Temple Square and Mormon Historic Sites: The epicenter of the Mormon faith, Temple Square offers museums, visitor centers, public gardens, concerts, and eye-popping architecture. Whether you're a believer or not, you'll enjoy the spectacle.

State Capitol: Modeled on the United States capitol, Utah's seat of government is grandly scaled and brimming with granite and marble. From the steps leading to the building, views of the city and the Wasatch peaks are breathtaking.

Red Butte Garden and Arboretum: An oasis of green in arid Salt Lake City, these gardens cover 30 acres. Two hundred acres of adjacent woodlands are networked with trails for hiking and jogging.

Liberty Park: This lovely park, with playgrounds, a lake, and lots and lots of manicured lawns, is located south of downtown. Liberty Park is also beloved for its Tracy Aviary, a bird zoo with falconry events.

City Creek Canyon: The most accessible hiking and cycling path in Salt Lake City starts right downtown and winds up in City Creek Canyon along a rushing stream and past wooded glens. Bring a picnic and enjoy an island of nature in the midst of the city's urban sprawl.