Community Corner

How Much Do You Know About Salt Lake City?

Every town has its traditions. Check out these fun facts about what makes Salt Lake City so special.

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MainStHistory_1200x900-2 (Photo Credit: Patch)

Salt Lake City is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Salt Lake City has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

  • Did you know that Salt Lake City is home to the largest genealogical library in the world? The Family History Library houses over 2.4 million rolls of digitized microfilmed records and offers free access to anyone interested in exploring their family history.
  • Salt Lake City is famous for its skiing and snowboarding, but did you know that it also boasts some of the best mountain biking trails in the country? The Bonneville Shoreline Trail offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
  • The city is home to the world-famous Tabernacle Choir, which has been performing since 1847. Visitors can attend free rehearsals on Thursday evenings.
  • Salt Lake City is known for its unique cuisine, including the "fry sauce" that locals put on everything from burgers to fries. Don't miss the chance to try this delicious condiment during your visit.
  • The city's Temple Square is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history and architecture. The site includes the Salt Lake Temple, the Salt Lake Tabernacle and several other historic buildings.
  • The Great Salt Lake, located just west of the city, is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can swim in the lake's salty waters or take a tour of the nearby Antelope Island State Park.
  • Salt Lake City is home to a vibrant arts scene, including the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Salt Lake Acting Company. Check out the local calendar to see what events and performances are happening during your visit.
  • The city's Liberty Park is one of the oldest and most popular parks in Salt Lake City. It features a playground, picnic areas and several sports fields, as well as a large pond that is home to ducks, geese and other wildlife.
  • Salt Lake City is surrounded by several world-class ski resorts, including Snowbird, Alta and Brighton. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there's a ski slope for you.
  • The city's Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is a 100-acre outdoor oasis that features over 21 acres of display gardens, several hiking trails and a beautiful amphitheater that hosts concerts and other events throughout the year.
  • Salt Lake City hosted the 2002 Olympic Winter Games, which brought the city into the international spotlight. Visitors can still see some of the Olympic venues, such as the Utah Olympic Park, which offers guided tours and adventure activities like bobsledding.
  • The city's Cathedral of the Madeleine is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Salt Lake City. Visitors can attend daily Mass or take a guided tour of the cathedral.
  • The Natural History Museum of Utah is located on the University of Utah campus and offers a fascinating look at the state's geology, ecology and Native American history. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the museum's impressive dinosaur collection.
  • Salt Lake City is home to several craft breweries, including Uinta Brewing Company and Squatters Craft Beers. Take a tour and sample some of the local brews, or attend one of the city's many beer festivals.
  • The Salt Lake City Public Library is not only a great place to read and study, but it's also an architectural marvel. The building's unique design has won numerous awards, and the rooftop garden offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding mountains.
  • The Utah State Capitol building is an impressive neoclassical structure that houses the offices of the governor and the state legislature. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building and learn about its history and architecture.
  • The Leonardo museum is a fun and interactive museum that explores the intersection of science, art and technology. Visitors can participate in hands-on exhibits and attend workshops and classes.
  • Salt Lake City is home to several annual events and festivals, including the Sundance Film Festival, the Utah Arts Festival and the Utah State Fair. Check the local calendar to see what events are happening during your visit.
  • The city's Hogle Zoo is a popular destination for families and animal lovers. The Hogle family donated the zoo in 1931 and has since been operating as a nonprofit.
  • The Tracy Aviary is located in Liberty Park and is the largest and oldest continuously operating bird park in the United States. Visitors can see over 400 birds representing more than 135 species and attend bird shows and presentations.

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