Salt Lake City is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty—making it one of the most unique places to live and explore in the Mountain West. Whether you’re new to the area or considering making it home, these iconic landmarks offer a deeper look into what makes the city so special—and why living downtown keeps you close to it all.
For residents of communities like The Citizen, these destinations aren’t just tourist stops—they’re part of everyday life.
Temple Square
50 North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
1.4 miles from The Citizen
At the heart of downtown Salt Lake City lies Temple Square, one of the most recognized landmarks in Utah. This 10-acre complex is not only visually stunning—it’s also deeply rooted in the city’s history and identity.
Home to the iconic Salt Lake Temple, the area serves as the global headquarters for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Visitors can explore beautifully maintained gardens, historic buildings, and interactive exhibits that tell the story of the city’s founding.
Beyond its religious significance, Temple Square is a year-round destination. From vibrant spring blooms to the famous holiday light displays in winter, it’s a place where locals and visitors alike gather, relax, and connect.
Utah State Capitol
350 N State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84114
2 miles from The Citizen
Perched on Capitol Hill, the Utah State Capitol stands as both a working government building and a symbol of Utah’s heritage. Completed in 1916, its neoclassical architecture—with towering columns and a striking dome—makes it one of the most photographed sites in the city.
Visitors can take self-guided tours through the building to learn about Utah’s legislative process, history, and artwork. But one of the biggest draws is outside: the sweeping panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley are some of the best in the city.
It’s also a favorite local spot for walks, picnics, and seasonal events—especially when the cherry blossoms bloom in spring.
Great Salt Lake
19.2 miles from The Citizen
Just a short drive northwest of downtown, the Great Salt Lake offers a completely different kind of landmark—one shaped by nature.
As the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, it’s famous for its high salinity, allowing swimmers to float effortlessly. The lake’s ecosystem supports unique wildlife, including millions of migratory birds, making it a haven for nature lovers and photographers.
Nearby Antelope Island provides hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities (including free-roaming bison), while the lake itself delivers unforgettable sunsets and surreal landscapes.
Living in Salt Lake City means having this one-of-a-kind natural wonder practically in your backyard.
Natural History Museum of Utah
301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
3.7 miles from The Citizen
Located near the University of Utah, the Natural History Museum of Utah blends education, architecture, and breathtaking views into one destination.
The museum is known for its world-class exhibits on Utah’s geology, ancient ecosystems, and Indigenous cultures. From towering dinosaur skeletons to interactive science displays, it’s a place where visitors of all ages can learn something new.
The building itself is designed to reflect Utah’s natural landscapes, and its hillside location offers incredible views of the valley—making the visit just as visually rewarding as it is educational.
Red Butte Garden
300 S Wakara Wy, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
3.8 miles from The Citizen
For those who love the outdoors, Red Butte Garden is a must-visit destination. As both a botanical garden and arboretum, it features miles of walking paths, themed gardens, and seasonal displays that change throughout the year.
It’s also one of the city’s top venues for outdoor concerts and events, drawing nationally recognized performers during the summer months.
With views of the Wasatch Mountains and a peaceful atmosphere, Red Butte Garden offers a perfect escape from the city—while still being just minutes away.
Liberty Park
600 Harvey Milk Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
0.8 miles from The Citizen
Liberty Park is one of Salt Lake City’s most iconic green spaces, offering over 80 acres of open lawns, tree-lined paths, and community gathering areas. Established in the late 1800s, it has long served as a central hub for recreation, relaxation, and local events.
Within the park, visitors will find Tracy Aviary, one of the oldest aviaries in the United States, along with peaceful ponds, sports courts, and shaded picnic areas. Whether you’re jogging around the loop, enjoying a weekend farmers market, or simply soaking in the scenery, Liberty Park provides a perfect balance of activity and tranquility.
For residents, it’s an everyday escape—close enough for spontaneous visits but expansive enough to feel like a true retreat from city life.
The Gateway
400 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
2.3 miles from The Citizen
The Gateway is a dynamic entertainment district that blends shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in one walkable destination. Originally developed as an open-air shopping center, it has transformed into a lively urban hub filled with local businesses, public art, and year-round events.
Visitors can explore everything from unique restaurants and bars to attractions like Clark Planetarium, all while enjoying an atmosphere designed for gathering and connection. The area frequently hosts concerts, festivals, and outdoor activities that bring energy to the west side of downtown.
For those living nearby, The Gateway offers a convenient place to spend an evening out or a weekend afternoon without ever leaving the city center.
Hogle Zoo
2600 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
3.8 miles from The Citizen
Hogle Zoo is a long-standing Salt Lake City landmark that combines wildlife education with family-friendly entertainment. Nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, the zoo spans over 40 acres and features animals from across the globe.
Guests can explore thoughtfully designed habitats that house everything from elephants and big cats to reptiles and birds. The zoo also emphasizes conservation and education, offering programs and exhibits that highlight the importance of protecting wildlife and natural ecosystems.
Its scenic location and engaging experiences make Hogle Zoo a destination that residents return to again and again.
This Is The Place Heritage Park
2601 Sunnyside Ave S, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
3.9 miles from The Citizen
This Is The Place Heritage Park is a living history destination that brings Utah’s pioneer past to life. Situated at the mouth of Emigration Canyon, it marks the historic location where early settlers entered the Salt Lake Valley.
The park features recreated 19th-century buildings, costumed interpreters, and interactive experiences that allow visitors to step into the daily lives of early pioneers. From blacksmith demonstrations to train rides, it offers a hands-on way to explore the state’s origins.
It’s a meaningful and engaging landmark that connects modern Salt Lake City to its historical roots.
Ensign Peak
Ensign Peak Trail, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
3.1 miles from The Citizen
Ensign Peak is one of the most historically significant viewpoints in Salt Lake City, offering both a quick hike and a powerful connection to the city’s origins. Located just north of downtown, it marks the spot where early pioneers first surveyed the Salt Lake Valley in 1847.
The short trail to the summit is accessible to most visitors and rewards hikers with sweeping panoramic views of the city skyline, Great Salt Lake, and surrounding mountains. It’s especially popular at sunrise and sunset, when the light transforms the landscape into something truly unforgettable.
For locals, Ensign Peak is a go-to destination for a quick outdoor escape with one of the best views in the city.
Sugar House Park
1330 2100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84106
4 miles from The Citizen
Sugar House Park is a beloved urban green space located in one of Salt Lake City’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Spanning over 100 acres, the park offers wide-open fields, scenic walking paths, and a central pond that reflects the surrounding mountains.
It’s a popular destination for running, picnicking, and community gatherings, with plenty of space for both activity and relaxation. The park also hosts seasonal events and provides easy access to nearby shops and restaurants in the Sugar House district.
Its combination of natural beauty and neighborhood energy makes it a favorite spot for residents across the city.
Clark Planetarium
110 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
1.9 miles from The Citizen
Located within The Gateway district, Clark Planetarium is a standout attraction for science enthusiasts and families alike. The facility features immersive dome theaters, interactive exhibits, and educational programs focused on space and astronomy.
Visitors can explore everything from black holes to distant galaxies through hands-on displays and engaging presentations. The planetarium’s cutting-edge technology makes it a unique experience that blends entertainment with learning.
As a free attraction in downtown Salt Lake City, it’s an accessible and memorable destination for residents and visitors of all ages.
Experience the Best of Salt Lake City Living
One of the biggest advantages of living in downtown Salt Lake City is how effortlessly you can experience everything the city has to offer. These landmarks aren’t reserved for special occasions—they’re part of your routine, whether that means a quick visit after work, a weekend outing, or a spontaneous adventure.
Salt Lake City offers both urban energy and natural beauty in one place. You can explore historic sites in the morning, enjoy local dining and entertainment in the afternoon, and watch the sunset over the mountains in the evening—all without traveling far from home.
At The Citizen, you’re positioned right in the center of it all. With easy access to these landmarks and more, you can experience the best of Salt Lake City every day—making your home not just a place to live, but a gateway to everything the city has to offer.
