Interesting places to visit near Salt Lake City, United States

Location: Downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Foodies, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: Downtown Salt Lake City offers a unique blend of cultural attractions, gourmet dining, and urban charm nestled against the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. This vibrant area is perfect for travelers seeking a dynamic city experience enriched with history, art, and outdoor activities, making it an ideal stop for diverse interests.

Key activities: Explore the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art and the historic Temple Square, stroll through City Creek Center for shopping and dining, enjoy gourmet meals at acclaimed restaurants, and relax in nearby urban parks. Outdoor enthusiasts can easily access hiking and biking trails just minutes away.

Kid-friendly focus: Families will appreciate interactive museums, open green spaces for play, and seasonal events that engage children of all ages, making it a welcoming destination for young travelers.

Dog-friendly notes: Many downtown eateries and parks welcome dogs, allowing pet owners to enjoy the city without leaving their companions behind. Leashed pets are commonly accepted in outdoor seating areas and public spaces, enhancing the experience for dog lovers.

Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

Best For: Families with young children, Nature Lovers, Dog-Friendly (on leash), History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Nestled in the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains, Hogle Zoo offers an immersive wildlife experience just minutes from downtown Salt Lake City. This destination is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of fun, education, and nature, making it an ideal detour for families and animal lovers alike. The zoo’s engaging exhibits and interactive programs provide unique opportunities to connect with exotic and native species in a beautiful, naturalistic setting.

Key activities: Visitors can explore diverse animal habitats, attend daily keeper talks, participate in hands-on educational activities, and enjoy seasonal events. The zoo also features a petting zoo area for younger children and picnic spots for relaxing meals. Foodies will appreciate the on-site cafes offering local flavors and kid-friendly menus.

Kid-friendly focus: Hogle Zoo is highly suitable for families with children of all ages, offering stroller-friendly paths, interactive exhibits, and safe, engaging environments to spark curiosity and learning.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs on leashes are welcome in designated outdoor areas, making it a great stop for travelers with pets, though animals and indoor exhibits remain off-limits to pets for their safety and comfort.

Location: Park City Historic District, Park City, Utah, USA

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Foodies

Nestled in the scenic Wasatch Mountains, Park City offers a captivating detour into the heart of the American West's mining past. This charming historic district blends authentic 19th-century mining town architecture with vibrant modern culture, making it a unique stop for travelers seeking both education and entertainment. Visitors can stroll along preserved wooden sidewalks, explore mining museums, and enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop.

Key activities include guided tours of old silver mines, visits to the Park City Museum, hiking and biking on nearby trails, and sampling local cuisine at cozy eateries and lively saloons. The area is very family-friendly, with interactive exhibits and gentle walking paths suitable for young children. Dog owners will appreciate the numerous pet-friendly patios and open outdoor spaces where dogs are welcome.

Whether you're a history buff eager to delve into western heritage, a nature lover wanting scenic mountain views, or a foodie craving local flavors, Park City's historic district offers a rich, multifaceted experience that makes it a perfect detour on your road trip.

Location: Lehi, Utah, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Nestled in the scenic Utah Valley, Thanksgiving Point Gardens and Museum Complex offers a captivating detour filled with natural beauty and engaging family activities. This expansive destination combines meticulously maintained gardens, interactive museums, and seasonal events, making it a perfect stop for travelers seeking both relaxation and education.

Visitors can stroll through themed gardens showcasing vibrant floral displays and native plants, explore the Museum of Ancient Life with its impressive dinosaur exhibits, or enjoy hands-on experiences at the Farm Country. The complex also features delightful dining options that cater to food enthusiasts eager to savor local flavors.

Families with young children will find numerous kid-friendly attractions, including interactive exhibits and outdoor play areas, ensuring fun and learning for all ages. The gardens and outdoor spaces are dog-friendly, allowing travelers to bring their pets along for a refreshing walk amid beautiful scenery.

History buffs will appreciate the rich educational content across the museums, while nature lovers can immerse themselves in the tranquil garden settings. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat, an educational outing, or a fun day with the family and pets, Thanksgiving Point Gardens and Museum Complex provides a diverse and memorable experience.

Location: Antelope Island State Park is located in Syracuse, Utah, USA, situated on the largest island in the Great Salt Lake.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Wildlife Viewing, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: This unique state park offers visitors an extraordinary opportunity to observe one of the largest free-roaming bison herds in the United States against the stunning backdrop of the Great Salt Lake. Its diverse landscapes, including rugged hills, sandy beaches, and wetlands, create a rich habitat for wildlife and a scenic escape from urban life, making it a memorable detour for travelers.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy guided wildlife tours to see bison, pronghorn antelope, and various bird species; hike numerous trails ranging from easy to challenging; explore the historic Fielding Garr Ranch; swim or kayak in the lake's salty waters; and capture breathtaking photography of sunsets over the lake.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is excellent for families with children, offering safe hiking trails and educational opportunities about local wildlife and pioneer history that engage young minds.

Dog-friendly notes: Dogs are welcome on-leash throughout the park, making it a great destination for travelers with pets who enjoy outdoor adventures together.

Location: Deer Creek Reservoir is located near Provo in Utah, USA, nestled within the scenic Wasatch Mountain Range.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This serene reservoir offers breathtaking panoramic mountain views paired with calm lakeside walks, making it an ideal escape from city life. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature’s tranquility while enjoying a variety of outdoor activities suitable for all ages and interests. The area’s rich history and local food options nearby add layers of cultural and culinary delight to the visit.

Key activities: Hiking along well-maintained trails that wind around the reservoir, fishing and boating on the lake, picnicking in scenic spots, wildlife watching, and photography. History buffs can explore nearby historical sites related to early settlers and indigenous cultures. Foodies will appreciate local eateries offering fresh, regional cuisine within a short drive.

Kid-friendly focus: The gentle walking paths and safe picnic areas make this a wonderful destination for families with young children. The calm waters and open spaces provide ample room for kids to explore and play.

Dog-friendly notes: Deer Creek Reservoir is very welcoming to dogs, with many trails and open areas where pets can roam on leash. Water access points allow dogs to cool off and enjoy the outdoors alongside their owners.

Location: Downtown Ogden, Weber County, Utah, USA

Best For: Foodies, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Nature Lovers

Why it's a great detour: Nestled in the heart of Utah's scenic Wasatch Front, Downtown Ogden offers a unique blend of vibrant culinary experiences and beautifully preserved historic architecture. This charming district invites travelers to explore its eclectic mix of farm-to-table restaurants, artisan coffee shops, and craft breweries, all set against a backdrop of early 20th-century buildings that tell stories of Ogden's rich railroad heritage.

Key activities: Visitors can savor diverse local flavors at numerous eateries, stroll through the historic 25th Street with its boutiques and galleries, visit the Utah State Railroad Museum, and enjoy seasonal outdoor events and farmers markets. Families will appreciate the nearby parks and interactive public art installations, while nature lovers can take short hikes in the surrounding foothills.

Kid-friendly focus: The area is welcoming for families with young children, featuring spacious sidewalks, casual dining options, and kid-friendly attractions such as the Treehouse Museum nearby.

Dog-friendly notes: Many restaurants and cafés offer dog-friendly patios, and the downtown area is very walkable for pets. Nearby parks provide great spots for dogs to play and relax.

Location: Provo River Parkway Trail, Provo, Utah, USA

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children

Why it's a great detour: Nestled in the scenic landscapes of Provo, Utah, the Provo River Parkway offers a perfect blend of historic charm and natural beauty. This peaceful trail follows the Provo River, providing visitors with stunning views and a tranquil escape from city life. Ideal for travelers seeking a refreshing outdoor experience, it also offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, and cycling along the well-maintained trail, explore historic landmarks nearby, have picnics in shaded areas, and engage in birdwatching. The trail’s gentle terrain makes it accessible for all ages and fitness levels.

Kid-friendly focus: The flat and safe pathways are excellent for families with young children, allowing them to explore nature comfortably. Educational signage along the trail offers interesting historical and environmental facts to engage curious minds.

Dog-friendly notes: The Provo River Parkway is highly dog-friendly, with ample space for dogs to walk and play. Leashes are required, and there are convenient spots for water breaks and waste disposal, making it a great stop for travelers with pets.