Salt Lake City, Utah: 10 “Stop-Over” Activities for Travelers

April 15, 2026

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Welcome, Traveler!

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Nestled between the Wasatch Mountains and the shimmering Great Salt Lake, Salt Lake City is far more than just a place to change planes. Utah’s capital is a vibrant, outdoorsy, and culturally rich city that rewards even the shortest of visits. Whether you have half a day or a full one before heading on to Yellowstone, the national parks of southern Utah, or the California coast, here are ten ways to make the most of your time in this underrated gem.

Ten “Must Do” Activities in Salt Lake City While “Stopping Over”

1. Walk Temple Square

The stunning centerpiece of downtown Salt Lake City, this 35-acre plaza is home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple and beautifully manicured gardens that are open to all visitors year-round.

2. Visit the Natural History Museum of Utah

Perched on the edge of the University of Utah campus, this world-class museum houses one of the finest dinosaur fossil collections in North America; a perfect stop for families and curious adults alike.

3. Explore the Great Salt Lake

One of the largest saltwater lakes in the Western Hemisphere, the Great Salt Lake is a true natural wonder where the salinity is so high that floating effortlessly on the surface is practically guaranteed.

4. Stroll Through the 9th & 9th Neighborhood

This charming, walkable district is lined with independent coffee shops, locally owned boutiques, and eclectic restaurants; it’s a great place to grab a bite and soak in Salt Lake City’s creative local culture.

5. Head Up to the Foothills on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail

For visitors who want a taste of Utah’s legendary landscapes without venturing far from the city, this easy trail along the ancient shoreline of Lake Bonneville offers sweeping views of the Salt Lake Valley.

6. Tour the Utah State Capitol Building

Sitting majestically above the city on Capitol Hill, Utah’s beautifully restored capitol building offers free self-guided tours and panoramic views of the entire valley that are hard to beat.

7. Grab a Bite on Restaurant Row

South Temple and the surrounding downtown streets are packed with excellent dining options, from Utah-raised beef steakhouses to farm-to-table spots that highlight the region’s incredible local ingredients.

8. Visit Gilgal Sculpture Garden

This quirky and utterly unique hidden gem features hand-carved stone sculptures tucked into a quiet neighborhood park; it’s definitely one of Salt Lake City’s most delightfully unexpected surprises.

9. Browse the Salt Lake City Farmers Market (Seasonal)

Running from late spring through fall, the Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park is a lively celebration of local produce, artisan food vendors, and handmade crafts that beautifully reflects the city’s community spirit.

10. Stop at Liberty Park

The largest park in the city, Liberty Park offers walking paths, a small lake, tennis courts, and shaded lawns; ideal for stretching your legs and relaxing before the next leg of your journey.

A Perfect Prelude to What Comes Next

Salt Lake City has a way of surprising first-time visitors, and many travelers leave wishing they had scheduled more time here. Its combination of natural beauty, cultural depth, and easy accessibility makes it one of the American West’s most rewarding stopover cities.

Ready to Plan?

If you are ready to explore Salt Lake City, and would like to plan your next adventure with this city as your stop-over location, or just visit Utah itself, contact your Love of the Magic Travel Agent today, or email hello@LOTMV.com. And of course, whether you want to stop over in Salt Lake City or any other hub city, or plan something totally different, your LOTMV Travel Advisor will work with you to create the unique experience you’re looking for.