Read on to learn about the top historic sites and attractions to visit near Salt Lake City for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
This Is The Place Heritage Park
This Is The Place Heritage Park is the place to go for an immersive understanding and appreciation of Salt Lake City. The young and dynamic city is famously known as the centerpiece of the Mormon community. This Is The Place Heritage Park gets its name from words spoken by Brigham Young. After the Mormon's 1,300-mile journey, he saw this valley of his visions and exclaimed to those around, "This is the place!" The park itself is a source of pride and a perfect destination for a family excursion.
One of the park's central features is This Is The Place Monument. The gigantic sculpture, created in 1947, commemorates the 100th year anniversary of the Mormons' arrival in Salt Lake Valley. Snap a few photos of this monument as a memento of your visit. The Salt Lake City clear blue skies make for the perfect backdrop in photos.
Gain the full experience at the park and visit Old Desert Village. It is a living museum, a pioneer replica village that comprises authentic and fabricated pioneer homes from different locations around Utah. Volunteers dress in pioneer clothing and act as guides to give guests an unforgettable experience and lesson in Utah's history.
The summer at This Is The Place Heritage Park runs from March through October. Standard adult general admission is $14.95 with discounted prices for children and senior citizens. Kids under 2 get in free. Take advantage and get your tickets in advance online while booking a horseback trail ride as well. Experience Salt Lake City in its early stages to appreciate how much this city has grown!
Historic Temple Square
Another must-see stop to make while in Salt Lake City is Historic Temple Square. Temple Square is the holy place for the Mormons. It spans out over 35 acres and is covered with beautiful flowering trees, bright flowerbeds and flowing fountains. The four central Mormon buildings — the Mormon Temple, the Mormon Tabernacle, the Assembly Hall, and the Temple Annex — are all located within Temple Square. There are also several other statues and monuments dedicated to spotlighting influential people and events important to understanding and appreciating the faith.
It is a peaceful place where you are welcome to stroll. Visit during the summer and spring for a wonderful display of nature in full bloom. If you get hungry after your visit, there are some great restaurants ready to welcome and serve you.
State Capitol
Salt Lake City is the capitol of Utah, so a visit to the capitol building is essential. The Utah State Capitol is set 300 feet above the city, at the north end of State Street, on Capitol Hill. The domed building is home to Utah's House of Representatives, Senate, and Supreme Court. The interior, called the Golden Room, is known for its marble rotunda and houses a small art gallery with changing exhibits.
Visitors can walk the building or book a guided tour. Whether you explore on your own or request a tour, make certain you draw your gaze to the towering ceilings for some awe-inspiring paintings. Capitol hours are Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Enter through the east doors for easy access.
Beehive House
You'll find the famous Beehive House in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City at Temple Square at 67 E. South Temple. Built in 1845, it served as the official residence of the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He and his large family of 19 wives and 56 children occupied the residence for many years.
Free tours are guided by church members who walk visitors through the mansion. Take time to appreciate the carefully curated pieces and the decor, which consists of many original period pieces. Note the intricate woodworking details on the banisters and beehive accents, a state symbol signifying industry.
When planning a trip to the Beehive House, be aware that it does not include public restrooms. The second floor of the Beehive House is inaccessible by wheelchair because of its narrow halls and winding staircases. The tour itself lasts about 30 minutes and features Young's office and woodworking tools used by him.
Liberty Park
Liberty Park is Salt Lake City's largest public park and is listed on The National Register of Historic Places. The green space is over 40 acres and features large mature trees for shade, serving as a natural retreat for summer picnics. Perfect to get the kids active, this park features tennis courts, basketball courts, bocce ball courts, and a public swimming pool. For runners, there are two jogging paths to help get the adrenaline and pulse racing. Visit on Sundays to experience the drum circles and drum and sing along with locals.
As you take in the wonder of Salt Lake City, ensure you're getting from each landmark or museum safely and stylishly. Here at Bountiful Mazda, we celebrate our rich past and want to ensure your present ride is dependable. Contact us if you're looking to buy a new or used vehicle, want to trade in, or need some routine maintenance work done on your current ride. Let us know what you think of our list of top historic sites to visit near Salt Lake City. Do you have a favorite we missed? Leave a message or stop by and share your suggestions.