With natural wonders, urban delights, and sports galore, there are plenty of things to do in Utah. From the majestic splendor of Bryce Canyon to the Great Salt Lake itself, the Beehive State should be on your must-visit list.

What’s the Buzz With the Bees?

Utah, a Ute Indian word that means “people of the mountains,” became an official territory of the United States in 1850. But did you know “Utah” was not the original name proposed by the Mormon pioneers that first settled in the area? When they applied to the government for formal recognition in 1849, they proposed calling themselves the “State of Deseret.” Deseret is a word taken from their scriptures that means “honeybee.”

The government denied their request, suggesting the name Utah instead. But the Mormons still wanted to honor the humble honeybee in some way. A beehive is featured prominently on the state emblem, and Utah formally adopted the beehive as its state symbol in 1959. Brigham Young University has helped beekeepers fight American foulbrood amongst bee populations, and Utah’s road signs are even shaped like beehives.

If you find yourself in Temple Square, you can (and probably should) tour the Beehive House, a historic home owned by Brigham Young, Utah’s first governor.

Things to Do In Salt Lake City

While you’re in Salt Lake City, don’t miss your chance to see the Tabernacle, one of the most acoustically sound buildings in the world, and home to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Made up of 360 volunteers, the choir is known the world over for their excellence. They’ve performed around the world, sung at Presidential Inaugurations, and have even won a Grammy and three Emmys. The Tabernacle itself is so acoustically sensitive that a pin dropped at the front can be heard 170 feet away at the back of the building.

The famed Capital Theater, a landmark since 1913, hosts operas and ballet and is one of 16 theaters in the area. Travel back in time with a visit to the Redwood Drive-In Movie Theater, which has been showing double features since 1948. With over 26 museums, including the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum and the Clark Planetarium, you’ll find fascinating things to do in Salt Lake City for all ages.

Shopping in Salt Lake City

Shopping for Utah-themed souvenirs from your trip? You’ll never believe you’re not in the wilds at City Creek Center. Boasting a retractable glass roof, a creek that meanders through the structure, and over 110 stores, you won’t run out of things to see or do. If you’re still looking for more, Gardner Village, 9th and 9th, and Trolley Square will keep you shopping till you drop and with our customizable tote bags, you’ll be able to carry your loot and save a tree!

Walk, Hike, and Bike in the Beehive State

If you want your city outside, you can’t miss the Red Butte Garden. Over 100 acres of walking paths and hiking trails take you through regional flora in the foothills east of the University of Utah. You can tour Salt Lake City on a bicycle, visit the Tracy Aviary, or visit the Hogle Zoo. Don’t forget a jacket or hoodie as the mountain air can get chilly.

If you’re feeling adventurous, check out the Timpanogos Cave Tour, and while you’re out there, visit the Sundance Mountain Resort. This family-friendly resort offers the usual outdoor adventures and is owned by actor Robert Redford.

Park City: The Bee-utiful Outdoors

If you like art and the outdoors, whether you visit during winter or summer, there are plenty of things to do in Park City.

Find 15 art galleries featuring everything from nature photographs to fine art; the Park City Museum is considered a “hidden gem.” Indigo Highway and Southwest Indian Traders should be on your must-see list as well.

More Things to Do in the Beehive State

Outside the cities, there’s, arguably, even more, to do. World-famous ski resorts, an ancient, land-locked tropical reef, and the Dinosaur National Monument are a few of the not-to-be-missed Utah landmarks.

The Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the western hemisphere, is too salty to support fish but offers kayaking, pedal boats, and sailing. The lake is close to the Bonneville Salt Flats, one of the most unique landscapes in the world.

One can’t mention Utah without bringing to mind the stunning red landscapes of Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonland, and Dead Horse Point State Parks. Lake Powell offers a stunning mix of desert and water, where you can hike, climb, rappel, ski, fish, and boat.
Grab your hat and head to the great outdoors in the Beehive State!