TOP 8 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS NEAR SALT LAKE CITY

TOP 8 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS NEAR SALT LAKE CITY

Looking for Family-Friendly Fun in Salt Lake City? 

Are you seeking family-friendly entertainment in Salt Lake City? If you're on the lookout for a perfect family getaway to create lasting memories with your children, consider Salt Lake City KOA Holiday. Salt Lake City provides a plethora of activities suitable for all seasons and interests, whether indoors or outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, delving into history, or encountering wildlife, Salt Lake City has something for the whole family. Delve into our wonderful family travel recommendations for each season – spring, summer, fall, and winter. Discover why Utah is the ultimate family adventure destination.

Experience the thrill of riding a roller coaster at Lagoon Amusement Park 

Lagoon is more than just your average amusement park; it caters to every family member. Whether you seek thrills on roller coasters, love splashing in the water park, enjoy animals at the zoo, have a knack for imagining at the pioneer village, prefer live performances, or have little ones to entertain in the kids' area, there is something for everyone. With the admission, you can access all areas of the park.

Local Tip: Lagoon's Roller Coaster is among the world's oldest wooden coasters still in operation, making it a must-try ride. Salt Lake KOA Holiday Offers discounted tickets. Visit Lagoon Park for more information.

Experience Stingrays up close at the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium

Photo: Love Land Planet Aquarium

Although the Great Salt Lake's saltiness gives it an ocean-like feel, the real marine wonders are housed within this aquarium, showcasing a wide array of aquatic life. Visit the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, where you can marvel at a large shark tank with an observation tunnel, interact with stingrays in a touch pool, enjoy memorable encounters with penguins, and discover various exhibits showcasing Utah's native aquatic species. Don't miss the special display on South American Rainforests. Children will be enthralled by the up-close animal encounters offered throughout the aquarium.

Local Tip: Discover the Eye-Catching Ornament
The Ecosystem Exploration Craft & Observatory (EECO) at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is a distinctive decoration that has captivated many. Originally displayed during U2's 360-degree Tour, it now graces the aquarium. 

Explore Wildlife Encounters on Antelope Island             

Embark on a delightful family adventure to Antelope Island State Park if you enjoy outdoor getaways. Located on the Great Salt Lake, this island features sandy beaches offering picturesque views of the valley and majestic Wasatch Mountains. Encounter wild pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and bison in their natural habitat – sightings are common. The island boasts trails of varying difficulties suitable for hikers, mountain bikers, and horse riders. For a thrilling experience, mark your calendar for October to witness or take part in the annual bison roundup.

Local Tip: Before embarking on a day of adventure, remember to bring bug spray and your camera. Uncover an ancient farm and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Great Salt Lake. 

Experience the Excitement of Feeding a Giraffe at Utah's Hogle Zoo.

A family vacation wouldn't be complete without a visit to the zoo. While not everyone may have the chance to feed a giraffe (as it comes at an additional cost), there are numerous opportunities for close encounters with animals and captivating exhibits at SLC's Hogle Zoo, home to over 800 animals. Children can delight in train rides, the discovery theater, and a mini water park within the zoo premises. Witness talented elephants, seals, and birds showcasing daily shows with their trainers. Additionally, explore the variety of shopping and dining options available to enhance your visit, so be sure to allocate time for these extra adventures. Purchase your discounted ticked from the Salt Lake KOA Holliday Camp Store.

Local Tip: Prepare in advance for an enjoyable trip to Utah's Hogle Zoo by reviewing the map and show schedules, exploring the exhibits, and visiting the polar bears is a must-see. 

Explore History at This Is the Place Heritage Park    

Step back in time at This Is the Place Heritage Park, where families can immerse themselves in Utah's rich history. Experience the settlers' way of life by walking in their footsteps. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, take a train ride, or hop on a pony for a guided tour of the recreated pioneer village. Children can have fun searching for gemstones, trying their luck at gold panning, interacting with farm animals, and observing a skilled blacksmith at work. The Native American Village showcases the pre-European heritage with Shoshone teepees and captivating live dance performances.

Local Tip: Treat yourself to delicious delights like Brigham's Donuts at the Social Hall. Don't miss out on the unforgettable experience of taking a train ride through the park

Embark on an Exciting Adventure in Utah's Natural History Museum    

Experience the essence of Utah with a delightful family trip to the east bench of Salt Lake City. Nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountains, the Natural History Museum of Utah spans five floors and offers a remarkable showcase of paleontology. In addition to captivating exhibits on first peoples, the Great Salt Lake, lifeland, and native voices, the museum delves into Utah's extensive history, featuring the latest dinosaur discoveries like the Allosaurus, Utah's state fossil, and unique species from the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. Serving as a symbolic "trailhead to Utah," the museum is conveniently located at the beginning of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. Extend your adventure by visiting the adjacent Red Butte Garden, the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West. Here, you'll find family-friendly areas, engaging activities, and a calendar brimming with events, workshops, and summer concerts.

Local Tip: Make sure to visit The Museum Store for a chance to explore unique jewelry and gift items perfect for souvenirs and memorabilia.

Discover Your Family Heritage at Temple Square                

Temple Square, nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, is a picturesque public park housing the magnificent Salt Lake Temple. While access to the Temple itself is restricted, you can bring your family to enjoy the vibrant gardens in summer and the enchanting Christmas lights in winter. Delve into Utah's pioneer history and the establishment of Salt Lake City. Don't forget to visit the Family History Center, an engaging genealogy resource that simplifies the process of tracing your ancestors and discovering your family's origins. Admission is free, and the attractions are open all year round. For an added treat, time your visit to catch a complimentary performance within the Tabernacle.

Local Tip: Don't miss out on visiting a restaurant on Temple Square. Be sure to check out the Lion House for a memorable lunch or dinner experience and savor delicious food in a historic atmosphere. 

Indulge Your Mind at The Leonardo 

In tribute to Da Vinci's inventive spirit, The Leonardo Museum aims to ignite curiosity. With changing exhibits, each visit promises a fresh experience. The key theme revolves around 'perception,' delving into how we perceive the world and pushing us to think differently. At The Leonardo, you can explore a life-sized optical illusion, travel to different realms using a live-action green screen, or even enjoy a virtual haircut. Moreover, the museum is part of the cost-effective Salt Lake Connect Attractions Pass, which includes 18 attractions.

Local Tip: Make sure not to overlook the newest exhibit titled "Into the Mind of Artificial Intelligence." It provides visitors with an opportunity to discover and be fascinated by the limitless potential of state-of-the-art technology. 

Rest and Relax After a Day of Adventure at Salt Lake City KOA Holiday

After a day of family fun, rest and recharge at Salt Lake City KOA Holiday. Just 14 blocks from downtown, Salt Lake City KOA Holiday offers the convenience of an urban area in a quiet, natural setting. 

If you and your family want to sleep under the stars in a Tent Site or appreciate the comforts of home in a Camping Cabin or RV Site, the campground offers something unique for everyone. Additionally, you can have the kiddos let out some extra energy with plenty of fun amenities such as a kid's playground, arcade room and basketball court. Enjoy the best Salt Lake City offers when you book a stay for your family at Salt Lake City KOA Holiday today!


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