still hike the trail and enjoy the great views. 

Bryce Canyon National Park

From Francesca of Homeroom Travel

Bryce Canyon National Park is one of the most unique places to visit in Utah.

One of the “Mighty 5” National Parks of Utah, it offers majestic sites and has miles of amazing hiking trails.

Opt to spend at least   one day in Bryce Canyon National Park  on any Utah trip. You will not be disappointed!

Bryce Canyon is about 270 miles from both Las Vegas and Salt Lake City. From there, visitors will need a rental car to get out to the park.

Although there are many places to stay near Bryce Canyon, you can opt to stay in Springdale near Zion National Park if you do not want to continually move hotels.

April through October is the best time to visit the park, but visiting in the wintertime will also get visitors some snow-covered views!

The most popular hike in Bryce Canyon is the Queen’s Garden Trail combined with the Navajo Loop.

Combined, this 2.5-mile trail takes visitors through Wall Street , a trail lined with tons of gorgeous rock formations.

Visitors will also see Thor’s Hammer and the Queen Victoria Hoodoo (both popular formations).

Besides hiking, visitors can take in one of the many gorgeous viewpoints.

Bryce Point will give visitors the best view of the park and is a popular place to watch the sunset.

No matter what adventure visitors choose, Bryce Canyon National Park is well worth a visit.

Goblin Valley State Park

Wandering into Goblin Valley feels a bit like wandering into a classic Mario game on an old Nintendo 64.

The unique hoodoos that are found in this valley give the desert landscape a distinctly whimsical appearance, and depending on who you ask, look a bit like overgrown mushrooms… or curious goblins.

While there are some trails in the park, the valley where you’ll find the largest concentration of goblins has no distinct trails.

Instead, when visiting Goblin Valley State Park, you can wander through an absolute maze of formations.

Goblin Valley State Park is located conveniently between Moab and Capitol Reef National Park.

If you’re road-tripping Utah’s Mighty Five, consider adding this quirky state park to your list of places to go in Utah!

Capitol Reef National Park

From Taylor of Travel Outlandish

Capitol Reef is often forgotten on a southwest road trip , being overlooked for the jagged canyons of Zion and the spectacular geology of nearby Arches nearby.

But, cruising right past Capitol Reef National Park on Highway 24 would be a massive mistake.

The grandest feature of Capitol Reef National Park is the Waterpocket fold, a 160km bend in the earth’s crust.

It’s hard to understand what that actually means until you’ve seen it for yourself. Climb up high to see the sloping effect of rock layers tilting from west to east some 2100 meters.

Another feature of the park is that scenic Highway 24 meanders right through it.

It’s possible to drive the length of Capitol Reef and see many of its most impressive features out your window!

The other scenic drive in the park, the creatively named Scenic Drive, is also a good way to experience the slickrock, slot canyons, and sandstone formations. 

While hiking isn’t the main draw of Capitol Reef, the Upper Muley Twist Canyon and Rim Overlook and Navajo Knobs are a couple of the best trails in the park.

And perhaps the most unexpected thing to do in Capitol Reef is to pick fruit in the Fruita Rural Historic District.

Between June and October, you can pick fruit from some of the 3,000 fruit trees flourishing in the desert.

Salt Lake City

From Stella Jane of Around the World in 24 Hours

Salt Lake City is one of the most unique cities in the United States. Where else can you visit Brigham Young’s old house or eat funeral potatoes?

There are enough museums, botanical gardens, and other cultural wonders to keep a visitor to Salt Lake City occupied for several days.

The most visited tourist attraction in Salt Lake City is Temple Square.

This National Historic Landmark belongs to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, so it’s the best place to go to learn more about this church’s history.

The sister missionaries lead free tours of the square every day. But if you’re not interested in the tour, you can explore the lovely square on your own.

You can also hear the famous Tabernacle Choir perform here. They have open rehearsals on Thursday and a broadcast every Sunday, but you should definitely reserve tickets in advance.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking Temple Square is the only thing to do in SLC!

If you want to learn what life in 19th and early 20th century Utah was like, be sure to check out the living history museum This is the Place.

If you are more interested in science, stop at the Natural History Museum of Utah to see some amazing dinosaur bones.

The stunning Red Butte Garden is just a short distance away, and it offers amazing views of Salt Lake City and its surrounding mountains.

Finally, remember Salt Lake City is Utah’s capital, so take a moment to tour the Utah State Capitol Building. Keep an eye out for the beehive sculptures. After all, Utah’s nickname is the Beehive State!

From Becky of Two Wheeled Wanderer

For many travelers, Hurricane, Utah is simply the gateway town into Zion National Park, but it’s actually an incredible area to explore.

There are miles upon miles of world-class mountain biking singletrack, a great state park, endless off-roading opportunities, and a surprising number of great restaurants. 

For mountain bikers, the most popular network is Gooseberry Mesa. Explore slickrock riding, incredible views, and trails for every level of rider.

If you’re looking for an epic day in the saddle, head out on the 24-mile Hurricane Rim Loop that showcases amazing views of Zion and a pedal along the Virgin River.

If you have kayaks or want to spend an afternoon by the water, Sand Hollow State Park is one of the prettiest parks in the state.

The blue waters of Sand Hollow Reservoir contrast with the surrounding red rock making it a very picturesque and special place. You can also camp overnight.

Off-roading is one of Hurricane’s most popular draws. The surrounding area is scattered with fire roads that can be explored by truck, jeep, or OHV.

A popular drive is to head out to beautiful Toquerville Falls, 35 minutes from Hurricane, to swim in the idyllic swimming hole and watch the cascades fall down the red rock. 

And for those looking for a meal or snack, Hurricane is home to some really good food.

The Dixie Pizza food truck makes homemade pizza every weekend (call to order ahead!) and the River Rock Roasting Company serves incredible breakfasts and really good coffee.

From Dan of Cabin Critic

Whether visiting in winter or summer, Park City is a gem in Utah located an easy 45-minute drive from the Salt Lake City airport.

In the winter months, the city is alive and the slopes are filled with skiers and snowboarders at the largest lift-served ski resort in the USA, Park City Mountain Resort.

At the Utah Olympic Park, you can see the structures and memorabilia from the 2002 winter Olympics.

One of the many unique experiences is going on a thrilling bobsled ride on the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games Sliding Track. 

When you aren’t enjoying winter sports you can stroll the shops on Park Slope’s picturesque Main Street and enjoy the hearty local cuisine.

End your day relaxing in a hot tub or keeping warm around a firepit.

The summer comes with beautiful weather and smaller crowds.

The ski resorts offer unique activities like an alpine slide, mountain coaster, zip lines, mini-golf, and a few ski lifts are open you can take up enjoy hiking and mountain biking.

Take the opportunity to be outside, enjoying fly fishing, mountain biking, hot air ballooning, horseback riding, river rafting, and golf all summer long.

Park City has a unique charm unlike any other area in Utah.

If you love enjoying the snow or being outside in the summer, you might find Park City to be perfect for you.

From Leigh of Campfires and Concierges

Vernal is definitely one of the best places to visit in Utah. Known as “Dinosaurland,” the geology of this region has allowed for the amazing preservation of dinosaur bones and fossils.

While the majority of the best things to do in Vernal  are outdoors, there are some key Vernal museums to include in your trip as well.

Start your trip to Vernal at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum, where dozens of dinosaur skeletons are on display.

Next, head to Dinosaur National Monument, where you can view 1,500 fossils still embedded in the Quarry Wall exhibit.

Don’t miss the scenic drive out to Harper’s Corner, with several hikes and scenic overlooks along the way.

About an hour south of Vernal is a spot on BLM land known as Fantasy Canyon. This surreal area is full of unusual rock formations that will make you question if you are still on Earth.

It’s a small area that you can explore in about an hour, but well worth the drive from Vernal.

Other things to do in Vernal include a rafting trip on the Green River, where day trips and overnight camping trips are both an option.

Red Fleet State Park and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area are both great spots for water recreation, hiking, and camping.

From Jarrod of Ramble Around the World

Moab, Utah is a tiny little town in the middle of the desert, packed with all the lodging, supply shops, and restaurants an adventurer could need to appreciate the surrounding landscape.

Its deep red cliffs shoot toward the sky forming arches, balancing rocks and skyscrapers made of pure sandstone in the desert.

It’s a place of extremes, where summer heat quickly rises above 110 degrees and winter coats its landscape in snow.

Moab is a paradise for outdoor lovers, including hikers, rock climbers, mountain bikers, and off-roaders . It offers an untamed version of fun for each of those and many more.

Its extremes lend themselves to the surrounding landscape, which includes easy access to 2 national parks.

At the town’s center, Moab sits just 10 minutes from Arches National Park, 30 minutes from Canyonlands National Park, and 40 minutes from Dead Horse Point State Park, an astounding landscape in its own right.

But those who seek adventure don’t have to go far from town. Corona Arch sits outside of both national parks and is one of the best and most underrated arches in the area.

Those seeking a taste of history can drive the banks of the Colorado River down Highway 279 or Kane Creek Boulevard in search of pictographs, an ancient art form of the Ute Indians from more than 500 years ago.

Pictographs can be found carved into the sides of those precious red rock sandstone cliffs that surround the town in every which way.

Whatever kind of adventure you’re searching for, you’ll have a great chance of finding it in Moab.

From Samantha of My Flying Leap

Nestled between Zion, Bryce, and the Grand Canyon lies a small town packed full of amazing scenery and set against a tapestry of gorgeous red rock.

Just a little over an hour north of Page and Lake Powell , you’ll find the town of Kanab, Utah.

This area is known for its Western Legends Roundup festival, an ode to lovers of the Old West, and the filming of some notable classic western films like “Gunsmoke.” 

Kanab is filled with some beautiful scenery including the Vermillion Cliffs overlooking the town.

The Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument holds many of the sights including the Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Slot Canyons and the famous and often-elusive area in Coyote Buttes North known as The Wave.

A permit is required to view this stunning striped slickrock painted in streaks of orange, red, and gold and it’s challenging to secure one. 

A striking alternative with much easier access is Coyote Buttes South with similar features including arches, thin fins, and teepees.

Hike out to see the free-standing wind-sculpted erosional statues with names like Dali Rock, the Frog, and Turtle Rock.

Then head over to the photo-worthy expanse of the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park where you can see the wind-blown erosion of these striking sandstone buttes and plateaus. 

Now that your heart is pumping from some great hiking and stunning scenery, head over to the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary to do your heart some more good.

Located in a stunning red-rock canyon, Best Friends is home to over 1,500 animals including dogs, cats, horses, pigs, bunnies, and others. 

Though many people pass through this amazing area on their way to some of the most famous national parks in the area, Kanab is worthy of its own stop.

Admire the gorgeous surroundings or fill your heart with love by visiting the largest animal sanctuary in the country—you’ll have it all in Kanab.

Grafton Ghost Town

From Hannah of HH Lifestyle Travel

The ghost town of Grafton sits on the Virgin River, hidden from view beyond the town of Rockville.

A mere 5 miles from Zion National Park, this ghost town is a great stop while you’re in the area.

Settled by Mormons fleeing persecution in 1859, when the area was Mexican territory, Grafton was fraught from the beginning.  

The first settlement was washed away in the floods of 1862. The location was contentious for the local Indigenous population too, and the Black Hawk War broke out in the mid-1860s and decimated the population of Grafton.

Eventually, peace was restored, but continued irrigation issues meant that viable farmland was limited. The last inhabitants left Grafton in 1945.

As  Grafton became a ghost town , its destiny lay not in dusty ruin, but by being immortalized in Hollywood movies!

Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, In Old Arizona,  and  The Arizona Kid  were all filmed in Grafton.  

The abandoned town of Grafton has now been preserved – a legacy of pioneer Utah and Hollywood heritage, frozen in time.  

The town hall (which was also used as a church and school), the founders’ house, a weaving shed, the cemetery, and a few other homes and farm buildings have been restored and maintained.

Grafton Ghost Town is a fascinating place to visit on your way to or from Zion National Park.

From Nicole of American SW Obsessed

St. George Utah often gets overlooked in favor of other Utah cities and towns, but there are so many  fun things to do in St. George .

First, St. George is located close to Zion National Park and two state parks, Sand Hollow and Snow Canyon. All three parks are known for their hiking and cycling.

Snow Canyon is located on the edge of the Mojave Desert and has some pretty incredible landscapes.

From the rock formations to the sand dunes, this is one of the most beautiful places in Utah.

Sand Hollow State Park is a unique and deservedly popular corner of Utah, offering something a bit different than many of the parks surrounding it.

The warm waters and the red rock formations make it a favorite with locals. It’s a popular place for fishing, boating, and swimming.

And you can’t forget about the things to do in towns such as Dinosaur Park and Pioneer Park. 

Yes, there is an actual Dinosaur Park where you can see footprints and fossils and learn all about dinosaurs.

And Pioneer Park may not have a playground, but this is a great outdoor park where kids can play and run around.

Bonneville Salt Flats

From Rachelle of Adventure is Never Far Away

Ready to visit a place that will mess with your senses and make you believe you’ve stepped foot onto an alien planet?

The Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah is the perfect place to experience the wild nature of forced perspective for the first time!

You don’t need to go all the way to Bolivia to visit incredible salt flats: these are located just a short drive west of downtown Salt Lake City.

If you’re ready to get away from the city and be surrounded by silence, the Bonneville Salt Flats is the perfect destination.

Pack up your car with blankets, sunscreen, water, and props, and head towards one of the most unique ecosystems in the world.

The salt pan ecosystem is essentially a desert, unable to support most forms of life, with the exception of some microorganisms. 

If you have a high-clearance vehicle and want to do some off-roading into the middle of the salt flats, go for it!

Many record land speeds have been reached at the nearby Bonneville Speedway.

One of the best things to do at the Bonneville Salt Flats is to take unique perspective pictures.

Putting a prop in the foreground and having human subjects walk a quarter of a mile behind the prop creates an interesting illusion.

With this kind of perspective, you can take pictures of people standing on the roof of cars, being stepped on by a giant foot, or running out of a Pringle’s can!

Monument Valley Tribal Park, Navajo Nation

From Mae-Gene of The Wandering Suitcase

Monument Valley Tribal Park  is part of the Navajo Nation which sits on the border between Arizona and Utah.

As one of America’s most recognizable places, Monument Valley is famous for its large sandstone buttes.

Many travelers might recognize Monument Valley from old John Ford country films or the movie Forrest Gump.

Most travelers experience Monument Valley from a distance, by stopping at Forrest Gump Hill, where Tom Hanks’ character, Forrest stops running on the US-163 highway, with Monument Valley in the background. 

Despite this, the Monument Valley Tribal Park is more than a brief photo stop.

If you’re looking for the best places to vacation in Utah, actually visiting the park is highly recommended for its incredible views and to learn about its significance for the Navajo people. 

Entry fees are $20 per car (remember the Monument Valley Tribal Park is not a US National Park and National Parks Passes are not valid here).

Once in the park, travelers can drive the 17-mile Tribal Park Loop which includes the most popular spots in monument valley.

The roads aren’t paved, with lots of gravel and dirt, so this is not recommended on a rainy day or for those who are precious about their cars!

A great alternative to the self-drive is to go on a backcountry tour, where you are taken out on a 4WD to parts of Monument Valley inaccessible to self-drivers.

Tours are operated by the Navajo Nation, and this is a great way to learn about the history, significance, and importance of the Monument Valley Tribal Park.

For active travelers, you can also go hiking! The Wildcat Trail is a 4-mile return loop that takes 2-3 hrs and is the only self-guided hike in Monument Valley.

There are also longer hikes with incredible views, but these require a tour guide to access them. 

Regardless of your interests, there are so many things to do at the Monument Valley Tribal Park.

If you’ve worked up an appetite at the end of your visit, don’t forget to visit The View Hotel for Navajo-inspired food and get a window seat for your last glimpse of Monument Valley’s iconic views.

Powder Mountain

From Nicole of Wandering With a Dromomaniac

Located 55 miles north of Salt Lake City, Powder Mountain is  Utah’s best-kept secret .

For the ski and snowboard enthusiasts out there, Powder Mountain has the most skiable terrain in the county with 8,464 acres.

The beauty of this mountain is it does not have the traditional ski mountain feel, it’s very backcountry and the lodge has a comfortable cabin-in-the-woods feel. This location is very much a local’s mountain.

You will never have to worry about crowds here, as tickets are capped at 1,500 a day ($99 for adults/day).

The best part is that you don’t have to “ski within the boundaries.” The wide expanse of the mountain provides terrain that allows you to ride the groomers or head into the trees at a moment’s notice.

It’s recommended that you take the local bus ($4 each way) to the mountain from Ogden as the roads can get a little hairy in the winter.

So, unless you have chains for your tires, the bus is an easy solution.

The views here are incredible and the powder is second to none. Powder Mountain does not make any snow as the location provides more than you could ever need.

Of course, the best time to visit is on a “powder day” after some fresh snow has fallen but the groomed trails provide a good variety if the fresh powder is in short supply.

You can also pay ($25) to take a snowcat up to some of the backcountry runs. Each of these runs leads to a road where buses regularly come through to pick you up.

This mountain is more for moderate to advanced riders, though there are sections of the mountain where beginners could spend their day learning the ropes.

Valley of the Gods

From Jenifer of The Evolista

Valley of the Gods is a sandstone valley with incredible rock formations and monoliths that is one of the coolest places in Utah and should definitely be on your USA bucket list .

The richly colored geologic masterpiece was formed 250 million years ago, carved by water and erosion.

It is a favorite Utah hidden gem due to its backcountry location where camping, backpacking, hiking, and biking are allowed without a fee or permit.

Some people heading to Monument Valley on the border of Utah and Arizona dismiss a visit to Valley of the Gods since it’s smaller, thinking they will see the better version in 30 minutes.

But, it’s a mistake. Unlike super touristy Monument Valley, what Valley of the Gods lacks in size, it makes up for in intimacy.

Best accessed with an SUV, you can take a 17-mile, self-guided tour that weaves through the valley.

The bumpy, unpaved road is also passable by cars in dry weather. Just make sure there’s no rain in the forecast.

Park anywhere along the road to get out and explore. You will be blown away by the beauty of this remote location.

If you are here in the evening hours, the stargazing is phenomenal.

There is no staff or facilities like restrooms, food, or trash cans. Be prepared with everything you need, including water, food, sunscreen, and a first aid kit.

As always when visiting Utah’s incredible nature, pack out whatever you bring in.

Ice Castles of Midway, Utah

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Utah may be known for its red rocks and stunning desert landscapes, but in winter one small town in the Beehive State is known for its icy and Instagrammable attraction.

Less than one hour from Salt Lake City, the charming town of Midway, Utah is transformed into a winter wonderland each January through March.

If you’re visiting Utah in winter, especially with kids, the Ice Castles belong at the top of your list of places to visit in Utah!

The Midway Ice Castles are made entirely from ice and span across roughly an acre of land at the Homestead Resort.

The man-made structures resemble frozen waterfalls and boast ice slides, beautiful fountains, crawl tunnels, and narrow slot canyons.

Adults and kids alike will enjoy roaming through the maze-like tunnels and exploring secret passageways made from ice.

At night, the ice is illuminated with color-changing lights that fade from brilliant blue to vibrant red, pink, and purple.

Visiting the Midway Ice Castles requires some pre-planning .

The attraction is only open for about 2 months each winter. It typically opens in early January and closes in early March when the weather starts to warm up. 

Pro tip: For those visiting the frozen paradise, snow pants, boots, and a warm coat are a must.

Plan your visit for around sunset for a chance to see the ice in both daylight and nighttime hours.

Lake Powell

From Chantae of Chantae Was Here

Wedged along the border of Utah and Arizona, Lake Powell runs 200 miles long and has hundreds of winding inlets to explore.

The rust color landscape is unique to the region and the sculpted buttes on Lake Powell’s coastline formed over millions of years, making it a geological wonder.

One of the best ways to explore Lake Powell is on a  houseboat trip. If you venture out of the main bays, you’ll find untouched sandstone beaches to enjoy all by yourself.

Since much of the lake lacks phone service, you’ll be able to disconnect and enjoy water skiing on mirror-flat water, wakeboarding, kayaking, and standup paddling through the many coves of Lake Powell.

Pack a pair of sturdy shoes and head out on a hike–there are panoramic views at the top of just about every hill!

A houseboat trip will allow you to truly experience the lake, embedding yourself into the scene.

If you can only visit Lake Powell from the shoreline, camp at Lone Rock Beach at Wahweap Bay, or consider going on a one-day cruise through Glen Canyon.

No matter how you visit Lake Powell, it is sure to be memorable. 

Mystic Hot Springs

From Jeanine of Le Wild Explorer

The fascinating Mystic Hot Springs is located in the city of Monroe in central Utah.

This small city has a population of just over 2,000 but has a lot of geothermal activity. It’s home to natural hot springs that can reach up to a temperature of 168°F.

Mystic Hot Springs is one of Monroe’s hot springs and one of the most interesting Utah vacation spots.

Many visitors arrive at Mystic Hot Springs just to soak for the day and you can do so by booking a soaking pass.

However, if you want to extend your stay a little longer you can spend the night in one of the authentic pioneer cabins or retrofitted buses.

Each cabin and bus are unique and offer a cool experience.

If you’re driving your RV, you can park the night as well or set up a tent at the campsite.

Staying the night is an experience to remember as you can opt to relax and watch the sunset or even enjoy a midnight soak to stargaze.

And you’ll be nice and cozy in one of the pools that range in temperature from 100 -111°F.

Mystic Hot Springs is an out-of-this-world gem you will not forget, and definitely one of the most unqiue places to visit in Utah!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

4 thoughts on “25 Best Places to Visit in Utah (Vacation Spots Not to Miss!)”

Wow, amazing! Thanks for sharing.

Did I miss the map somehow?

It’s an embedded google map at the bottom of the post, right after the section about Mystic Hot Springs! 🙂

I really love this! 🙂

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Absolute Best Things to Do in Utah: 14 Bucket List Experiences

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 8, 2024

Considering traveling to Utah, USA, and wondering what the top experiences are that you shouldn’t miss on your first visit? In this guide, we share some of the best things to do in Utah for your bucket list . Find out! 

Utah is renowned for its stunning natural beauty. So you likely already heard of “The Mighty 5” – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Parks. Indeed, no Utah bucket list would be complete without these places. But there’s so much more to see and do in Utah!

The state’s diverse landscapes extend from the Great Salt Lake to the iconic Monument Valley, known for its sandstone buttes and a rich cultural history influenced by the Navajo Nation. 

With the highest concentration of Dark Sky Parks, Utah is also a prime destination for stargazers. If you are interested in prehistoric life, you can admire ancient art and dinosaur fossils. Winter sports enthusiasts flock here to find the “Greatest Snow on Earth” and speed lovers are drawn to the vast expanse of Bonneville Salt Flats for land speed record attempts…

Utah’s cultural diversity, shaped by Native American tribes, Mormon pioneers, and other settlers, is also reflected in its festivals, architecture, and museums. This cultural influence adds an enriching layer to the state’s natural wonders as well.

With such a wide array of landscapes and activities on offer, you can imagine that no list of the best things to do in Utah could ever do it justice – even if it contains 85 or 379 experiences… Plus, there’s no way you could see it all in one trip.

So in this guide, we showcase only the VERY BEST places and diverse bucket list experiences in Utah that – in our view – are worth it the most. If you are visiting for the first time and want to see the best that Utah has to offer, this list will give you plenty of ideas.

Good to know: This guide is published with the help and tips of Janae McCormick, a full-time travel writer and founder of Adventures With TuckNae . She has spent several months traveling all around Utah and exploring its vast beauty. We hope that this guide and our experience-based tips will help you plan the most memorable trip as well.

Here are some of the best things to do in Utah for your bucket list:

1. Roadtrip Through the “Mighty 5” Utah National Parks 

Let’s start this list with some of the most famous places in Utah!

No trip to the Beehive State would be complete without seeing the famous landscapes of the “Mighty 5” Utah National Parks – Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Ideally, you plan a road trip that includes at least a few of them. Time permitting, definitely visit them all!

TIP: Driving from west to east, the best order to visit them is starting with Zion and Bryce Canyon, then Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches. If you are visiting from east to west, reverse the order. 

Here are a few photos and top things to do at each National Park: 

Arches National Park

Arches is famous for its over 2,000 natural stone arches. Key activities include visiting the iconic Delicate Arch, exploring the Windows Section for easily accessible arches, and enjoying spectacular landscapes from the best viewpoints along the Arches’ scenic drive .

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Arches National Park

Canyonlands National Park 

Famous for its dramatic desert landscapes, Canyonlands is known for panoramic views and backcountry adventures. Must-dos include viewing the expansive vistas at Island in the Sky, exploring the Needles District’s unique rock formations, and enjoying stargazing in its remote wilderness.

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Canyonlands National Park

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef offers a mix of historical and natural attractions. Popular activities include exploring the Waterpocket Fold, a unique geological feature, visiting the historic Fruita orchards, and hiking to viewpoints like Sunset Point.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon is known for its extraordinary hoodoos and landscapes. Top activities include hiking the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails amidst the hoodoos, enjoying breathtaking views from Bryce Point, and stargazing under the park’s dark skies.

LEARN MORE: Zion – Bryce Canyon Itinerary

Zion National Park

Zion is famed for its stunning canyon views and hiking trails. Key activities include hiking Angel’s Landing for panoramic views, exploring The Narrows, a unique slot canyon experience, and taking scenic drives like the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. For a quieter adventure, the Riverside Walk offers beautiful scenery.

LEARN MORE: Best Hikes in Zion National Park

2. Admire the Majestic Temple Square

Temple Square in the heart of Salt Lake City is one of Utah’s most visited and significant landmarks. This 10-acre complex is owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and serves as a spiritual, cultural, and historical center.

Even if you are not religious, this is an absolute must-see in Utah!

The square is famous for its stunning architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and historical and religious significance, making it a focal point of Salt Lake City for both members of the LDS Church and visitors from around the world.

At the center of Temple Square is the impressive Salt Lake Temple, a magnificent granite structure that took 40 years to build and was completed in 1893. While the temple itself is not open to the public, its imposing Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with six spires rising into the skyline, provides a striking image. 

Next to the temple, you’ll find the Tabernacle, home to the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir. The Tabernacle is notable for its remarkable acoustics and the grand organ, which is one of the largest in the world. It’s absolutely impressive – a must-visit!

TIP: If you are in Salt Lake City, try to see Tabernacle Choir Performance . It’s a unique experience!

Good to know: Temple Square is particularly enchanting during the holiday season when it is decked out with thousands of lights and nativity scenes.

3. Stand Under the Iconic Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch in Arches National Park is one of the world’s most recognized geological landmarks. It is so iconic that is also pictured on the Utah license plate. So it definitely deserves a separate mention on any Utah bucket list!

The Arch can be reached by hiking one of the most popular trails in the park. The hike is about 3 miles round trip, with an elevation gain of about 480 feet. It’s a moderate hike but it can be done by most people, including children.

This trail begins at the Delicate Arch Trailhead, which is easily accessible by car. You’ll start on a well-defined path that winds through rugged terrain, offering glimpses of the park’s various rock formations.

The trail gradually ascends, leading you over slick rock and along a relatively exposed ledge for the final stretch. It requires some caution, especially with young children or those with a fear of heights.

Before you know it, you will reach Delicate Arch and be rewarded with an awe-inspiring view of the arch standing majestically against the backdrop of the La Sal Mountains. It’s hard to put into words just how incredible it is to see this arch in person! 

TIP: The best times to hike to Delicate Arch are in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. Summer months can bring extreme heat, making it essential to carry plenty of water, wear sunscreen, and wear appropriate hiking attire. 

LEARN MORE: Delicate Arch Hike Info

4. Walk Through the Belly of the Dragon

One of the most unique things you can do in Utah is wander through the Belly of the Dragon . Although it’s obviously not a dragon’s belly, it definitely resembles one! 

Located under Highway 89 near Kanab, Utah, this unique attraction is actually an old drainage tunnel. It received its name due to the erosion through the passageway, which resembles the inside ribcage of a dragon. 

Belly of the Dragon is part of a short 1.8-mile round-trip hike. The entrance to the tunnel is at the beginning of the trail and requires a small 4-5 foot scramble down into the ditch. Once you start through the tunnel, you will wind your way through until you reach the other end. 

Afterward, you can continue hiking through the sandy wash, or turn around and head back the same way you came. 

Good to know: Depending on the time of day when you visit, there is minimal light inside the tunnel, so be sure to pack a good flashlight. The terrain is rough and uneven in places, so watch your footing. 

This is a fun place to visit for kids and adults alike, and it’s also dog-friendly, which is a nice bonus. If you’re driving through the Kanab area, add a stop at Belly of the Dragon to your Utah bucket list. 

TIP: Plan your visit early in the morning or late in the evening to have Belly of the Dragon all to yourself. This is a popular stop and can become crowded very quickly. There is also free camping at this location. 

5. See Bison at Antelope Island State Park

The Great Salt Lake , the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, is a must-see in Utah. The scenery is stunning and a swim in this lake is a unique experience in itself. Due to the high salinity of the water, you can effortlessly float at the surface of the lake. 

One of the bucket list destinations on the shores of the lake is Antelope Island State Park . This park is located northwest of Salt Lake City, just 45 minutes drive from downtown. It’s accessible via a causeway from Syracuse, UT. Despite the proximity to the city, it’s a serene getaway with open, grassy plains, rocky beaches, and the backdrop of the Wasatch Range.

Antelope Island is known for its wildlife, but it’s particularly famous for the herd of bison that call this state park home. The bison were first introduced to Antelope Island in 1893, with the initial herd consisting of just 12 animals. Since then, the population has flourished, becoming one of the largest and oldest publicly owned bison herds in the United States.

In addition to the bison, you’ll also have a chance to spot wild pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and an abundant variety of birds. The island has hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, and you can also camp here if you’d like. 

If you’re looking to photograph some of the best wildlife in Utah, then Antelope Island State Park needs to be on your bucket list! 

TIP: There is an annual bison roundup, typically held in the fall, when the bison are corralled and checked for health, allowing for the management and study of the herd. Plan your visit accordingly if you want to watch this fascinating event!

6. Brave the Heights of Angels Landing 

Angels Landing in Zion National Park is perhaps the most famous hike in the USA. This is one of the most thrilling hiking trails in the world, renowned for its stunning views and challenging terrain. 

Angels Landing is not for the faint-hearted or those with a fear of heights, but it offers an unforgettable experience for those who choose to take the challenge.

The round-trip hike is about 5 miles long, with the trail ascending approximately 1,488 feet. It typically takes 4 to 5 hours to complete, depending on fitness level and crowd conditions, and is rated as strenuous due to its steep and exposed sections.

The hike begins at The Grotto trailhead, accessible by the park’s shuttle bus. The first section is a well-maintained path that gradually ascends along the West Rim Trail. 

A series of 21 short, steep switchbacks known as Walter’s Wiggles significantly increase your hiking elevation. This section is physically demanding but manageable for most hikers in good condition.

After the switchbacks, you’ll reach Scout Lookout, a relatively flat area where you can take a break and enjoy the stunning views. This is also the decision point for many, as beyond here, the trail becomes more challenging and exposed.

The final half-mile is the most daunting, following a narrow spine with sheer drops on either side. Chains have been installed along this section for hikers to hold onto, providing stability and security. This section requires careful navigation and patience, especially when the trail is really crowded. Always stay focused, and hold onto the chains where provided.

TIP: Start early in the morning to avoid the crowds that can make the narrow trail more dangerous. Ensure you have enough water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and check the weather forecast before starting. If you are afraid of heights, reconsider attempting the final spine to Angels Landing.

Good to know: Nowadays, you need a permit if you want to hike to Angels Landing. You can find more information about it here .

7. Hike Through a Slot Canyon

Utah boasts over 1,000 slot canyons so a trip to Utah wouldn’t be complete without hiking through one of them! Some of the best Utah slot canyons include Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon, Wire Pass, and Crimson Slot Canyon. Some are technical canyons (requiring special equipment and training), and others are non-technical and can be easily visited by everyone.

If you are nervous about exploring a slot canyon on your own, you can hire a guide or a tour agency to take you through one. Some slot canyons are also hidden away and difficult to reach, making a guided tour even more appealing. 

The slot canyons in Utah are made up of various colors and sizes, so do some research to determine which one is most appealing to you. One of the best slot canyons you can easily add to your itinerary is Crimson Slot Canyon in East Zion, on the way to Bryce Canyon.

Good to know: Slot canyons can be very dangerous during flash floods. Make sure to check the weather before heading to a slot canyon, and never hike through one when any potential rain is in the forecast.

TIP: While not in Utah, the famous Antelope Canyon is located just over the border in Arizona. So a visit here can be easily added to any Utah itinerary.

The three most impressive slot canyons that you can visit here are the Lower Antelope Canyon, Upper Antelope Canyon, and Antelope Canyon X. Keep in mind that they can only be visited with a guide and are extremely popular. So it’s essential to plan and book ahead! Check here for availability and book as soon as you know your travel dates!

8. Touch Dinosaur Bones at Dinosaur National Monument 

Located on the Colorado and Utah border, Dinosaur National Monument is a paleontological treasure trove known for its well-preserved dinosaur fossils. The highlight is the Quarry Exhibit Hall , built over the Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry, where an array of dinosaur bones are still embedded in the rock wall.

Here you have a rare opportunity to see and even touch dinosaur fossils that date back to the Jurrasic period. Visitors can get up close to the remains of dinosaurs like Allosaurus, Apatosaurus, and Stegosaurus, among others. 

Educational exhibits and ranger-led programs provide deeper insights into the lives of these ancient creatures and the area’s natural history.

TIP: Don’t forget to explore the grounds outside of the Quarry Exhibit Hall as well! The scenery is very nice and quite different from the rest of Utah, plus, there are no crowds. Nearby, you can also find several sites with ancient petroglyphs, some just a few minutes drive from the visitor center. If you are lucky, you may even spot some wildlife like bighorn sheep and eagles.

9. Marvel at the Unique Scenery of Bonneville Salt Flats

The Bonneville Salt Flats is yet another famous natural landmark of Utah that’s well worth a detour. It’s located at the Nevada border, about a 1.5-hour drive west of SLC. So you can easily visit here on a (half) day trip from Salt Lake City.

Spanning over 30,000 acres, the salt pan is the result of a dried-up prehistoric saltwater lake that used to cover much of the Utah and Nevada desert. The surreal landscape captivates with seemingly endless white salt-crusted terrain that looks like a snow-covered desert. It’s somewhat comparable to the Badwater Basin in Death Valley National Park , but is much larger.

The Bonneville Salt Flats also attract adrenaline junkies and speed enthusiasts. The vast area of thick salt crust provides an ideal track for racing and is renowned worldwide as a high-speed haven. In fact, almost all the land-speed records in the world have been set or broken here!

Good to know: During the dry season (summer – early fall), the flats become a hardened, reflective surface due to the evaporation of rainwater. This creates a mirror-like illusion that merges the sky above with the ground below—a photographer’s dream.

When it’s dry, it’s possible to drive on the Bonneville Flats Speedway. However, the flats can occasionally be wet or impassable after rainfall, so be sure to check the conditions! It’s still worth visiting to admire the scenery and amazing reflections, but you are not allowed to drive on the salt pan when it’s wet. See here for more info.

TIP: If you just want to see the unique scenery, one of the best spots to go is a rest stop along I-80, about 10 miles east of Wendover. You can leave your car here and walk on the salt flats. There is even a place where you can wash the salt off your shoes after you come back.

Alternatively, you can visit here with this highly-rated private half-day tour from Salt Lake City. It also stops at a few other landmarks along the way.

10. Drive ATVs in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

A fun bucket experience for the adventurous traveler is ATVing in Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park ! This park is famous for the color of its coral-pink sand and is located in southern Utah, just east of Zion National Park.

Although you can enjoy the park on foot or even rent sandboards to take on the dunes, arguably the best way to enjoy this park is by ATV. There’s nothing else quite like racing over these pink sand dunes!

You can either choose to rent ATVs independently, or you can enjoy a guided ATV tour . Either option is great, but we recommend taking a tour, as the guides know the best dunes and are also there to help should you get stuck in the sand and need any extra assistance. 

TIP: This is a great activity to enjoy in the winter months when the heat is more bearable! Just make sure to wear layers, and have a blast taking on the dunes.

11. Discover Mystic Landscapes of Goblin Valley State Park

Goblin Valley State Park , located in southeastern Utah, is truly a hidden gem with otherworldly landscapes. The park is known for its thousands of hoodoos and mushroom-shaped rock pinnacles, known as “goblins”.

These unique formations create a surreal and almost alien environment that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The Valley of Goblins is the park’s main attraction. In this extensive area, you can wander among the hoodoos, enjoying an almost maze-like experience.

Photographers find this landscape particularly enchanting, especially during sunrise and sunset when the warm hues of the rocks are accentuated. Another great time to photograph the hoodoos is in the winter when the rocks are covered in a light dusting of snow.

Despite its remote location, the park has a campground, picnic areas, and restrooms, making it accessible for day trips and overnight stays. 

TIP: Goblin Valley is a very remote destination, with few amenities nearby and almost non-existent cell service. Bring everything that you need with you, including plenty of water and snacks, and don’t forget to fill your gas tank before reaching the area.

12. Meander Through Hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park

Goblin Valley State Park is not the only place to find other-worldly landscapes. Another great place to see hoodoos in Utah is Bryce Canyon National Park . The scenery here is phenomenal and should definitely be on your bucket list! 

These tall, thin spires of rock, formed by frost weathering and stream erosion, create a natural amphitheater of red, orange, and white hues that change with the light of day. You can admire the stunning scenery from various viewpoints on top of the canyon. But if you have the chance, be sure to take a hike and see the hoodoos up close!

Walking inside the Bryce Canyon is like stepping into another world. Trails like the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden descend into the canyon and offer easy access to get up close to these unique rock formations. 

As you explore the paths, the towering hoodoos rise around you, creating narrow passageways and sudden openings to reveal stunning vistas. The play of light and shadow through the corridors adds to the magic, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the rocks are at their most vibrant.

Good to know: Wintertime offers an even more unique experience. The stunning contrast of white snow on the red and orange hoodoos is beyond gorgeous! Just beware that some roads might get temporarily closed during snowstorms.

13. Hit the Ski Slopes in Park City

While Utah is mostly known for its dry desert-like landscapes, the state also has some impressive mountains. And yes, in winter you can even go skiing in Utah!

One of the best and most popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts is Park City, Utah. The charming and historic town transforms into a bustling hub of activity during the winter months.

Park City is known for its light, powdery snow, and extensive terrain. The area is home to two major ski resorts: Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort.

Park City Mountain Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. It provides a variety of runs suitable for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. Its interconnected trails and lifts offer plenty of areas to explore, and the resort is particularly known for its high-quality terrain parks and halfpipes. 

Deer Valley Resort is recognized for its luxury services and meticulously groomed runs and caters to a more upscale experience. It is a skiers-only resort known for its exceptional customer service, fine dining, and ski-in/ski-out accommodations.

Park City’s outstanding ski facilities and charming town atmosphere make it a top destination in Utah in the winter.

Good to know: The town also hosts various winter events, including the Sundance Film Festival, which brings a unique blend of art and culture to the snowy town.

14. Take a Drive Through Monument Valley 

And finally, no list of the best places to visit in Utah would be complete without the iconic Monument Valley . White technically in Arizona , it’s located right on the Utah border so we find that it’s well worth a mention here as you would not want to miss it when road-tripping in the area!

Monument Valley is one of the most recognizable landscapes in the American West. Its vast, open vistas and dramatic skyline have been featured in numerous films and advertisements, making it familiar even to those who have never visited.

Despite the name, it is not a valley in the conventional sense but rather a vast flat landscape interrupted by towering formations, sometimes rising to over 1,000 feet above the desert floor. These formations are made of de Chelly sandstone, which provides the red and orange hues that define the area’s distinct color palette. 

The Valley Drive, a 17-mile dirt road that runs through the park, allows visitors to experience the area’s beauty at their own pace, with many stops at popular viewpoints.

Good to know: Monument Valley is part of the Navajo Nation Reservation and holds deep cultural and historical significance for the Navajo people. The best way to support the local community and explore the area is with guided tours .

Tour options vary from scenic drives to more adventurous options like horseback riding and hiking. They offer insight into the cultural history and geology of the region from the Navajo perspective, plus, local guides can take you to places that are not accessible to the general public.

TIP: To replicate the famous picture from Forrest Gump, stop along the road at one of the provided pull-offs on the Utah side several miles before you reach the valley. Use caution and watch for approaching vehicles, as this is a busy road! 

LEARN MORE: How to Visit Monument Valley

As you can see, there are so many amazing places and experiences to add to your Utah bucket list.

From vast salt pans and deserts to canyons and mountains, and from prehistoric life and ancient rock art to contemporary landmarks, Utah has plenty to offer for all sorts of travelers and in any season.

This unique combination of natural beauty, cultural richness, and outdoor recreation opportunities makes Utah an unparalleled destination. One thing is certain – no matter where you decide to go on your first visit, you will want to return.

Have a great trip!

READ ALSO: Arizona Bucket List – Top Places to Visit

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Images: Janae McCormick of Adventures With TuckNae, Depositphotos.com, and personal collection.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Peggy Harper

Monday 8th of January 2024

Great blog, but one Utah place you didn't mention is Dead Horse Point State Park. It's less crowded than the national parks, but well worth spending time hiking and touring. And, the final scene of Thelma and Louise was filmed there. Fun times!

Hi Peggy, you are absolutely right - Dead Horse Point State Park is a beautiful place and the sunsets there are amazing! In fact, we wrote about it in pretty much all our guides about Canyonlands National Park and the Moab area. The purpose of this Utah bucket list was not to showcase everything there is to see in the state but to highlight just some of the most special places and experiences. Otherwise, it could have easily been 74 spots or even more. :) But if more readers tell me that it deserves a place on this list, I might reconsider. ;) Thanks for reading and happy travels!

25 Best Things to Do in Utah + Map

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Utah | 25 Best Things to Do in Utah + Map

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If you long to explore the American West and its rugged terrain, you’ll find plenty of  things to do in Utah . With five national parks and eight national monuments, this state is a wonderland for hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation.

Besides, it’s a landlocked state bordered by Colorado and Wyoming to the east, Arizona to the south, Idaho to the north, and Nevada to the west, so there is a ton of open space to explore.

In this guide, I’ll share the top  attractions in Utah  so you can make the most of your trip here. Utah is my favorite place on earth and has given us so many photographic opportunities. The first time we visited was during our 10-day West Coast Road Trip, but we have been coming back since then because there are so many places to explore. If you fly here, hire a car to get around this beautiful state.

You can also rent an RV for an adventure of a lifetime (check our guide with all you need to know before renting an RV in the USA ).

Now, let’s dig into the  best places to visit in Utah. At the end of this article, you will also find a map with all the important tourist spots in Utah so you can plan your perfect route.

1. Hike in Zion National Park, the best thing to do in Utah

It’s no contest that  Zion National Park  is one of the  best places to visit in Utah . The park is the ultimate playground for hiking enthusiasts, although there are plenty of family-friendly trails, too.

Two of the best trails in Zion National Park are  The Narrows  and Angels Landing . The former follows the gorge where the North Fork of the Virgin River runs (bring your water shoes!), while the latter include a via ferrata section that takes you to a beautiful lookout with panoramic views (not for those who are afraid of heights).

Some easier trails include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail , which passes by several waterfalls, and the  Weeping Rock Trail . The  Canyon Overlook Trail  is also a popular choice, and you might see wildlife along your route.

A  must-see in Utah  that you might recognize is  The Subway , a colorful pipeline carved into the canyon by the Left Fork North Creek. It requires a permit to visit, but it’s one of the most surreal sights in the world.

Even if you can’t see The Subway, you can explore the  Zion Canyon Scenic Drive  by hopping on the park’s shuttle bus. It makes stops to the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and Museum, Canyon Junction, Court of the Patriarchs, Zion Lodge, The Grotto, Weeping Rock, Big Bend, and the Temple of Sinawava.

We have a specific guide for those visiting Zion National Park . Besides, if you plan to do an overnight trip, check the best places to stay in Zion.

2. Bryce Canyon, aN STUNNING place to visit in Utah

If you’re not familiar with  Bryce Canyon National Park , it will be a pleasant surprise as it’s one of the  coolest places to visit in Utah .

Bryce Canyon is famous for the  Hoodoos rock formations , which are some of the most peculiar natural structures on earth. Here, you can find Thor’s Hammer, Queen Victoria, and stunning overlooks like Sunrise Point and Sunset Point.

This place is also perfect for  outdoor activities in Utah,  like camping and hiking. Among the easiest hikes is the  Queens Garden Trail , which starts at Sunrise Point and passes by the Queen Victoria rock formation. The Navajo Loop is very popular and does a circuit around Thor’s Hammer and the Two Bridges rock formation. There are also several backcountry trails if you’re going to be in the area for more than a day.

2. Bryce Canyon National Park, a breathtaking place to visit in Utah

While you’re in Bryce Canyon, you must check out the best viewpoints, such as Bryce Amphitheater, Fairyland Point, and the Natural Bridge. Inspiration Point is especially beautiful at dawn, and the area around Thor’s Hammer is perfect for Milky Way photography.

We have written a specific guide on visiting Bryce Canyon National Park and another on where to stay in Bryce Canyon .

3. Arches National Park, a spectacular place to see in Utah

Arches National Park  is appropriately named for its many natural arch formations, and it’s a beautiful  place to visit in Utah .

There are over 2,000 arches in the park, but some of the most popular are the Turret Arch and The Windows. A heavily-trafficked 1.2-mile trail loops around these rock formations and can be a fun  thing to do in Utah with kids .

Double Arch  is one of the most popular sights in the park and has the tallest opening and second-longest span in Arches. Another cool feature in the park is  Balanced Rock , which is visible from the road. The entire structure is nearly 130 feet tall, with the balancing rock rising 55 feet above the base.

However, the most popular sight is Delicate Arch (it’s even on Utah license plates). You can see it from afar at the Upper and Lower Delicate Arch Viewpoint or you can hike the 3.4-mile trail to the arch, which is especially beautiful at sunset.

My favorite hike in the park is the Devil’s Garden loop which is twice as long but passes through the Landscape Arch , Dark Angel Spire, and several interesting rock fins.

While you’re in Arches, you can check out the town of  Moab . Along with the famous  Corona Arch , Moab also has places to stay overnight.

4. Canyonlands National Park, another place to visit in Utah

Canyonlands National Park  is another area near Moab with a distinct landscape that you must see. The park is divided into four parts: The Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze, and the Green and Colorado Rivers Plateau.

The Island in the Sky region includes the 500-foot-tall  Washer Woman  and 600-foot-tall  Monster Tower . The  Mesa Arch  is one of the top attractions in Utah  and stunning at sunrise. I also recommend walking to the  Green River Overlook , which sits 1,000 feet above sea level and boasts impressive views.

This area also overlooks the White Rim Sandstone level of the park, so it’s a good place to go in Canyonlands. That said, the Needles area south of the Colorado River features the  Druid Arch  and the  Elephant Hill Trailhead . It’s worth checking out, but most visitors choose just one region to visit because they’re spread far apart.

The entire park is gorgeous and full of wildlife, such as cottontail rabbits, mule deer, and pronghorn. There is also ample opportunity for bird-watching, as you’ll find several varieties of hawks and eagles here.

For some outdoor  activities to do in Utah , Canyonlands offers hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, rafting, and kayaking.

5. Visit Dead Horse Point State Park, another awesome thing to do in Utah

Dead Horse Point State Park  is another  place to visit in Utah  if you’re looking for a unique experience in nature. This state park covers over 5,300 acres and offers spectacular views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park.

The name originates from a legend that 19th-century cowboys used the land as a corral, but the horses often died from exposure. Whether or not that’s true, Dead Horse Point remains a beautiful natural area with great viewpoints, especially at sunrise. You might even recognize this high-desert setting from the classic film  Thelma & Louise .

Dead Horse Point has a few picnic areas and campgrounds, as well as eight miles of hiking trails. The hikes are relatively easy, so it’s a  fun thing to do in Utah with family .

The most popular hiking path is  Dead Horse Point Overlook Trail , although the  Visitor Center Nature Trail  is good for all levels and leads to the East Rim Overlook.

The West Rim Trail System is a moderate hike and includes several stunning overlooks and impressive cliffs. The Bighorn Overlook Trail is the longest and most worthwhile, featuring desert potholes and canyon views.

You could also take the mountain bike paths at Dead Horse Point for a pleasant day trip from Moab.

6. Salt Lake City, the best city to visit in Utah

As the state capital,  Salt Lake City  has plenty of interesting places to visit. The city offers a mix of urban attractions and natural scenery, so it’s one of the  best places to visit in Utah .

You might enjoy taking a free tour of the  State Capitol  building, or maybe  Temple Square , one of the main  Utah attractions . The Square includes the world’s largest Mormon temple and the Mormon Tabernacle. If you go inside, you’ll see one of the biggest pipe organs ever, with over 11,000 pipes.

If you’re looking for  cool things to do in Utah’s  wilderness, check out  Antelope Island  at the Great Salt Lake , which is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. You can also explore the caves at  Timpanogos Cave National Monument and drive the 20-mile Alpine Loop Scenic Byway .

We’ve written more tips about visiting Utah’s capital city in our guide to the best things to do in Salt Lake City .

7. Capitol Reef National Park, an interesting place to visit in Utah

A visit to  Capitol Reef National Park  is one of the top  things to do in southern Utah . The name Capitol Reef comes from the white sandstone domes in the park, as well as the rocky cliffs that resemble reefs.

The park is in the heart of red rock country, so it’s a wonderland of canyons, cliffs, and natural bridges. It’s also the most accessible part of the  Waterpocket Fold , a monocline or natural wrinkle in the earth, that extends for 100 miles.

If you’re looking for  adventurous things to do in Utah ,  take a hike  in the national park. The Fruita area has 15 hiking trails, many of which are along the Scenic Drive. Ranging in difficulty, the paths traverse deep canyon gorges, high cliffs, and stone arches.

You can also check out the Waterpocket District for longer hikes, or the Cathedral District for unpaved, backcountry trails. These challenging hikes will lead you through the high desert to volcanic dikes, crags, and monoliths. Keep an eye out for the ancient  Mormon petroglyphs  along the main highway.

Capitol Reef is also an International Dark Sky Park, so it’s an excellent place for night photography.

8. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

The  Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument  (GSENM) is one of the best  places to visit in southern Utah . This vast area is one of the most remote in the country. You could spend a week here and still not be able to see everything.

There are three main regions: The Grand Staircase, Kaiparowits Plateau, and the Canyons of the Escalante. We drove the  Hole-in-the-Rock Scenic Byway , which passes by many attractions. I highly recommend renting a 4×4 if you’re going to visit!

For example, a 3-mile trail leads to the 126-foot Lower Calf Creek Falls, and there are several slot canyons along the Byway. A few notable ones include Zebra Canyon, Peek-a-Boo Canyon, Spooky Gulch, and Brimstone Gulch.

8. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, another exciting place in Utah

We did the  Coyote Gulch Trail  loop through the Crack-in-the-Wall to Jacob Hamblin Arch, and it was the best hike we’ve ever taken. If you do this hike, you’ll need water shoes to cross the river, and a rope to get out of the gulch at the Jacob Hamblin Arch.

A few other  attractions in Utah  worth visiting are Devil’s Garden and the four hoodoos; the Cosmic Ashtray ; and the Golden Cathedral Trail in the lower Neon Canyon. The dramatic lighting makes for an unforgettable experience.

9. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

Another top  Utah destination  is  Glen Canyon National Recreation Area . This is another large swath of land around Lake Powell and the lower Cataract Canyon in Utah and Arizona. It shares borders with Capitol Reef and GSENM, so if you’re in those areas, be sure to stop by.

Glen Canyon is also a conservation area, and the rugged, high desert terrain can feel otherworldly at times. This is where you can find the  Rainbow Bridge National Monument , the world’s highest natural bridge and a  must-see in Utah.

9. Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, an extraordinary place to visit in Utah

Another popular spot in this area is  Lake Powell , the second-largest manmade reservoir. The lake extends to the Escalante River, and many interesting sights line its shores. For example, Castle Rock, Gunsight Butte, and the Waterpocket Fold can be found along the lake. You can also enjoy a swim or a bit of kayaking on the water.

From Big Water in Escalante, you can hike to  Alstrom Point , one of the best overlooks in the area. We opted for the hike t o Reflection Canyon , which was a challenging overnight trek of nearly 19 miles. The trailhead is at Hole-in-the-Rock Road and the path takes you to the astonishing canyon that lives up to its name, especially at sunrise.

10. Goblin Valley State Park, a unique place to go in Utah

Located in the San Rafael Desert, the  Goblin Valley State Park  resembles an alien planet. It features thousands of hoodoos rock formations, some of the largest in the world. They are often referred to as “goblins”, hence the name of the park.

Goblin Valley is a haven for mountain biking and hiking. The Goblin’s Lair is a strenuous hike, but it leads to an awesome cavern hidden within a slot canyon. The Carmel Canyon loop is 1.5 miles and passes by Molly’s Castle butte, another fascinating sight.

The easiest route is the Three Sisters trail, which leads to one of the most famous  attractions in Utah , the Three Sisters monument. Or you can follow the Curtis Bench Trail between the rock formations to a lookout over Goblin Valley.

The state park is also an International Dark Sky Park and a good place for wildlife spotting, so keep an eye out for jackrabbits, scorpions, pronghorn, kit foxes, and coyotes. There is an entrance fee, but I think it’s worth it.

Not far from Goblin Valley is Little Wild Horse & Bell Canyon , two other interesting  tourist spots in Utah . You can do an 8-mile loop to explore these beautiful slot canyons, but I recommend doing the loop counterclockwise through Little Wild Horse first, as the elevation gain is nice and gradual.

11. Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

If you’re not sure  what to see in southern Utah , then  Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park  is a great option. It’s the only major sand dune field on the Colorado Plateau and is just southeast of Zion National Park, which I mentioned earlier.

The park is instantly recognizable for its exquisite, pink-colored dunes, which look striking next to the red sandstone cliffs and scattered pinyon pines. The dunes, which are believed to be at least 10,000 years old, get their distinct orange color from grains of hematite-covered quartz.

11. Visit Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, another thing to experience in Utah

This state park is also a conservation area and a great place for wildlife viewing and photography. It’s also the only place where you can find the Coral Pink Sand Dunes tiger beetle.

The hiking trails here are quite easy and not very long, but they’re scenic. Interestingly, the dunes can move as much as 50 feet per year, so the park may look different the next time you see it!

There is a small entrance fee, but this is one of the  coolest places in Utah , so it’s worth it.

12. Goosenecks State Park, an unusual place to visit in Utah

A visit to  Goosenecks State Park  is a  unique thing to do in Utah  that you won’t regret. However, unlike other state parks in Utah, Goosenecks is mostly undeveloped, so come prepared with enough water and gear.

The park has some impressive overlooks that span the San Juan River, and the views extend for miles. There, you can look out at the meanders, also called goosenecks, that resulted from years of flowing water cutting into the rock. The San Juan River flows through and eventually makes its way to Lake Powell.

Goosenecks is a small park, but its landscape reflects 300 million years of geological activity. It truly is one of the most impressive  things to see in Utah . For example, you can see Alhambra Rock, a volcanic formation made of cooled magma, as well as the buttes of Monument Valley.

There aren’t any marked hiking trails in Goosenecks, but the nearby Honaker Trail leads to the park. On your way there you can stop by  Fry Canyon , a small ghost town that’s just 8 miles from the  Natural Bridges National Monument . The monument was the first International Dark Sky Park, so the stargazing here is divine.

13. Try your luck in Kanab & win The Wave lottery

Kanab  is known as Utah’s Little Hollywood due to its appearance in many film westerns. Just north of the Arizona border, Kanab offers convenient access to Bryce Canyon, Zion National Park, Lake Powell, GSENM, and several other  Utah attractions .

Close to Kanab, you’ll find the  Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness , which spans southern Utah and northern Arizona.  Coyote Buttes North  is just a small part of the 112,500-acre region, but it’s easily accessible from Kanab. It’s most famous for  The Wave  sandstone rock formation, which you need a permit to visit.

Only 20 people can go through this area each day, so if you want to visit, try your luck with the  online lottery  or the in-person lottery in Kanab. We tried four times, but no luck.

13. Try your luck in Kanab & win The Wave lottery, something you must do in Utah

Besides The Wave, Coyote Buttes North includes The Second Wave, The Alcove, Top Rock Arch, Melody Arch and the Grotto, Sand Cove, and Fatali’s Boneyard.

The lottery for  Coyote Buttes South  is said to be easier, but we didn’t have any luck there either. If you manage to win a permit, you’ll get to see some of the most striking geology in the country. Just opt for a 4×4 or take a tour because the sands are deep.

Both Coyote Buttes North and South are strenuous hikes, so bring plenty of water. And if you’re lucky enough to be able to visit these incredible  Utah destinations , be sure to take plenty of photos!

14. Buckskin Gulch, one of the best things to see in Utah

In the same county as Kanab, you can see  Buckskin Gulch , the longest and deepest slot canyon in the US, and maybe the world. Together with  Paria Canyon  and the  Wire Pass , it’s one of the  best attractions in Utah  and a prime hiking spot.

We hiked through the Wire Pass and a portion of the Buckskin Gulch. The  Wire Pass Trailhead  is right off House Rock Valley and leads to Coyote Buttes North too, where you’ll find The Wave. However, as I mentioned, you can’t hike to The Wave without a permit. The rangers check, and you’ll be slapped with a heavy fine if you’re caught!

From I-89, you can take the Buckskin Trailhead or the White House Trailhead. If you have more time, get a permit  to stay overnight and hike the 31 miles between these two trailheads (you’ll need to book a shuttle back to your car).

With its huge walls and narrow passageways, Buckskin Gulch is one of those  must-see places in Utah . In this area, I also recommend visiting the  Toadstool Hoodoos  (1.8-mile hike) and the  Wahweap Hoodoos  (a 9-mile hike). If you’re willing to get off the beaten path, check out the  White Rocks  and  Sidestep Canyon , two unique geological structures worth the extra effort!

15. White Pocket, another amazing attraction to visit in Utah

White Pocket is one of the top  places to visit in southern Utah , so be sure to add it to your itinerary. It’s close to the Coyote Buttes, and a good alternative if you can’t snag a permit to see The Wave.

Actually, it’s part of the Vermilion Cliffs National Monument in Arizona. However, the area is more accessible from Kanab, Utah, which is where most tours depart from.

The sandy roads are hard to navigate, so I don’t recommend driving there. It’s safer to take this tour to see the varied landscape, with layers of white, yellow, and orange mineral deposits that span millions of years.

Not only is this one of the best  road trips from Utah , but it’s also a great place for photographers. The cliffs, some of which are as tall as 3,000 feet, consist of layers of sandstone, siltstone, limestone, and shale, and look absolutely incredible against the Western sky.

16. Monument Valley, another place to visit in Southern Utah

Monument Valley  is one of the highlights of the American West, so it’s a  must-see in Utah . Often referred to as Navajo Nation, Monument Valley is also on the Utah-Arizona border.

Take the  Monument Valley Scenic Drive  if it’s your first time here, as this will introduce you to some of the most well-known landmarks. Just keep in mind that there is a $20 entrance fee.

It’s a small price to pay to see all the geological wonders that await.  The Mittens and Merrick Butte  are some of the most famous rock formations in Monument Valley. Rising 6,500 feet above the plains, they are an impressive sight, especially at sunrise.

16. Monument Valley, another place with more things to do in Utah

Be sure to also check out  Elephant Butte, Three Sisters,  and  Camel Butte , which are all named after their appearance. That said, Camel Butte is best seen facing west, so you might have a hard time spotting it. And if you’re a fan of western films, check out the view from  John Ford’s Point .

There is only one hiking route that you can take on your own, and it’s the  Wildcat Trail . It takes about 2 hours and leads to the East Mitten Butte. Alternatively, you might enjoy a  guided Navajo tour  to learn more about Navajo culture, history, and the tribe’s important connection to Monument Valley.

If you want to further explore this area, be sure to read our guide to  visiting Monument Valley , and spend a day or two in one of the best places to stay in Monument Valley .

17. Rafting on the Colorado River from Moab

For thrill-seekers,  rafting on the Colorado River  is one of the most  adventurous things to do in Utah . The town of  Moab  offers incredible rafting tours and opportunities, so if you’re in the region, be sure to check them out.

I recommend this   half-day rafting trip , which covers seven miles of Class 1 and 2 rapids. As you travel down the river, you’ll get great views of Fisher Towers and the La Sal Mountains.

17. Rafting on the Colorado River from Moab, something to do in Utah with kids

While you’re in town, you should also check out  Scenic Byway U-128  which meanders along the Colorado River gorge, the sixth-longest natural rock span in the US. Starting at the city’s northern end, you’ll pass by several beautiful hiking and bouldering spots and picnic areas.

You might want to stop at  Lions Park  or the  Castle Valley Overlook  for stunning photos. The  Film Heritage Museum  is great for movie buffs, while the  Castle Creek Winery  is a perfect pitstop for couples.

Of course, driving on the Scenic Byway is a fun  thing to do in Utah with kids , too. For some outside time, check out the Grandstaff Hiking Trail or Fisher Towers Trail.

18. Kanarra Creek Canyon, another quiet place to go in Utah

Kanarra Creek Canyon is another fun place in Utah . It’s not far from Zion National Park, but you will need to book a spot in advance since there is a daily limit.

If you’re able to take the Kanarra Falls Hike , bring water shoes because you’ll have to tread through the stream. There are two waterfalls along the hike, but you’ll have to work a bit to get there.

About 1.5 miles into the hike, you’ll find the first one, and then you’ll have to climb a narrow log-ladder to the top of a boulder. Then, continue through a narrow slot canyon and tread knee-deep water to get to the second waterfall and a beautiful natural pool.

This hike is one of the most adventurous things to do in Utah , and it’s well worth the effort. However, if you can’t get into Kanarra Creek Canyon, you can check out Hidden Haven and Spring Creek Canyon, which are free, or Taylor Creek .

Hidden Haven is about 1.5 miles and is an easy hike that ends at a waterfall. Spring Creek Canyon is perfect for a day hike and passes by lush canyon flora. Taylor Creek is a bit longer and runs through a wooded area with old rancher cabins.

19. Go to the Cedar Breaks National Monument, a stunning thing to see in Utah

Another cool place to visit in Utah is Cedar Breaks National Monument . Located 10,000 feet above sea level, this area overlooks a natural amphitheater and the vast landscape of southwestern Utah.

The rock formations at Cedar Breaks are ancient, but the land is constantly changing. An array of hoodoos, spires, and cliffs make it one of the best attractions in Utah for day hiking.

There are two easy hiking trails near the canyon’s rim. The Sunset Trail runs between the Point Supreme Overlook and Sunset View Overlook, while the Nature Trail connects the Point Supreme Campground to the Sunset Trail. From there, you can see striking views of the badlands’ fins, arches, and caves.

For a more moderate hike, take the Alpine Pond Loop Trail or the South Rim Trail to the Spectra Point Viewpoint. If you’re up for it, continue to Ramparts Viewpoint and Bartzen Viewpoint. Along the way, keep an eye out for mule deer and porcupines, as well as other canyon rodents.

There is a small entrance fee, but the park is open year-round. I suggest going during the warmer months so you can see the eroded canyon layers of iron and manganese. It creates a brilliant display of reds, oranges, yellows, and purples, which is why the canyon is often called the Circle of Painted Cliffs.

20. Explore the Bonneville Salt Flats, something fun to do in Utah

The Bonneville Salt Flats is one of those hidden places in Utah that you might not know about. Located in northwestern Utah near the border with Nevada, the salt flats are what remains of Lake Bonneville from the Pleistocene era. The lake dried up, leaving behind one of the largest salt flats in the state. Covering over 30,000 acres, you can see it as you drive along I-80. Just be sure to stay on the marked roads, as it’s a very fragile environment.

The salt flats are one of the most extraordinary places to go in Utah . This area boasts a unique landscape in that it’s totally flat and seems to extend forever.

While you’re visiting, you might want to check out the Bonneville Speedway . This area of the salt flats is used exclusively for motorcar racing and has been a tourist attraction since 1914. If you visit in mid-August, you can catch Bonneville Speed Week, one of the major racing events of the year.

21. Red Cliffs National Conservation Area & Snow Canyon State Park

If you’re visiting southern Utah, it’s worth stopping by St. George , a city surrounded by the Mojave Desert, Colorado Plateau, and the Great Basin.

Here, you can visit the Red Cliffs National Conservation Area . Located on the edge of the Mojave Desert, it’s part of the larger Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, which protects the endangered habitats of native species like the Mojave Desert tortoise.

There are plenty of recreational opportunities, too. I suggest hiking the Silver Reef Trail or the Anasazi Trail. The former leads to dinosaur tracks while the latter goes to ancient Ancestral Puebloan ruins.

21. Visit Red Cliffs National Conservation Area & Snow Canyon State Park

Or take the Red Reef Trail, an easy route of about 1.5 miles. It starts at the campground and leads to natural pools, passing by a rugged landscape of Navajo sandstone.

In the same Reserve, you can explore Snow Canyon State Park which is known for its red and white canyon. Here, you’ll also find lava tubes and the extinct Santa Clara volcano, two awesome things to see in Utah . The stunning red rock formations provide shelter for creatures like the Gila monster, horned rattlesnake, and giant desert hairy scorpion.

Finally, I highly recommend the Toquerville Falls Trail via LaVerkin Creek . The 12-mile route leads to a beautiful natural pool with a waterfall. It’s one of the top swimming holes and has cliffs you can use to jump into the water.

22. Go to Mystic Hot Springs, the best thing to do in Utah for couples

With its bohemian vibe and rustic setting,  Mystic Hot Springs  is one of the  coolest places in Utah . These natural hot springs have been used by the Ute, Shoshone, or Piute tribes for generations, although it has a more hipster atmosphere these days.

After an artist/filmmaker discovered the area, he purchased the land and made some aesthetic changes to create an immersive experience for visitors. Along with hosting concerts throughout the year, Mystic Hot Springs has several soaking area and offers massages and other therapeutic services.

The 165° F water flows downhill, and by the time it reaches the pools, it’s between 100°-111° F. There are also nine cooler ponds full of tropical fish, and a few wild animals roam the property. It makes for a relaxing experience that revolves around nature and art, and some people call it a hippie oasis.

Not far is  Meadow Hot Springs , which has three private thermal baths. A visit here could be a good  thing for couples to do in Utah  for some much-needed TLC. Just be aware that it’s about a half-mile hike to get to the springs.

23. See the Dinosaur National Monument, the best thing to do in Utah with family

For something that will appease the whole family, check out  Dinosaur National Monument , one of the best-kept  hidden places in Utah . This American national monument sits in the Uinta Mountains, on the Utah-Colorado border. Most of the monument is in Colorado, but the Dinosaur Quarry is in Utah, and it’s well worth a visit.

There are over 800 paleontological sites at Dinosaur National Monument spanning millions of years of natural history. These include numerous petroglyphs and dinosaur fossils, and a nearly-complete  Abydosaurus  skull.

The park also includes  Mantle’s Cave , a cliff alcove dating to the pre-Columbian Fremont culture, and several rustic buildings, including the  Josie Bassett Morris Ranch Complex .

Moreover, the area is a designated International Dark Sky Park and provides stunning panoramic views of the Green River Canyon, so it’s a  must-see in Utah  for nature lovers.

24. Park City & nearby ski resorts, the top-rated place for winter sports in Utah

Park City Mountain Resort  is part of the Wasatch Back region of the Rocky Mountains and is just over 30 miles from the capital, so skiing here is an awesome  thing to do near Salt Lake City, Utah .

Park City actually gets less snow than other Utah ski resorts, but it’s more accessible. The resort features 17 slopes, 300 trails, and 22 miles of lifts. Besides, the town of Park City offers tons of shops, clubs, bars, restaurants, hiking and biking trails, and hot springs. It was even named one of the “20 prettiest towns” in the United States.

If you’re not near Park City or you want to check out other  Utah ski resorts , you have plenty of options.

Alta  and  Snowbird  are close to each other and are great for experienced skiers.  Deer Valley  is a more upscale ski resort, and  Powder Mountain , while being a bit further out, is much less crowded. Finally,  Snow Basin  and  Brighton  ski resorts are more affordable and offer more  fun things to do in Utah for the family .

25. Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend, two amazing places to visit near Utah

Antelope Canyon  is a slot canyon on the Navajo land of Page, Arizona. While it’s not in Utah, it’s just 15 minutes from the border, so it makes for an excellent  road trip from Utah .

As we wrote in our  guide to Antelope Canyon , this region is famous for its curving, red-streaked canyon walls. While it’s a touristy spot, it is worth braving the crowds because of the fascinating geology. Whether you visit Upper or Lower Antelope Canyon, you will need to book a tour with a Navajo guide because the slot canyon is in the Navajo Nation.

Upper Antelope Canyon  is absolutely stunning because during the early afternoon in summer, sunlight filters through the water-carved crevices. If you’re a photographer, this is the section you will want to visit.  Lower Antelope Canyon is longer and, while not as popular, is the cheapest and more convenient option for most of visitors.

If you’re going to be in this area, you should also stop by  Horseshoe Bend , which we’ve also written about. As the name suggests, this horseshoe-shaped meander is an imposing structure on the banks of the Colorado River. The sinuous form is nearly 1,000 feet tall, so while sitting on the edge is mesmerizing, it’s also dangerous.

You’ll spend less time at Horseshoe Bend than at Antelope Canyon, but if you want to stay overnight, we have a guide to the best  Page accommodations .

Now you know the top 25 things to do in Utah, so you can plan the perfect itinerary. To help you figure out your trip, we’re including this map of  attractions in Utah .

There is a lot to see in this western state, from natural formations to beautiful recreational areas. Take your time looking through this guide and if you have any other questions, just leave a comment, and I’ll be happy to help. Happy trails!

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45 Best Things To Do & Places To Visit In Utah

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: April 8, 2021  - Last updated: October 17, 2023

Are you packing for a trip?

The United States is home to innumerable options; you are spoilt for choice on what to do in Utah for your adventure or sightseeing.

Utah is a beautiful state that brings travelers from within and beyond, with its many tourist attractions and amazing sights.

You may find this a top destination for wildlife exploration, thanks to its five national parks, which earned the state the ‘Mighty Five’ name.

Utah is also covered by acres of wilderness, exciting to look, walk, or bike through.

The outdoors are attractive, and natural wonders are lined for your visit.

Utah’s cliffs and mountains make great hiking grounds, and its waterfalls are spectacular.

The state’s varying elevation means that certain areas may snow, while others are sunny hot.

Therefore, you can consider visiting ski resorts in Salt Lake City and enjoy some splash of snow.

Moab and St. George could be your stop for motorcycle riding, off-road thrills, and camping, among other activities.

Utah is also home to American history; there is plenty to learn about old dinosaurs, the Mormon Temple, and the Old West.

As you look around the state, going through your options, there are beautiful places you may not wish to miss and things you must do. Below is a bucket list:

Table of Contents

1. Zion National Park

Kris Wiktor / Shutterstock

You may find Zion National Park to be one of the remarkable places to visit in Utah.

It boasts of plant and wildlife variety and incredible scenery, with waterfalls, red rock cliffs, slot canyons, and lovely vistas to grace every visitor’s eyes.

Driving from Las Vegas could take you under three hours to get to the park.

If you visit between spring and fall, you can enjoy a bus ride through some of the park’s most beautiful areas, such as in the Zion Canyon, through the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

If you consider self-driving, the park’s east-west Zion-Mount Carmel Highway could be one of your places of interest, with its amazing views above the valley.

Off the two scenic drives, you can consider various hiking options.

The valley floor can be suitable for a walk; the Angel’s Landing trail, among other cliff-side trails, could also be fun for heights.

You can enjoy an ultimate camping experience in or near the park, thanks to the quality grounds and available RV parks.

Address: Utah, United States

2. Lake Powell

Johnny Adolphson / Shutterstock

Despite its name, Lake Powell is a human-made reservoir in Utah rather than a lake.

Its vast size makes it possible to indulge in various activities, such as boating, kayaking, wakeboarding, and swimming, among more.

Watercraft is another possibility for enthusiasts; you can get a hand from one of the available rental companies.

A quiet and relaxing stay in a houseboat could also work for you.

Visitors love Lake Powell for its shoreline stretch of 2,000 miles and lovely sunny weather.

Annually, the reservoir attracts about 2,000,000 people, making it a top destination in Utah and the United States.

If the breathtaking blue of the water or the attractive contrasting stones are not enough, you can explore the various hiking trails and the nature around Lake Powell.

Nearby, you must see the Rainbow Ridge National Monument, dubbed as the world’s highest natural bridge and situated in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

3. Arches National Park

anthony heflin / Shutterstock

Utah offers more in the Arches National Park of beautiful rock formations and over 2,000 stone arches.

The park’s rich red stone is a natural exhibit of the Old West.

Explore history further in the 1898 one-room cabin, Wolfe Ranch.

Most guests love to visit the Delicate Arch, the Double Arch, the Broken Arch, and the Sandstone Arch.

Other significant points of interest include the Fiery Furnace, Devil’s Garden, Park Avenue, the Windows, and Balanced Rock.

The drive to Arches National Park is one of the fun things to do in Utah.

You may love the views through the winding road, which towers over Moab, a neighboring town.

You can visit any of the other scenic parks, and if you would consider camping, you may love the available grounds.

Why drive if you can hike?

Besides the scenic drives, hiking or walking through the trails to the park’s arches is a healthy and fun way to spend your day.

Address: Moab, Utah, United States

4. Monument Valley

RomanSlavik.com / Shutterstock

One of the fun things to do in Utah besides hiking is horseriding and jeeping.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park offers an excellent destination for indulgence and lovely sights in the Navajo Indian Reservation.

It is one of the top 10 destinations that could transform your trip’s experience.

You should walk out of the Valley with the history of the Old West and Native America.

Some of your must-sees are the 1,000 feet-tall sandstone formations.

A self-drive through the 17-mile dirt road of Valley Drive is an exciting way to spend your time; between the buttes, you can enjoy the sights of the remarkable landscape.

You can capture your moments throughout the drive on pullouts.

The Monument Valley Visitor Center offers incredible views of the park.

Local guides can help get your way around the Valley; you can also get a travel guide for further visits to other areas of the park.

Most guests love to tour the Lower Monument Valley and the Mystery Valley.

Address: US Highway 160 & US Hwy 163, Monument Valley, UT 84536, United States

5. Park City Mountain Resort

starlyw / Shutterstock

How far would you go for a good time in the snow?

Skiing down the Park City Mountain Resort in Utah could be one of the cool things to do for your adventure.

The ski resort is considered America’s second-largest and attracts a large number of skiers all around Utah and beyond.

Park City Mountain Resort sits on 7,300 acres of mountain.

If you feel unconfident or rusty, you can join the US ski team’s training.

The resort offers more to all guests, regardless of their skills or age, at the Park City Ski and Snowboard School.

The 330 available trails pump the fun by allowing appropriate trails according to skiing abilities or level.

Besides the 9 am to 4 pm winter schedule, you can enjoy night skiing on selected runs.

One of the best things any snow-lover would do is let loose and enjoy the cold.

Park City Mountain Resort offers a fantastic opportunity for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.

Address: 1345 Lowell Ave, Park City, UT 84060, United States

6. Natural Bridges National Monument

Zack Frank / Shutterstock

Have you seen a natural bridge before?

If not, the Natural Bridges National Monument could be a fun stop for siteseeing in Utah.

You will come upon the bridges south of Canyonlands National Park.

The natural bridges you will view at the monument are Sipapu, Kachina, and Owachomo; getting to them takes short hikes.

Of the three bridges, Sipapu attracts the most visitors, thanks to its large size and fascinating looks.

However, you may not find the hike to it the easiest.

You will have to go through 1.2 miles of steep regions and climb some ladders and stairs.

The trail to Kachina Bridge is more extended than Sipapu’s by 0.3 miles but more manageable, despite its steepness at some points.

Owachomo Bridge is the smallest, with the easiest trail and shortest distance of a half-mile.

Before leaving the park, why don’t you tour the Horsecollar Ruins?

It holds 700-years-old Native American building remnants.

Address: Lake Powell, UT 84533, United States

7. Canyonlands National Park

Scott Prokop / Shutterstock

Enjoy more places to see natural wonders at the Canyonlands National Park , with million-year-old canyons and rock formations, which resulted from the Colorado River.

The Canyonlands settlements have ensured the preservation of native culture; you can explore the various Native American art in the Horseshoe Canyon.

You can catch the canyons’ prettier sights and even view snow-capped mountains from the Island in the Sea, a section out of the park’s three that most guests visit.

If you tour Island in the Sky early in the morning or in the afternoon, you may love the sights of the spectacular Mesa Arch.

The White Rim Road offers an adventurous drive on a dirt road and through sheer cliff walls to a valley.

If you do not brave up for the drive, you can enjoy views from the Island in the Sky Visitors Center.

Besides the Island in the Sky section are The Maze and the Needles District.

If you have the time this weekend, you can take a 4×4 drive around The Maze or hike the Needles District.

Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock

If you want to spend more time indulging in fun outdoor activities, you can consider the town of Moab for your next destination in Utah.

Moab is strategically situated in proximity to Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.

You can have fun biking, hiking, rafting, or on off-road adventures, among other entertainment indulgences.

You may enjoy watching the rolling dunes or catch the remarkable sights of the surrounding mountains.

You can also tour them to try various other activities, such as mountain biking.

Moab is popular among bikers during spring and fall, thanks to the conducive weather.

Slickrock Trail is one of the town’s renowned trails for its challenges.

If you are hoping for all-level trails, you will find a suitable one.

Nearby parks have hiking trails that lead to breathtaking sights, among them being the Delicate Arch.

You can also try an overnight experience camping out in any of the nearby and quality grounds.

You may not have as much fun in Moab during winter due to the snow.

Summer can get extremely hot during the day but is accommodative of some outdoor activities.

Therefore, you may find spring and fall to be the most suitable times to travel here.

9. Homestead Crater

Homestead Crater

One of the things you must do in Utah is to visit the Homestead Crater —take a dip, or at least take a trip.

This geothermal spring is a top destination, thanks to its concealment under a 10,000-year-old 55-foot limestone rock.

After the Wasatch Mountain’s melting snow tore into the earth’s interior, the heated water formed a volcano-shaped limestone deposit.

The spring is situated within the Homestead Resort, Midway, Utah.

To get to the hot waters, you can make a reservation with the resort for a self-guided tour without necessarily being Homestead’s guest.

While the Homestead Crater is a hub for adventure and fun, you do not need the first-hand experience for a good time.

The in-built tunnel could be exciting enough, as it leads inside the cave, where you can swim, snorkel, practice yoga on a paddleboard, scuba dive, or get a therapeutic soak.

Address: 700 North Homestead Drive, Midway, UT 84049, United States

10. Bryce Canyon National Park

silky / Shutterstock

Consider a tour of the Bryce Canyon National Park , one of the famous places for hoodoo rock protrusions.

The park offers various views of the beautiful formations and more places to see.

You can catch these sights in a scenic drive through Bryce Canyon or camp down when the weather is right, taking your time to look around.

Nevertheless, hikers can enjoy an up-close experience with many perspectives.

You can also tour the park on horseback; the available outfitters make it easy to organize rides.

One of the park’s hiking trails runs through the forest of hoodoos, an attraction you may love to explore.

Nature offers its best with bristlecone pine trees.

When planning for your visit to Bryce Canyon, Utah, you can consider any time between April and October.

Due to the park’s elevation of 8,000 to 9,000 feet, the region’s winter months could extend into spring with cool to cold temperatures throughout the year.

11. Salt Lake City

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You can pack up any time of the year and be sure to have some fun in Salt Lake City , Utah.

It is a popular destination for, among other year-round activities, skiing.

Salt Lake City is packed with excellent ski resorts within proximity.

You can find something interesting to do this weekend from one of the city’s many tourist attractions.

If you would like a trip down history lane, Salt Lake City has plenty of lessons to share.

One of the oldest structures that yet stands is the Mormon Temple.

The Latter-Day Saints temple was put up in the 19th century as one of the largest in the city.

Today, the Mormon Temple holds loads of American history, after some of the country’s most significant events.

While the temple serves a Mormon-only entry, you can enjoy views of the old and historical structure walking by.

The State Capitol and the Mormon Tabernacle could also interest you some time along the day.

12. Antelope Island

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Wildlife is one of nature’s best, and the Great Salt Lake provides a lovely home.

It is where to go for beautiful views.

The Great Salt Lake is otherwise known as one of the world’s largest lakes.

On it is Antelope Island , the lake’s largest island.

One of the best things to do in Utah is to visit Antelope Island, where you can catch sights of antelopes, coyotes, sheep, water birds, and bison, among other wildlife.

Besides the animals, you can also enjoy views of natural springs and mountains, which make the island stand out.

The 1848 Field Garr Ranch has not changed since its original establishment and stands in Antelope Island as Utah’s oldest building.

You can look around and enjoy all the beauty while learning about the region’s history.

Thanks to its proximity to Salt Lake City, you may not have trouble getting to the island.

Address: Davis County, Utah, United States

13. The Great Salt Lake

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How would you like to float on the water surface?

The Great Salt Lake is a fun destination in Utah for swimmers and lovers of the wildlife.

Anyone else can also visit the lake for its amazing sights.

It is one of the free things to do.

What was once part of the 20,000 square miles of the ancient Lake Bonneville today stretches over 75 miles.

Little of the great ice age lake sits as the Great Salt Lake and today boasts being the Western Hemisphere’s largest lake, with none as large all through the west of the Mississippi River.

The lake’s high salinity makes it buoyant enough for swimmers to float over the water surface.

Its salinity also affects fish, making it a habitat only conducive for migratory birds, among other wildlife that does well in salty waters or its environments.

Most of the Great Salt Lake’s visitors love to start with Antelope Island, thanks to its fabulous beaches and waters; from there, you can also catch views of the Great Salt Lake and rare surrounding sights.

14. Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument

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One of the things you can consider doing in Utah is tour some of the region’s most remote areas of arches, canyons, forest, scrubland, waterfalls, and hills; the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument offers it all.

The park sits on 1.9 million acres, making it America’s largest national monument.

Enjoy a drive through the less-traveled dirt roads.

Hikers are also sure to have a fun time.

Enjoy the Lower Creek Falls Trail’s breathtaking scenery, one of the park’s most popular areas.

The nearby Paria town is an interesting stop you could make during your tour.

The town was established in 1865, south of the monument and neighboring the Paria River.

While Paria town has been lost to time since its 1920 abandonment, several western films have shot scenes in its remains.

For non-stop adventure, you can camp out in the Grand Staircase Escalante.

If the wild doesn’t interest you as much as luxury does, you can settle in any resort near the park.

Address: 745 US-89, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

15. Moqui Cave

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Your exploration of Utah should go all the way to Moqui Cave , the Southern Utah sandstone cave, and one of the state’s tourist spots.

It doubles up as a history museum with fluorescent minerals.

Take a trip down history lane in the footprints, fossils, art, pottery, among other displays of remnants from the cave’s early occupants—Native Americans and dinosaurs.

If your day is getting hotter, you can relax with some refreshments at an outdoor cafe.

While temperatures may go up, they do not exceed 65 degrees in the cave.

The museum holds a great collection of artifacts; look through them and travel back in time.

The teepee will lead you to a black-lit room with glowing paintings and minerals.

Do you have vacation ideas for a good time?

You can consider the Moqui Cave.

Besides having fun and relaxing, you can look into the history of Native America and the museum’s extinct dinosaurs.

Things to see include glowing minerals and paintings in the museum’s black-lit room.

Address: 4581 US-89, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

16. Utah Shakespeare Festival

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Do you love plays?

The Utah Shakespeare Festival is one of the events you must attend in Utah; it is held every year between June 29 and October 21.

If your schedule can accommodate the nine plays in line along with several other events, then you are sure to have a trip of a lifetime.

You can attend play seminars in the mornings and enjoy talks about performances.

On Mondays and Fridays, you can join the Repertory Magic and share your inquiries on scene changes.

Do you get curious about what goes on backstage?

Have a tour; you must see the gear, including props and scenery.

Between July and August, you can enjoy Q&As over luncheons.

Would you take a free event offer?

Catch Greenshows between June 29 and September, and daily production seminars.

The Utah Shakespeare Festival is a perfect stretch of exciting events and entertainment that you do not want to miss.

Besides the enjoyable performances, the festival offers plenty of helpful lessons and holds regular discussions or talks.

Address: 195 W Center St, Cedar City, UT 84720, United States

17. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary​

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Would you provide sanctuary to a homeless animal?

Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is a haven for homeless animals.

The no-kill center with roughly 1,700 cats, dogs, horses, bunnies, birds, among other animals, offers adoption, receiving more from all over the country.

Since animals with special needs often go unattended, Best Friends provides a sanctuary; recovering animals also have some safe space here.

You can visit Best Friends to meet the adorable animals.

The sanctuary offers lessons and tours.

Events that may interest you include Thanksgiving dinner, Paint Your Pet’s Portrait, and binny yoga.

The animals are grouped into respective houses: Cat World, Dogtown, Horse Haven, Bunny House, Parrot Garden, and Piggy Paradise.

If you love pets, one of the things you can consider doing in Utah is adopting from Best Friends.

Nevertheless, a mere visit could transform your trip’s experience.

Address: 5001 Angel Canyon Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

18. Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple

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Utah’s Hindus come together in the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple , established in 1998 and inspired by the Indian Rajasthani architecture.

Due to Utah’s Mormon popularity and populace, a Hindu temple stands out.

The temple was built on 15 acres.

It has a beautiful landscape of some animals, a large pavilion, a lake, and a waterfall.

The beautiful surroundings make this temple one of the lovely places to be in Utah.

If your schedule will be clear over this weekend or any time of the week, why don’t you pay a visit?

The temple is open for daily visits.

Besides watching the animals, you can have a look at the rare architecture.

You can also enjoy a vegetarian buffet for lunch.

In the temple room, a kirtan session awaits; you can then visit the gift store before proceeding with your tour.

Why don’t you join the Hindu festivals?

You can celebrate Holi and Diwali and understand a little about their culture.

Address: 311 W 8500 S, Spanish Fork, UT 84660, United States

19. Natural History Museum of Utah

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Preservation of history is one of the ways to keep culture and heritage alive.

One of the places to visit is the Natural History Museum of Utah for a trip down history lane with its 1.5 million and more artifacts.

Various items in the paleontology section represent the Intermountain West.

The history houses cover the anthropology section, with 11,500 BC specimens.

Frozen DNA swatches are exhibits of the botany section.

You can also view reptile, bird, mammal, and amphibian specimens in the vertebrate zoology section.

Other sections you can visit include the entomology section; it is home to the six continents’ insect specimens.

The malacology section presents six marine mollusks classes.

The mineralogy section holds a worldwide minerals collection.

You can use the gift shop and if you have time, relax at the in-house café.

If you would like some lessons or enjoy recreational activities, the museum’s all-ages program could suit you.

Address: 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States

20. Angels Landing

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Do you imagine an entire day dedicated to only hiking?

If you are an enthusiast, the idea may sound fun.

Angels Landing is one of the places to visit in Utah.

Hikers who travel worldwide to try Angels Landing’s hiking trails enjoy a fun stretch to Zion National Park.

The valley floor at Zion is a spectacular view from the top.

Not all who try make it to the top of Angels Landing, considering the hike’s challenges.

It rises to a 1,500-feet elevation through 2.5 miles.

You will come upon narrow sections and sharp drop-offs along the trail, which may test your limits the more.

Nevertheless, if you are up for it, you could walk out of this place with plenty of experience and after lots of fun.

If the hike does not go well for you, the Scout Lookout could be a suitable turnaround; you are not limited on the best ways to spend your day!

Address: West Rim Trail, Zion National Park, UT, United States

21. Valley of the Gods

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Looking for more places to visit in Utah?

Try the Valley of the Gods .

There, you will find many mesas and rearing rock formations.

You will come upon the Valley of the Gods, driving southwest of Utah and outside the Mexican Hat.

The valley stretches over 27 kilometers through a dusty trail.

You may enjoy the drive and the many sights along the way; above are massive mushroom rocks and huge sandstone towers.

You don’t have to end your visit there; the valley offers quality camping grounds.

You can enjoy an overnight experience, with beautiful scenery.

Hikers and mountain bikers can have fun exploring the terrain.

Make memories in the Valley of the Gods.

You can enjoy your week bursting with activity and have a weekend retreat in the valley.

Its beautiful sights, hiking, mountain biking, and camping opportunities make this one of Utah’s best destinations.

Address: Mexican Hat, UT 84531, United States

22. Hill Aerospace Museum

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One of the best things to do in Utah is to learn from the Air Force and its preservation of American history.

The Hill Aerospace Museum holds one of the wealthiest artifacts’ collections in the United States, with items from five eras.

The United States Air Force’s field museum takes the shape of an aircraft and is one of the top Utah attractions you may love to visit in Utah.

While the museum’s collection exceeds 4,000 items, only 20% is displayed.

Therefore, learn from and marvel at what you can get your eyes or hands on.

The Lindquist-Stewart Gallery receives most of the museum’s visitors who love beautiful artwork, among other artifacts on display.

If you would be interested in attending aerospace and defense speeches, the Plane Talk lecture series could be an exciting stop.

You can consider more of what to see, visiting the Utah Aviation Hall of Fame before departure.

Address: 7961 Cottonwood St Building 1955, Hill AFB, UT 84056, United States

23. The Narrows

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Did you get to Zion National Park?

If the Angels Landing is a hiker’s sport, The Narrows is a hiker’s paradise.

A majority of Zion National Park’s guests enjoy a hiking chance through The Narrows trail.

The adventure you can expect in this hike best suits the brave-hearted and the daring.

As the name suggests, The Narrows is Zion Canyon’s narrowest section; you may come upon areas of width twenty feet.

The canyon is towered by impressive walls that you may love.

Along the trail are other interesting Utah attractions and exciting challenges.

Prepare to get wet and cold as you cross over the Virgin River.

You may find the river’s boulders discomforting to walk on; they can also get slippery.

Therefore, quality hiking gear would go a long way to transform your experience.

If your weekend schedule is flexible, a hike through The Narrows could be an exciting thing to do in Utah.

Address: Temple of Sinawava, Zion National Park, Springdale, UT 84767, United States

24. Mirror Lake

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A lake can offer plenty of opportunities for exciting activities; you can enjoy some time out on the Mirror Lake, one of the Utah attractions, and indulge in various exciting stuff.

The lake stretches over 22 acres at the bottom of the Bald Mountain, which stands at 12,000 feet.

Its visitors love its clear waters and the perfect location.

You can boat for hours, fish, and explore the beautiful waters.

Kayaking is also a fun sport.

If you would like to extend your time, you can camp out for one or more nights.

The Mirror Lake wins most of its visitors’ hearts, with the wildlife sights from the surrounding forest; any time of the day, you can enjoy watching wildlife.

The lovely surroundings of Mirror Lake result in more possibilities of fun through any of the various hiking trails.

You may find it perfect for a stopping or recharge point.

25. La Verkin Creek

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Utah offers additional hiking opportunities for what to do at the La Verkin Creek.

You will come upon the Creek near the Zion National Park.

If you are thinking of ways to spend your weekend, a hike through the Creek’s trails could be exciting; you can also camp in the quality grounds.

Nearby is the stunning Toquerville Falls—here, sandstone ledges surround beautiful waterfalls, flowing into a pool.

You may love to visit the Creek during summer since it provides a suitable environment for a chill or cool-off.

Utah’s La Verkin Creek is simple but impressive.

After looking around, you can settle down to enjoy the ambiance of the surrounding areas.

The Toquerville Falls’ clear water could be an ideal solution for the summer heat.

Why don’t you visit this Creek today?

26. Meadow Hot Springs

Do you love the feeling of steam over your skin or watching springs shoot?

One of the places to visit is the Meadow Hot Springs.

Enjoy time in exceptionally clear water with a perfect backdrop.

Utah is the home of adventure; you should not leave the state before discovering the awesomeness of Meadow Hot Springs.

The pool is situated on private property, four miles from Fillmore.

The property’s owner has been so kind as to allow public access to the springs.

Nevertheless, the rules you will find at the main gate help to uphold the friendly co-existence.

When you pay a visit, be sure to abide by the rules.

Address: Meadow, UT, United States

27. Four Corners

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You may know the Four Corners Monument as a meeting point for four of America’s states.

The monument serves as an attraction to all interested in a bit of history and other lessons.

Four Corners is situated at the USA’s South-west, connecting some of the most beautiful states : Utah, New Mexico , Colorado , and Arizona .

You may not come upon any such states’ meeting point in the United States; therefore, some guests love to see this rarity and enjoy an on-foot experience.

Navajo and Ute Mountain Ute Tribe governments also border at the Four Corners.

Therefore, you can visit the monument to be part of history and get a sense of the area’s indigenous culture and heritage.

If you hope to have more than an adventure in Utah, the Four Corners Monument could offer something unique for your trip.

Explore the native history and learn about the surrounding states.

After that, drive around Utah for more tourist attractions and fun stuff to do.

Address: 597 NM-597, Teec Nos Pos, AZ 86514, United States

28. Alpine Loop

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You do not have to do much sometimes but enjoy the magnificence of a scenic drive.

For 20 miles, the Alpine Loop takes you through a stretch of alpine canyons.

You can stop at many points along the way to enjoy Utah attractions, such as views of Mount Timpanogos, famous for its glaciers, among other incredibly-looking mountains.

You can detour to the Timpanogos Cave National Monument, which you will come upon along your drive.

Take some time to look around the spectacular Cascade Springs, which may as well interest you.

Most visitors love to watch the springs, whose water trickles from the mountains.

Enjoy the beauty of nature, watching the native trout swim around the more extensive and clearer pools of water.

It is okay to take some time off all the adventure and enjoy your surroundings; the Alpine Loop does not disappoint.

29. Corona Arch

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If Moab town and the Arches National Park have made it to your destination considerations, you can add Corona Arch to your list of things to see.

While Utah is home to many land formations and fantastic arches, the Corona Arch makes one of the state’s largest, attracting visitors from within and beyond.

The arch is a natural sandstone formation situated between Moab and the park.

You may find it a great chance to hike.

Since the distance to the arch is relatively short, most if not all visitors manage the hiking trail.

The trail picks up north of the Colorado River, off Highway 191, and stretches through three miles.

You may enjoy climbing ladders, rocks, and metal cables, among more.

Touring and hiking to the Corona Arch is one of the exciting and free things to do.

Address: Moab, UT 84532, United States

30. Under Canvas

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Can you imagine how a camping experience in some of the most luxurious settings would be?

Under Canvas is an ideal stop in Utah for lodging and camping on excellent grounds.

Under Canvas sits on an estimated 200 acres and is situated near Zion National Park, about 20 miles apart.

You may love the destination for a quiet and solo retreat or an overnight exploration of what the American Southwest has for you.

Inside, you will enjoy showers, a sink, a private deck, and a flushing toilet.

The camping site is also towered by sandstone cliffs, providing a beautiful view.

During winter, you may find the woodstove within the tents to be quite handy for heat generation.

Address: 3955 Kolob Terrace Rd, Virgin, UT 84779, United States

31. Bluff Fort Historic Site

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History presents more lessons at Bluff Fort Historic Site .

Among what to do is spend your day going through the olden days’ establishments and determining their purposes; explore the Hole-in-the-Rock expedition.

You may find the fort’s construction interesting and effective on its goal—it provided defense from invaders.

Therefore, the cabin doors and windows face inward.

You can tour Bluff City and learn about its communal purposes, including a church, school, and public meeting venue.

You can also have a look through the Bluff co-op, where residents got their food and staples.

The fort has transformed since the late 1880s.

It was taken down in 1883 and upgraded in 1890 to Victorian-style houses.

Despite the fort’s changes, the community retained its culture, shifting to ranching.

You can enjoy plenty of sights to see and lessons at the fort’s visitor’s center.

If you have time, you can also visit the gift shop before departure.

Address: 550 East Black Locust Ave, Bluff, UT 84512, United States

32. Utah Symphony

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One of the oldest expressions of the arts is music.

The Utah Symphony promotes the arts in Utah through tours and educational programs.

The symphony is a part of the American West culture.

One of the places to visit is the Abravanel Hall to catch the Utah Symphony’s performances.

If you have the time, you can also consider attending Park City’s Deer Valley Music Festival summer concerts.

The symphony boasts of several Grammy Awards nominations.

It also holds records of its creations.

Catch the 6.45 pm MasterWorks performances’ pre-concert lectures or the 8 pm concerts.

If you are in no hurry, the 90 to 120 minutes of performance could turn out remarkable.

You can enjoy an experience of a lifetime, attending the symphony’s events; this is one of the places in Utah that can offer the best for your trip.

Depending on how flexible your budget is, a VIP package could suit you for one of the Utah Symphony concerts.

Address: 123 W S Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, United States

33. Dead Horse Point State Park

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Some of the most breathtaking views can be a fantastic way to unwind during your vacation.

One of the places to visit is the Dead Horse Point State Park for great lookouts in Utah.

There are various viewpoints from which you can catch beautiful sights.

From the main point, the lovely landscape presents a gooseneck in the Colorado River.

You may also enjoy looking over at the distant 2,000-feet cliff walls.

You can drive down the Potash Road below the viewpoint; to the left, views of Thelma and Louise Point will grace your eyes—Thelma and Louise, a motion picture’s final scene, was filmed at the point.

A walking trail stretches through the rim, providing some of the most remarkable views in the park.

You can stroll down the trail and enjoy the experience.

You will come upon Dead Horse Point State Park near Moab, a suitable location for the adventure.

Address: UT-313, Moab, UT 84532, United States

34. St. George

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More outdoor activities and Utah attractions await you at St. George.

Located in southern Utah, the city is home to some of the top parks and the state’s points of interest.

St. George holds a Mormon history; therefore, it is one of the destinations most visitors to Utah want to see.

You can tour the Brigham Young Winter Home Historical Site or visit St. George Temple.

Over the weekend, you can walk to Pioneer Park or view the Red Hills Desert Garden.

If you enjoy hiking, you may find various trails within a thirty-minute drive of the city.

You can also camp out in some of the highest-quality grounds in Utah.

Drive to Snow Canyon State Park, which is under 20 minutes from St. George.

If you have time, you can also take the one-hour drive to the nearby Zion National Park.

Planning to visit St. George soon? Why not check out some of the things to do in St. George, Utah ?

35. Sundance Film Festival

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Every January, the Sundance Institutes hosts the Sundance Film Festival in Utah’s Park City; it is America’s largest independent film festival.

Robert Redford’s Wildwood started Sundance in 1978, intending to take Utah’s film-making to another level.

Thanks to the festival’s independence, Sundance has maintained its goal and continues its annual event.

If you enjoy films and entertainment, you may have a good time at the festival, which runs for two weeks.

Park City’s night screenings make the destination more attractive.

Enjoy some fun time with your friends or family.

Since the event happens only in January, early preparation could go a long way in ensuring you get the most out of your trip.

Address: Park City, UT, United States

36. Carl’s Critter Garden

Carl’s Critter Garden

Would you like to try an experience, unlike many others?

You do not need much time or any money for it; one of the things to see in Utah is Carl’s Critter Garden.

The outdoor museum features a simple design and presents themed collections of animals and artwork.

You will come upon Carl’s Critter Garden in Hanksville and along Highway 24.

It is on the way to Capitol Reef National Park.

Therefore, why don’t you spare some minutes to start your day with a fun exploration of abstract artwork?

You can enjoy a chill during the stop, looking through the exciting exhibits, among them dinosaur sculptures put together from recycled materials, such as old car parts.

Carl’s Critter Garden is free to enter and view; nevertheless, you may donate if you wish.

While you may not walk out with history lessons or ancient culture, there is so much you can love about this roadside stop’s simplicity.

Stopping by is one of the free things to do.

Address: 864, Hanksville, UT 84734, United States

37. Cove Fort Historic Site

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Take a trip back to the 1800s at the Cove Fort Historic Site ; you may not come across any such constructions of the Latter-Day Saints.

Cove Fort’s purpose was to provide shelter, food, and water to Idaho and California travelers of the Latter-Day Saints.

You can enjoy educative tours around the fort to get a sense of how life was like in the early times.

Among the available sections for exploration is the feeding area for residents, known as the “big room” or kitchen; this was also a space for meetings and religious gatherings.

Residents bathed and washed their garments in the washing and weaving room.

You can look around the family and guest rooms or see the telegraph office, post office, blacksmith shop, replica barn, prairie wagon, and even bunkhouse.

Cove Fort preserves some of Utah’s history and could be one of the destinations to have a good time and learn.

Address: Highway 161se, Beaver, UT 84713, United States

38. Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum

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Explore prehistoric geological exhibits at the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum .

The park is home to some of history’s oldest records in geological objects.

Of what may interest you is the Unita Fossil Journey; you will see a 90-foot Diplodocus skeleton.

You may also enjoy the Stories in Stone film.

For a more interactive experience, the Morrison Dig Site and Fossil Lab allows you to look into an article’s fossil or debris identity; you can also learn more touring the lab.

Go back 145 million years at the Jurassic Hall, with three old skeletons; from around the same time, are displays at the Eocene Gallery.

The Rocks Revealed section takes you through the earth’s four major eras, with fossils exhibits.

Are you traveling with children?

You can consider the dinosaur garden, which has interesting models, or the children’s lab for more fun.

Address: 496 E Main St, Vernal, UT 84078, United States

39. Park Silly Sunday Market

Shopping is one of the top things to do in Utah, and the Park Silly Sunday Market is one of the places to go.

Before leaving the state, you must visit Park City and shop in the open-air Park Silly Sunday Market.

The market was established in 2006 and is opened every June through to mid-September.

The great variety of items and the roughly 2,000 vendor booths bring the city at least 200,000 visitors every year.

Depending on your interest, you can visit various stalls and view their options.

Farmer’s market stalls are lined with delicious pantries, while the many antique vendors or regional arts and crafts offer rare and unique selections.

If you are looking for excellent food joints, plenty of food trucks could interest you.

Live music performances are held during the market season, topping all the activity; you can also catch stilt walkers, balloon artists, and magicians, among other strolling performers.

Between June and mid-September, why don’t you find time to visit the Park Silly Sunday Market and spoil yourself with something nice?

Address: 780 Main St, Park City, UT 84060, United States

40. Mystic Hot Springs

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Utah is home to some of the best sights and ancient histories of the United States; hot springs are major tourist attractions.

One of the places to go for a good time in a soaking pool is the Mystic Hot Springs .

In 1995, an artist came upon the area covering Mystic Hot Springs on his way to Denver from Vegas .

The natural hot spring would serve two pools of his creation.

Today, it attracts many visitors to Utah.

Besides two concrete pools, the soaking area is built with six vintage cast-iron bathtubs; the bathtubs have mineral-rich water, which will leave you refreshed, with no after-smell.

Mystic Hot Springs is situated in Monroe.

The soaking passes go for $15, purchasable on their website.

You may also have to make a reservation for access.

Address: 475 E 100 N, Monroe, UT 84754, United States

41. Amangiri

How would you like to dine and enjoy breathtaking views?

The Amangiri offers luxury dining options in Southern Utah.

It sits on 600 acres and is located in a protected valley, half an hour from Page town.

You can catch spectacular sights of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument from Amangiri.

Guests love the beautiful swimming pool built into the center of the hotel.

Besides working out in the fitness center, you can enjoy spa services or practice yoga in the yoga pavilion.

The hotel serves a seasonal menu based on the American Southwest and the Navajo culture and heritage.

Address: 1 Kayenta Rd, Canyon Point, UT 84741, United States

42. Hole N’ The Rock

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One of the roadside stops you may love in Utah is the Hole N’ The Rock .

The 5,000 square foot home provides a unique experience—it is carved into a rock.

You will come upon the Hole N’ The Rock home on your way to the Arches National Park and Moab, along Highway 91.

Take some time to explore the home’s exotic zoo.

Things to see include camels, zebras, and bison.

You can also shop in the gift store.

You can visit Hole N’ The Rock any time of the year.

If you would consider a guided tour, you may have to part with some admission fee.

Address: 11037 US-191, Moab, UT 84532, United States

43. Dinosaur National Monument

As the name suggests, Dinosaur National Monument attracts visitors for its extensive record of dinosaur fossils discovered within the region and its surroundings.

The primary collection of over 1,500 fossils may astound you; they are embedded in the Carnegie Quarry’s cliff wall.

Visit the monument for an amazing experience and learn about the evolutions through time.

For closer access to the monument, you can now enjoy your time in the Quarry Hall, opened over a section of the rock.

Most guests love to hike or raft.

The quality camping grounds also attract overnight guests.

If the weekend is nearing and you are out of ideas of what to do, you can head over to the Dinosaur National Monument with your friends or family and make memories that last, learning from fossils lost to time.

Address: 11625 E 1500 S, Jensen, UT 84035, United States

44. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park

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What do you have in mind for fun things to do in Utah?

You can try sandboarding or sand games in the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park .

You may find the park’s pink sands attractive; the shifting dunes and rolling hills make good playing areas.

Visit the state park today, go over the soft sand mountains, have fun ATVing, and even sandboarding.

Every once in a while, stop for some rare photo shots.

The park is open for day-use visits.

Due to the nature of sand, you can find suitable campgrounds on the edge of the dunes, where small trees provide some shelter.

You may find the site perfect for solo retreats or trips with friends and colleagues.

Look around and play in the sand.

Address: 12500 Sand Dune Rd, Kanab, UT 84741, United States

45. Cedar Breaks National Monument

Sara Edwards / Shutterstock

You should not end your trip to Utah before visiting the Cedar Breaks National Monument .

The amphitheater goes to a depth of 2,000 feet and around a three-mile diameter.

Despite being open throughout the year, Cedar Breaks experiences winter conditions, regardless of the season, thanks to its elevation of 10,000 feet.

Therefore, Highway 47, which offers a scenic drive, is closed between mid-November and late May-June.

You can take down the Rim Drive for some of the most incredible views; you can also catch the canyon’s sights on short hikes through the rim and alpine meadows.

The bristlecone pines look beautiful.

Enjoy a four-mile drive on the Spectra Point and Ramparts Overlook Trail and through the edge of a plateau.

You will come to the Cedar Breaks viewpoint.

End your exploration with the two-mile Alpine Pond Trail.

The circular hike leads to a subalpine forest clearing and, as the name suggests, a pond.

Address: UT-143, Brian Head, UT 84719, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Utah

If you are looking up adventurous destinations and vacation places in the United States, Utah could be top of your list.

There are various things to see and places to visit in the state.

Plenty of fun outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, skiing, swimming, fishing, sandboarding, ATVing, among others, await you.

You can go back in time and learn from the abundant natural resources, such as fossils, artwork, pottery, footprints, and artifacts conserved over time.

Visit forts and have a sense of the native cultures and heritages.

The state’s national and state parks preserve the country’s rich history.

You can enjoy some time in hot springs and dine in some of the most scenic restaurants in Utah.

View various wildlife and explore different lakes, cliffs, mountains, and even valleys.

Utah is the home for adventure and a place you may not wish to leave.

You are spoilt for choice on the best things to do in Utah.

If you have the time, spend it making memories.

Happy travels.

Salt Lake City   Travel Guide

24 Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City

Updated February 2, 2023

Plan on spending a good chunk of your time exploring Temple Square , the official headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This walled neighborhood at the heart of Salt Lake City hosts impressive religious buildings – such as

• All Things To Do

Temple Square Temple Square free

Temple Square's multi-block, 35-acre plaza is home to nearly 20 attractions related to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It's anchored by the towering Salt Lake Temple  – where, among other things, weekly meetings of the church's governing bodies are held – and other fascinating buildings like the expansive Tabernacle and the Gothic Revival-style Assembly Hall, which offer insight into the history and development of the church. You should also stop by the Family History Library , the largest genealogy library in the world. Once you've toured the sites, stroll through the square's scenic gardens and past the gurgling fountains.

Recent travelers recommend taking a free, guided tour of the square and also mention that you don't have to be particularly religious to find it of interest. Travelers note that while the area is nice to walk around, the temple is currently undergoing renovation. The building and its surroundings are closed to the public and much of the area is obscured with fences and scaffolding.

Great Salt Lake Great Salt Lake

Clocking in at roughly 35 miles wide and 75 miles long, the Great Salt Lake is the largest natural saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. The lake's name comes from the nature of the water: The evaporation process (the only exit available for the lake's water) leaves behind salty mineral deposits. Salt Lake City's visitors and residents enjoy the area's many hiking trails, ample picnic spots, and swimming, boating and fishing opportunities.

Great Salt Lake Park is one access point that's close to the city: just 20 miles west. Here, travelers will find a marina, a small beach trail and facilities like showers, concessions and restrooms. Another popular access point is Antelope Island, a state park located northwest of the city. While you'll be able to access the same scenery as Great Salt Lake Park, Antelope Island also features plenty of wildlife to spot (including bison and antelope). Plus, you'll find the Fielding Garr Ranch House, an 1800s house on its original foundation. You can only reach the island by driving around the lake's southeast shore, following Interstate 15 to exit 332. The drive is about 60 miles one-way.

Salt Lake Temple Salt Lake Temple free

The temple started an extensive renovation in December 2019 that includes making structural changes, improving its accessibility and adding more visitor facilities. As a result, it is currently closed. The temple is expected to reopen in 2024.

Situated on 10 acres in the square, this impressive six-spire structure is the universal icon of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While you are not allowed to enter the church itself, recent visitors said that the beautiful grounds are worth touring.

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FamilySearch Library FamilySearch Library free

Sitting in Temple Square , the FamilySearch Library houses millions of genealogical records profiling more than three billion deceased people, making it the largest library of its kind in the world. The library was founded in the late 19th century to assist members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints piece together their family history. Today, visitors are welcome to peruse the records – all meticulously preserved – and possibly track down a few ancestors of their own. Reviewers said this is a must-visit place for everyone, and especially genealogy buffs, as the staff are friendly and incredibly helpful and the resources are astounding.

The FamilySearch Library is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 or 8 p.m., depending on the day. Admission is free. The library recommends that you plan ahead, organizing family information that you already have and determining what you want to find. This will make it easier for the reference consultant to help you with your search. For more information, visit the FamilySearch Library website .

Red Butte Garden Red Butte Garden

Filled with meticulously landscaped plots, gurgling fountains and pleasant pathways, Red Butte Garden is a great place for budding botanists as well as visitors looking for quiet respite. Housed on the University of Utah campus in east Salt Lake City, the garden is divided into sections, each devoted to a specific type of plant or ecosystem.

Recent visitors said you should prepare to spend a good chunk of your day here, as there's plenty to see. Also, many recommended coming here during the warmer weather for a concert – just remember to bring your own picnic blanket. Red Butte Garden also hosts a variety of educational lectures and kid-friendly activities.

This is the Place Heritage Park This is the Place Heritage Park

History comes to life at This is the Place Heritage Park. Historical interpreters make the past real at more than 50 historic homes and other buildings. The site's This is the Place Monument marks the ends of the 1,300-mile Mormon trail, the path which Mormons took as they searched for a place to live in peace. There are many interactive experiences, including mining activities, pony rides, train rides, a Native American village and splash pad. There are multiple eateries as well.

Recent visitors particularly enjoyed the horseback riding experience and trail. Many also appreciated the chance to learn about both Utah and Mormon history. Travelers agreed that the large site is clean and well-maintained.

Utah State Capitol Utah State Capitol free

History, politics, and architecture buffs alike will enjoy touring the Utah State Capitol. Richard K. A. Kletting, a Salt Lake City area local, designed the 1916 building. In the mid-2000s, the landmark underwent a massive historic preservation effort that included restoration, repairs and seismic improvements.

Recent visitors admired the building's beauty, and enjoyed learning about state history. Many complimented the high quality exhibits, while those who took a docent-led tour (self-guided tours are also permitted), found the guides informative.

Ensign Peak Nature Park Ensign Peak Nature Park free

Ensign Peak Nature Park connects the Ensign Peak to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail.  It's also historically significant, as this is where Brigham Young's party stopped to survey Salt Lake City valley shortly after their arrival.

The hike is about one mile in each direction. It offers beautiful views of Salt Lake City and the nearby mountains. Visitors may spot local wildlife, as this area is a habitat for many animals and bird species. It is most enjoyable on a pleasant day with clear skies so you can appreciate the panoramic views at the summit.

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Brighton Resort Brighton Resort

Skiers and snowboarders are in their element at Brighton Resort. The mountain escape averages 500 inches of snowfall a year. It boasts 1,875 vertical feet, 66 trails, and four high speed quads. The resort offers snow sports school, night skiing, terrain parks, and even the opportunity to schuss the slopes on a ski bike. There are several dining and lodging options on-site.

Recent visitors applauded the resort for offering excellent experiences to skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Many praised the classes, including those for children and novice skiers.

Liberty Park Liberty Park free

If you're looking to enjoy the great outdoors without leaving the city limits, head over to Liberty Park's 80 acres for any number of outdoorsy activities. There's a pond, bike paths, concession stands, rides, picnic areas, playgrounds and tennis and volleyball courts. Liberty Park is also home to an aviary and a swimming pool, both of which recent visitors recommend, as well just simply enjoying the peace and tranquility. They also recommend this park for families, as there are plenty of kid-friendly activities.

This park sits pretty in central Salt Lake. It's open every day from about 8 a.m. until 11 p.m., and admission is free (although a small fee is required to use some of the sporting facilities). Liberty also hosts several annual events throughout the year. For more information, check out the park's page on the Salt Lake City website .

Bonneville Salt Flats Bonneville Salt Flats free

The Bonneville Salt Flats may not be the first feature that comes to mind when thinking about Utah's ample natural beauty, but this 30,000-acre feature is worth a visit. From diverse viewing points the massive salt flats may look like desert covered by water, snow, or just like scenic mountains and hills in some places.

When ancient Lake Bonneville dried up, the salt flats were formed ( Great Salt Lake is another remnant of Lake Bonneville). Recent visitors were amazed by this natural wonder. Many noted how distinctive the flats were, and that you can see them from the road if you don’t have time for a longer stop. To conserve this geological feature, do not drive on the salt surface when it is wet – this is bad for the flats and vehicles alike. Be prepared for desert conditions: hot summers days and subzero winter temperatures. There are no facilities at the salt flats.

Park City Park City free

Park City was made for powder hounds. Sitting about 30 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Park City is home to two major alpine ski spots that sprawl across acres upon acres of mountain terrain. Park City Mountain Resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels to traverse groomed trails, powder-filled bowls and terrain parks. And Deer Valley Resort caters exclusively to skiers (snowboarding is prohibited here), offering groomed and gladed runs along with several on-site restaurants. If you're just starting out, all resorts have expert instructors on hand to help you learn the slopes – whether it's through kids ski school, group instruction or private lessons.

Those who aren't avid skiers can still find things to do. Park City's numerous art galleries and museums will keep visitors entertained. Meanwhile, in the spring and summer, the ski resorts transform their runs into hiking and biking trails, and around town tourists can hit the links at Park City Golf Club or peruse the area's farmers markets.

Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort

The historic and cultural attractions are interesting, but skiing is one of the primary reasons many travelers visit Utah. And Salt Lake City is in close proximity to some of the state's best slopes, including those found at the Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort. Sprawling across 2,500 acres with an 11,000-foot peak, this ski resort features 140 runs that cater to both novice and advanced skiers. According to recent visitors, the slopes and views are worthwhile, though the facilities are not the most up to date.

Winter isn't the only time to enjoy Snowbird, though. The resort also features numerous warm-weather activities, including hiking, biking, fishing and even zip lining. The scenic aerial tram, which takes travelers up more than 2,400 feet to the top of Hidden Peak, is another highlight. Recent visitors said the views are awesome.

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Natural History Museum of Utah Natural History Museum of Utah

Head to the Natural History Museum to learn about the formation of the region's parks, mountain ranges, lakes, and basins, as well as exhibits on Utah's Native American tribes, anthropology, entomology, zoology, mineralogy, botany and much more. The Great Salt Lake exhibit is a must-see, with interactive exhibits on one of the region's most unique features. Kids will especially enjoy the Our Backyard exhibit, with plenty of hands-on activities to spark their curiosity. Recent visitors say the whole museum is family-friendly, with plenty to see and do.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with extended hours until 9 p.m. on Wednesdays). Tickets are $19.95 for adults; $17.95 for young adults ages 13 to 24; and $15.95 for children ages 3 to 12. Reservations are recommended. The museum sits about 2 miles north of the Hogle Zoo and is best reached by car. For more information, check out the museum's official website .

Big Cottonwood Canyon Big Cottonwood Canyon free

About 20 miles southeast of Salt Lake City, Big Cottonwood Canyon, located in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, is home to two ski resorts and is also a popular hiking, rock climbing and mountain biking area. Even if you don't get out of your car, you can take in the views on a scenic 15-mile byway leading through the canyon, which takes about one hour to complete.

Recent visitors said it is a beautiful drive. In the mid-1800s, miners sought gold and silver in the canyon and visitors can see the remains of old mines here and there. What's more, Solitude and Brighton ski resorts both offer full-service, year-round facilities. Several hiking trails can be found at Brighton, leading to Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake Martha and Dog Lake.

Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest free

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest boasts 2.2 million acres of Mother Nature. Encompassing multiple wilderness districts across Utah and Wyoming, this national park offers a diverse array of landscapes – ranging from verdant fields to rocky mountainsides – as well as plenty of opportunities to hike, bike and camp.

Recent visitors raved about the beauty of the area and highly recommend bringing a camera and wearing sturdy walking shoes, as there are plenty of trails you'll want to explore (many vary in length and skill level, so check the website before you go to properly plan ahead). If you don't have time for a hike, consider a scenic drive instead. The 38-mile Mount Nebo Scenic Byway is popular for its stunning views of the Utah Valley and the mountains, especially during the fall when the leaves change.

Loveland Living Planet Aquarium Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

More than 4,000 animals live at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. The sprawling site includes a 300,000-gallon shark habitat and tunnel that guests can walk through, as well as five different habitats that house animals from around the world. During your visit, you could see a variety of fish, turtles and stingrays as well as land animals like otters, lizards and leopards. There is also an on-site, three-level playground called Tuki's Island, plus an outdoor plaza full of play areas and interactive stations and an events stage.

Recent travelers enjoyed the diverse marine life. They found the exhibits informative, though several recent visitors balked at the admission prices. The aquarium can get crowded – the best bet for those looking for a quieter experience may be an afternoon visit.

Lagoon Amusement Park Lagoon Amusement Park

With roller coasters, a water park and a pioneer village, Lagoon Amusement Park aims to serve up family-friendly entertainment. The park is divided into five main areas, which includes everything from little kid-focused rides to extreme rides (that cost extra). There are also regular events and entertainment, some of which are themed around seasonal holidays, as well as live animals.

Recent visitors enjoyed the park, especially the roller coasters. Others felt it was expensive for the experience provided. Comparisons to other theme parks abounded, and there was criticism of the animals' living conditions.

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Hogle Zoo Hogle Zoo

Home to more than 800 animals, Hogle Zoo allows visitors to get up-close and personal with its residents. The zoo boasts the African Savanna exhibit, which is home to giraffes, zebras, ostrich and African lions. You'll also find a small animal building, Asian Highlands (where tigers and lynx tread) and the Primate Forest. Other on-site attractions include a carousel and splash pad. Visitors can also opt to feed the zoo's giraffes, rhinos and elephants (for additional fees and with advance reservation).

Most visitors agree that, although this isn't the best zoo in the country, a visit here is worth the price of entry. Recent visitors had mixed opinions about the size of the animal enclosures. However, many noted the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Salt Lake City Public Library Salt Lake City Public Library free

Whether you like to read or admire beautiful architecture, the stunning and contemporary Salt Lake City Public Library could be worth your while. Located in the downtown area and opened in 2003, the library has a huge collection and plenty of cozy corners ideal for hunkering down with a good story.

Recent visitors said the architecture alone is reason enough to visit, while others appreciated the friendly staff. There are also a variety of shops and cafes around Library Square (just outside the library), not to mention a rooftop garden overlooking the surrounding Wasatch Mountains for those who want to read outside.

Clark Planetarium Clark Planetarium free

Clark Planetarium features exhibits on Earth, near Earth and beyond. Here, you can step inside a giant tornado, see a 6-foot Rand McNally Earth Globe, check out one of the largest real moon rocks on public display, and visit the Lunar Lander exhibit to learn more about the forces of gravity, acceleration and inertia. Then, learn about weather in space, play on the "Gravity Floor" and learn about Io, one of Jupiter's moons.

Recent visitors were impressed with all the interactive and high-tech exhibits and highly recommend the planetarium. The Hansen Dome and Northrop Grumman IMAX theaters also offer shows on everything from moon landings to volcanos to cosmic light shows.

Tracy Aviary Tracy Aviary

There are more than 400 birds representing nearly 150 species at Tracy Aviary. Birds include hornbills, cranes, eagles, pelicans and macaws. The oldest aviary in the country, this tranquil wooded location is open year-round. Highlights include free-flight bird shows and interactive experiences such as feeding birds and shadowing zookeepers (for an additional fee).

Recent visitors delighted in the wide variety of birds found at the aviary, including those from across the Western Hemisphere. Many noted the beautiful setting and the cleanliness of the aviary itself. The excursion is also family-friendly, visitors said.

Utah Museum of Fine Arts Utah Museum of Fine Arts

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The Top 15 Amazing Southern Utah Attractions You Must See

LAST UPDATED: 3/12/24 – Top 15 Amazing Southern Utah Attractions

Southern Utah is one of the most breathtaking regions of the United States. With five beautiful national parks, many national monuments, and incredible state parks, it’s full of beauty. In fact, there are so many incredible things to see that it is hard to know where to start. That is why I have put together this list of the top 15 most amazing Southern Utah attractions that visitors should plan to see. By using this list to plan your trip, you can be sure not to miss any of Southern Utah’s top sights.

Before I start laying out my list of the top Southern Utah attractions, here is a map that outlines where to find each attraction. It may be difficult to visit each spot on one trip, but with some good planning, you can hit many in one visit. For those interested in a Southern Utah road trip itinerary, I would suggest checking out one of my itineraries below. Both of these itineraries include stops at many of the spots on my list of the top Southern Utah attractions.

V iew Larger Map

Monument Valley

If you like old western movies, then Monument Valley should look very familiar to you. This iconic destination was featured in such movies as Stagecoach (1939), Billy the Kid (1940), and Laramie (1949). It has also been featured in more recent films such as Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018) and Transformers: Age of Extinction (2014). However, my favorite use of this beautiful landscape in the film was undoubtedly in the movie Forest Gump. With its ruggedly beautiful desert buttes and mesas, it isn’t hard to see why.

Monument Valley isn’t a US national parkland but instead is part of the Navajo Nation in Southern Utah and Northern Arizona. While you can see some of the most famous parts of the valley from a car, many hidden treasures require you to hike to see. If you are interested in visiting Monument Valley during your next trip to Southern Utah, then I have provided a guide you can use for planning below.

Don’t Miss When You’re There

Stopping at Forrest Gump Point

For those who have seen the movie, Forrest Gump, then you are probably very familiar with which spot I am referring to. Forrest Gump Point is the spot where Forrest Gump stops on his cross-country run and decides to stop. In the background, there is a long, straight road through the desert with the mesas of Monument Valley in the distance. It is arguably the most famous roadway view in the entire American Southwest.

Natural Bridges National Monument

Southern Utah is famous for its natural rock formations and one of the most popular with visitors are natural bridges. These rock formations are created when water erodes the bottom area of the rock, leaving an arch with an opening underneath. While these natural bridges vary in size, the really big ones are a spectacular sight to behold. One of my favorite of the top Southern Utah attractions to visit is the Natural Bridges National Monument .

With three incredible natural bridges to see in one small area, it is a great place to check out some of Mother Nature’s most beautiful rock sculpting. At 220 feet tall and spanning 268 feet, the Sipapu Bridge is the monument’s largest bridge. Although it is the oldest, the Owachomo Bridge is also the smallest at 106 feet tall and spanning 180 feet. The last of the monument’s natural bridges, the Kachina Bridge stands at 210 feet tall and spans 204 feet across.

While the hikes to the bridges themselves are classified as moderate, it is a relatively easy 10-minute walk to viewpoints where you can see each of the monument’s natural bridges. If you’d like to hike to more than one of the bridges, several loop trails in the national monument will take you to different combinations of the natural bridges on 5 to 10-mile hikes.

NEARBY BEARS EARS NATIONAL MONUMENT

While you are in the area of the National Bridges National Monument, I would also strongly suggest that you check out the nearby Bears Ears National Monument. In addition to being a stunning landscape, this area is renowned for its rock art sites, pueblo homes, and rock climbing areas. In addition to the well-preserved Puebloan sites, the area is also a great place to hike and do some star gazing at night.

Rainbow Bridge National Monument

There are some truly spectacular rock formations in Southern Utah, but the many natural rock archways and bridges are my favorite. While Arches National Park near Moab is famous for having the highest concentration of arches, there are some spectacular ones outside the park. One of the prettiest of these archways is the incredible Rainbow Bridge National Monument near the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area.

Rising 290 feet over the dry bed of Bridge Creek, the Rainbow Bridge National Monument is the sixth longest natural bridge in the world. The easiest way to access Rainbow Bridge is by taking a boat ride across Lake Powell in the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. There is a dock on the other side of the lake and the Rainbow Bridge is less than a mile from the dock. If you don’t want to take a boat, several other trails will take you to the Rainbow Bridge, but each of these hikes is over 15 miles long.

NEARBY Reflection Canyon

While you are visiting the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, I would also suggest checking out the beautiful Reflection Canyon . It’s not easy to get to, but the views you will see at the canyon are among the most stunning you will find in Southern Utah. It’s a roughly 18-mile out-and-back hike to the canyon, so make sure you start your hike early if you want to visit. Most people who visit Reflection Canyon spend the night by the canyon and do the hike over two days. This also allows you to see the canyon at both sunrise and sunset.

Glen Canyon National Recreation Area

While a majority of Southern Utah is dominated by desert, canyons, and red sandstone rock formations, they aren’t the only landscapes. One of the top Southern Utah attractions is Lake Powell, which is a large, manmade lake. Lake Powell is the primary focal point of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area , which also includes the area around the lake. In addition to the Rainbow Bridge and Reflection Canyon, which I covered earlier in this guide, Glen Canyon is also a popular hiking, fishing, and outdoor recreation destination.

One of the most popular things for tourists to do at Glen Canyon National Recreation Area is to go boating. Whether by pontoon, fishing boat, kayak, or canoe, there are plenty of incredible things to explore on Lake Powell. While you are there, I would also strongly recommend checking out the Glen Canyon Dam . It is an amazing feat of engineering and getting to see it up close on a tour is a fun experience.

The Views From Alstrom Point

While there is a seemingly endless number of spectacular viewpoints in which to enjoy the beauty of Lake Powell, my favorite spot is undoubtedly Alstrom Point . While it is accessible by vehicle, the road to get there is not paved and can be very rough in spots. For those who wish to make the drive, I would strongly suggest bringing a 4WD vehicle and going slowly. Believe me, the effort to get there will be well worth it when you see views like the one below.

Goosenecks State Park

One thing that Southern Utah certainly is not in short supply of is incredible canyons. Carved by rivers that run through the soft red sandstone that makes up most of the high desert plateaus of the area. The sandstone is carried away by the rivers, leaving behind some of the most spectacular canyons. Most travelers are familiar with the Grand Canyon, which was formed this same way, but Southern Utah’s canyons are less well known.

One of the top Southern Utah attractions that travelers must see when visiting is one of the area’s lesser-known, but incredibly beautiful, canyons. Goosenecks State Park, which sits very near the city of Mexican Hat, features the steep meander of the San Juan River. In many ways, the river bend and the canyon it formed resemble the infamous Horseshoe Bend in Northern Arizona. This spectacular horseshoe turn of the San Juan River has created one of Southern Utah’s most incredible vistas.

M exican Hat Rock

While in the area, I would strongly recommend stopping to see one of Southern Utah’s most interesting rock formations. Mexican Hat Rock , featured below, is an incredible balancing rock that looks much like its namesake. Located just outside the city of Mexican Hat, it is an easy stop when you are visiting Goosenecks State Park.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

There are quite a few canyons and amphitheaters among the top Southern Utah attractions, and each one of them is unique. The Native Americans used to call Cedar Breaks National Monument the “Circle of Painted Cliffs” because of its incredibly beautiful colored cliff sides that drop over two thousand feet to the canyon floor. While Bryce Canyon and its hoodoos get most of the glory, Cedar Breaks is every bit as beautiful.

One thing that you need to keep in mind when visiting Cedar Breaks National Monument is that it is at a very high altitude. You might not realize it when you are there because it isn’t a mountain destination, but it is high up. In fact, at over 10,000 feet above sea level, it is the third-highest national monument in the United States. Only the Sand to Snow and Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monuments in California are higher.

The Views From the RampartS Overlook

There are a lot of breathtaking views at Cedar Breaks National Monument, but I think the views from the Ramparts Overlook are the best. From this viewpoint, you can see just how incredible the canyon is. The beautiful colors of the canyon walls really shine in the light from this spot. From here, it is easy to see why Cedar Breaks is considered one of the top Southern Utah attractions.

Dead Horse Point State Park

Several incredible state parks are among the top Southern Utah attractions, but Dead Horse Point State Park is undoubtedly the most popular. The park got its name back in the 19th century when cowboys used the park to round up wild mustangs who roamed the mesa. The cowboys would drive the horses down the neck of the peninsula, using the two-thousand-foot cliffs as a natural corral. Unfortunately, some horses would be driven off, giving the spot the name “Dead Horse Point”.

There isn’t any horse wrangling going on in the park these days, but the breathtaking canyon and its sheer cliff walls are still there to be admired. If you are into mountain biking, Dead Horse Point State Park is one of the top mountain biking destinations in Southern Utah. It also has many incredible hiking paths and viewpoints for visitors to enjoy. The park is located just outside the Islands in the Sky entrance to Canyonlands National Park, so it is a convenient stop before heading into Canyonlands.

The Views from Dead Horse Point

With some of the most incredible canyon views in Southern Utah, Dead Horse Point is a must-see. While you are there, I would strongly suggest checking out the views from Dead Horse Point. This is the iconic spot that gave the park its name and offers stunning views of the canyon. Legend has it, if you listen closely, you can still hear the horses from here.

The Corona Arch

In many circles, the city of Moab, Utah is considered to be the outdoor adventure capital of the United States. It is the equivalent in America to what Queenstown is to New Zealand. Located near two of the country’s most popular national parks, it’s easy to see why. However, with so much to see and do in the Moab area, it is easy to overlook some attractions. One such attraction that doesn’t get nearly the acclaim it should be is the beautiful Corona Arch . This stunning arch is as beautiful as any you will find inside Arches National Park.

Located just outside the city limits of Moab, Corona Arch requires a short hike for visitors to see. The trail isn’t very difficult and takes you to see the Bowtie Arch as well. While the hike isn’t very long or difficult, there is a lack of shade on the trail. If you are going to hike to Corona Arch, I would suggest doing it either early or late in the day and bringing lots of water.

Seeing the Corona Arch at Sunset

If you think the pictures of the Corona Arch taken at midday are beautiful, wait until you see the arch at sunrise or sunset. It is an absolutely magical thing to see in the soft light of the golden hours. If you plan on hiking to see the arch at sunset, I would recommend making sure you have a headlamp and proper navigation equipment with you. It is a fairly marked trail, but it can be tricky to navigate in low light.

Goblin Valley State Park

For travelers who are a fan of the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon or the Needles of Canyonlands, you will love the lesser-known Goblin Valley State Park . Known for its incredible rock formations that fill several valleys within the park, Goblin Valley is one of the best-kept secrets of Southern Utah attractions. It is only about a 1.5-hour drive from Moab, which makes it a convenient side excursion if you are visiting the area’s national parks. However, if you plan on visiting, I would do the park justice and spend a full day exploring it.

In addition to several great observation points where you can view the beautiful rock-filled valleys, there are some great hiking trails in the park as well. It is hard to appreciate just how beautiful these rock spires are until you are up close. It will feel as though you are hiking on a whole other planet.

Camping Under the Stars

A great way to fully appreciate the remoteness of Southern Utah is to spend a night under the stars camping. I can think of few places better for camping than Goblin Valley State Park . The silhouettes of the beautiful rock spires and a sky full of bright stars will be an experience you will cherish for a lifetime. For those who have camped beneath the stars at Joshua Tree National Park in California, the experience is just as great in my opinion.

Capitol Reef National Park

In my opinion, Capitol Reef National Park may be one of the most underrated national parks in the American park system. Often overshadowed by the other national parks in Southern Utah, it is often skipped by travelers in a rush. It doesn’t help that some of the best features of this park are not as easy to get to as the popular features in the other parks. Don’t get me wrong, there are incredible things to see in Capitol Reef National Park that don’t require long hikes. The Hickman Bridge and Cassidy Arch are great examples.

However, there isn’t the extensive park road system in Capitol Reef that you see in some of the other parks. This means that a lot of the park is backcountry or accessible only by rough road. If you have the time and are willing to put in the work, the views in the backcountry are breathtaking. For more information on what to see when you visit Capitol Reef National Park, please review the visitor guide that I linked to below.

Seeing the Cathedral Valley

One of my absolute favorite areas within Capitol Reef National Park is Cathedral Valley. This stunning valley contains several incredible rock monoliths that rise above the valley floor. In addition to their beauty, they have incredible names. The Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon do look like majestic temples rising from the sand in this gorgeous landscape. If you would like to see the Cathedral Valley, be aware that it requires a lengthy drive on a rough road, so you will need the right vehicle.

Grand Staircase National Monument

In many ways, the remoteness of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a double-edged sword. Because it is so remote and isolated, it has become one of the most popular destinations for outdoor adventurists. However, this same remoteness means it is less accessible to less experienced hikers, so its incredible sights are less well known. In essence, it is one of the last remaining areas in the continental United States where you really have to work to explore the region.

This is why I am absolutely in love with the Grand Staircase and think it is one of the top Southern Utah attractions. It’s the explorer’s destination in Southern Utah. The land is rugged, the trails are long and unmarked, and the destinations are mind-bogglingly beautiful. Whether you are hiking to see one of the many incredible slot canyons or to the infamous “Hole in the Rock”, it’s always an adventure in the Grand Staircase.

However, because of its remoteness and lack of paved roads and marked trails, it does take more effort to plan a trip to see. Before you start planning your trip to the Grand Staircase, I would strongly recommend researching your hikes, printing topographical maps, and making sure you have the right gear. I have individual guides for many of the incredible sights within the Grand Staircase on my blog that you can use.

Hiking to the Zebra Slot Canyon

One of my favorite hikes within the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is the hike to the Zebra Slot Canyon. It is an unmarked trail, so it does take some navigation ability to get to, but the hike isn’t incredibly long or difficult. This makes it a fairly accessible landmark to see, even if you aren’t an avid backcountry hiker. If you would like to hike to the Zebra Slot Canyon, I have included my guide for you to review below.

Bryce Canyon National Park

You will be very hard-pressed to find a more beautiful destination among the Southern Utah attractions than the incredible Bryce Canyon National Park . Unlike the steep canyons that you will find at Canyonlands National Park or the Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon is renowned for being filled with beautiful, thin rock spires that are called “hoodoos”. These hoodoos give Bryce Canyon a fairytale-like look and are absolutely breathtaking to behold in person.

There are remote backpacking trails that you can take within Bryce Canyon, and the area was infamously used by Butch Cassidy to hide out back in his time. However, the park is extremely popular with tourists because of its accessibility. There are many wonderful viewpoints in which to enjoy the beauty of Bryce Canyon located just off the park road. You can see most of this incredible park without having to walk very far at all.

Viewing the Hoodoos From Inspiration Point Viewpoint

One of my favorite viewpoints inside of Bryce Canyon National Park is the amazing Inspiration Point . I can see why they named this viewpoint what they did because every time I visit the views truly inspire me. In my opinion, there is no better place in Bryce Canyon to view the incredible hoodoo-filled canyon than from Inspiration Point. When you visit the viewpoint, make sure your camera is out because you will want a lot of photos.

Arches National Park

There is a lot of debate about whether the eastern or western half of Southern Utah is the best to visit. To be honest, both are incredibly beautiful and filled with some of the top Southern Utah attractions. What most people do agree on is that the city of Moab, Utah is one of the capitals for outdoor adventure in the United States. Located in southeast Utah near the border with Colorado, Moab is near two of America’s most popular national parks.

The first of these two parks is the Legendary Arches National Park . Natural sandstone arches are common in Southern Utah, but Arches National Park has over 2,000 arches for you to see. These arches come in all shapes and sizes, with some that are as tall as a building. Though most of the arches can be seen from the park road, there are some great hikes in the park as well.

If you plan to visit Arches National Park, I would strongly suggest planning ahead and arriving early. It is one of the busiest parks in the US National Park System. It is not unusual to see a several-hour wait to get in during peak season. In addition, the campgrounds inside the park and hotels in Moab book up very quick. For more information on how to plan your trip, refer to my Arches National Park Guide linked below.

H iking to See the Delicate Arch

One of the most impressive arches in the park is undoubtedly the Delicate Arch . It is one of the top Southern Utah attractions for good reason. At 52 feet tall, it is one of the largest free-standing arches in Southern Utah. In fact, it is so popular that it is featured on the state license plate of Utah.

The hike to Delicate Arch is a 3.2-mile out-and-back that is heavily trafficked. It isn’t a very technical hike, but it can be challenging for some people in the heat. If you are going to pick one hike while visiting the park, this is definitely the one I would recommend.

Canyonlands National Park

The second of the big national parks in the Moab, Utah area is the incredible Canyonlands National Park . Known for its breathtaking vistas and incredible slot canyons, it is an absolute must-see. If you don’t count the rivers themselves, the park is divided into three distinct districts, which are separated by the Colorado and Green Rivers. These districts include the Needles, the Island in the Sky, and the Maze districts.

The Needles District is located in the southeast corner of the park and is the most accessible. The district was named for the colorful spires of Cedar Mesa Sandstone that dominate the area. There are several wonderful hikes historical sites and petroglyphs for visitors to enjoy in the district.

Conversely, the Maze District of Canyonlands National Park is the least accessible of the park’s districts. Because of the remoteness and the roughness of the roads, the Maze District requires more planning to visit. However, if you put in the work to plan, the reward is very high. The spectacular maze of slot canyons in the area is absolutely incredible to explore.

The Mesa Arch Viewpoint at Sunrise

The Mesa Arch viewpoint is located on the Island in the Sky District of Canyonlands National Park, which is my favorite. This district features some of the most spectacular canyon vistas that you will find in the park. In addition to the Green River Overlook, Grand View Point Overlook, and the Buck Canyon Overlook, there is the Mesa Arch viewpoint. Mesa Arch is a beautiful arch that faces the perfect spot to view the sunrise over a stunning canyon. When you visit, you can expect incredible views like the one below.

Zion National Park

Without any doubt, Zion National Park is my favorite of the Southern Utah attractions. This breathtaking canyon is home to two of the most epic hikes that you will find in the park system of the United States. My favorite is the Angel’s Landing hike, which gives visitors a bird’s eye view down the canyon and some of the most beautiful vistas you will find anywhere in the world.

The other hike that visitors absolutely must try when visiting Zion National Park is the incredible Narrows Hike, which takes hikers down the Virgin River and through the slot canyons. With a vast majority of the trail being in the river, it is one of the most unique hikes that you will find in America’s national parks. You will be absolutely blown away by the beauty of the sheer rock cliffs that surround the river as you follow it through the maze of canyons.

These incredible hikes are just some of the many things that make Zion National Park one of the most amazing places in North America, if not the world. However, if you plan to visit, you need to plan ahead. In addition to being one of America’s prettiest national parks, it is also one of the nation’s busiest. For more information on how to plan a trip to see Zion, please refer to my Zion National Park Visitor Guide linked below.

Hiking to Angel’s Landing

When it comes to incredible hikes in America’s national parks system, there aren’t many that can compete with the Angel’s Landing hike in Zion National Park. The views from the perch of Angel’s Landing are nothing short of spectacular. However, in addition to being beautiful, it is also one of the most challenging and dangerous hikes in the park system.

The trail follows the spine of a 1,488-foot-tall rock formation that has sheer drops on both sides. There is a chain for hikers to hold in the precarious spots, but it can get crowded during peak season. The traffic also goes two ways on the trail. However, for those who make it to Angel’s Landing, the views are out of this world.

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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9 comments ›.

Photos are awesome!!

Thank you so much!!

You are welcome

This makes me want to return to Utah.

I know, right? I just can’t stay away. It’s incredible!

Oh, this makes me long for Utah! I’ve been to many of these places over several trips, but not all. Didn’t know about Reflection Canyon, but now I do and it just went on the list. Thank you!

You are very welcome! I am doing the reflection canyon hike in October. Will let you know how it goes.

• On Our Way - An Overview of My Southern Utah Road Trip October 8, 2021 • 10:01 am
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25 Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City, Utah: Our Recommendations

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 11, 2024

The capital of Utah is one of the most beautifully located cities in the USA. Salt Lake City sits between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountain Range; it’s a jackpot when it comes to finding things to do.

The high season runs from December until March, when you’ll find all the winter activities and ski-related things to do. The second high season is the height of summer, when road trips around Utah become super-popular, and people visit its lakes for water activities in the sun. April until June and September until November are the shoulder seasons, when you’ll find all of these attractions much quieter.

Many people use Salt Lake City as a bit of a launchpad, flying into the city and then rushing straight off to Utah’s national parks and iconic hiking trails. But we’ll show you why this city is worth sticking around in. There’s so much to do in Utah, and this guide will cover the ultimate 25 things to do in Utah when you visit.

Using a rental bike or public transport, you can easily get around Salt Lake City to see these attractions. Alternatively, you can rent a car to take plenty of day trips and visit Great Salt Lake regularly.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most amazing things to do in Salt Lake City. But first, let’s briefly summarize the essentials for anyone in a rush.

Best of Salt Lake City: Quick Guide

• Must See: Big Cottonwood Canyon, Great Salt Lake, Temple Square, Red Butte Garden, and the Capitol Building.
• Where to Stay: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western ($), The Little America Hotel ($$), and Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown ($$$)
• Fun To Do: Go skiing, swim in the lake, visit the Bonneville Salt Flats, go zip lining, and grab a coffee to enjoy in the ‘park city’ green spaces.
• Day Trips: Bonneville Salt Flats, Bryce National Park, Provo, and Fifth Water Hot Springs.
• Must try Foods: Utah scones, fry sauce, and a Crown Burger.

Best Things To Do in Salt Lake City

We love Salt Lake City and are excited to share our top 25 things to do with you. We’ve said it once, and we’ll say it again; there are just so many things to do in Salt Lake City. Without further ado, these are our top 25 picks for you.

1. Liberty Park

Salt Lake City has a beautiful selection of parks and green spaces. This park is the oldest and second largest in the city, spanning 80 acres. It’s the perfect spot for a morning stroll with coffee or somewhere to spend an hour or two in the late afternoon under a tree with a book.

There’s a massive lake where you can rent out paddle boats, miles of manicured trails, playgrounds, and a splash pad for kids. The park is really serene. It’s an excellent spot for inner-city green space and a convenient connection with nature.

The park also has Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens, but we’ll cover that as a standalone attraction later. It’s a paid zoo in the park’s center, sectioned off with an entrance fee of $13. The rest of Liberty Park is unfenced and free to enjoy. It’s a fantastic spot to unwind.

• Insider Tip: Remember to visit the nearby Chase Home Museum.
• Practical Information: Free to enter and open daily from 8 am until 11 pm.

2. Great Salt Lake

Everybody knows the Great Salt Lake. It’s the largest natural lake west of the Mississippi and the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere— impressive titles. The lake is popular for its gorgeous views and is a hotspot for bird watchers, attracting thousands of migratory birds. 

You can visit attractions on the lake like the Spiral Jetty, viewpoints in Great Salt Lake State Park, or beaches like Pelican Beach. It’s beautiful to walk around and admire,  especially at sunset , around the pink water area of the lake. Equally, in hot weather, you can swim – just be mindful of irritation from the high salt levels.

Visiting this beautiful lake is a definite bucket list activity. Depending on where you go, it only takes 20 minutes or so by car to reach the lake’s shores. It’s worth renting a car for and is one of the most convenient day trips from the city.

Insider Tip: If you decide to swim, keep long hair out of the water, and be aware that the salt levels can damage your swimming costumes.

3. Antelope Island State Park

While talking about Great Salt Lake, we’ve got to mention Antelope Island State Park. This protected bit of shoreside peninsula juts into the lake. The beautiful peninsula is full of serene beaches with miles upon miles of hiking opportunities and horseback riding tours.

Best of all, though, are its free-roaming bison herds. You can spot the majestic animals all over the state park. There are also a handful of antelopes, hence the Antelope Island area’s name.

If you want to see the lake and embrace some gorgeous wildlife all at once, visiting Antelope Island State Park is the best. It gets our vote for its wildlife opportunities and beautiful location on the lake, with access to many beaches and trails like the hike to Frary Peak.

Insider Tip: Hike Buffalo Point Trailhead to see lots of different wildlife. 

4. Wheeler Historic Farm

Wheeler Historic Farm is a fascinating working farm offering immersive exhibits and experiences to guests. It’s family-friendly and located just outside of downtown Salt Lake City. If you’re traveling to Salt Lake City with kids, we heartily recommend it.

Kids can enjoy wagon rides, meeting animals, and a vast playground. Adults will love the time capsule-like experience, with historical exhibits, the farmers market, and seasonal events like pumpkin days. You can also tour the farmhouse on select days.

Utah has a lot of rural culture and history, so it’s interesting to learn about this and convenient given how close it is to the center. This preservation of rural heritage and farming communities is what gives it our vote.

• Insider Tip: Reserve a farmhouse tour for an extra memorable experience.
• Practical Information: It is open every day during daylight hours, with small fees of a few dollars depending on what activities you choose while there (milking cows, etc).

5. Red Iguana

You can’t visit Salt Lake City and not dine at Red Iguana. This Mexican restaurant offers delicious authentic Mexican cuisine. You can sample everything from chile verde to fajitas, mole, and carnitas. And that’s without factoring in their amazing beverage menu, which includes some seriously tasty margaritas. 

Red Iguana is family-run and a total favorite on the dining scene in Salt Lake City. We assume you’ll treat yourself to at least one meal, even if you are self-catered. And Red Iguana is the perfect place to do so.

The restaurant is located just a 30-minute walk from the downtown area or 20 minutes by the Green Line on the light rail.

• Insider Tip: Organize a non-driving method of transport so you can sample the cocktails.
• Practical Information: It is open from 11 am until 9 pm Sunday through Thursday and until 10 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

6. Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens

Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens is the small zoo we mentioned earlier in Liberty Park. Rather than being a traditional zoo—we generally do not endorse zoos at all—it only hosts birds, including flamingos, toucans, and vultures. It has plenty of educational programs and learning opportunities.

It’s an educational pick for those traveling with children or just an interesting day out for adults. The developed gardens are also beautiful and easily one of the most popular attractions in the city. It isn’t the largest botanical garden you’ll ever see; instead, what makes it special is the effort in its small areas, like the beauty in its rainforest biodome.

This attraction is centrally located just a short walk from the city center, and it’s a part indoor and part outdoor space, perfect for a hot or wet day.

• Insider Tip: Watch out for the beautiful love birds.
• Practical Information: Open from 9 am until 5 pm at $13 per ticket.

7. Bonneville Salt Flats

Have you heard of the salt flats in Bolivia? Salt flats are fascinating remnants of lakes that have dried up and left patterned salt layers behind. In dry weather, you can spot the salt patterns, which turn into a mirror-like surface in wet weather. Sound familiar? Well, Bonneville Salt Flats are Utah’s answer to Bolivia’s Salar De Uyuni.

Bonneville Salt Flats were formed when Lake Bonneville dried up, and now, they look almost like another planet. The white floor looks tiled thanks to the salt pattern. Bonneville Salt Flats are 1.5 hours away from Salt Lake City by car. It is well worth the rental, and you’ll pass Great Salt Lake State Park.

Insider Tip: Remember to research the salt flats beforehand; they’ve been the site of many world land-speed record runs.

8. Ensign Peak

Nothing is more satisfying than a summit hike. Ensign Peak is a small mountain just north of the city center, marked by a monument and sweeping views over the Salt Lake Valley. It’s a stunning place to gain a new vantage point over the city and that sense of achievement.

The summit trail is well-marked and only around a mile out and back. It’s really easy to navigate, so it’s our top recommendation for a scenic sunrise or sunset hike. You won’t struggle to navigate with a head torch. The trailhead is on Ensign Vista Drive, just a 10-minute drive or 40-minute bus ride and walk from the city center.

Insider Tip: Bring a head torch if you hike it for sunrise or sunset.

9. Lake Blanche

Lake Blanche is a gorgeous little place in the shadow of Sundial Peak and Salt Lake City’s eastern mountain range. It only takes around 30 minutes to drive there, making it an ideal half-day trip from the city center to embrace some natural beauty.

The Lake Blanche trail is 7 miles out-and-back, with striking water views and the dramatic vision of mountain peaks in the backdrop. It’s fairly suitable as a year-round trail, although it’s much more enjoyable and accessible from spring to fall.

You start the trail from Mill B South Fork Trailhead off Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. It’s a breeze to find. Bring a packed lunch and plenty of refreshments, though, as it takes roughly 5 hours to complete.

Insider Tip: Keep your eyes out for moose.

10. Big Cottonwood Canyon

You don’t need to go far for natural beauty in Salt Lake City. Big Cottonwood Canyon is just a 20-minute drive or an hour by light rail and bus. The beautiful canyon stretches 15 miles and offers some of the region’s best hiking, biking, and rock climbing. We’d suggest driving it purely so you can enjoy its scenic drive on Cottonwood Canyon Road.

You can hike to places like Lake Mary, Willow Fork Beaver Pond, and Silver Lake. There’s also the Wasatch Wildflower Festival every July.

We’d suggest Big Cottonwood Canyon if you want an area where you can organize your own activities and adventures. Visiting Big Cottonwood Canyon is free and gives you plenty of independence to choose anything from biking trails to climbing experiences.

Insider Tip: Silver Fork Lodge is a cool place to have brunch at Big Cottonwood Canyon.

11. Temple Square

Temple Square is palatial-looking, with light grey rock and dramatic-looking turrets. It’s the church of the Latter Day Saints, a religion that branches off from Christianity with its own interpretation of the bible and teachings of Jesus Christ. 

Salt Lake City was founded by Mormons, so it’s closely intertwined with the city’s history. You can visit Temple Square for free daily, and it’s great for those interested in Jesus Christ, general religious history, or just architecture buffs. The church is really beautiful and well-maintained.

Adjoining Temple Square is the largest genealogy library in Utah, aka the FamilySearch Library. There’s also the Salt Lake City Tabernacle.

• Insider Tip: Watch out for the free organ concerts at Salt Lake City Tabernacle.
• Practical Information: It is free to visit and open from 10 am until 8 pm daily.

12. Go Zip Lining

Perhaps one of the most adventurous things to do in Salt Lake City is to ride the ziplines at Deer Creek State Park, less than an hour’s drive from the city center. Its most exciting line is the Screaming Falcon, which stretches 3900 ft over the lake and is the longest overwater zipline in the US.

Tickets range from $39 to above $120, depending on what guided tour package you want. Going zip lining is easily one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City; it will definitely be an adrenaline rush among summer activities.

Zipline Utah is the company that runs the ziplines in Deer Creek State Park. Visit nearby ziplines, as well, like the ones at Provo Canyon.

• Insider Tip: Consider trying out the Provo Canyon zip lines, which are just next door. 
• Practical Information: Open 9 am until 5 pm with tickets ranging from $39 to above $120.

13. Clark Planetarium

Have you caught Salt Lake City’s weather on an off-day? Clark Planetarium is a great indoor activity on a questionable weather day.

The planetarium runs 3D IMAX films and laser light shows on space and science. It’s an educational place to visit for immersive learning and films-with-a-twist. Settling back to watch a film just provides you with different relaxation. You’ll catch free exhibits, too.

Clark Planetarium is located just outside of the downtown area, around 15 minutes on foot from its center.

• Insider Tip: It’s right next to the Delta Center, so see if there are any events at this venue as well. 
• Practical Information: Tickets are $10 plus tax for shows and free for the exhibits. Open from 10 am until 7 pm from Sunday until Thursday and stays open until 10:45 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. 

14. Capitol Building

Salt Lake City’s Capitol Building sits on top of Capitol Hill and has typical neoclassical architecture. Regardless of your interest in politics and US history, the Capitol Building is stunning to visit and look at. You can take guided tours of its rooms and exhibits. 

The building itself dates back to 1916. Seeing all the marble interior and muraled dome is astounding – you’ll want to take lots of photos, as it’s easily Salt Lake City’s most photogenic building. It’s located north of the city center, around a 35-minute walk from the downtown area.

• Insider Tip: If you are on the fence, just check out its virtual tour – you’ll want to see it in person.
• Practical Information: It is free to visit and open from 7 am until 8 pm from Monday until Thursday and 7 am until 6 pm from Friday to Sunday.

15. Utah Olympic Park

Did you know that  Park City  hosted the Winter Olympics in 2002? Well, Utah Olympic Park was its venue and has everything from ski jumps to bobsled rides. 

You can visit to see where the 2002 Winter Olympics occurred. It’s fascinating to see all the arenas and equipment up close. There are two museums on site, too: George Eccles Museum and Joe Quinney Winter Sports Center. It’s located just outside Salt Lake City, near Park City, in the eastern mountain range.

• Insider Tip: There’s free parking space on site, and it’s best to drive.
• Practical Information: Open from 9 am until 6 pm every day. Prices vary depending on your activities.

16. Go Skiing

If you visit Salt Lake City between December and March, you  have  to try skiing—it’s why the region is popular for winter activities. You’ll have stunning views from the mountains, and advanced skiers will have dozens of routes to enjoy at the ski resort.

There are three main areas for ski resorts near the Salt Lake City area: Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons, Ogden, and Park City. The canyons are famed for deep snow and lots of snowfall. In contrast, Park City is famous for its more luxurious experience and Ogden for family-friendly resorts. For majestic views and a bit of winter adrenaline, you can’t beat skiing in Salt Lake City. Definitely make the most of those nearby mountains.

Insider Tip: Skiing in April after Spring Break will mean fewer crowds.

17. Natural History Museum of Utah

Everyone loves a good Natural History Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Utah has 10 fascinating galleries showcasing all the nature and earth science of the region. It has everything from dinosaur remains to precious gems. 

You could easily spend a couple of hours walking through this modern museum. Remember to check out the special exhibit, too, which is a rotating gallery running two to three different exhibits a year.

The Natural History Museum is located next to Red Butte Garden, so it’s easy to fit into your itinerary. Just catch the bus from the city center, and you’ll be there in 40 minutes.

• Insider Tip: You’ll love all the range of dinosaur exhibits.
• Practical Information: $20 per person and open 10 am until 5 pm every day.

18. Visit Provo

You can’t visit Salt Lake City without taking a day trip to Provo. Utah’s ‘second city’ is known for its culture, housing everything from the BYU Museum of Palaeontology to the Crandall Historical Printing Museum.

Reaching Provo takes just over an hour by FrontRunner train or 50 minutes by car. We’d suggest catching an early train from Salt Lake Central Station to maximize your time and avoid parking nightmares. When you arrive, you can enjoy all of its museums. In summer, you’ll love the proximity to Utah Lake State Park and its beaches.

Insider Tip: Allow time to hike Mt Timpanogos in late spring and summer (bring a car for this activity).

19. Visit the University of Utah Campus

The University of Utah is located on the outskirts of the capital and offers regular guided tours. It’s a beautiful campus, with 100 acres of gardens and an arboretum.

If you fancy putting your academic hat back on, book a General Campus Tour – available to all visitors. You can take a look at the state’s most prestigious research university.

The campus is located just a 20-minute bus ride from the city center and is right next to Red Butte Gardens, so we’d recommend combining the two.

• Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts on campus.
• Practical Information: A guided tour is free, and times vary depending on availability. 

20. Day Trip to National Parks

You should definitely use Salt Lake City as a base to day trip to the  mighty 5  national parks. Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, Zion, and Capitol Reef National Park are all amazing spots to enjoy nature. Day-tripping to a national park is one of the most fun things to do in Salt Lake City.

You could tackle hikes like Angels Landing or a scenic drive through Canyonlands. There are so many activities in Utah’s national parks.

If you only have a day and cannot stay overnight, be prepared to set off early in the morning and for a long day of driving. The closest park is either Arches National Park (3 hours and 40 minutes one way) or Bryce Canyon National Park (Approx. 4 hours one way).

Insider Tip: Research permits and weather conditions beforehand.

21. Trolley Square

Trolley Square is full of character. Once a 1900s trolley barn, it was converted into an upscale shopping center – perfect for retail therapy. Check out bookstores, fine dining restaurants, clothing chains, and even a museum on the history of trolleys.

We’d recommend shopping here for anyone wanting to enjoy Salt Lake City’s retail scene. It’s also a covered mall so ideal if you get unlucky with the weather.

Trolley Square stays open until 8 pm nearly every day, so you can enjoy a late meal and some evening shopping. It’s located just outside the downtown area, roughly 30 minutes on foot or 20 minutes on the light rail.

• Insider Tip: Take advantage of the ice cream truck outside!
• Practical Information: It is open from 10 am until 8 pm Monday through Saturday and 12 pm until 5 pm on Sunday.

22. Memory Grove Park

Memory Grove Park is a serene area of green space within Salt Lake City’s bounds. It’s only a 30-minute walk north of the city center and great for a peaceful walk. One of the best things about Salt Lake City is the number of gorgeous parks, so you should definitely make the most of how central Memory Grove Park is.

The Meditation Chapel is a particularly peaceful place to sit and collect your thoughts. You can also walk the Freedom Trail alongside the refreshing sound of City Creek.

The park is full of memorials and monuments that give you that extra prompt for reflection. The water features are beautiful too, with fountains, ponds, and the natural creek.

• Insider Tip: Remember to see the Anderson Tower Monument nearby.
• Practical Information: Open from 8 am until 10 pm and free to enjoy.

23. Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum

Anyone trying to sightsee with children knows the importance of interactive exhibits. At Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, the target audience is those with a short attention span – so parents, get ready to hit the jackpot.

The museum has over 60,000 square feet of fun learning for children. It has everything from a real helicopter on display to small-world displays like mechanic shops, complete with cars with popped hoods.

If you have young children, visiting the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum is a brilliant way to make your visit to Salt Lake City an extra bit more educational.

• Insider Tip: Avoid the weekends, which get super busy.
• Practical Information: Open Wednesday until Monday from 10 am until 6 pm. Tickets cost $13.50 per adult and $12.50 per child.

24. This Is The Place Heritage Park

Fancy stepping back in time? Well, Salt Lake City certainly would be the place to do so. This Is The Place Heritage Park takes you back to the Old West and the city’s founding. The park has everything from a Native American Village to gold panning exhibits and Mormon history.

It’s a great place to really understand Salt Lake City and its story. It doesn’t feel like a formal museum as it’s such an immersive experience – you’ll be living the days gone by without even realizing you’re learning.

This Is The Place Heritage Park is located on the city’s outskirts, roughly 20 minutes from the city center by car or an hour using the bus.

• Insider Tip: Check out the nearby Living Room Trail when visiting.
• Practical Information: There is a $20 per adult entrance fee, and it is open from 10 am until 5 pm, Monday through Saturday.

25. Red Butte Garden

Red Butte Garden is one of the largest botanical garden attractions in the Intermountain West. It spans 21 acres of manicured gardens and its beautiful displays change seasonally, including over 590,000 flowers in spring—predominantly daffodils.

To immerse yourself for a few hours in natural wonders, Red Butte Garden is by far the prettiest place to do so. It’s a great way to connect with the great outdoors. You can even catch outdoor concerts in summer. It’s located in the east of the city and an easy 15-minute drive from the center. Alternatively, you can catch a 30-minute bus.

• Insider Tip: Check out the events on its main website.
• Practical Information: $16 per adult from 9 am until 5 pm daily.

Your Questions Answered About Salt Lake City

By now, you should have a collection of the best things to do in the Salt Lake City area that are really up your street. You could ski, learn about the Church of the Latter Day Saints, or hike trails in the Red Butte Garden. Salt Lake City has so much to offer. Before you go, though, take a look at these common FAQs.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Salt Lake, Utah?

The number one attraction in the city center is Temple Square. It’s the pinnacle of Mormon history and has spectacular architecture. Great Salt Lake is the city’s greatest attraction outside the center.

What is Salt Lake City best known for?

Salt Lake City is best known for its Mormon history and proximity to a beautiful lake and ski resorts. It also has the best airport to access Utah’s national parks.

Is Salt Lake City worth seeing?

Absolutely. Salt Lake City is a wonderful place to visit because of its mixture of culture (with the Church of the Latter Day Saints and architecture like Temple Square) and nature (with the lake and nearby mountains).

How many days should I spend in Salt Lake City?

We’d recommend at least three days in Salt Lake City and as long as a week if you want to visit a national park or two.

Tips And Information For Visiting

Of course, knowing the best things to do in Salt Lake City is great. But what do you need to know practically about visiting? Let’s cover the vital tips and information you need to know before booking a trip to Salt Lake City. We want you to have the best time possible.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Salt Lake City is between April and June during shoulder season. In April, you can catch the backend of the ski resort season while also starting to enjoy warmer temperatures. May and June are ideal for quiet hiking and biking trails, as well as sightseeing without the crowds.

As a slight caveat, though, your preferred activities when visiting do slightly impact when you should visit. If you want to enjoy swimming in lakes, stick to summer. And if you want the ski season in full swing, we’d suggest visiting between December and March.

Getting There

The easiest way is to fly directly into Salt Lake City International Airport and catch a shuttle to the city center. This is the best option for anyone traveling internationally or who is short on time. 

With more time, you could use Amtrak to reach Salt Lake City. The Utah capital is on the California Zephyr line, connecting Chicago with San Francisco. Visiting by train is much more sustainable, and you get a more extended travel experience—with gorgeous views from the train window.

You could road trip to Salt Lake City as well. Depending on your departure point, you likely need more time than catching the train. However, it’s definitely worthwhile, and Utah is famously great for road trips.

Getting Around

The easiest way to get around Downtown Salt Lake City is on foot or by rented bicycle. The downtown area is highly walkable, and if you stay centrally, the only reason you’d need to consider other options is for day trips. 

That said, you also have a bus service run by the Utah Transit Authority and a light rail system called TRAX. You can purchase the Premium Pass for these, granting you travel for a set price. There’s also a fare-free area within the main downtown, meaning budget-friendly transport if your legs tire.

We’d suggest biting the bullet and hiring a car for those wanting to take day trips to a national park or the lake.

How Much Time Do You Need?

Three days is enough time in Salt Lake City to sightsee around downtown and visit the lake. You’ll be able to get a good taste of the city in this time.

If you want to see some national parks or visit Provo, give yourself a week. Some national parks, like Zion and Arches, are best visited if you plan to stay there overnight rather than on a day trip, so give yourself that extra wiggle room with more days in your itinerary.

Where To Stay in Salt Lake City, Utah

Without a doubt, Downtown Salt Lake City is the best area for tourists to stay in. The city has an all-or-nothing relationship with attractions, and you’ll either experience inner-city attractions like Temple Square  or  head way out into the outskirts to distant attractions like the lake or Red Butte Garden. Because of this, it really isn’t worth staying anywhere but downtown if you’re short on time and want to maximize sightseeing.

If you want a quieter experience in Salt Lake City and aren’t as interested in inner-city sightseeing, Park City is our top recommendation. Park City is residential and relaxing, perfect for resting after a long road trip or working remotely.

For now, though, we’ll focus on Downtown Salt Lake City, as you seem like the sightseeing bunch.

Here are some of the best hotels in Salt Lake City for all budgets :

Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western ($), The Little America Hotel ($$), and Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown ($$$)

• Luxury: Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown

Le Meridien Salt Lake City Downtown  is a trendy property with a rooftop pool, fitness center, and onsite restaurant; it’s great for a luxurious base to sightsee the downtown area.

• Mid Range: Little America Hotel Salt Lake City 

The Little America Hotel  is a brilliantly located boutique-style hotel with both an indoor and outdoor pool, spa, and comfortable rooms.

• Budget: Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western

The downtown area isn’t best known for budget accommodation. While you can find hotels for as little as $70 a night, these mostly have low reviews over things like cleanliness, so we can’t confidently recommend them.  Salt Lake Plaza Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western  is the compromise, offering modern rooms, a fitness center, and a pool for reasonable prices.

Salt Lake City is something special. We love how you’ve got surrounding nature and the cultural aspect with the Natural History Museum and Temple Square. It was hard to narrow things down to these 25 best things to do in Salt Lake City, but we’re confident you’ll love them.

Are you looking for more inspiration on visiting Salt Lake City? Why not check out these  amazing things to do in Utah ? If you visit Salt Lake City for longer than a few days, there’s no reason why you can’t see more in the area. You could plan a few national parks or even a road trip to Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon. Whatever you choose to do, Salt Lake City will keep you entertained. Have a fantastic time.

Utah Resources

• 36 Fun Things To Do In Utah
• 12 Best Hikes in Moab, Utah
• Utah National Parks: How to visit The Mighty 5
• 11 Best Hikes in Bryce Canyon National Park

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Utah doesn’t have something for everyone. That would be impossible. But almost.

You know that kid in class who was good at everything? Smart, beautiful, athletic and shredded the guitar like Eddie Van Halen? So annoying. Well, Utah’s sorry, but it’s not gonna downplay its talents just so California doesn’t feel bad about itself.

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Alpine lakes with trophy-sized rainbows. Great big little  cities  with world-class ballet and plenty of parking. Red-rock slot canyons and other geologic oddities. Performance-enhancing powder at bucket-list  ski resorts , 45 minutes from the airport. Plus we brag about it. Ugh. We’re the worst.

National Parks →

The Colorado Plateau is the big, beautiful orangey blotch centered at Four Corners, millions of years and layers of stone laced with canyon-cutting rivers and unlikely art rock. The feds found five different spots in Utah’s quadrant weird and wild enough to designate and protect. If you’ve only got a week, these should top your list of places to see in Utah.

National Monuments & Landmarks →

These are like National Parks Express. Not quite as extensive, but still briefly intensive. And they’re packed tightly enough between national parks and lots of other Utah attractions that it’s not an either/or situation.

State Parks →

Sand dunes, petrified forests, pioneer heritage and Native American sites: half a hundred dots on the map with dozens of kinds of low-traffic attractions. Disregard the occasional side-eye from a local. Once you see the sights, you’ll forgive them for not wanting to share.

Natural Areas →

Some things aren’t so easily classified. These Utah points of interest are generally outdoors, typically remote and unanimously awesome. If your map only shows the big, obvious Utah attractions, get a new map, because mind-blowing can’t be categorized.

Cities & Towns →

Let’s be honest: You don’t book a trip to Utah to see what a big city feels like. But first of all, we do small-town right, with the proverbial Mom & Pop cooking, cleaning and making sure you’re comfortable. Then there are the resort towns, with all the outfitters and outposts you need to go (into the) wild. And lastly, the biggish cities you do find in Utah punch way above their weight class — the Wasatch Front has things to do, see and eat on par with the world’s much larger, much less convenient metropolises.

Ski Resorts →

These Utah destinations show you a corner of the state without skimping on the luxury — the kind of all-inclusive experiences that make leaving the campus optional.

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• 8 Most Inviting Towns In Utah

Utah is an eclectic place that welcomes every kind of traveler. Its rusted, rocky landscape dances in the omnipresent sun, its mountains tease four-season fun, and its convergent geological/Indigenous/Mormon/European histories beg to be investigated. The best way to get the full Beehive State experience is to immerse oneself in its small towns. These eight are some of the most inviting that Utah has to offer, whether because of their laid-back feel or the array of tourism-friendly options.

Moab invites all kinds of adventures. This small city in southeastern Utah sits on the Colorado River and is within a short drive (or bike ride or horseback tour) from three exceptional parks. To the north, sprawls Arches National Park and its 2,000+ natural stone arches (as well as other intriguing formations), along with hiking trails, viewpoints, and campgrounds. To the west lies Dead Horse Point State Park, with its cliffside trails and stimulating views of the winding Colorado River. And just a bit further to the southwest, the geological wonders of Canyonlands National Park unfold before the eyes of bewildered visitors. All the while, the La Sal mountains loom to the southeast, adding more beauty to Moab's skyline and offering even more outlets for exploration.

Jumping over to Utah's southwest corner, Kanab is another excellent base camp to explore some of the best national parks in the country. There is the always-popular Zion National Park , with its jaw-dropping canyon hikes, a short/scenic drive to the northwest, the massive collection of hoodoos at Bryce Canyon National Park , only a bit further to the northeast, and the North Rim of the Grand Canyon is but 70 miles south. But don't skip out on the homegrown quirks of Kanab. This seat of Kane County also welcomes movie fans from a bygone era. Be sure to check out the Little Hollywood Land: Museum, Trading Post & Chuckwagon Cookout to relive scenes from some of the classic Western movies, as well as blockbusters such as P lanet of the Apes - shot, in part, in and around town.

Speaking of movies, Park City invites the most avid of cinephiles each January for its highly acclaimed Sundance Film Festival. Located less than 35 miles from downtown Salt Lake City , this spritely and colorful, do-it-all kind of place is easy to get to and impossible to forget. In addition to the annual independent film fest, Park City was also a major player in the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. Thanks to the dramatic Wasatch Mountains (a subrange of the Rockies) that flank the west side of this resort town, there are over 7,300 acres of skiable (or snowboardable…if that's a word) slopes that are well-serviced by chairlifts and equally as fun to explore on foot or via mountain bike when the snows melt. In between activities, enjoy a stroll along the Historic Main Street - built during the 19th-century silver boom.

Well within the Park City vicinity (i.e., just 15 miles to the south), Midway welcomes those from all walks of life to partake in one specific cultural experience. Founded by Swiss immigrants in the 18th century, the adjacent Wasatch Range is a worthy stand-in for the iconic European Alps . On the north side of town, Wasatch Mountain State Park offers two golf courses, hiking and biking trails, and camping along Snake Creek. Down on the south side of Midway, Deer Creek Reservoir offers an alternative summer playground (don't miss Rocky Mountain Outfitters' horseback tours). And speaking of summer, at the end of every August, the community comes together (with about 100,000 visitors) to celebrate its heritage with the Swiss Days festival.

Utah laps up lots of well-deserved praise for its red-rock landscape and snow-capped mountains, but it also has its share of inviting waterways. A quaint lake town worth adding to the list is that of Huntsville. This Weber County community is nestled within Ogden Valley on the east side of Pineview Reservoir. Though the name may not sound particularly inviting, Cemetery Point Beach, which capitalizes on the town's slim peninsula, is a cherished little local spot. Just a stone's skip across the lake to the opposite shore, Windsurfer Beach offers another sandy hotspot from which to sunbathe or launch a boat. If all the good real estate is already taken, simply scoot through Ogden to reach the eastern shore of the massive Great Salt Lake . At day's end, retreat to the Shooting Star Saloon - Utah's oldest continually operating watering hole.

While you're in the area and in the super-small-town vibe, why not drive the whopping six miles from Huntsville to Eden? Situated just off the north shore of Pineview Reservoir, Eden is another lovely spot that beckons during the summer heat. With that said, this place comes alive in the winter. Home to the aptly named Powder Mountain (which hosts 154 runs, nine lifts, and two terrain parks) and the smaller, more approachable Nordic Valley Ski Resort, this slice of northern Utah is ideal for both experts and beginners. Eden also encourages its patrons to kick back and relax in the heart of town. Spirit connoisseurs can check out New World Distillery, voracious vacationers can gorge on classic American grub at Mad Moose Cafe or Eats of Eden, and young families will appreciate the hands-on fun at Carver's Cove Petting Farm.

Garden City

Before we shift back to dry land, Garden City, aka the "Caribbean of the Rockies," certainly deserves a shout-out. What could be more inviting than rich-blue or even turquoise waters bordered by mountains? The 70,000-acre Idaho/Utah spanning Bear Lake, upon whose southwest shore Garden City resides, strikes such a balance. This exotic setting is best enjoyed from Bear Lake State Park - a beach, boat, and fishing hub immediately north of town. For a change of pace, go for a cruise on Logan Canyon Scenic Drive. The road trip is modest in length (i.e., 15.7 miles) but undoubtedly worthwhile nonetheless. This roadway leaves the lake behind and heads into the autumnal colors of Cache Valley, ending at Logan City,

One last welcoming spot to survey this spring/summer is that of Panguitch. This Garfield County gem forms the apex of the geographical triangle made by Bryce Canyon National Park to the southeast and Dixie National Forest to the southwest. The former is not only a high-altitude hoodoo and hiking haven but is also one of the most visited national parks in the country. With that said, Bryce Canyon still only gets about half the annual traffic as Zion, so it is an excellent alternative to (somewhat) beat the crowds. Dixie National Forest is a massive public wilderness space filled with pastel-hued canyons, alpine lakes, and high mountain forests to fill in the gaps. Panguitch itself is a charming pioneer town whose Western-themed main street is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Utah checks all the boxes: national parks galore (only California and Alaska's tallies surpass it), year-round activities, a multitude of cultures, and a plethora of inviting towns. These communities are tailored to adventure nuts and low-key vacationers alike. Just as the sea refuses no river, Utah refuses no curious patron. Which towns will you visit this budding fair-weather season?

More in Places

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Beautiful (and less crowded) alternatives to the 10 most popular US national parks

National parks are popular for a reason but with visitation numbers growing each year, some travelers might be looking toward similar experiences with less of the hassle that comes with visiting a top 10 national park. 

I’m Ashley, and I’ve been covering travel and the outdoor space for nearly a decade. Every year, the National Park Service releases annual visitation numbers from the previous year, and as a travel expert and journalist, I think it’s a helpful tool to use when researching national park travel. 

The most visited national parks generally remain the same year to year with some variance due to weather and other events. In 2023, two parks rose to top 10 status, Grand Teton and Olympic, which were further down in visitation in 2022. 

GORGEOUS ALL YEAR: The best national parks for every season 

To help recommend some alternative destinations to the most visited national parks, I talked to Erin Ruane from RV Trader to get her takes on locations that give you the same feel and opportunity for similar activities. 

Instead of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, visit…

With nearly 13.3 million visitors last year, Great Smoky Mountains National Park (GSMNP for short) saw 14% of all national parks visits. There’s so much to see in the surrounding areas that you can get a similar feel and activity offerings just outside the park. 

PARKITECTURE: Check out these iconic national park lodges

To avoid the crowds and parking fees of GSMNP, Ruane recommends visiting Cherokee, North Carolina, which is home to the park’s quieter entrance, Oconaluftee: “Cherokee is home to the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, one of three recognized Cherokee tribes in the U.S. While it’s a sovereign nation, visitors are invited to experience the area’s culture through arts and crafts shopping, native elk viewing, and historic attractions.”

More options: 

• Nantahala National Forest, North Carolina
• Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina 
• Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Instead of Grand Canyon National Park, visit…

I love the Grand Canyon for families , but there’s no getting around its crowds at popular times of year given that the park attracts 4.7 million annual visitors.

MAKE MEMORIES: Great family vacations for single and solo parents

Ruane recommends another large canyon in Arizona, Sycamore, which is the state’s inaugural designated wilderness area. Ruane loves the canyon's “vibrant cliffs, towering pinnacles, and desert riparian zones, providing a habitat for diverse wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and various other creatures. Encompassed by the Prescott, Kaibab, and Coconino National Forests, key attractions within the wilderness include Sycamore Falls and the Paradise Forks climbing crag.”

• Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado 
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
• Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona

Instead of Zion National Park, visit…

Zion can be a fickle national park to visit between crowds and weather, you really have to time your visit right to have a go at popular hikes like Angels Landing and the Narrows. 

INSPO AHEAD: 50 amazing family vacation ideas from experts

Instead of competing with the parks annual 4.6 million visitors, consider activities in the surrounding Greater Zion area, like the Belly of the Dragon hike (bring a flashlight or headlamp), Red Hollow Slot Canyon, and Kanab Sand Caves: “These experiences not only involve a moderate hike but also provide opportunities to enhance your agility. The blend of natural wonders and man-made formations within these sites offers breathtaking views of canyons, creating a genuine sense of adventure as you navigate through captivating caverns,” says Ruane.

• Canyonlands National Park, Utah
• Snow Canyon State Park, Utah
• Valley of Fire State Park, Nevada

Instead of Yellowstone National Park, visit…

Yellowstone’s geothermal features and wildlife make it one of the most popular parks in the U.S. with nearly 4.5 million annual visitors. 

• 15 best places to go for summer vacation, according to FamilyVacationist’s editors and contributors  
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But the park’s surrounding area offers other similar activities, like in West Yellowstone: “West Yellowstone is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, boasting ATV, UTV and snowmobile trails, fly fishing, and whitewater rafting. The southern Montana town also has year-round family friendly events and restaurants serving up regional specialities,” recommends Ruane.

More options:

• Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
• Wind Cave National Park, South Dakota 

Instead of Rocky Mountain National Park, visit…

With 4.1 million annual visitors and timed entry passes required during peak season, Rocky Mountain National Park has plenty of alternatives that offer similar activities and geography with more flexibility in planning. 

SLEEP WELL: Best hotel booking sites, reviewed

Ruane recommends the nearby, 1.5-million-acre Arapaho and Roosevelt National Forests: “Renowned for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing, the forest offers numerous trails and campsites. Visitors can explore the Indian Peaks Wilderness, enjoy scenic drives along the Cache la Poudre River, and witness diverse wildlife.”

• Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
• Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, Colorado
• Pinnacles National Park, California

Instead of Yosemite National Park, visit…

California’s crown jewel of a national park attracts nearly 3.9 million visitors every year and requires seasonal entrance passes that need to be reserved in advance. 

CLOSE TO THE PARK: Best hotels near Yosemite National Park

A little over 2 hours south, you’ll find Sequoia and Kings Canyon national parks that offer similar landscapes and activities to Yosemite: “Sequoia, situated in California's Sierra Nevada, is renowned for its towering sequoia trees, including the iconic General Sherman Tree, the largest living tree on Earth … Kings Canyon, adjacent to Sequoia, is characterized by the impressive Kings Canyon, one of the deepest in North America. The park offers a mix of rugged terrain, waterfalls, and scenic canyons. Notable attractions include Zumwalt Meadows, Roaring River Falls, and the majestic Kings Canyon Scenic Byway,” says Ruane.

Instead of Acadia National Park, visit…

As the only national park in the Northeast, Maine’s Acadia National Park attracts nearly 3.9 million visitors each year.

While it’s the getaway to the national park, Bar Harbor offers plenty to do without needing to enter Acadia: “The town boasts an array of quaint shops and diverse restaurants, providing a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and exploration. The waterfront views are especially captivating, providing a backdrop of rugged coastline and serene harbors. Bar Harbor's welcoming atmosphere and proximity to Acadia make it an ideal base for those seeking a balance between outdoor adventures and charming coastal experiences,” says Ruane.

• Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park, Vermont
• Voyageurs National Park National Park, Minnesota
• White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire 

Instead of Grand Teton National Park, visit…

Wyoming’s Grand Teton saw 3.4 million annual visitors, adding it to the top 10 list of most visited parks this year.

Instead, Ruane recommends visiting the nearby Snake River, located in the Jackson Hole valley: “A scenic float trip allows for a leisurely drift along the river, providing breathtaking views of the Teton Range and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Alternatively, adrenaline seekers can embark on thrilling whitewater rafting adventures, navigating the river's rapids for an exciting and immersive experience.”

• Curt Gowdy State Park, Wyoming
• Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Colorado and Wyoming
• Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

Instead of Joshua Tree National Park, visit…

Southern California’s Joshua Tree is a popular location for weekend trips from Los Angeles and shoulder season travel seeing about 3.3 million visitors each year.

To the southeast you’ll find the state’s largest lake, the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, where there's "birdwatching, fishing, and exploration of the lake's distinct desert landscapes. The area's diverse ecosystem attracts a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers,” says Ruane.

• Big Bend National Park, Texas
• Channel Islands National Park, California
• Mojave National Preserve, California

Instead of Olympic National Park, visit…

The Washington park went from the 14th most visited park in 2022 to the 10th in 2023, seeing nearly 2.9 million annual visitors.

Enjoy similar landscapes nearby at Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, near Port Angeles: “Visit the Dungeness Spit, a unique sand spit that extends into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It's a great place for birdwatching and enjoying the coastal scenery,” recommends Ruane.

• North Cascades National Park, Washington 
• Redwood National and State Parks, California
• Rogue River–Siskiyou National Forest, California and Oregon

Beautiful and less crowded alternatives to the 10 most popular U.S. national parks originally appeared on FamilyVacationist.com .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 11 tourist attractions that live up to the hype
• The most incredible national park campgrounds
• How to make the most of a trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The views and opinions expressed in this column are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of USA TODAY. FamilyVacationist.com and TourScoop.com are owned and operated by Vacationist Media LLC. Using the FamilyVacationist travel recommendation methodology , we review and select family vacation ideas , family vacation spots , all-inclusive family resorts , and classic family vacations for all ages. TourScoop covers guided group tours and tour operators , tour operator reviews , tour itinerary reviews and travel gear recommendations .

Utah ranked in top 10 states for hiking

A new analysis ranked the top states in America for hiking, and Utah placed in the top 10.

There were five factors that went into the analysis by travel experts at Why This Place in determining which state was the best for hiking.

Connecticut claimed the top spot with a Hiking Index Score of 73.98 out of 100, while Massachusetts ranked No. 2 and Hawaii was No. 3.

“This data offers a fascinating insight into the best destinations in the U.S. for lovers of the great outdoors,” a Why This Place spokesperson shared with Deseret News.

The five factors the travel experts analyzed include:

• Number of hiking trails relative to state area.
• Number of waterfalls relative to state area.
• Percentage of the state covered by national and state parks.
• Average yearly temperature.
• Average yearly rainfall.

The spokesperson advised considering multiple factors when deciding on a hiking destination.

“When planning a trip, it is important to consider other factors that can greatly impact the quality of your journey,” the spokesperson said. “Climate and the presence of natural landmarks are just as vital to a successful hiking trip, so taking these elements into account, ensures visitors are able to enjoy a well-rounded experience.”

Utah ranked No. 9, offering 87 hiking trails per 1,000 square miles, and it is listed with the third-lowest annual rainfall.

According to a study by ParkSleepFly that analyzed which states have the most hidden gems, Utah has a total of 3,108 tourist attractions with 217 hidden gems. A hidden gem was quantified by the number of attractions on Tripadviser and by the number of global Google searches and given a score out of 10.

Most Googled hikes in the US in June

Why This Place analyzed the factors that make up for a good hike. Thrillist took to Google to gauge interest. Thrillist reported that the top hikes searched on Google in June include:

• Saddle Mountain — Saddle Mountain State Natural Area, Oregon.
• Dungeness Spit — Sequim, Washington.
• Griffith Observatory — Los Angeles, California.
• Manitou Incline — The Incline, Colorado.
• Lake 22 — Granite Falls, Washington.

What are the top 10 states for hiking in 2023?

Here’s the list of the top 10 states, according to Why This State, considering the five factors.

• Connecticut.
• Massachusetts.
• California.
• New Jersey.
• Washington.
• New Hampshire.
• Rhode Island.

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Vote for your favorite summer travel destination!

USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do throughout this country's millions of square miles, from picturesque national parks to sleepy mountain towns to breathtakingly beautiful beaches. An expert panel has nominated their 20 must-see places for a summer vacation, and we need your help to crown the best of the best. Which summer travel destination is your favorite spot? Vote once per day until voting ends on Monday, May 13 at noon ET. The 10 winners will be announced on Wednesday, May 22.  Read the official Readers' Choice rules .

Whether you're hitting the road with the family or embarking on a solo adventure, summer is the peak season for travel in the United States. There are so many endlessly compelling sights to see and things to do...   Read More

Best Summer Travel Destination Nominees

Photo courtesy of The Bar Harbor Chamber of Commerce

Bar Harbor, Maine

Located on Mount Desert Island, this quaint small town is known as a gateway to iconic Acadia National Park and is a popular cruise stop. During a visit, be sure to spend time in Bar Harbor's idyllic downtown, which is home to a plethora of top-tier eateries, small boutiques, and art galleries.

Photo courtesy of Melanie LeDuc / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Black Hills & Badlands, South Dakota

Situated in South Dakota, set about 70 miles apart, the Black Hills and Badlands offer an experience full of history, geological wonders, and stunning views. The area is home to the famous Mt. Rushmore, which receives more than 2 million visitors a year.

Photo courtesy of pabradyphoto / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Capitol Reef Country, Utah

Nestled in southern Utah, Capitol Reef Country incorporates Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Canyonlands, and Arches national parks. Because of their proximity to each other, this makes for an excellent road trip adventure where you’ll get to see the striking geologic strata that makes this area unique. 

Photo courtesy of Jasper Chamber / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Catalina Island, California

Catalina Island, which stretches 22 miles, is an ideal coastal destination in California. Historically significant because it’s been the filming location for more than 500 films, TV shows, and commercials over the past 90 years, this family-friendly destination is also well-known for its pristine beaches, outdoor activities, and sumptuous seafood. 

Photo courtesy of Cody Yellowstone

Cody, Wyoming

This rugged mountain town is the gateway to Yellowstone National Park, and it's known as the "Rodeo Capital of the World," offering you a glimpse into the Wild West. Named after Buffalo Bill Cody, Cody, Wyoming, features sweeping views, hearty and authentic cowboy fare, and many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Photo courtesy of Dan Eggert/Destination Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

For an unexpected lakeside vacation spot, it’s hard to beat Wisconsin’s Door County, home to 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and every water sport you can imagine. Paddleboarding, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and even scuba diving around shipwrecks are all among the aquatic activities available throughout this Midwestern destination. For those who prefer staying on land, there’s also a solid beer and wine scene, art galleries to explore, plus hiking, biking, and more at their five state parks. 

Photo courtesy of UpdogDesigns / iStock / Getty Images Plus

Finger Lakes, New York

New York's Finger Lakes region comprises 11 lakes in upstate New York, offering an ideal summer getaway by the water. The area is well-recognized for its rieslings, so you’ll want to book a wine tasting at one of the many wineries while visiting. And if you have little ones in tow, visit the Seabreeze Amusement Park, where you can enjoy a number of rides and attractions. 

Photo courtesy of Gulf Shores & Orange Beach Tourism

Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

Alabama's Gulf Coast offers 32 miles of pristine white sand beaches and cerulean blue waters, and it's home to an amazing restaurant scene. This spot is popular with families because of the many outdoor activities available for all ages. Whether you want to relax on the beach, head out on a kayaking expedition, or venture to an amusement park, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. 

Photo courtesy of Jody O for Travel Juneau

Juneau, Alaska

Juneau is an eclectic mountain town boasting over 250 miles of hiking trails, as well as a walkable, charming downtown. Situated on Gastineau Channel, the city offers plenty of opportunities to get on the water. It's also home to diverse wildlife, rich in Indigenous history, and full of lovely accommodations. You’ll find this one of Alaska’s ultimate gems, especially in the summer.

Photo courtesy of Alex Byers

Laurel Highlands, Pennsylvania

If you love the great outdoors, you’ll be smitten with Laurel Highlands, which sits in southwestern Pennsylvania. It’s approximately 3,000 square miles and includes three counties: Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland. Visit Fallingwater, which is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and one of architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s most acclaimed works. For thrill-seekers, book a white-water rafting excursion in Ohiopyle State Park. The park also offers numerous challenging hikes where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.

Photo courtesy of Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, you’ll find Mackinac Island, where you’ll ride on horse-drawn carriages along car-free roads, observe fudge being made (and then sample it), and tour the historic Fort Mackinac. This Lake Huron-based continental island is also home to Mackinac Island State Park, where you can hike, bike, kayak, and take photos of the local natural beauty, including the stunning limestone Arch Rock.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City, MD Tourism

Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City, Maryland, is the quintessential beach town, offering laid-back vibes, old-fashioned boardwalk treats, and beautiful sandy beaches. Head over to a bustling arcade, get in line for a thrill at Trimper Rides, or simply sit back with a good book and dig your feet into the sand.

Photo courtesy of Ocean City Chamber of Commerce

Ocean City, New Jersey

This family-friendly vacation spot on the Jersey Shore is known for its exciting boardwalk, with shops and eateries galore, views of the Atlantic, plus vintage amusement parks. Playland’s Castaway Cove is one such park, with go-karts, thrill rides including roller coasters, a fun house, and mini golf. And if parks aren’t your thing, there’s miles and miles of relaxing beaches on which to get in some sun and swimming.

Photo courtesy of Katie Jones via San Juan Islands Visitors Bureau

San Juan Islands, Washington

While there are some 176 islands and reefs that make up the San Juan Islands, the main four — San Juan, Orcas, Lopez, and Shaw — are serviced by the state ferry system and offer accommodations for tourists. While these islands are diverse and offer different experiences, they all feature spectacular vistas of the Salish Sea, with plenty of water and land activities to keep everyone busy. Accommodations range from hotels and resorts to small inns, vacation rentals, and camping sites.

Photo courtesy of Shores & Islands Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio

Home to Cedar Point amusement park, which has over 150 rides and attractions, Sandusky is an ideal family-friendly vacation spot. The town is also home to a picturesque downtown with art galleries, boutiques, and a thriving culinary scene. Visit the Maritime Museum of Sandusky for a look at the city’s history, or head to the Sandusky State Theatre and take in a performance. 

Photo courtesy of Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism

Sevier County, Tennessee

Sevier County, Tennessee, is widely known as a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. Three towns are ideal spots for setting up base camp while visiting the region: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg. Offering everything from picture-perfect scenery to Dollywood to the state’s only ski resort, there's plenty to see and do in the area.

Photo courtesy of NPS Photo/J. Baird

South Rim - Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Probably the exact location you're picturing when you think of the Grand Canyon, the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park is an iconic American destination worthy of many a bucket list. Check out Grand Canyon Village during a visit, which offers a range of attractions and accommodations. It’s also the site of the Grand Canyon Railway Depot, which is still in service today and takes visitors on a scenic ride, where you might spot wildlife such as elk, deer, and mountain lions.

Photo courtesy of Space Coast Office of Tourism

Space Coast, Florida

Situated on Florida’s Atlantic shore, the Space Coast area is recognized as the home of the Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, where Apollo 11 lifted off for its moon landing mission. The region is also a hub of activities, including water sports, cruise excursions, fishing, and golfing. It's also a great spot for lazy beach days.

Photo courtesy of Swain County NC Chamber of Commerce

Swain County, North Carolina

Swain County, home to charming Bryson City, is a gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is overflowing with hiking trails, scenic waterfalls, golfing, and water activities. You'll find opportunities for tubing, as well as white-water rafting, with the Nantahala Outdoor Center offering 500 acres of adventure.

Photo courtesy of OKRAD / E+ Getty Images

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach’s 3-mile long boardwalk is a major draw for those that visit this town, known for its maritime history and family-friendly appeal. It comprises three beach areas: Virginia Beach, Chesapeake Bay, and Sandbridge Beach, which stretches for 35 miles, making it the world’s longest pleasure beach in the world. With a flourishing downtown and amazing restaurants, Virginia Beach makes for a great summer escape.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

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The Experts

Chelle koster walton.

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Chelle Koster Walton — the Local Expert for Naples, Florida and the Caribbean — has been covering the destination for 30 years. Her top-selling  Sarasota, Sanibel Island, and Naples  guidebook (Countryman Press) is in its sixth edition. She was contributing editor for  Caribbean Travel & Life  for 12 years and has written guidebooks on the Bahamas. A veteran travel writer, Chelle has published thousands of articles for  Miami Herald, USA TODAY, Latitudes;  has written/contributed to a dozen guidebooks, and produces travel shows for the local PBS station.

Chez Chesak

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‘Chez’ Chesak is Executive Director of the Outdoor Writers Association of America, an adventure travel writer, board member of the Society of American Travel Writers and 22-year veteran of the outdoor and travel industries. While he’s lived all over the U.S. and traveled to more than 30 countries, he has the most fun when he’s exploring with his wife Sally and two daughters. An avid outdoors person, he’s happiest on a trail, on skis, or nestled into a sleeping bag. Learn more about him and his work at www.chezconnects.com .  

Jamie Davis Smith

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Jamie is a travel writer who has visited over 50 countries, many of them with her children in tow. She loves visiting everything from theme parks to ancient ruins and packs strictly carry-on-only. Jamie can be reached at [email protected].

Jenny Peters

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Jenny Peters – aka Jet Set Jen – is a Los Angeles-based freelance journalist, editor and party columnist specializing in travel, entertainment, film, food, wine, fashion and the other good things in life. She is a founding/voting member of the Critics Choice Association, who present the Critics’ Choice Awards every January. Her favorite places to be are on the beach in Southern California playing volleyball, scuba diving with the sharks in warm tropical waters or strolling the streets and soaking in the atmosphere of one of the world's great cities (New Orleans and Florence are her favorites).

Meg St-Esprit

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Meg St-Esprit is a journalist based in Pittsburgh who covers family travel, lifestyle, education, and parenting. With their four kids in tow, she and her husband love to travel anywhere and everywhere — but have a soft spot for camping and outdoor adventures. In fact, her kids are well on their way to achieving their goal of visiting all 124 state parks in Pennsylvania. Meg believes travel doesn’t need to be luxurious or costly to be valuable, and aims to share that with her audience. Meg’s work has appeared in publications such as  The New York Times, Thrillist, The Washington Post, Fodor’s, Yahoo, Good Housekeeping, Romper , and more. Follow Meg on Instagram and Twitter at @megstesprit or check out her work on  https://megstesprit.com/

Melanie Reffes

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in...   Read More

Melanie is an island girl at heart . Born in Manhattan, she now lives on the sunny island of Montreal and covers  the Caribbean for a variety of publications  including  USA TODAY 10Best, CaribbeanTravel.com and MarryCaribbean.com.  A journalist with a boatload of writer awards under her belt, Melanie's affection for the Caribbean started  young when her family vacationed in Puerto Rico.   An avid fan of spicy food,   Melanie enjoys the diversity of Montreal - especially during the warmer months -when she's not en route to the Caribbean. She  holds a Masters Degree in Social Work from the University of Toronto. 

Molly O'Brien

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance...   Read More

Molly O'Brien is a Los Angeles-based freelance travel journalist, who writes and edits for a variety of international travel and lifestyle outlets including Fodor’s Travel, Travel + Leisure, and Business Insider among others. She's lived on both coasts from Massachusetts to California and has so far made Greater Boston, the San Francisco Bay Area, San Luis Obispo, Barcelona, and Los Angeles her home.  Molly earned her journalism degree at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on the Central Coast of California and since then has worked professionally in the fields of hospitality and travel PR and most recently, as a freelance travel writer and editor. Molly especially enjoys covering feature profiles about interesting people doing interesting things such as chocolate making, beekeeping, wing-walking, and interesting destinations like under-the-radar wine spots, the best brewery towns, and lesser-known ski destinations.  She also loves to write about a boutique hotel with a good story. When she's not writing, Molly enjoys spending time outdoors, exploring new coffee shops and breweries, and of course, traveling.  Her favorite city in the world (so far) is Barcelona, Spain, but she loves traveling anywhere that offers sunny weather and ample hiking opportunities. She loves spending time in the mountains, enjoys connecting with nature through camping and glamping adventures, and is always up for learning about the world through fun, immersive experiences (and then sharing those stories!).  You can connect with Molly here:  Instagram: @metropolitanmolly Twitter: @Molly_A_OBrien Facebook: @MetropolitanMolly LinkedIn: @mollyannobrien www.metropolitanmolly.com

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival...   Read More

Rob Taylor is the author of  The Road Trip Survival Guide  (being released May 25, 2021) and  the founder of 2TravelDads , the original LGBT Family Travel blog. Focusing on ecotourism and education, 2TravelDads inspires LGBT families (and traditional families also) to go beyond their usual getaways and use travel to learn about and be part of a bigger world. 2TravelDads blazes the way for other two-dad and two-mom families to travel to previously overlooked destinations or places we as gay people would normally avoid. We share the struggles we've faced and the surprising gems and welcomes we've had along the way. Traveling as a family is one thing, traveling as an LGBT family is completely something else.

Tamara Gane

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10Best Editors

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USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.