Summertime in Salt Lake explodes with family-friendly action. The warmth welcomes quiet nature hikes and tram rides to 11,000 feet. The sun shines on major league soccer games, Olympic venues and lively restaurant patios. Truly, the city offers something for everyone in the family — toddlers, teens, moms and dads.
Ask any local what they love about Salt Lake and they’ll tell you: It strikes the perfect balance of hiking, biking, climbing, paddleboarding and stargazing with dining, museum discovery, outdoor concerts and botanical gardens.
It’s easy to plan an action-packed family vacation here because everything’s just minutes apart. With so many family-friendly things to do so close together, a family vacation to Salt Lake means less time in the car and more time on what matters most—making memories.
So, be the superhero parent. Let Salt Lake maximize your days by giving you more time for connecting, exploring, and having a blast. Here, parents can:
1. ENJOY EASY ACCESS TO SALT LAKE’S WORLD-CASS, FAMILY-FRIENDLY OUTDOORS
Excited to hike, bike or paddle? In Salt Lake, nature is so close that you’re never more than minutes away. This means waking up in a comfy hotel, grabbing a locally-roasted coffee for yourself and freshly baked goodies for the kids, and arriving at your trailhead while tummies are still full.
2. FIND AMPLE KID-FRIENDLY HIKES AT CITY CREEK CANYON, ENSIGN PEAK, OR COTTONWOOD CANYON
Our trails are so close, you don’t even need to leave the city to get to them. Just head to Memory Grove Park, right in the heart of Salt Lake, to access City Creek Canyon, an easy trail for the whole family. Ensign Peak is another favorite, downtown-accessible trail that leads to dramatic views of the city and the Great Salt Lake.
Want to go deeper into nature? You’re just minutes away from Little Cottonwood Canyon and Big Cottonwood Canyon where adventures for little and big kids —think hiking, chairlift rides, mountain biking, disc golf, and more—are waiting.
3. DISCOVER FAMILY-FRIENDLY BIKE PATHS AT JORDAN RIVER PARKWAY, LIBERTY PARK, OR SUGAR HOUSE PARK
When the kids get tired of being on their feet, put ‘em on bikes. Salt Lake City has gorgeous biking trails for families. The Jordan River Parkway is an easy, paved path with 10 parks along the way, making it an exciting “ride, stop, play, repeat” type of adventure. Other favorite rides for families include the Liberty Park and Sugar House Park loops. These also offer fun diversions for bikers with short attention spans.
4. SPLASH AROUND AT EAST CANYON STATE PARK OR LOCAL SPLASH PADS
From paddle boards to boats of all kinds, Salt Lake makes it easy for kids to keep their cool. Families love East Canyon State Park’s quick access and great amenities, such as restrooms with showers, watercraft rentals, and picnic tables.
Not ready to commit to a full day on the water? Try a local splash pad at two of Salt Lake’s favorite attractions: Lighthouse Point at Hogle Zoo makes it easy to cool off during your visit, or try Irrigation Station at This is the Place Heritage State Park.
5. SHOW THE KIDS BISON BY DAY AND DARK SKIES AT NIGHT AT ANTELOPE ISLAND
Got kids who love owls, birds, and bison? How about stars and the Milky Way?
By day, Antelope Island State Park’s wildlife can be seen as your kiddos climb the rocks, play in the sand, or even dip a toe or two into the salty water. Make it easy with a day tour that picks you up at your downtown hotel. As evening comes, some of Utah’s most stunning sunsets dance on the water. Then, when night falls, you’ll find yourself in an International Dark Sky Park—the perfect place for making wishes.
6. INVESTMENT PROPERTY AFFORDABILITY
Salt Lake City not only presents an attractive prospect for permanent residents but also for vacationers looking to invest in property. With its plethora of family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences, Salt Lake City serves as a magnet for tourists seeking memorable getaways. For those frequenting the area, owning an investment property provides not just a place to stay but also a lucrative opportunity for rental income when not in use. The city’s appeal as a vacation destination, coupled with its affordability and recreational offerings, solidifies Salt Lake City as a wise choice for individuals looking to invest in a property that promises both personal enjoyment and financial returns.