Salt Lake City

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What to do

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Worth the detour
Must see

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is also the world headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons).

This destination is an important stop for anyone interested in understanding this major modern religion.

The city is also well known for its 2002 Winter Olympics and its surrounding mountains.

TEMPLE SQUARE

Temple Square - Salt Lake city Temple Square is a huge green space right in the centre of downtown Salt Lake City. It is the sacred heart of Mormonism. Don't miss the Tabernacle with its silver dome and the magnificent Assembly Hall. Latter Day Saints (Mormon missionaries) from around the world are on hand to conduct free guided tours and talk about their faith, in many languages.

The famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir gives free concerts every Thursday evening and Sunday morning. These concerts are held in the Conference Centre on Temple Square in summer (late May to early September) or in the Tabernacle in winter (September to late May).

The main buildings on Temple Square are open most days from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., but may have different schedules or be closed on some holidays.

CHURCH HISTORY MUSEUM

If you want to learn more about the origins and evolution of Mormonism and its place in our modern world, the Church History Museum operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints at Temple Square is a must-see. Don't miss the exhibit that tells the story of this religious movement. from the “First Vision” in Manchester, New York to the “Mormon Exodus” to the West.

Open Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free!

THIS IS THE PLACE HERITAGE PARK

When the first pioneers arrived in the Great Salt Lake Valley during the Mormon exodus to the West in 1847, their leader famously declared: "This is the place!". This park houses several historical buildings from the early settlement, and characters in period costume perform traditional activities.

Heritage Village is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Visitor Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

UTAH STATE CAPITOL

Not far from Temple Square you will find the Utah State Capitol Building, whose architecture was strongly inspired by that of Washington.

Open Monday-Thursday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday and holidays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NEARBY

ANTELOPE ISLAND STATE PARK

This wildlife refuge is located on an island about 65 km north of Salt Lake City. As the name indicates, it is home to a large herd of pronghorn antelope, which were reintroduced to the island in 1993. Many other wild animals inhabit the park: mule deer, bobcats, coyotes, many species of birds, and American bison. In addition to wildlife watching, many activities can be enjoyed on the island such as hiking, cycling, horseback riding, swimming in the lake's salty waters (several times more salty than the ocean), and a visit to the Historic Fielding Garr Ranch.

The park is open March-October from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., November-April from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The visitor centre and ranch are open from mid-May to mid-September from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (until 5 p.m. in low season).

Where to eat

$ Inexpensive
$$ Moderate
$$$ Upscale
$$$$ Fine dining

Red Iguana ($$)

Inside the Red Iguana, you can't help but notice the many signed celebrity photos adorning the walls: a testament to the love people feel for this restaurant! Try one of their signature dishes like the Cochinita Pibil (pork loin rubbed with lime juice, vinegar, paprika and salt, slow roasted then shredded) or a Mole dish. They have a good selection of Mexican favourites such as Burritos, Tacos, Fajitas, Tostadas, Enchiladas, and much more!

Open Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Red Rock Brewing ($$-$$$)

This friendly brewpub is the perfect spot for beer lovers, and there is also a wide choice of à la carte dishes to accompany the beer! It serves simple but good quality local American cuisine. The menu offers, among others, a selection of pizzas, sandwiches, hamburgers, pasta, soups and salads. Relaxed and pleasant atmosphere!

Open Monday-Thursday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., Fridays from 11 a.m. to midnight, Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to midnight, and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Pago ($$-$$$)

Pago is a "Farm to Table" restaurant that serves quality and organic products from local farms and local artisans. The menu changes with the seasons, and may include dishes such as kale Caesar salad with sunchoke chips and pickled fennel, chicken pillard served with a brown butter sauce, and succotash of lima beans, peas and hominy.

Open Monday-Thursday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Fridays from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

CAPUTO’S MARKET AND DELI ($$-$$$)

A great place to eat good Italian fare on the go and pick up a few items at the market. Serves up delicious sandwiches, salads, soups and hot daily specials. The food is good quality. You will also find, among others, fresh deli meats and high-end cheeses. It is the perfect spot for lunch or to buy European food products or takeout.

Open Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

BOMBAY HOUSE ($$-$$$)

Discover the best of Indian cuisine at affordable prices at this popular family restaurant. The dishes are delicious, generous, and spiced according to your taste, and the service is friendly and courteous. You will soon understand why the place is so busy!

Open Monday-Saturday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.