Keeping little ones entertained and stimulated on a daily basis can be a daunting task for parents. It’s hard to balance screen time with imagination and free time. And just like a hive of bees, kids are buzzing around, energized all the time.
But don’t fret! Salt Lake City offers a variety of family-friendly activities. No matter what the season, the Beehive State is full options that will entertain the entire family. Make a family bucket list and check each activity off, while making memories along the way. Here are the top 25 family-friendly activities in Salt Lake City.
Salt Lake City is full of family-friendly museums and attractions that’ll keep the kids occupied and entertained for hours. And what’s more, the kids (and parents) may learn some new facts and stats while out and about.
Whether you’re trying to escape the heat of summer or stay warm during the chillier days of summer, these activities are worth your while.
Animal Activities
If your kids love animals, then you must check out these four animal exhibits scattered throughout the Wasatch Front.
Hogle Zoo
With more than 800 animals, Utah’s Hogle Zoo takes you on a trip around the world. From the Asian Highlands to the African Savannah, you’ll see and interact with different animals from around the globe.
Wheeler Farm
Full of playgrounds, trails and farm animals, Wheeler Farm is a great place to take the family for a fun-filled day. If you visit during the early months of spring, you’ll get to experience baby animal days and see the fluffy yellow chicks, young foals and newborn lambs.
Tracy Aviary
Like birds of a feather, your family can flock together to the Tracy Aviary located near Liberty Park. With a focus on birds specifically, your family can learn about the different species and how they impact the circle of life.
The Living Planet Aquarium
The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is true underwater adventure and is home to more than 4,000 different species. With different exhibits meant to reflect different habitats around the world, you and the kids will enjoy learning about our vast ecosystem.
Museums
Source: NHMU/Tom Smart
There are multiple family-friendly activities in Salt Lake City and exploring museums is one of them. Next time you’re looking for something to do, check out one of these local museums.
Discovery Gateway
Full of hands-on exhibits, Discovery Gateway is a great place to take younger children for the day. This museum lets guests “do” instead of just “see.” All exhibits are hands-on and allow the children to explore with their five senses.
Clark Planetarium
The downtown Clark Planetarium is a science museum that’ll entertain both left and right-brained people. Whether you’re looking to watch an IMAX or learn about earthquakes and seismic activity, you’ll learn it all in a fun way.
Museum of Natural Curiosity
Located about 30 minutes outside of downtown Salt Lake, the Museum of Natural Curiosity is a great place to take kids and let them burn off some steam. Each exhibit is interactive and allows the kids to learn by engaging with it.
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum beautifully displays Utah’s history. One of the most notable exhibits is the dinosaur exhibit. Families can learn Utah’s prehistoric story and see dinosaur skeletons on a life-size display. This museum does a great job making learning fun.
Landmarks
Settled by the Mormon Pioneers, Utah has a rich history and the valley is full of historic landmarks. No matter your background or beliefs, it’s interesting to visit each historic landmark and appreciate the story of Utah’s birth.
This Is The Place
Visiting This Is The Place park will take you back in time to the location where our city was founded. Take a horseback tour or explore the old blacksmith shop and you’ll leave with a great appreciation and understanding of Utah’s heritage.
Utah State Capitol
Each state has a unique capitol building, and Salt Lake’s won’t disappoint. The views from the capitol are stunning, and if you visit the building during the spring, you’ll be awed by the pink cherry blossoms. Learn a little bit more about Utah’s government all while taking in gorgeous city views.
Temple Square
Historic Temple Square offers stunning architectural feats and beautiful gardens. Meander through the square, learn more about Utah history and continue on to City Creek mall for lunch and a dip in the splash pads.
Attractions
Source: Lagoon
Kids of all ages will enjoy these family-friendly attractions and games.
Lagoon
If you’re looking for your classic amusement park complete with roller coasters, Ferris wheels and swings, then Lagoon is the place for you. Open during the summer through Halloween, Lagoon is a family-friendly attraction that has rides for toddlers and adults alike. You can also enjoy the water park Lagoon-A-Beach and have fun sliding down water slides and rides.
Dave and Buster’s
Sometimes, winning tickets for arcade prizes is just what’s needed for a fun day. Dave and Buster’s, located at The Gateway in downtown Salt Lake, has food, arcade games and prizes. No matter your age, skee ball is bound to make your day more fun.
Hale Centre Theatre
Hale Centre Theatre produces family-friendly plays year-round. If you’re looking for a cultural event that’ll educate and entertain your kiddos, then this local theater will not disappoint.
Sporting events
There’s nothing quite like hot dogs, cotton candy and popcorn at a ball game. And Salt Lake is home to a few professional sports teams. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity, consider taking the crew to cheer on our local teams.
Utah Jazz
Attending a Jazz game is an essential bucket-list item if you live in Salt Lake. Cheer on the basketball team as they slam dunk their way to a victory.
Real Salt Lake
If you’re here for RSL, then you won’t be disappointed. The Real Salt Lake soccer team promises a night of fun for the entire family.
Utah Grizzlies
Like hockey? Then you definitely don’t want to miss the Utah Grizzlies in a hockey match.
Salt Lake Bees
Nothing quite says summer like an evening at a baseball game. Take the family out to a ball game, ride the train around the sandlot and watch the Bees score a home run this summer season.
Outdoor activities
Sometimes, you just need to get outside, enjoy the fresh air and explore nature. Salt Lake is surrounded by national parks, world-renowned ski resorts and hiking trails, and lush green parks and walkways.
Whether you’re feeding the ducks or hiking along trails, there’s always something to do outside in Salt Lake. Here are the best parks and outdoor activities to enjoy with the entire family.
Sugarhouse Park
Walk the three-mile loop, pack a picnic, play on the playground or feed the ducks at this local park.
Liberty Park
Liberty Park offers a variety of activities for the whole family. From tennis courts and carnival rides to walking trails and sprawling, grassy areas, it’s fun to spend the entire day outside at this local park.
Canyons
If you’re looking for great hiking trails that are easy for the family with stunning views, look no further than Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood Canyon or Millcreek Canyon. All within 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake, you’ll be able to escape the busy city and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.
Have some fun in the SLC
All of these activities can be fun for kids of any age. With so many family-friendly activities in Salt Lake City, it’s hard to prioritize your list and decide which ones to do first. Slowly make your way down the list and you’ll explore the entire city and know it like the back of your hand.
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