Salt Lake City is a fantastic destination brimming with opportunities for family fun. It’s a place where the question isn’t what you can do with kids, but rather what can’t you do? To help you navigate the wealth of options, we’ve curated a guide to some of the best Family Activities In Salt Lake City, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone.
Year-Round Adventures in Salt Lake City for Families
Salt Lake City offers a diverse range of activities suitable for families throughout the year. From snowy mountain adventures to captivating museums and outdoor explorations, there’s always something exciting to discover with your children.
Winter Fun at Snowbird
Children enjoying ski lessons at Snowbird resort
When winter arrives, Snowbird transforms into a snowy playground perfect for families. More than just offering lifts accessible to children, Snowbird provides comprehensive ski and snowboard lessons tailored for kids as young as 3 years old. These lessons include gear rental, making it convenient for families of all experience levels. For families with very young children or those who prefer alternative activities, Snowbird also features an on-site childcare facility. During the warmer months, the iconic aerial tram operates, offering breathtaking rides to the mountain summit and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, providing a different kind of family adventure.
Explore Wildlife at Utah’s Hogle Zoo
Roaring tiger at Utah's Hogle Zoo habitat
Prepare for a day of animal encounters at Utah’s Hogle Zoo, home to over 800 animals spanning 40 acres. This expansive zoo guarantees to tire out even the most energetic kids. Enhance your visit by participating in interactive experiences like giraffe feeding or attending the captivating daily bird show. Throughout your exploration, you’ll learn about diverse animal species from around the globe, making it both an educational and entertaining family outing.
Discover Natural Wonders at The Natural History Museum of Utah
Exterior view of The Natural History Museum of Utah architecture
The Natural History Museum of Utah is more than just a museum; it’s an architectural marvel and a hub of engaging exhibits. Its stunning design and consistently awesome events cater to all ages, from toddlers to grandparents. The museum prides itself on interactive displays that captivate and educate, making learning an immersive experience for everyone in the family. It’s a place where curiosity is sparked and knowledge is gained in a fun and accessible way.
Step Back in Time at This is the Place Heritage Park
Children interacting with exhibits at Irrigation Station in This Is The Place Heritage Park
This is the Place Heritage Park, a beloved Salt Lake City attraction, offers a unique blend of history and family entertainment. Dedicated as a memorial to the early pioneer settlers, the park provides a range of activities suitable for children of all ages. Kids can enjoy classic attractions like horse and pony rides, and embark on exciting treasure hunts. During December, the park transforms into a festive Christmas market, showcasing handmade crafts and adding a touch of holiday magic to your family outing.
Entertainment and Learning Hub at The Gateway Mall
Open-air plaza at The Gateway shopping and entertainment district
Don’t let the word “mall” mislead you – The Gateway is much more than a shopping destination; it’s a vibrant hub for family-friendly activities. This unique mall is home to innovative and engaging companies with stores and museums specifically designed for children. Spend an afternoon of enriching experiences at the Clark Planetarium or the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum. For a budget-friendly option, the Gateway’s splash pad is a summer highlight, often accompanied by live music, movies, food trucks, and playgrounds, creating a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for families.
Relax and Read at Salt Lake Public Libraries
Modern architecture of Salt Lake Public Library with city views
The Salt Lake City Public Library offers a tranquil escape and enriching experience for families. It houses a dedicated children’s library and an art gallery, alongside stunning rooftop views of the valley. This is an ideal spot to unwind with a good book or two before resuming your Salt Lake City adventures. If you are exploring areas outside downtown, the city library system boasts excellent branches throughout the region, ensuring access to literary and cultural resources wherever you are.
Experience the Thrill of Pro Sports
Fans cheering at a REAL Salt Lake soccer game in Rio Tinto Stadium
For sports-loving families, Salt Lake City offers exciting professional sporting events. Cheer on the NBA’s Utah Jazz at the Delta Center, where the energetic atmosphere is sure to captivate kids. In Sandy, America First Field is home to Real Salt Lake (men’s major league soccer) and Utah Royals FC (women’s major league soccer). Game days transform the stadium into a festive zone with carnival games, food trucks, and playgrounds surrounding the venue. Both stadiums are easily accessible via public transportation, making it convenient for families to attend games.
Outdoor Recreation at Liberty Park
Birds in flight inside Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park
Liberty Park is a family-friendly haven packed with diverse activities. Within this expansive park, you’ll find Tracy Aviary, tennis courts, a swimming pool, playgrounds, and a charming duck pond. It’s an ideal location for a family picnic and a relaxing break while kids enjoy open space. While Liberty Park is a standout, Salt Lake City boasts numerous other family-friendly parks like the skatepark at Fairmont in Sugar House, Mountainview Park in Cottonwood Heights, and Amphitheater Park in Sandy, offering a variety of outdoor options for families.
All-Day Fun at Thanksgiving Point
Colorful flower displays at Thanksgiving Point Ashton Gardens
Thanksgiving Point is an expansive destination offering a full day of family entertainment. This vast complex encompasses gardens, multiple museums, and various attractions. Children can engage in interactive learning at the Museum of Natural Curiosity, explore prehistoric life at the Museum of Ancient Life, immerse themselves in the Butterfly Biosphere, and even visit a working farm. For families seeking quieter activities, Thanksgiving Point also includes an on-site movie theater and diverse dining options, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion:
Salt Lake City truly stands out as a city designed for families. With an impressive array of activities catering to all interests and ages, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences and thrilling entertainment, planning family activities in Salt Lake City is easy and exciting. Start planning your unforgettable family trip to Salt Lake City today and discover the endless possibilities for fun and adventure!
