CityScape: Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a chilly destination this time of year, but there’s plenty to do both indoors and outdoors in the winter season, ranging from honoring the city’s religious heritage to checking out its winter sports legacy. The stunning mountain views can inspire a ski trip, a chance to snuggle up in a hotel, or a visit to one of the city’s art museums. The adventure is up to you!

PLAY

Bundle up and head to Temple Square and take a tour highlighting the temples, monuments and statues. Be sure to stop at the Salt Lake Tabernacle, which hosts weekly performances of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, not to be missed on Sunday morning. Next stop by the Utah Olympic Park, the sports complex built for the 2002 Winter Olympic Games. When you’re ready to head back indoors, visit one of Salt Lake City’s art museums, including the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, featuring a vast collection of paintings and sculptures, and the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, offering five galleries of exhibits. Finish your trip with a visit to Tracy Aviary, where free-flying bird shows are given twice daily.

STAY

If you’re headed to the area to hit the slopes, Park City Peaks Hotel, located outside of the city, features an indoor/outdoor pool, ski and board rentals and comfortable accommodations. Closer to town, kick your feet up at Kimpton Hotel Monaco, a chic, upscale architectural treat with well-appointed guest rooms and bathrooms. Those traveling with children should hit up Grand American Hotel, a spot with a classic feel for the grown-ups and a baby program and toy store for the younger crowd. To be in the center of the action, try the Peery Hotel, offering a touch of sophistication.

FIND & BOOK A HOTEL WITH AAA IN SALT LAKE CITY 

DINE

Head downtown to Takashi for sushi and sashimi small plates paired with an impressive sake selection. Be ready to wait (so worth it!) for a spot at Red Iguana for some awesome Mexican, including authentic mole, tacos, burritos and pozole. For an impressive Italian meal, visit Valter’s Osteria, featuring tableside preparations in a formal setting with tasty classics. Adventurous diners should head out to Log Haven for seasonal shared plates prepared using fine, organic ingredients served up in a rustic setting.

Check out more buzzworthy destinations at AAA.com/CityScape.