Salt Lake City

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 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 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-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 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 Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 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. and Friday-Sunday and holidays from 7 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 every day from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. The visitor centre is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the ranch from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Closed on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving (4th Thursday in November).