How to Spend 1 Day in Salt Lake City

With just one day in Salt Lake City, you have plenty of time to tour the city’s historic sights, enjoy a trip into the mountains, and experience some of the evening culture. Here’s how to get the most out of Salt Lake City in just one day. 

Morning: Explore Temple Square

Take a crash course in Salt Lake City history with a tour of Temple Square. See the largest Mormon temple in the world and hear the story of how Brigham Young and the Mormon pioneers built a city in the desert. Stroll through the gardens of Temple Square and tour the Salt Lake City Tabernacle, known for its remarkable acoustics and impressive pipe organ. Visit on a Sunday to see a live performance of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir or come any day for the free organ recital offered daily. Enjoy lunch at the Lion House, the former home of Brigham Young. 

Afternoon: Head to the Mountains

No matter how short your trip to Salt Lake City, a trip up into the mountains is a must. Take a scenic ride to Big Cottonwood Canyon and stop for a short hike around Silver Lake. For the best views in the Wasatch Mountains, head up Little Cottonwood Canyon and take the Snowbird Ski Resort Tram to the top of Hidden Peak at 11,000 feet (3,353 meters). Alternatively, hike to the top of Ensign Peak, located just behind the Utah State Capitol, and enjoy panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley. 

Evening: Brewery Tours and Sporting Events

Salt Lake City is often thought of as a dry city (it's not; the laws have changed). As part of that change, small craft breweries are popping up all over downtown. Visit Salt Lake’s first microbrewery, Squatters Pub, or take a guided brewery tour and learn about Utah’s burgeoning craft-beer scene. Other evening options include watching the sunset over the Great Salt Lake, catching a Utah Jazz basketball game downtown, or heading back to Temple Square to tour the festival holiday lights in winter. City Creek Center, across the street from Temple Square, offers restaurants with plenty of kid-friendly options.