St. George to Salt Lake City

The 35-acre campus of the LDS Church headquarters features stunning gardens, the iconic Salt Lake Temple (under renovation), the Conference Center, and free guided tours. Beautiful at any time of year.

Perched on the University of Utah campus, this stunning copper-clad building houses world-class exhibits on dinosaurs, minerals, Native American cultures, and Utah's geological history.

Located in Liberty Park, this urban oasis features over 400 birds from around the world, beautiful gardens, and interactive experiences including bird encounters.

Interactive science and art museum with hands-on exhibits about innovation, creativity, and technology. Great for curious minds of all ages.

Utah's premier zoo with over 800 animals. The African Savanna, Rocky Shores, and Asian Highlands exhibits are highlights. Located at the mouth of Emigration Canyon.

Utah's stunning neoclassical state capitol offers free tours and panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley from its hilltop location. The surrounding park has walking paths and monuments.

Legendary Mexican restaurant famous for its seven signature mole sauces. Lines form early — and they are worth the wait. A Salt Lake City institution since 1985.

Farm-to-table American bistro in the heart of downtown. The burger and the ricotta gnocchi are legendary. Reservations recommended.

One of SLC's best craft breweries with an excellent pub menu. Great atmosphere and rotating taps. Perfect for a post-drive refreshment.

Widely considered the best sushi restaurant in Utah. Fresh, creative, and always packed. Reservations essential.

Local fast-food chain beloved for their signature Crown Burger topped with pastrami. A Salt Lake City original you cannot get anywhere else.

The original Cafe Rio location in St. George launched this chain, but SLC has multiple locations. Made-fresh Mexican food that Southern Utah residents already know and love.

The largest ski resort in the US with over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. In summer, the resort offers mountain biking, alpine coasters, and scenic gondola rides. Park City's Main Street has excellent shopping and dining.

Little Cottonwood Canyon's twin resorts receive over 500 inches of snow annually. Snowbird offers year-round activities with a summer tram to 11,000 feet. Alta is skiers-only (no snowboarders).

The surreal white salt desert west of SLC is famous for land-speed records. Walk out onto the endless white expanse for otherworldly photos. Best after summer rains when a thin layer of water creates mirror reflections.

The largest island in the Great Salt Lake is home to free-roaming bison, stunning sunsets, and unique salt-crusted beaches. The Fielding Garr Ranch and Lady Finger Point trail are highlights.

Home to Brighton and Solitude resorts in winter. In summer, the canyon offers hiking to lakes, wildflower meadows, and cooler temperatures. Donut Falls is a popular easy hike.

Open-air luxury shopping mall in the heart of downtown with a retractable glass roof. Nordstrom, Tiffany, Apple, and 100+ stores. The creek running through the mall has live trout.

Entertainment and shopping district west of downtown with unique stores, restaurants, Dave & Buster's, and the Clark Planetarium (free general admission).

SLC has multiple Costco locations plus IKEA, Trader Joe's, Whole Foods, and specialty retailers not available in St. George. Many residents combine a trip with bulk shopping.

Eclectic neighborhood with independent bookshops, boutiques, coffee roasters, and some of SLC's best restaurants. Great for a walkable afternoon of exploring.

Utah's largest aquarium in Draper features sharks, penguins, jellyfish, a rainforest exhibit, and touch pools. One of the best family attractions in the state.

Massive complex in Lehi with the Museum of Natural Curiosity (interactive kids' museum), dinosaur museum, beautiful gardens, and a farm. Could spend an entire day here.

Pioneer village at the mouth of Emigration Canyon where Brigham Young said "this is the place." Living history demonstrations, train rides, panning for gold, and pony rides.

Utah's largest waterpark in Draper with slides, wave pools, lazy rivers, and a kids' area. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Perfect for hot summer visits.