A Weekend in Salt Lake City: 9+ Fun Things to Do in SLC

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If you’re planning a weekend in Salt Lake City and think it’s all about skiing, think again! We spent a few days here as part of our epic 10-day Utah road trip, and let me tell you, this city has so much to offer—snow-free and full of fun!

If you’re just staying a weekend in Salt Lake City you aren’t going to have time to do everything on this list, but I wanted to give a variety. So whether you prefer nature and the outdoors or drinking indoors this round-up of the best things to do in Salt Lake City will surely help you fill your weekend itinerary!

From great food to outdoor adventures and quirky local spots, Salt Lake City is packed with surprises!

Things to Do in Salt Lake City

1. Visit Some Local Landmarks

If you’re short on time but want to see some of the highlights, these landmarks are perfect for a quick visit—no major time commitment, just plenty of beauty to take in.

First up, Temple Square. This 10-acre complex is right in the heart of Salt Lake City and owned by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The architecture is stunning, and during our visit, it was undergoing some pretty impressive renovations, so I can’t wait to see it in all its finished glory!

I’m also a sucker for unique libraries (weird, I know), and the Salt Lake City Public Library totally stole my heart. Whether you’re popping in for a quick look at its stunning design or need a place to catch up on work, this place has vibes for both.

Lastly, the Capitol Building. Sitting proudly downtown, it feels like it should be perched high on a mountaintop, but somehow, it fits perfectly into the city’s gorgeous backdrop. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re looking to snap some iconic photos of Salt Lake City.

2. Red Butte Garden

If you’re looking to add a little nature to your weekend in Salt Lake City, Red Butte Garden is where you need to go! This botanical garden and arboretum is a total showstopper, with over 1,000 trees, gorgeous waterfalls, and ponds, plus five miles of hiking trails to explore.

You’ll find everything from vibrant themed gardens to artful sculptures by local artists, making it the perfect spot to soak in some beauty (and snap a few pics while you’re at it!).

3. Clark Planetarium

Clark Planetarium is one of the more unique things to do in Salt Lake City! With free admission, interactive exhibits, and telescopes that bring the stars up close, it’s a fun way to dive into astronomy.

The facility has two main telescopes: one focused on studying stars (including the sun) and another aimed at observing planets outside our solar system. And if all this isn’t enough… there are even opportunities for eclipses during certain times of the year when stars align perfectly together overhead.

4. Visit Antelope Island

Just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, Antelope Island is the largest island in the Great Salt Lake, home to bison and plenty of wildlife. This area is great for kayaking, camping, or horseback riding. If you want to hike, check out Frary Peak (6.9 miles) for stunning views, or opt for the shorter Buffalo Point (1 mile).

The entrance fee is $15 per vehicle, and the park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM (closed on Thanksgiving & Christmas).

This will most likely take up the majority of one of your days, so just keep in mind when planning you may not have time for much else that day if this is a priority. Be sure to bring sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water!

5. Vist the Bonneville Salt Flats

Just under two hours from SLC, the Bonneville Salt Flats are another great day trip from Salt Lake City! Best visited in summer or fall, this unique spot spans 46 square miles and offers a surreal landscape. You can either drive your vehicle onto the flats or hike out to explore.

If you’re driving, make sure you’ve got plenty of gas and snacks! And if you have a drone, don’t forget to bring it—this place is a photographer’s dream! Check the conditions before you go to ensure it’s worth the trip.

6. Hike Ensign Peak for Sunset

Just a 15-minute drive from Salt Lake City, the Ensign Peak trail is a quick 0.8-mile out-and-back hike that offers stunning city views, especially at sunset. It usually takes around 40 minutes to complete, making it perfect for hikers of all levels.

There’s no shade along the trail, so be sure to wear sunscreen and bring water, especially if you’re hiking during the warmer months! It’s a short, sweet way to catch a gorgeous sunset over the city.

7. Brewery Hop

I don’t know about you, but when I travel, I love diving into the local brewery scene! Salt Lake City is packed with great options, so here are some fan favorites to check out:

• Templin Family Brewery
• Saltfire Brewing Co
• Shades Brewing
• Proper Brewing (they have games!)

8. Check Out a Local Coffee Shop

Salt Lake City has some seriously awesome coffee spots, and we loved every sip! First up, Three Pines Coffee – I had a vanilla cappuccino that was just perfection, and the minimalist vibe was so cozy. If you’re visiting in the fall and want something seasonal and yummy, Beans & Brews is a chain with locations all over the city. I couldn’t resist a pumpkin spice frappé and a bagel.

Another popular spot is Publik Coffee Roasters, though I didn’t get the chance to check it out myself, it’s definitely on my list for next time!

9. Visit a Speakeasy

If you’re a fan of hidden gems and unique vibes, you’ve got to check out Bodega and The Rest. Upstairs, Bodega looks like a casual tavern serving affordable drinks, cheap shots, and delicious taco trios. But the real magic happens when you ask the bartender to take you “downstairs.”

Through a door marked “the restroom” (with only “the rest” glowing), you’ll find yourself navigating hallways that lead to The Rest, one of Salt Lake City’s best-kept secrets. This speakeasy-style bar is the ultimate whiskey-sipping, vinyl-spinning hideout. Picture a cozy, vintage den filled with old books, taxidermy, and mood lighting that makes you want to settle in for hours.

Heads up: Bodega and The Rest are closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly!

Must-Visit Bars and Restaurants in Salt Lake City

White Horse

If you’re on the hunt for a standout dinner during your weekend in Salt Lake City, look no further than White Horse! This spot delivered one of the best meals I’ve had in ages—seriously, I’m still dreaming about it! From the roasted chicken to the crispy Brussels sprouts, every bite was bursting with flavor.

Their menu is a masterpiece, showcasing locally sourced ingredients, craft cocktails that feel like works of art, and an ambiance that perfectly sets the mood for an unforgettable evening. Whether you’re starting your night or capping it off, White Horse is a must on your list of things to do in Salt Lake City.

Pro tip: snag a reservation if you can!

Red Iguana

When everyone and their grandma recommends a place, you know it’s gotta be good—and Red Iguana absolutely delivered! This family-run Mexican restaurant is famous for its signature mole (a must-try), and their mezcal cocktails are just as memorable.

The menu is massive, so whether you’re craving classics or something unique, they’ve got it all, and they do it so well. Red Iguana has three locations in Salt Lake City, making it a super convenient choice for lunch or dinner.

If you’re planning to go for dinner, make a reservation. Trust me, the hype is real, and so is the crowd!

Sapa Sushi Bar & Asian Grill

Sometimes, the best finds are the ones you just stumble upon—and that’s exactly how we discovered Sapa! This Asian-fusion gem serves up sushi, noodles, drinks, and more, all in a trendy space featuring a charming patio and Japanese teahouses.

Their sushi menu is chef’s kiss with a long list of rolls to satisfy any craving. If you’re around during the week, definitely take advantage of their all-you-can-eat rolls special, available Monday through Thursday from 5–6:30 PM.

Quarters Arcade Bar

Looking for a bar that doubles as an epic playground? Quarters Arcade Bar is where it’s at! It’s not every day you find a spot that nails the old-school arcade vibe and serves up killer craft cocktails, but Quarters delivers on both fronts.

Challenge your friends to pinball, video games, or skeeball—then let the games decide who’s treating the winner to dinner at White Horse (because stakes make it more fun, right?).

Where to Stay for a Weekend in Salt Lake City

If there’s a Kimpton hotel in the mix, you know where I’m staying! Kimptons are always a win—they’re pet-friendly, super stylish, and have fun perks like a daily free wine hour (yes, please!) from 5-6 PM and free bike rentals. Plus, if you’re an IHG cardholder, you can snag points or free upgrades—love that for us.

We stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco in Salt Lake City and adored it. The location was central, making it easy to walk, scooter, or bike to most of the best things to do in Salt Lake City (aside from the day trips).

Looking for other options for your weekend in Salt Lake City? Check here for available options during your travel dates!

Are you ready for an epic weekend in Salt Lake City?!

Who says a weekend in Salt Lake City has to revolve around skiing? This city is bursting with fun, quirky, and downright delicious things to do that’ll keep you entertained from sunrise to sunset (and beyond). Whether you’re sipping craft cocktails, exploring the great outdoors, or battling it out in a retro arcade, SLC knows how to bring the fun!

So, grab your hiking boots, appetite, and sense of adventure—it’s time to make your Salt Lake City weekend one for the books!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other West Coast blog posts:

7-day Arizona road trip itinerary

Restaurants in Scottsdale and Phoenix

How to do Vegas on a budget