36 Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City with Teenagers

Looking for the best things to do in Salt Lake City with teenagers?

We live in nearby Boise, Idaho, and have spent many days adventuring around Salt Lake City with our son.

We know that teens love exploring new sights and that the best activities involve getting outdoors and trying something new.

We’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do in Salt Lake City with teenagers so you can make your trip memorable and fun!

From hiking trails to waterways, discover fantastic places perfect for teens in Salt Lake City.

Whether you’re looking for an active afternoon, cultural experiences, or a relaxing staycation, this list has something for everyone.

So if a trip to Salt Lake City with teens is in your future, look no further than our list of the best of the best.

Let’s go!

Some of the links in this blog may be affiliate links. If you click and purchase, we will receive a commission at no extra charge to you.

1. Lagoon Amusement Park

One of the best things to do in Salt Lake City for teens is Lagoon Amusement Park. We visit Lagoon every time we go to Salt Lake City.

Lagoon Amusement Park is the best family fun center in Salt Lake City. The park offers rides for all levels of thrill seekers, from roller coasters to carousels – there is something for everyone. 

The daredevil roller coaster, Cannibal, is Matthew and O’s favorite, but I won’t dare.

During the summer, they have a thrilling fireworks show every night that’s definitely worth taking in.

If you’re looking to cool off, there’s an water park inside the amusement park with waterslides, a lazy river, and more.

They also have a lot of food options for when your teens get hungry from all the excitement!

2. Go Skiing

If you think the best skiing is in Colorado, you haven’t been to the ski resorts in Cottonwood Canyon in the Salt Lake Valley.

If you’re visiting Salt Lake City in the winter, it would be a crime to miss out on all of the epic skiing opportunities.

We have personally skied Solitude, Snowbird, and Alta. All three resorts are within a short drive of the city and offer some of the best skiing in the country. 

Whether your teens are experienced skiers or just starting, there’s something for everyone.

You can rent equipment, take ski lessons or even go snowmobiling if you’re feeling adventurous.

Skiing near Salt Lake City is not nearly as budget-friendly as resorts in Idaho. However, we have some great tips to help you save some money even with more expensive resorts.

3. Take an Alpine Coaster

A wonderfully fun thing to do in Salt Lake City for teenagers is to feel the thrill of an alpine coaster. 

Utah’s longest alpine coaster is in Park City, just a short drive from the city. It’s perfect for teens who are looking for a thrill! 

You can ride on this rollercoaster-like ride while enjoying stunning views of the mountains and valleys below. It’s something they won’t forget any time soon.

There’s also an alpine slide at Snowbird, as well as a bobsled course at the Utah Olympic Park, and a zipline at Sundance. 

So no matter what kind of thrill your teens are looking for while visiting Salt Lake City, you’re sure to find it. Have fun!

4. Explore Park City

Park City is a great place full of fun things to do in Utah for young adults. It offers the alpine coaster we just mentioned as well as shopping, restaurants, galleries, museums, and more.

There are lots of things to do in the area, from skiing at Deer Valley resorts to taking a free tour of Park City’s historic mining district. Your teens will love exploring the streets, discovering unique shops and cafes, and having a great time.

It is just a perfectly quaint town.

Plus, Park City is home to some of the best skiing in the world, so it’s worth a visit. Have fun!

And if you happen to be in Park City in January, check out the famous Sundance Film Festival. Your teen can be a film critic and see some of the year’s best pictures. 

5. Go City Biking

Salt Lake City is the perfect place to explore by bike. With its many parks, trails, and scenic views, it’s a great way to get out and about while taking in the sights.

The city offers bike rentals through Green Bike Rental for less than $10 per day – an affordable way to experience the city from two wheels.

The last time we were in Salt Lake City we rented city bikes through the city-wide program, and it was easy and inexpensive.

If you prefer the expertise of a guide, can even take a guided bike tour, and learn interesting facts about the city’s history along the way.

The 3-hour Salt Lake City Big City Loop Bike Tour is the perfect introduction to the city on our favorite mode of transit.

6. Go Mountain Biking

One of our best tips for traveling with teens is to try new adventures. If you are open to a new experience, Salt Lake City has some amazing mountain biking.

Park City has some of the best trails in the country, and they range from beginner to expert level so everyone can join in on the fun.

Deer Valley also offers a great selection of mountain bike trails that are suitable for all levels.

The terrain is diverse, ranging from scenic single-track trails to more technical and challenging routes. Plus, you can take in stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains while you ride.

Solitude Ski Resort is another great spot for mountain biking. The resort offers a variety of lift-served trails with incredible scenery and challenging terrain.

No matter where you go, you’re sure to have a great time! So grab your bike and hit the trails – it’s an experience your teens won’t soon forget.

7. Go For a Hike In Big Cottonwood Canyon

Located just a short drive from downtown, Big Cottonwood Canyon is an ideal spot for teens to explore nature and go on hikes. Teens can take in the breathtaking views of the canyon as they make their way up trails like Donut Falls or Lake Blanche. 

The trails are well-maintained and offer a variety of difficulty levels, so everyone from beginner to seasoned hikers can find something to enjoy.

Plus, the sheer beauty of Big Cottonwood Canyon will make for an unforgettable experience.

Be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water as you explore the canyon.

8. Explore Temple Square

Home to the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir, the Salt Lake City temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and other attractions, Temple Square is a must for any visit to Salt Lake City.

Teens can explore the grounds and take in the magnificent architecture and unique history that make this area truly special. 

9. Go Whitewater Rafting

The rugged West is one of the best places in the world to paddle. We love to spend time in our Western city of Boise on the water and Salt Lake City has equally great waterways. 

If your teens are looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure, whitewater rafting is the perfect activity. 

The Green River offers some of the best rapids in Utah. 

Your teens can experience the thrill of navigating class III and IV rapids as they explore this scenic river.

The Green River is about 3 hours from Salt Lake so it may not be the best day trip, but if you have an overnight to spare check it out.

If you are looking for something closer to paddling, try a river trip on the Weber River in Ogden.

It is just an hour’s drive from Salt Lake. It is not as intense as the Green River, but its location makes it a perfect adventure day trip for you and your teen. 

Whether your teens are experienced rafters or just starting out, they’re sure to have a great time! Don’t forget to bring plenty of sunscreen and water too.

10. Learn Kiteboarding at Deer Creek Reservoir

Need another water suggestion?

Deer Creek Reservoir is the perfect place for teens to try kiteboarding. Uinta Kiting offers lessons and equipment rentals for anyone looking to learn this thrilling activity.

Kiteboarding is both fun and challenging, so it’s sure to keep your teens engaged during their visit. Along with the excitement of learning a new skill, teens can also revel in the stunning views of Deer Creek Resevoir.

After a day spent kiteboarding, you and your teens can relax on the shore and enjoy a picnic or just take in the scenery.

11. Take a Sightseeing Trolley

For a unique way to experience the city, hop on board a sightseeing trolley tour. 

The replica streetcars will take you and your teens back in time as you visit some of Salt Lake City’s most popular attractions.

The two-hour tour includes singing, period-acting hosts, and fun facts about historic sites, like the Utah state capital, along the route.

The Tour is aptly called a Show Tour of Salt Lake and will keep you and your teen entertained and informed.

12.  See Wildlife at The Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake is a major hub for wildlife viewing. From bald eagles and pelicans to shorebirds and waterfowl, there is such a diversity of wildlife.

Visit Antelope Island State Park to get up close and personal with some of the wildlife that call this area home. You’ll be able to spot hundreds of bison, coyote, bobcats, antelope, porcupines, big-horn sheep, mule deer, and much more.

Afterward, take a hike to Buffalo Point via a moderate and well-established .9-mile trail to catch the sunset.

If you have a car, you can certainly explore Antelope Island State Park on your own.

But if you are looking for the best spots for wildlife viewing and a stress-free experience, the Great Salt Lake Wildlife and Sunset tour is one of the top-rated guided tours in all of Salt Lake City.

This tour is great for teens who love nature and want to explore the great outdoors.

Don’t forget your camera – you won’t want to miss capturing breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake!

13. Take the Great Salt Lake Boat Tour

The Great Salt Lake is the largest lake west of the Mississippi. Parts of the lake are 10x as salty as the ocean.

Local lore says that a swim in the Great Salt Lake has curative effects.

After your dip, where you will truly float, take a boat tour of the lake.

The Great Salt Lake Boat Tours offer visitors an amazing view of the lake from the decks of their ships.

This tour provides insight into one of Utah’s most iconic natural landmarks in style with knowledgeable guides, comfortable seating, onboard refreshments, and more.

It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the Great Salt Lake in safety and comfort – perfect for teens who love adventure!

14. Take in the View at Ensign Peak

Ensign Peak is one of the most iconic places to visit in Salt Lake City. It is a short, steep, 1/3 mile trek to the top of this peak located just north of downtown. The breathtaking views from the summit are well worth the effort.

From here, you can see all that Salt Lake City has to offer, including the Wasatch Mountains, the Great Salt Lake, and most of downtown Salt Lake City.

It’s a great place for teens to take in some of Utah’s history, learn about the local landmarks, or simply enjoy a breathtaking view of the city below.

15. Check Out the Utah Olympic Park

Salt Lake City’s Olympic Park is a must-visit for teens. The 2002 Winter Olympics took place here, and the park now serves as a reminder of those games and is home to many outdoor activities.

Visitors can try out Ski Jumping, Bobsledding, Mountain Biking, Zip Lining, Bungee Trampolines, and more. It’s a great way for teens to challenge themselves and see the beautiful surroundings of Salt Lake City.

If you’re looking for a unique experience for your teen, Olympic Park is worth checking out.

16. Go Paragliding

Paragliding is an exhilarating and unique experience that teens are sure to love.

At Point of the Mountain, located just south of Salt Lake City, paragliding companies offer tandem flights for all levels – even beginners!

This spectacular spot offers some of the best views in Utah and gives you a bird’s-eye view of the Wasatch and Oquirrh mountain ranges. It’s an unforgettable experience that your teen will never forget!

Plus, if your teen is up for a challenge, Point of the Mountain offers lessons on how to paraglide solo. A great way to get away from it all and experience some stunning scenery above Salt Lake City.

17. Take a Ghost Tour

Salt Lake City is the perfect destination for teens looking to get a little spooky. Take a night-time ghost tour and learn about the haunted history of the city.

You can explore haunted historic buildings, listen to chilling tales, and even visit some of the most notorious spots in town.

It’s an exciting and educational experience that your teen will never forget. Who knows, perhaps they’ll even pick up a few ghost-hunting tips along the way!

18. Admire the Cosmos at Clark Planetarium

Head to the Clark Planetarium for a fun and educational experience. This family-friendly space museum has an impressive 3D theatre, laser shows, and interactive exhibits.

Teens can explore the universe in a variety of ways. Check out the space-related artifacts on display or take part in one of their engaging presentations.

You can even get a closer look at the night sky with their state-of-the-art telescopes.

Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of stargazing! It’s an amazing experience that teens are sure to love.

19. Hang Out With Wildlife

If your teenager is an animal lover, Salt Lake City offers a plethora of wildlife experiences that will surely captivate them.

Begin your teen’s adventure at the Hogle Zoo, where they can marvel at the diverse range of creatures from around the globe. Lions, tigers, giraffes, and elephants are just a few of the awe-inspiring animals waiting to be discovered.

For marine enthusiasts, a visit to the renowned Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. Here, your teen can immerse themselves in the mesmerizing world of underwater life, interact with marine creatures, and deepen their appreciation for the ocean’s wonders.

If you are at Liberty Park, don’t miss Tracy Avery, where a colorful array of bird species awaits. Your teen will have the chance to observe and engage with Tracy Avery’s feathered friends.

Whether your teen loves mammals, reptiles, or avian species, Salt Lake City offers an unforgettable wildlife experience for animal enthusiasts of all kinds.

20. Check Out the Local Food Scene

Exploring the local food scene is a truly fun things to do in Salt Lake City for young adults.

Start by visiting Pretty Bird, a popular spot known for its mouthwatering fried chicken sandwiches. Indulge in their crispy and flavorful creations that are sure to satisfy any appetite. The restaurant has four locations including one in downtown Salt Lake City. 

Don’t forget to save room for dessert and make a stop at Banbury Cross Donuts. Treat yourselves to an array of delicious donuts, ranging from classic flavors to unique creations.

21. Or Take a Cooking Class

If your teen is a budding chef, why not take advantage of the excellent cooking classes offered at SLICE-Salt Lake Culinary Education?

The class is an amazing way for your teen to learn how to cook and gain valuable kitchen skills. With classes like ‘Game of Scones’ and ‘Sushi Making’, they’re bound to have a blast.

SLICE even has junior chef classes for tweens and younger teens ages 9-14.

Let your teen take their cooking abilities to the next level with a professional culinary class at SLICE-Salt Lake Culinary Education!

22. Check Out A Professional Sports Game

Salt Lake City is home to two professional sports teams: the NBA’s Utah Jazz and Major League Soccer’s Real Salt Lake. Taking your teen to catch a live game of either sport is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

The atmosphere in Vivint Smart Home Arena, where the Jazz play their home games, is electric. With passionate fans, thrilling plays, and a raucous crowd, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Real Salt Lake is based in Rio Tinto Stadium and they offer a family-friendly atmosphere with exciting games. Both teams are sure to provide your teen with plenty of action and entertainment that they’ll love!

23. Ride the Trax

Salt Lake City’s public transportation system, known as the TRAX, is a great way for teens to explore the city in an eco-friendly and inexpensive way!

The light rail offers many convenient stops around downtown and can take visitors to various attractions like museums, shopping centers, restaurants, and more. 

24. Get Wet at Cowabunga Bay Water Park

If you’re looking for an exciting day full of fun but want something more low-key than Lagoon, Cowabunga Bay Water Park is the perfect spot.

Located in nearby Draper in the Salt Lake Valley, this water park has something for everyone.

From thrilling slides to lazy rivers and wave pools, your teen will love all that Cowabunga Bay has to offer. They also have tons of kid-friendly activities like mini golf, rock climbing, and laser tag.

So grab your bathing suits, towels, and sunscreen and head over to Cowabunga Bay Water Park for a day of fun in the sun!

25. Visit the World Famous Natural History Museum of Utah

No trip to Salt Lake City is complete without visiting the world-famous Natural History Museum of Utah. This museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, artwork, and multimedia from various cultures throughout history.

From dinosaur fossils to American Indian textiles, your teen will learn so much about our past while exploring this incredible museum. They can also get up close and personal with some of the artifacts in hands-on exhibits.

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a must-see for anyone visiting Salt Lake City, so make sure to add it to your list!

26. Hike Through Red Butte Garden

Embark on a captivating adventure with your teen as you hike through the scenic wonderland of Red Butte Garden.

As the largest botanical garden in the West, this natural oasis is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Take in the breathtaking views, discover a diverse range of plant species, and immerse yourselves in the tranquility of this botanical haven.

Not only is Red Butte Garden a great place to connect with the natural world, but it also provides the perfect backdrop to put their best teen technology to work for those Instagram-worthy social media shots.

Capture stunning moments amidst vibrant flowers, serene ponds, and captivating landscapes. Let your teen unleash their inner photographer and create lasting memories in this picturesque setting.

27. Take a College Tour

Taking a college tour at the University of Utah is a valuable experience for older teens.

Even if attending college in Utah is not your teen’s plan, visiting campuses helps them practice their college visit skills and gain insights into different educational environments before they graduate and head off on that senior trip.

The University of Utah, with its stunning campus nestled against the backdrop of the majestic Wasatch Mountains, offers a fantastic opportunity for exploration.

From state-of-the-art facilities to a vibrant student community, the university provides an enriching learning environment.

By visiting the University of Utah, you can broaden your perspective and make informed decisions about your future education.

28. Check Out the Street Art

Salt Lake City is home to a vibrant street art scene, with colorful murals and graffiti dotting the cityscape.

Two of the most popular spots for street art are The Blocks, a collection of galleries and shops near the downtown area, and the Granary District.

At The Blocks, visitors can spot world-class graffiti artists working on large-scale murals and browse the eclectic art stores.

The Granary district is also a great place to explore, with its vibrant street art adorning buildings in this historic neighborhood

29. Visit A Museum

Salt Lake City is home to several museums where teens can explore interesting topics.

We already mentioned the Natural History Museum, but Salt Lake City has more in store.

For those interested in the arts, The Leonardo and the Utah Museum of Fine Arts are also great places to visit.

The Utah Museum of Fine Arts is located on the campus of the University of Utah and houses over 20,000 works from all over the world. Visitors can explore ancient Egyptian artifacts, Renaissance art, and modern pieces among others.

The museum hosts various tours, workshops, lectures, and events throughout the year that facilitate the discovery of these masterpieces. The museum encourages visitors to interact with the art and free admission for all on the first Wednesday and third Saturday.

The Leonardo is a unique museum located in Salt Lake City that celebrates the intersection of science, technology, and art.

Visitors can explore interactive exhibits about engineering and robotics, learn about natural phenomena through live demonstrations and engage with inspiring artworks from both local and international artists.

The Leonardo is sure to provide an educational experience for all ages!

This is Your Place Heritage Park is another museum in Salt Lake City that shows visitors what life was like as a pioneer. 

The museum is worth mentioning if you have a teen who is really into history, but we feel it is a better fit for things to do with kids in Salt Lake City. 

30. Try Indoor Skydiving

Indoor skydiving is an exciting activity that teens and adults can enjoy together. iFly Salt Lake City offers a thrilling experience for both the first-timer and the veteran flyer.

At iFly, participants are safely suspended in a vertical wind tunnel while they fly up to 30 feet into the air. The wind speeds reach 125mph, creating an incredible sensation of free-falling from a plane.

Instructors are on hand to offer guidance and tips, ensuring that everyone gets the most out of their indoor skydiving experience.

 Before entering the wind tunnel, participants must attend a brief training session where they learn safety rules and flying techniques.

iFly accepts flyers from 3 to 100 years young making it a great indoor kid activity in Salt Lake City for the kid in each of us. 

31. See a Broadway Show

The Eccles Theater in Salt Lake City is the perfect place for teens to experience a high-quality, world-class Broadway show. From musicals and comedies to dramas, there’s something for everyone at the Eccles Theater.

Teens will love being able to see their favorite Broadway shows right in their own backyard. The seating is comfortable and the acoustics are top-notch, making it an ideal location to see a show. Plus, teens can get discounts on tickets when they buy early or in bulk.

The Eccles Theater is also conveniently located near plenty of restaurants for dinner before the show or dessert afterward. Teens will have a night to remember at this iconic Salt Lake City destination.

32. Hear the Famed Tabernacle Choir

Attending a performance or practice of the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir with your teen is an experience they won’t soon forget. 

The choir consists of 360 volunteer members and performs in the majestic Salt Lake City Tabernacle for free concerts every Sunday evening.

Bringing your teen to one of these performances is sure to be a special event. The acoustics alone make it a truly unique experience that can’t be replicated anywhere else.

 The music is so beautiful and powerful, with the choir blending their voices in perfect harmony.

Your teen will also learn about the history behind this world-famous choir and gain an appreciation for how much hard work and dedication goes into making each performance so special.

Tickets to see the Choir are typically complimentary, but must be ordered in advance.

You can also ccouple the performance with a larger bus tour of Salt Lake City and make a day of exploring the city and hearing it’s world famous choir.

33. Explore Timpagonos Cave

Exploring Timpanagonos Cave with your teen is an adventure like no other.

Located about an hour from Salt Lake City, the cave is a popular outdoor destination. Every tour of the cave must be guided by a National Park ranger and bookings must be made in advance.

The ranger will provide information about the history and geology of Timpanogos Cave while leading your family on an hour-long journey through its depths.

Your teen will appreciate learning about this natural from Salt Lake City, the cave is a stunning underground wonderland of stalactites and stalagmites.

It’s a great outing for teens who love exploring nature and discovering hidden gems.

34. Shop at City Creek Center

City Creek Center is the perfect place for teens to get their shopping fix. It is a Salt Lake City teen local favorite.

 Located in Salt Lake City, this mall offers a wide variety of stores with something for everyone. From trendy fashion stores like Forever 21 and H&M to tech boutiques like Apple and Microsoft, there’s something for even the pickiest teen fashionista.

The mall also offers plenty of entertainment options. From the outdoor fountain and waterfall to a bowling alley, it’s easy to keep your teen occupied while you shop in peace.

City Creek Center also features a variety of delicious restaurants perfect for refueling after a day of shopping. Whether your teen wants some classic American cuisine at Johnny Rockets or something more adventurous like sushi, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

As if that wasn’t enough, City Creek Center also has a movie theatre and plenty of special events throughout the year. If your teen loves shopping, then this is the perfect destination!

35. See the Mighty 5

Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks are some of the most spectacular sights in the world and, even though they aren’t located in Salt Lake City itself, they’re just a short trip away.

Salt Lake City can serve as a great starting point for a road trip to explore these incredible parks. With five different parks– Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion National Park – there’s plenty to see.

The closest park is Arches National Park, located just outside of Moab, Utah. From Salt Lake City, it takes about four hours to drive there. Other parks such as Bryce Canyon and Zion are located a bit further away but can still be reached in under 8 hours by car.

36. Check Out Yellowstone

If you’re looking for an epic adventure with your teen, there’s no better place to visit than Yellowstone National Park!

Yes, we know the park is definitely not in Salt Lake City, but it is close.

Located just over 6 hours away from Salt Lake City, this incredible natural wonder is home to an array of unique and breathtaking sights.

At Yellowstone, you can explore colorful hot springs, geysers, and mudpots; witness bison, elk, and other wildlife in their natural habitat; take a hike through lush forests and open meadows; and get up close with wildflowers.

Plus, the park is home to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone – a stunning canyon carved by glaciers that features incredible views from its different overlooks.

There’s no better way to bond with your teen than exploring the wonders of Yellowstone together.

FAQ: Salt Lake City with Teenagers

Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City with Teens

From skiing and snowboarding to exploring Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks, Salt Lake City offers plenty of activities for families with teens.

Whether you’re looking to take in the city sights or go on a thrilling outdoor adventure, there’s something for everyone making Salt Lake City a great family vacation.

And if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, don’t miss out on a road trip down to Yellowstone National Park – it’s just a 6-hour drive away!

We specialize in finding the best things to do with teens in other great western cities in the United States like Seattle – and now, we have the ultimate list for Salt Lake City.

We hope you’ve found a couple of great things to do in this beautiful city or in the gorgeous natural world just outside of its borders.