Natural History Museum – If you like dinosaurs, this is the place for you! Utah is famous for its fossil discoveries, and the museum has an amazing exhibit featuring everything from a towering T-Rex to delicate flying reptiles. Beyond dinosaurs, you’ll also find the limited exhibition - Mysteries of the Ice Ages - featuring more than 120 specimens, incredible artifacts, and informative interactives, the exhibition brings to life a time when massive glaciers ruled the land and ancient creatures roamed wild. Admission has a cost, but it’s absolutely worth it for the breathtaking views of Salt Lake City from the museum’s terraces alone!
Clark Planetarium – Free admission makes this a must-visit! You can explore interactive exhibits on space, planets, and physics, and hands-on science experiments. For an added cost, you can watch incredible IMAX and Dome theater shows about space, nature, and science.
Utah’s Hogle Zoo – Hogle Zoo has it all! Not only an abundance of animals, but train rides, a carousel, and even animal encounters! The zoo is home to playful otters, tigers, gorillas, monkeys, and more. You can even help feed the giraffes! People especially enjoy the polar bear exhibit, the seal and sea lion shows, and the red panda habitat. Admission is not free, but the experience makes it well worth the visit.
Red Butte Garden – A beautiful outdoor botanical garden nestled in the foothills, perfect for a peaceful stroll or a family outing. It features themed gardens, miles of hiking trails, and seasonal events like outdoor concerts in the summer and plant sales in the spring. The colorful foliage in fall is one of the most stunning times to visit. Admission has a cost.
Utah Museum of Contemporary Art – A hub for thought-provoking and innovative art in downtown Salt Lake City. Admission is free (donations encouraged), and exhibits range from local artists to international contemporary works. Perfect for an afternoon of culture and creativity.
Tracy Aviary – One of the oldest aviaries in the country, this spot offers up-close experiences with hundreds of bird species, from flamingos and owls to eagles and parrots. Educational bird shows, interactive exhibits, and lush gardens make it a great place for both kids and adults. Admission has a cost, but your visit supports important conservation efforts. Don’t miss the free-flight bird shows!
Utah Museum of Fine Arts – Located on the University of Utah campus, UMFA houses a diverse collection spanning thousands of years, from ancient artifacts to modern art. Rotating exhibits bring fresh perspectives, and interactive activities make it engaging for families. Admission has a cost.
Giant Pumpkinpalooza – Held on October 11th at The Gateway’s Olympic Plaza, this family-friendly fall festival is quickly becoming a favorite tradition. The second annual event features a zombie walk, pumpkin bowling, pie-eating contests, soda-chugging contests, dance-offs, and much more. A fun and festive way to celebrate the harvest season and all things Halloween!
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