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First-timer highlights

3 Days in Salt Lake City — First-Timer Highlights

highlights city-break salt-lake-city history culture
Length
3 days
Stops
14
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors eager to experience Salt Lake City's most iconic landmarks, cultural institutions, and natural beauty. Explore historic Temple Square, marvel at the State Capitol, and delve into fascinating museums, all while enjoying the city's welcoming atmosphere and stunning mountain backdrop.

Sightseeing 4 Culture 3 Food 2 Shopping 2 Nature 2 Activity 1

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 5 stops · about 8 hrs
1

Temple Square

Sightseeing 2 hours

The spiritual and historical heart of Salt Lake City, offering stunning architecture and serene gardens.

Good to know

Free guided tours are available and highly recommended to understand its significance.

2

Church History Museum

Culture 1.5 hours

Delve into the rich history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its pioneers through engaging exhibits.

Good to know

Located just west of Temple Square, admission is free and it's easily walkable.

3

The Lion House Pantry

Food 1 hour

Enjoy a delicious, traditional American meal in a historic setting, once the home of Brigham Young.

Good to know

Check current operating hours, as they often cater to lunch crowds; located very close to Temple Square.

4

Utah State Capitol Building

Sightseeing 1.5 hours

Admire the grand Neoclassical architecture and panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains from its elevated position.

Good to know

Free to enter and explore; consider a self-guided tour brochure available at the information desk.

5

City Creek Center

Shopping 2 hours

Experience a unique open-air shopping and dining destination with a retractable roof and a stream running through it.

Good to know

Features a diverse range of stores and restaurants, perfect for an evening stroll or dinner.

Day 2 4 stops · about 8.5 hrs
6

Natural History Museum of Utah

Culture 3 hours

Explore Utah's natural wonders, from dinosaur exhibits to geological formations, housed in a stunning, modern building.

Good to know

Located on the University of Utah campus, allow ample time for exploration; consider purchasing tickets online in advance.

7

Red Butte Garden

Nature 2 hours

Wander through beautiful botanical gardens showcasing diverse plant collections and offering scenic views of the Salt Lake Valley.

Good to know

Adjacent to the Natural History Museum, making it a convenient pairing; check seasonal hours for optimal bloom times.

8

Gilgal Sculpture Garden

Sightseeing 1 hour

Discover a hidden gem of quirky and thought-provoking sculptures, a unique blend of art and religious symbolism.

Good to know

This small, privately owned park has specific visiting hours; confirm before you go as it's tucked away in a residential area.

9

Liberty Park & Tracy Aviary

Nature 2.5 hours

Enjoy Salt Lake City's second-largest public park, featuring open spaces, walking paths, and the delightful Tracy Aviary.

Good to know

The aviary requires a separate admission fee; the park itself is free and great for a leisurely afternoon.

Day 3 5 stops · about 8.5 hrs
10

Clark Planetarium

Activity 2 hours

Immerse yourself in the wonders of space and science with engaging exhibits and state-of-the-art dome theater shows.

Good to know

Located downtown, easily accessible by public transit; shows often require separate tickets, so check schedules.

11

The Leonardo

Culture 2 hours

A dynamic museum blending science, art, and technology with interactive exhibits for all ages.

Good to know

Situated in the Library Square area, it's a great stop for hands-on learning and exploration.

12

Salt Lake City Public Library

Sightseeing 1 hour

Marvel at the stunning modern architecture of this award-winning library, a true urban masterpiece.

Good to know

Free to enter and explore its unique design, including the rooftop garden for city views.

13

The Gateway

Shopping 2 hours

Explore a vibrant outdoor district offering shopping, dining, entertainment, and public art installations.

Good to know

A lively area for an evening meal or to catch a movie; check for events or live music.

14

Squatters Pub Brewery

Food 1.5 hours

Savor local craft beers and hearty pub fare at one of Salt Lake City's original and most beloved breweries.

Good to know

A popular spot, especially in the evenings; consider arriving early for dinner to secure a table.

Where to stay

Hotels in Salt Lake City

Book direct on our own Salt Lake City hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Salt Lake City

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Salt Lake City itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Salt Lake City, from our own travel research.

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