I recently went to Salt Lake City to ski at Snow Basin with several friends. When we were leaving, we had 4 separate flight times between 8 people. Luckily the Salt Lake City International Airport is only 15 minutes from the city, making it easy to do drop-offs at the airport and still have time to visit the city. If you find yourself with some extra time before your flight at Salt Lake City International Airport, there are plenty of fun things to do in the nearby area. Here are some recommendations for activities that will make your layover more enjoyable:
Visit the Clark Planetarium (Time here - 2 hrs)
This FREE attraction offers plenty of cool activities for kids and adults alike. Sponsored by Northrup Grunman, this free museum offers a wide variety of exhibits, shows, and activities for visitors of all ages. From interactive exhibits that allow you to build your own virtual rockets to informative displays that explore the history of space exploration, there's something for everyone to enjoy. One of the highlights of the Clark Planetarium is the Hansen Dome Theater, which offers immersive, full-dome shows that transport you to the far reaches of the universe. With state-of-the-art technology and stunning visuals, these shows are a feast for the eyes and a great way to learn about space and astronomy.
Grab some bubble tea at Space Tea (Time here - 1 hr)
This cute bubble tea shop has a few board games that you can play for free while you sip your drinks. I got the milky way at 50% sweetness, which is Cookies & Cream Milk Tea with Black Sugar Boba, topped off with original creme. I would highly recommend reducing the sweetness level here because I thought the drinks that my peers ordered were teeth chattering sweet. We all know that too much sugar is bad for you so I usually err on the side of caution when ordering milk tea from shops that I’m not familiar with
Visit The Great Salt Lake (Time here ~ 1 hr)
On a sunny day, I highly recommend taking a trip to the Great Salt Lake to enjoy some hiking, kayaking or swimming. Though there's a small $5 fee per vehicle to enter, the lake's distinctive color and the picturesque mountains in the backdrop offer awe-inspiring views that are hard to resist. You can also visit the small visitors center located there, which provides an opportunity to learn about the area's ecology and geology. The Great Salt Lake's high salinity and unique ecosystem make it a captivating place for scientists and students to explore and study. So, don't miss out on the chance to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of this natural wonder.
Capitol Hill (Time here ~ 1 hr)
If you're interested in history, architecture, or government, you'll definitely want to make a stop at the State Capitol building in Salt Lake City. This stunning neoclassical structure is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city. The entrance and parking at the Capitol are both completely free, making it a budget-friendly option for tourists and locals alike.
Inside the Capitol building, visitors can take a free guided tour of the building. You'll have access to the House and Senate chambers, where important legislation is debated and passed, as well as the governor's office and the Supreme Court. You'll learn about the history of the building, its design, and its significance to the state of Utah.
Salt Lake Temple (Time here ~ 1 hr)
Note that as of March 2023, the temple is under construction and will be undergoing renovation until 2025. While you may not be able to visit the temple, it's still worth driving by to see the construction progress. Normally visitors can take a guided tour of the temple and learn about its rich history and significance to the Mormon faith.
Salt Lake City Library (Time here ~ 1 hr)
Looking for a unique and unexpected attraction on your next trip? Don't miss out on this library, which is a true work of art. Its six-story building is home to countless pieces of art, several small shops, a rooftop terrace, and even a giant chess set. Whether you want to find a new book, enjoy a coffee with friends, or recharge your devices using the free chargers scattered throughout the library, this is the perfect place to escape bad weather or simply relax. Plus, if you park in the garage, be sure to get your ticket validated at the front desk to receive two hours of free parking. And if you're driving an electric vehicle, there's even a charging station available for your convenience.
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