Winter Wonders in Salt Lake City: Your Ultimate Guide to Chilling Adventures

When winter wraps Salt Lake City in its frosty embrace, the fun is just beginning. While our beloved trolley tours hibernate until May 2025, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. Here’s your local friend’s guide to the top 10 winter experiences in SLC, sprinkled with history, fun facts, and a dash of humor.

1. Temple Square Lights: A Dazzling Display

The Temple Square Christmas lights in Salt Lake City are a cherished holiday tradition, illuminating the downtown area with festive displays. Every winter, Temple Square transforms into a luminous wonderland, with over a million lights illuminating the historic grounds. Established in 1847 by Mormon pioneers, Temple Square is the heart of Salt Lake City’s rich history.

For the 2024 season, the lights are on daily from November 29, 2024, through January 1, 2025, during the following times:

• Evening: 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

• Morning: 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m.

Due to ongoing construction, certain areas of Temple Square are closed. However, several sections remain open for visitors to enjoy the light displays:

• Main Street Plaza: Open to the public, offering views of the lights and decorations.

• Church Office Building Plaza: Accessible for visitors, featuring festive lighting.

• North of the Salt Lake Tabernacle: This area is open, providing additional light displays.

Please note that areas immediately north and south of the Salt Lake Temple, as well as the section south of the Tabernacle, are closed due to construction. Additionally, the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, Beehive House, and Lion House are closed for renovation. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions with holiday lights, such as the Conference Center and Church History Library, which are open and decorated for the season. For the most current information and any updates, it’s recommended to visit the official website of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints or local news outlets.

Fun fact: The Salt Lake Temple took 40 years to complete, finally opening in 1893. Bundle up, grab a hot cocoa, and immerse yourself in this festive tradition.

2. Family History Library: Discover Your Roots

Adjacent to Temple Square, the Family History Library is the world’s largest genealogical library. Founded in 1894, it offers free access to records that can help you trace your ancestry.

Did you know? The library houses over 2.4 million rolls of microfilmed genealogical records. Dive into your family tree; who knows, you might discover you’re royalty (or at least related to someone interesting).

3. Utah State Capitol: A Majestic Marvel

Overlooking the city, the Utah State Capitol is an architectural gem completed in 1916. Its neoclassical design and stunning interiors make it a must-visit.

Fun fact: The dome is covered in Utah-mined copper, symbolizing the state’s rich mineral resources. Take a guided tour and learn about Utah’s legislative process—it’s more exciting than it sounds, promise!

4. Ice Skating at Gallivan Center: Glide Under the Stars

The Gallivan Center’s outdoor ice rink is a winter hotspot. Whether you’re an aspiring figure skater or more of a cautious glider, it’s fun for all skill levels. Plus, it’s surrounded by downtown’s vibrant lights. The Gallivan Center Ice Rink in downtown Salt Lake City is a popular winter destination, offering outdoor ice skating amid the city’s festive atmosphere.

Here are the details for December 2024:

Operating Hours:

• Regular Hours (November 22 – December 8, 2024):

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Monday – Thursday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

• Extended December Hours (December 9 – 30, 2024):

• Sunday – Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Friday & Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM

• Holiday Hours:

• Christmas Eve (December 24): 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Christmas Day (December 25): 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• New Year’s Eve (December 31): 12:00 PM – 12:15 AM

• New Year’s Day (January 1): 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

The ice rink typically remains open through early March, weather permitting.

Pricing:

• Adults: $12 (includes skate rental)

• Seniors (65+) and Military: $11 (includes skate rental)

• Children (12 and under): $10 (includes skate rental)

These rates include skate rentals, with both hockey and figure skates available.

Additional Information:

• Location: The Gallivan Center Ice Rink is located at 239 South Main Street, Salt Lake City, UT 84111.

• Amenities: Concessions are available on-site, offering snacks and beverages to enhance your skating experience.

Tips for Visitors:

• Peak Times: Evenings, weekends, and holidays tend to be busier. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during weekday afternoons.

• Weather Considerations: As an outdoor rink, operations are weather-dependent. It’s advisable to check current conditions before your visit.

• Attire: Dress warmly in layers, and consider bringing gloves and a hat. While skate rentals are included, you may bring your own skates if preferred.

For the most current information, including any potential changes to hours or pricing, visit the official Gallivan Center website

Enjoy your ice skating adventure at the Gallivan Center!

Fun fact: The Gallivan Center also hosts concerts and events year-round, making it a cultural hub in SLC. Just remember, graceful falls make for the best stories.

5. Natural History Museum of Utah: Unearth the Past

Escape the cold and explore the Natural History Museum of Utah, home to fascinating exhibits on Utah’s geology, paleontology, and indigenous cultures. Opened in 1969, the museum boasts a collection of over 1.6 million objects.

Fun fact: Utah is known as the “State of Dinosaurs” due to the abundance of fossils found here. Channel your inner paleontologist and dig into the past.

6. Red Butte Garden: Winter Wonderland Walks

While primarily known for its spring and summer blooms, Red Butte Garden offers serene winter landscapes perfect for a peaceful stroll. Established in 1985, it’s the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West.

Fun fact: The garden spans over 100 acres, with five miles of hiking trails. Enjoy the tranquil beauty and maybe spot some winter wildlife—just don’t expect any roses to stop and smell.

7. Tabernacle Choir Performance: Heavenly Harmonies

Experience the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square. Their “Music and the Spoken Word” performances are the world’s longest continuously running network broadcast, dating back to 1929.

Fun fact: The choir is composed of 360 volunteer singers, all members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It’s a soul-stirring experience that might just make you consider joining a choir—or at least singing in the shower.

8. The Ultimate Salt Lake City Tour: See It All

For a comprehensive exploration, consider the Ultimate Salt Lake City Tour by City Sights. This guided bus tour covers 20 miles of SLC’s highlights, including historic districts and top attractions.

Fun fact: City Sights has been offering tours for over 40 years, making them the local experts. Sit back, relax, and let someone else do the navigating.

9. Snowshoeing in the Wasatch Mountains: Winter Hiking Bliss

If you’re craving outdoor adventure, snowshoeing in the nearby Wasatch Mountains is a must. It’s an accessible way to explore Utah’s winter wilderness.

Fun fact: Snowshoeing dates back over 6,000 years and was essential for survival in snowy regions. Strap on some snowshoes and channel your inner explorer—no prior experience required, just a sense of adventure.

10. Eccles Theater: Catch a Show

Warm up indoors with a performance at the Eccles Theater, SLC’s premier venue for concerts, Broadway shows, and more. Opened in 2016, it has quickly become a cultural cornerstone.

Fun fact: The theater’s grand lobby features a stunning 60-foot-long art installation called “The Canyon,” inspired by Utah’s landscapes. Enjoy world-class entertainment without having to trek to the Big Apple.

So, there you have it—Salt Lake City’s winter offerings, from illuminating lights to snowy hikes. While our trolley tours take a seasonal snooze, these activities ensure your visit is packed with memorable experiences. Bundle up, embrace the chill, and let SLC surprise you this winter.