10 Best Places to visit in Utah

10 Best Places to visit in Utah!

Utah is a stunning state located in the western United States, famous for its breathtaking landscapes, unique rock formations, and outdoor activities. It’s a place where you can experience a diverse range of adventures, from hiking through red rock canyons to exploring serene lakes and mountains. Utah’s national parks are often considered some of the best in the country, offering awe-inspiring views and unforgettable experiences. In this guide, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Utah during your visit.

1. Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is known for its picturesque landscapes and a unique blend of modern and historic charm. Founded in 1847 by Mormon pioneers, the city is named after the nearby Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Today, it serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, while also boasting a rich cultural and historical heritage.

Things to do in Salt Lake City

Temple Square, the spiritual and cultural heart of Salt Lake City, features the beautiful Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and the Assembly Hall. Enjoy nightly organ concerts and free guided tours to learn about the area’s history. Nearby, the Utah State Capitol offers stunning views and marble halls with exhibits on Utah’s history and government.

Hogle Zoo is a family favorite, showcasing animals like lions and pandas, with highlights including the African Savannah and Rocky Shores exhibits. The Natural History Museum of Utah engages visitors with dinosaur fossils and interactive displays. Don’t miss the Great Salt Lake, where you can float in its highly saline waters, and visit Antelope Island State Park for great views and wildlife spotting.

Welcome to Provo, in Utah — a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Wasatch Range. Known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant community, and charming atmosphere, Provo offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for a relaxing getaway, this guide will help you explore everything Provo has to offer.

Things to Do in Provo

Provo is packed with exciting things to do. Hike the Provo Canyon Trail for stunning views of the river, waterfalls, and mountains, including the impressive Bridal Veil Falls. Dinosaur fans will love the BYU Museum of Paleontology, with its fascinating dinosaur bones and exhibits on prehistoric life. At Utah Lake, enjoy boating, fishing, and paddleboarding, with scenic parks for picnicking and walking. Downtown Provo offers unique shops, cozy cafes, and local restaurants, plus various events and festivals year-round. If you visit in January, don’t miss the Sundance Film Festival events and screenings in Provo.

Located in the southwestern corner of Utah, St. George is a charming city known for its stunning landscapes, warm climate, and outdoor adventures. Surrounded by red rock formations and located near several national parks, St. George offers a unique mixture of natural beauty and it’s cultural attractions. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor activities or a relaxing getaway, this city is a fantastic destination.

Things to Do in St. George

When you visit St. George, there are plenty of things to do. Just a short drive away, Zion National Park offers stunning red cliffs and popular hiking trails like Angels Landing. Nearby Snow Canyon State Park features dramatic rock formations and is perfect for hiking and photography. The St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site provides a fun look at fossilized dinosaur tracks. Relax at Sand Hollow State Park with its reservoir for boating and fishing, or enjoy off-roading. The Brigham Young Winter Home offers a glimpse into early Mormon life. Finally, explore historic downtown for charming architecture, local shops, and cozy restaurants.

Salt Lake County, located in the northern part of Utah, is known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant city life. Home to the state capital, Salt Lake City, this county boasts a unique blend of urban attractions and outdoor activities. The Great Salt Lake, one of the largest saltwater lakes in the Western Hemisphere, and the nearby Wasatch Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop for your adventures.

Things to Do in Salt Lake County

Salt Lake City has something for everyone. Start at Temple Square to see the Salt Lake Temple and Tabernacle, and take a guided tour to explore their history. Nearby, the Utah State Capitol offers great city views and free tours of its art and history. The City and County Building is also worth a visit for its historic charm and beautiful gardens. Outdoors, you can float in the Great Salt Lake, stroll through Red Butte Garden, or hike and ski in Big Cottonwood Canyon.

The Natural History Museum of Utah and Clark Planetarium offer fascinating exhibits, while Hogle Zoo is perfect for family fun. For shopping and dining, check out Trolley Square and downtown Salt Lake City.

Located in the heart of Utah, Utah County is a hidden gem that offers a blend of stunning natural beauty and vibrant local culture. From the majestic peaks of the Wasatch Mountains to the serene lakes and charming towns, this county is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Whether you’re looking for thrilling adventures or a relaxing getaway, Utah County has something for everyone.

Things to Do in Utah County

Provo Canyon is a stunning area known for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. The Provo River flows through it, offering fishing, rafting, and hiking opportunities. Don’t miss Bridal Veil Falls, a beautiful 607 foot waterfall that’s easy to reach with a short hike. Mount Timpanogos, a famous peak in Utah, provides challenging hikes and amazing views, with the Timpanogos Cave National Monument showcasing impressive underground formations.

The BYU Museum of Paleontology, located on the Brigham Young University campus, features fascinating dinosaur fossils and interactive exhibits. Utah Lake, the state’s largest freshwater lake, is great for boating and picnicking, with nearby parks and trails. American Fork Canyon offers diverse landscapes for hiking and camping, with scenic drives like the Alpine Loop and Timpanogos Cave to explore.

Welcome to Zion National Park, a gem located in the southwestern corner of Utah. Known for its stunning landscapes and diverse natural beauty, Zion offers everything from towering red rock formations to lush canyons and serene vistas. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a casual explorer, or someone who simply loves to soak in breathtaking views, Zion has something for you. In this guide, we’ll cover the must-see spots, exciting activities, and the best ways to reach this majestic park.

Things to Do in Zion National Park

For a thrilling hike, try Angels Landing with its stunning high-altitude views, though it involves a narrow ridge with steep drops. The Narrows offers a unique adventure wading through the Virgin River amid towering canyon walls, with hike lengths adjustable based on your preference. Prefer a more relaxed experience? The Zion Canyon Scenic Drive provides breathtaking views without the hike, with shuttle stops for exploration.

The Emerald Pools Trail is perfect for families, leading to beautiful pools surrounded by lush scenery. For a quieter visit, explore Kolob Canyons in the park’s northern section, where scenic drives and short hikes like the Timber Creek Overlook Trail offer spectacular vistas.

Located in the heart of southeastern Utah, Arches National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its stunning rock formations and vibrant landscapes. Covering over 76,000 acres, this park is renowned for its striking arches, spires, and balanced rocks that seem almost otherworldly. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a scenic drive, Arches National Park offers something for all visitors.

Things to Do in Arches National Park

Delicate Arch, the park’s most famous landmark, is a must-see symbol of Utah and one of its most photographed features. The hike to this iconic arch is about 3 miles round-trip and includes some steep, rocky sections, but the view at the end is worth the effort. For a simpler option, enjoy great views from the Delicate Arch Viewpoint. Landscape Arch, the longest in the park, is a 1.6 miles round-trip hike to see its 290 foot span.

The Windows Section, with North Window, South Window, and Turret Arch, is accessible via a short, easy hike. For a challenge, try the 7.2 miles Devils Garden trail with formations like Double O Arch. Park Avenue offers a 2 miles hike through a canyon with towering rock formations, while Fiery Furnace, best explored on a guided tour, features a maze of narrow canyons and unique rock formations.

Located in the northern part of Utah, Weber County is a hidden gem that offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and rich history. With its picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and an array of activities, Weber County is a fantastic destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and excitement. From its stunning mountains to its vibrant local culture, this county has something for everyone.

Things to Do in Weber County

Ogden Nature Center is a 152 acres preserve offering hiking trails, wildlife exhibits, and educational workshops on local ecosystems. Historic 25th Street in downtown Ogden is full of charming shops, eclectic restaurants, and historic buildings, ideal for strolling and exploring. Just outside Ogden, Snowbasin Resort is a favorite for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking, with stunning views and scenic gondola rides.

Weber State University provides cultural experiences with its art gallery, sports events, and performances at the Browning Center. The Golden Spike National Historic Site lets you explore the replica locomotives and learn about the First Transcontinental Railroad, a key moment in American history.

Davis County is known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and parks. It’s perfectly positioned between the Great Salt Lake and the Wasatch Mountains, offering breathtaking views and a variety of recreational opportunities. The county is also home to charming towns like Farmington, Kaysville, and Layton, each with its unique character and attractions.

Things to Do in Davis County

Antelope Island State Park is the crown jewel of Davis County, offering stunning views, wildlife, and hiking trails on an island in the Great Salt Lake. Spot bison, antelope, and various birds, and hike up Frary Peak for panoramic vistas. Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington, one of the West’s oldest parks, features thrilling rides, a water park, and diverse dining options.

The shores of the Great Salt Lake provide unique floating and picnic opportunities with stunning sunsets. For shopping and dining, visit Layton Hills Mall, which also has a movie theater. Explore local history at the Davis County Historical Museum with its pioneer artifacts and photos. Cherry Hill Water Park in Kaysville is perfect for families, while Deer Creek Reservoir offers outdoor activities in a scenic setting.

Timpanogos hiking trail views in Uinta Wasatch Cache National Forest, Utah

Welcome to the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, a sprawling haven of natural beauty located in northern Utah. Spanning over 2.1 million acres, this national forest offers an incredible variety of landscapes, from rugged mountains to serene lakes and dense forests. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or someone who simply loves the great outdoors, this forest has something special for all visitors.

Things to Do in Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest

The Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a paradise for all outdoor enthusiasts. Hikers can enjoy trails like the scenic Lake Blanche Trail and the challenging Kings Peak Trail. Backpackers will love multi-day treks such as the Highline Trail. The forest also offers great camping, from developed spots like Aspen Grove and Red Canyon to more primitive sites. For fishing, Mirror Lake and Strawberry Reservoir are perfect for a peaceful day by the water.

Wildlife watchers can spot mule deer, elk, and various birds, especially in the early morning or late evening. Scenic drives along the Alpine Loop Scenic Byway and Mirror Lake Highway offer breathtaking views of the mountains and valleys.

1. What is the best time to visit Utah?

The best time to visit Utah depends on the activities you’re interested in. For outdoor adventures like hiking and sightseeing, spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) are ideal because the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. If you’re into winter sports, the winter months (December to February) offer excellent skiing and snowboarding conditions. Summer can be quite hot, especially in desert areas, but it’s a great time for national park visits and water activities.

2. What are the best outdoor activities in Utah?

Utah is known for its stunning landscapes, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Some of the best options include hiking in the national parks like Zion, Arches, and Bryce Canyon, rock climbing in Moab, and mountain biking in Park City. If you’re into water sports, you can go boating or kayaking at Utah Lake or the Great Salt Lake. For winter enthusiasts, skiing and snowboarding in places like Park City and Deer Valley are top choices.

3. What are some family-friendly activities to do in Utah?

Utah offers many family-friendly activities. You can explore the famous national parks, like Zion and Bryce Canyon, where kids can enjoy easy hikes and scenic views. The Dinosaur National Monument is also a hit with families, where you can see real dinosaur fossils. For a fun and interactive experience, visit the Utah Museum of Natural History in Salt Lake City or the Hogle Zoo. Families can also enjoy a day at Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington for rides and games.

4. Are there any historical sites in Utah?

Yes, Utah is rich in history, with many historical sites to explore. You can visit the Golden Spike National Historic Site, where the first transcontinental railroad was completed. The state is also home to ancient Native American rock art, particularly at sites like Nine Mile Canyon and Arches National Park. If you’re interested in pioneer history, the Mormon Pioneer National Historic Trail offers several key spots, including the Mormon Pioneer Memorial in Salt Lake City.

5. What are some top attractions to see in Utah?

Utah has a lot to offer in terms of attractions. Of course, the state’s national parks — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, and Canyonlands — are top destinations for breathtaking natural beauty. The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, is a great must see. For something unique, visit the Bonneville Salt Flats, a vast expanse of salt crust that creates an otherworldly landscape. For those interested in skiing or snowboarding, Park City is a world-renowned destination.

6. Are there any special events or festivals to attend in Utah?

Utah hosts several exciting events and festivals throughout the year. The Sundance Film Festival, held annually in Park City, is one of the biggest and most famous events in the state, attracting filmmakers and movie lovers from all over. The Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City is another popular event, offering world-class performances of Shakespeare’s plays. Additionally, the Utah Arts Festival in Salt Lake City celebrates music, art, and culture, while the Moab Music Festival and the Utah Jazz games provide plenty of entertainment options.