Excitedly Exploring Utah: A Comprehensive List of Free Things To Do
Utah is a beautiful state with a diverse range of landscapes and attractions. From stunning national parks to vibrant cities, there are plenty of things to see and do in Utah. However, exploring this state doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are plenty of free things to do in Utah that offer a great way to experience the state without spending a dime.
One of the best places to start exploring the free things to do in Utah is Salt Lake City. This vibrant city is home to a range of free attractions, including the Utah State Capitol Building, the Salt Lake City Public Library, and the Natural History Museum of Utah. In addition, there are plenty of parks and gardens to explore, including Liberty Park and Red Butte Garden.
If you’re looking to explore Utah’s natural beauty, there are plenty of free outdoor adventures to enjoy. From hiking and biking to fishing and camping, there are countless opportunities to get outside and explore the state’s stunning landscapes. Some of the best free outdoor experiences in Utah include visiting the Bonneville Salt Flats, exploring Goblin Valley State Park, and hiking to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park.
Key Takeaways
Utah offers a range of free things to do, from exploring Salt Lake City to enjoying outdoor adventures.
There are plenty of historical and cultural sites to visit in Utah, including Temple Square and the Golden Spike National Historic Site.
Park City and the surrounding areas offer a range of unique experiences, from visiting the Utah Olympic Park to exploring the Kimball Art Center.
Exploring Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is full of free things to do and explore. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s always something new to discover. Here are some of the top free attractions to check out in Salt Lake City:
Temple Square
One of the most iconic landmarks in Salt Lake City, Temple Square is a must-visit destination. This 10-acre complex is home to the Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle, and other historic buildings. Take a stroll through the gardens, attend a free guided tour, or catch a performance by the world-famous Tabernacle Choir.
City Creek Center
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to City Creek Center. This outdoor shopping center features over 100 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Take a walk around the creek, enjoy the fountains, and take in the beautiful architecture.
Salt Lake Temple
The Salt Lake Temple is one of the most recognizable buildings in Salt Lake City. Although the temple itself is not open to the public, visitors can still take a tour of the grounds and learn about the history and significance of this iconic landmark.
Utah State Capitol
Take a free guided tour of the Utah State Capitol building and learn about the state’s history and government. The building itself is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
Cathedral of the Madeleine
The Cathedral of the Madeleine is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and is open to the public for free tours and services. Take a walk through the beautiful stained glass windows and admire the incredible artwork.
Hill Aerospace Museum
Located just outside of Salt Lake City, the Hill Aerospace Museum is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts. Explore the history of flight and see a wide range of aircraft, from early 20th-century planes to modern fighter jets.
Fort Douglas Military Museum
Learn about the military history of Utah at the Fort Douglas Military Museum. This free museum features exhibits on the Civil War, World War I and II, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Take a guided tour and learn about the history of this important military installation.
Whether you’re taking a stroll downtown or exploring some of Salt Lake City’s most iconic landmarks, there’s always something new to discover. So grab your walking shoes and get ready to explore all that this amazing city has to offer!
Outdoor Adventures
Utah is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse landscape and natural wonders, there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, rock climbing, river rafting, or winter activities, Utah has something for everyone. Here are some of the best free outdoor adventures you can enjoy in Utah.
Hiking Trails
Utah is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. From easy nature walks to strenuous hikes, there is a trail for every skill level. Some of the best free hiking trails in Utah include:
The Living Room Trail in Salt Lake City
The Donut Falls Trail in Big Cottonwood Canyon
The Bell Canyon Trail in Sandy
The Battle Creek Falls Trail in Pleasant Grove
The Timpanogos Cave Trail in American Fork Canyon
Biking Trails
Utah has some of the best bike trails in the country. With miles of scenic routes and challenging terrain, Utah is a cyclist’s dream come true. Some of the best free bike trails in Utah include:
The Bonneville Shoreline Trail in Salt Lake City
The Provo River Parkway Trail in Provo
The Jordan River Parkway Trail in Salt Lake City
The Murdock Canal Trail in Orem
The Legacy Parkway Trail in Farmington
Mountain Biking
Utah is also a top destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. With its rugged terrain and stunning scenery, Utah offers some of the best mountain biking trails in the world. Some of the best free mountain biking trails in Utah include:
The Wasatch Crest Trail in Salt Lake City
The Corner Canyon Trail in Draper
The Mid Mountain Trail in Park City
The Slickrock Trail in Moab
The Porcupine Rim Trail in Moab
Rock Climbing
Utah is a rock climber’s paradise. With its towering cliffs and challenging routes, Utah offers some of the best rock climbing in the world. Some of the best free rock climbing spots in Utah include:
The Red Rock Canyon Climbing Area in St. George
The Little Cottonwood Canyon Climbing Area in Salt Lake City
The Big Cottonwood Canyon Climbing Area in Salt Lake City
The Maple Canyon Climbing Area in Moroni
The Ibex Climbing Area in Delta
River Rafting
Utah is home to some of the most exciting river rafting in the country. With its fast-moving rivers and stunning scenery, Utah offers some of the best river rafting experiences in the world. Some of the best free river rafting spots in Utah include:
The Green River in Moab
The Colorado River in Moab
The Weber River in Ogden
The Provo River in Provo
The Snake River in Jackson Hole
Winter Activities
Utah is a winter wonderland, with plenty of activities to keep you entertained all season long. From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice fishing, Utah has it all. Some of the best free winter activities in Utah include:
The Snowshoeing Trail at Silver Lake in Brighton
The Ice Fishing Pond at Strawberry Reservoir
The Sledding Hill at Sugar House Park in Salt Lake City
The Cross-Country Skiing Trail at Soldier Hollow in Midway
The Snowmobiling Trail at Monte Cristo in Huntsville
ATV and Boating
Utah is a popular destination for ATV and boating enthusiasts. With its rugged terrain and numerous lakes, Utah offers some of the best ATV and boating experiences in the country. Some of the best free ATV and boating spots in Utah include:
The Little Sahara Recreation Area in Delta
The Sand Hollow State Park in Hurricane
The Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area in Dutch John
The Lake Powell National Recreation Area in Page, Arizona
The Bear Lake State Park in Garden City
Get ready to experience the thrill of the outdoors in Utah. With so many free outdoor adventures to choose from, you’ll never run out of things to do.
Utah’s Natural Beauty
Utah’s natural beauty is a sight to behold and the best part is that many of these natural attractions are free to visit. From stunning national parks to scenic drives, hot springs, and more, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
National Parks
Utah is home to five national parks, each with its own unique landscape and beauty. You can explore the towering red rock formations of Zion, the natural arches of Arches, the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon, the rugged canyons of Canyonlands, and the natural bridges of Capitol Reef.
Scenic Drives
There are many scenic drives in Utah that offer breathtaking views of the state’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular scenic drives include the Alpine Loop, which takes you through stunning mountain landscapes and the Mirror Lake Scenic Byway, which offers views of alpine lakes and forests.
Hot Springs
Utah has many natural hot springs that are perfect for relaxing and unwinding. Some of the most popular hot springs include Fifth Water Hot Springs, Mystic Hot Springs, and Meadow Hot Springs.
Great Salt Lake
The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and is a must-see attraction. You can hike along the shoreline, swim in the lake’s salty waters, or simply take in the stunning views.
Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats are a unique natural wonder that covers over 30,000 acres of land. The flats are a popular destination for land speed racing and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Colorado River
The Colorado River is one of the most iconic rivers in the United States and offers a range of recreational activities. You can go rafting, kayaking, or simply enjoy the stunning views along the river’s banks.
Lake Powell
Lake Powell is a man-made reservoir that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. You can go boating, fishing, or simply relax on the lake’s shores and take in the natural beauty.
Utah’s natural beauty is truly breathtaking and there are so many free things to do and see. Whether you’re exploring the state’s national parks, taking a scenic drive, or relaxing in a natural hot spring, you’re sure to be amazed by the stunning landscape that Utah has to offer.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Utah is rich in history and culture, and fortunately, many of its historical and cultural sites are free to visit. Here are some of the top places to explore:
Museums
Utah has a variety of museums that showcase its history and culture. Some of the most popular free museums include the Utah State Capitol Building, the Natural History Museum of Utah, and the Pioneer Memorial Museum.
Religious Sites
Utah is known for its strong religious heritage, particularly with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Visitors can explore the historic Temple Square in Salt Lake City, which includes the Salt Lake Temple, the Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, and other significant buildings.
Architectural Buildings
Utah is home to many impressive architectural buildings, including the Salt Lake City and County Building, the Utah State Capitol Building, and the historic Brigham Young Academy Building. These buildings offer a glimpse into Utah’s past and showcase the state’s unique architectural style.
Monuments and Statues
Utah is home to several significant monuments and statues, including the Golden Spike National Historic Site, which marks the completion of the first transcontinental railroad, and the Brigham Young Monument, which honors the founder of Salt Lake City and the first leader of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Ghost Towns
Utah has several ghost towns that offer a glimpse into the state’s mining and pioneer history. Some of the most popular ghost towns to visit include Silver Reef, Grafton, and Thistle.
Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or religion, Utah has plenty of free historical and cultural sites to explore. From museums and religious sites to monuments and ghost towns, there’s something for everyone to discover. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring Utah’s rich history and culture today!
Park City and Surrounding Areas
If you’re looking for free things to do in Utah, Park City and its surrounding areas are definitely worth checking out. Here are some exciting activities to consider:
Skiing and Snowboarding
Park City is known for its world-class ski resorts, including Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain. While lift tickets can be pricey, there are some ways to hit the slopes without breaking the bank. For instance, you can take advantage of free ski days, which are offered periodically throughout the season. Additionally, some resorts offer free skiing for kids under a certain age, such as Park City Mountain’s Kids Ski Free program for children under 5.
Utah Olympic Park
Utah Olympic Park, located just outside of Park City, was built for the 2002 Winter Olympics and now serves as a year-round training facility for athletes. While some activities require a fee, there are also plenty of free things to do here. You can explore the Alf Engen Ski Museum, which features exhibits on the history of skiing and the Olympics, or watch athletes train on the ski jumps and bobsled track.
Shopping and Dining
Park City’s Main Street is a great place to window shop and people watch. You’ll find a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants to explore. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, consider checking out one of the city’s many food trucks. The Park Silly Sunday Market, held on Main Street during the summer months, is another fun way to sample local cuisine and browse handmade crafts.
Whether you’re a ski enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out, Park City and its surrounding areas have plenty to offer. From free ski days to Olympic history to delicious food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Unique Utah Experiences
If you’re looking for unique experiences in Utah, you won’t be disappointed. From animal sanctuaries to natural wonders, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best experiences Utah has to offer.
Best Friends Animal Sanctuary
Located in Kanab, Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is the largest no-kill sanctuary in the United States. With over 1,600 animals, including dogs, cats, horses, and birds, you can spend hours exploring the grounds and meeting the animals. Take a guided tour, volunteer for a day, or even adopt a new furry friend. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is a must-visit for animal lovers.
Donut Falls
Hiking to Donut Falls is a unique experience that combines natural beauty with a tasty treat. The trail is just over three miles round trip and leads to a waterfall that flows through a hole in a rock formation, creating a “donut” shape. Pack a picnic and enjoy the stunning scenery while snacking on some donuts.
Spiral Jetty
Art lovers won’t want to miss Spiral Jetty, located on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake. This massive earthwork sculpture was created by Robert Smithson in 1970 and is made of over 6,000 tons of black basalt rocks. The spiral shape stretches 1,500 feet into the lake and is a unique example of land art.
Homestead
Homestead is a historic resort in Midway that offers a variety of unique experiences. Take a dip in the Homestead Crater, a 55-foot tall limestone rock that houses a natural hot spring, or go on a guided horseback ride through the scenic Wasatch Mountains. You can also try your hand at fly-fishing or take a dip in the resort’s pool.
Gardner Village
Gardner Village is a charming shopping destination located in West Jordan. The village is home to a variety of boutique shops and restaurants housed in historic buildings that date back to the 1800s. Take a stroll through the gardens, visit the petting zoo, or attend one of the village’s many events throughout the year.
These unique experiences are just a few of the many things to do in Utah. Whether you’re checking items off your Utah bucket list or just looking for something new and exciting, Utah has something for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some unique free activities to do in Utah County?
Utah County offers a variety of unique free activities to do, including visiting the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum at Brigham Young University, exploring the Timpanogos Cave National Monument, and hiking to Bridal Veil Falls. You can also check out the Springville Museum of Art, which offers free admission and features a variety of exhibits.
What are some of the top free summer activities in Utah?
Utah has plenty of free summer activities to enjoy, such as hiking in the mountains, visiting the Great Salt Lake, and exploring the Bonneville Salt Flats. You can also check out the Utah Arts Festival, which takes place every June and features live music, art exhibits, and food vendors.
What are some free things to do in Provo at night?
Provo offers plenty of free things to do at night, such as visiting the BYU Museum of Art, stargazing at the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum, and hiking to the “Y” on the mountain. You can also check out the Provo River Trail, which is a great spot for a nighttime walk or bike ride.
What are some of the most popular free things to do in Utah?
Some of the most popular free things to do in Utah include visiting the national parks, such as Zion and Bryce Canyon, hiking in the mountains, and exploring the Salt Lake City Public Library. You can also check out the Utah State Capitol Building, which offers free tours and features stunning architecture.
What cool things can I do in Utah without spending any money?
There are plenty of cool things to do in Utah without spending any money, such as visiting the Natural History Museum of Utah, exploring the Bonneville Salt Flats, and hiking to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. You can also check out the Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, which offers free admission on select days.
What are some of the best free things to do near me in Utah?
Depending on where you are located in Utah, there are plenty of free things to do nearby. Some ideas include visiting the Hill Aerospace Museum in Ogden, exploring the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in Brigham City, and hiking to the Timpanogos Cave National Monument in American Fork.
