Top Things to Do in Salt Lake City, Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah and its most populated city. It was founded in 1847 by the church followers led by Brigham Young who fled the east to escape persecution. It is now home to the world headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints.

The immigration of church members, mining booms, and construction of the first transcontinental railroad spurred Salt Lake City’s growth. Now Salt Lake City has developed a strong outdoor recreation industry based around skiing, and it is known for hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics.

The Salt Lake County Equestrian Park and Event Center, located south of Salt Lake City, always has something happening. There are hunter/jumper shows, cart races, and Arabian horse shows. The equestrian park is not limited to horse events either. It features seasonal festivals, BMX races, and dog trials too. Check its calendar for options.

There are several farmers markets around Salt Lake City. I swung by one in the South Jordan Towne Center where vendors sell melons, salsa, chips, honey, vegetables, bread and the like. Though quiet, locals line up to support their community.

There are several canyons just a short drive from Salt Lake City including Emigration, Mill Creek, Little Cottonwood, Big Cottonwood, and American Fork. Though Emigration and Mill Creek are the closest, my favorite hikes are in Little Cottonwood and American Fork. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).