Salt Lake City

Being one of the Best Places to Visit in Utah, Salt Lake City has a history of mysticism. Pioneers thought the region's Great Salt Lake was inhabited by giants and monsters back in the early 19th century. Until Brigham Young chose Salt Lake as the location for the fledgling Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1847, this eerie legend vanished. People who have lived in Salt Lake City today will tell you that it is more than just a city of great faith; it is also a thriving cultural center and a terrific place to base oneself for hiking and skiing.

Many tourists take advantage of the opportunity to learn more about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints by exploring the stunning temples and other places of worship on Temple Square. And even if you have no interest in Salt Lake's past, a trip there is nevertheless worthwhile for the scenery. The Great Salt Lake is nothing short of magnificent, and the Wasatch and Oquirrh mountain ranges make for a spectacular background for the city skyline.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' main administrative building, Temple Square, is a place you should spend a significant amount of time examining. In addition to stunning religious structures like the Salt Lake Temple, this walled enclave in the center of Salt Lake City also features lush gardens and towering statues. However, there is more to do: While the surrounding Wasatch National Forest is interspersed with picturesque paths, the Great Salt Lake offers an excellent location for hiking and picnicking. If you're searching for an exhilarating day excursion, consider going skiing at Snowbird Ski Resort or Park City.

Rankings:

• #7 in Best Places to Visit in Utah

Location: Utah