When it comes to natural beauty few places can rival Salt Lake City.
Nestled in the Wasatch Mountains this Utah capital is home to some of the most stunning scenery in the country.
From the Great Salt Lake to the majestic snow-capped peaks there is no shortage of breathtaking sights to see in Salt Lake City.
1.
The Great Salt Lake
This massive inland lake is one of the most iconic sights in Salt Lake City.
Spanning over 1700 square miles the Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere.
Its high salt content makes for some unique scenery with the lake often appearing more white than blue.
Visitors can experience the Great Salt Lake up close by taking a boat tour or by visiting one of the many beaches that line its shores.
2.
Temple Square
Located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City Temple Square is the most popular tourist destination in Utah.
The 10-acre complex is home to the world-famous Salt Lake Temple as well as a number of other historic buildings and monuments.
Visitors can take a free tour of the temple or explore the many gardens and museums on the grounds.
3.
Hogle Zoo
Located just a short drive from downtown Hogle Zoo is one of the best places in Salt Lake City to see animals from all over the world.
The zoo is home to over 800 animals including lions tigers giraffes and elephants.
In addition to the animal exhibits the zoo also features a number of interactive displays and educational programs.
4.
This is the Place Heritage Park
This is the Place Heritage Park is a must-see for history buffs and families alike.
The park commemorates the arrival of the Mormon pioneers in Utah in 1847.
Visitors can explore a number of historic buildings including a replica of the pioneer fort and a working pioneer farm.
The park also hosts a number of events throughout the year including a popular Fourth of July celebration.
5.
Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is a 100-acre oasis in the middle of Salt Lake City.
The garden features a wide variety of native and non-native plants as well as a number of walking trails.
The arboretum is also home to a number of birds and other wildlife.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the grounds or participate in one of the many educational programs offered.
6.
Tracy Aviary
Tracy Aviary is one of the oldest and largest bird sanctuaries in the United States.
The aviary is home to over 400 birds representing over 130 different species.
In addition to the bird exhibits the aviary also features a number of interactive displays and educational programs.
Visitors can learn about the different birds that call the aviary home and even get the chance to feed some of them.
7.
The Natural History Museum of Utah
The Natural History Museum of Utah is one of the state’s premier museums.
The museum is home to over 1.2 million artifacts including a number of dinosaur fossils.
In addition to the exhibits the museum also offers a number of educational programs and events.
Visitors can learn about the state’s natural history and even participate in a fossil dig.
8.
The Utah State Capitol
The Utah State Capitol is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Salt Lake City.
The neoclassical building is home to the state legislature as well as the governor’s office.
Visitors can take a free tour of the Capitol or explore the grounds on their own.
The Capitol is also home to a number of sculptures and monuments including a statue of Mormon pioneer Brigham Young.
9.
The Cathedral of the Madeleine
The Cathedral of the Madeleine is one of the most beautiful churches in Salt Lake City.
The Gothic Revival-style cathedral is home to a number of stained glass windows and intricate works of art.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the church or attend one of the many services and events that are held here.
10.
The Salt Lake Temple
The Salt Lake Temple is the centerpiece of Temple Square and the most iconic building in Salt Lake City.
The temple is the largest in the world and is the holiest building in the Mormon faith.
Visitors can take a free tour of the temple or explore the grounds on their own.
The temple is also home to a number of sculptures and monuments including the famous Angel Moroni statue.