1. Park City - 45-minute day trip from Salt Lake City
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Location:
Park City, UTHighlights:
Coming from Salt Lake City? You’re in for a treat—this nearby mountain escape is perfect year-round. We always recommend Park City for its blend of outdoor fun and small-town charm.Recommended For:
Skiers, snowboarders, film lovers, mountain bikers, and anyone who enjoys lively mountain towns with a historic twist.What I Love: ♥
Top-tier ski resorts, scenic bike trails, Sundance energy, and preserved 19th-century architecture on Main Street.- Shred the slopes at Park City Mountain, the largest ski resort in the U.S., or glide through the pristine runs at Deer Valley.
- Explore vibrant Main Street, dotted with galleries, eateries, and historic buildings from its mining town days.
- Bike award-winning mountain trails when the snow melts, offering breathtaking views and challenging terrain.
- Shop northern Utah’s largest collection of factory outlet stores for major brands and local finds.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
Just about a 45-minute drive—super easy for a day trip or weekend getaway.How to Get to Park City:
Head east on I-80 from Salt Lake City. Take Exit 145 toward Kimball Junction, then follow UT-224 into town. Simple and scenic!2. Ogden, Utah - Only a 35-minute drive
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Location:
Ogden, UTHighlights:
Need a quick escape from Salt Lake City? Ogden is just a half-hour away and packed with history, charm, and adventure for all ages.Recommended For:
Families, history buffs, skiers, art lovers, and travelers looking for a unique blend of heritage and fun.What I Love: ♥
Historic 25th Street’s speakeasy roots, top-tier skiing nearby, and museums that kids and adults both love.- Ski the slopes at Snowbasin, Nordic Valley, or Powder Mountain—three world-class resorts just outside the city.
- Wander 25th Street for art galleries, Prohibition-era stories, lively bars, and standout restaurants.
- Explore Historic Union Station’s museum complex featuring trains, firearms, cowboy heritage, and more.
- Bring the kids to the Treehouse Museum or Eccles Dinosaur Park for hands-on fun and dinosaur discoveries.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
Only a 35-minute drive north—ideal for a full day or weekend getaway.How to Get to Ogden:
Take I-15 North from Salt Lake City straight into Ogden. Use Exit 341 for easy access to downtown and 25th Street.3. Antelope Island State Park - 1 hour by car
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Location:
Antelope Island State Park, UTHighlights:
If you’re in Salt Lake City and craving wild views and wide-open skies, Antelope Island is a quick escape that feels like another world. We always tell friends it’s one of the best places to see bison roam free just an hour from the city.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, hikers, cyclists, campers, photographers, and anyone seeking scenic solitude close to Salt Lake City.What I Love: ♥
Sweeping lake views, incredible wildlife sightings, and trails that make you feel a million miles away.- Hike or bike along 25 miles of rugged backcountry trails through terrain that’s equal parts dramatic and peaceful.
- Spot wildlife including bison, antelope, and coyotes—especially near the Fielding Garr Ranch living history museum.
- Swim or paddle from sandy beaches, or dock at the marina for a different view of the Great Salt Lake.
- Stay overnight at RV or primitive campgrounds for epic sunsets and stargazing away from city lights.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
Around 1 hour by car, depending on traffic and entry point to the causeway.How to Get to Antelope Island:
Drive north on I-15 and take Exit 332 to Antelope Drive in Syracuse. Follow the signs to the seven-mile causeway that leads directly to the park entrance.4. Bear Lake - 2 hours and 15 minutes by car
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Location:
Bear Lake, UT/IDHighlights:
Looking to escape the city heat? Bear Lake is our go-to summer spot for crystal-clear water, fresh berries, and lake-town charm just a few hours from Salt Lake City.Recommended For:
Swimmers, boaters, fishing fans, families, festival-goers, and anyone chasing that perfect lakeside day.What I Love: ♥
The unreal turquoise water, beachy state park vibes, and fresh raspberries in summer—especially during Raspberry Days.- Swim or sunbathe at Rendezvous Beach or Cisco Beach, both equipped with marinas and boat ramps for easy lake access.
- Fish for native species like Bonneville cutthroat trout and the rare Bear Lake sculpin in pristine freshwater.
- Pick raspberries in the surrounding valley or join in the fun at the annual Raspberry Days festival with parades, rodeos, and more.
- Explore nearby Garden City and Laketown, where cozy cabins, lakeside dining, and raspberry shakes await.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
About 2 hours and 15 minutes by car, depending on your route and stops along the way.How to Get to Bear Lake:
Head north on US-89 from Salt Lake City. Pass through Logan Canyon for stunning views as you descend toward the lake and Garden City.5. Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge - 1 hour and 15 minutes
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Location:
Brigham City, UTHighlights:
If you’re up for a peaceful day away from Salt Lake City, Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a birdwatcher’s paradise tucked where the river meets the Great Salt Lake. It’s one of those places we love to escape to when we need nature, quiet, and incredible views.Recommended For:
Birders, photographers, families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a tranquil, educational outdoor experience.What I Love: ♥
Spotting bald eagles and swans, the peaceful 12-mile driving loop, and the hands-on Wildlife Education Center.- Drive the 12-mile auto tour loop—open sunrise to sunset—and listen to an audio guide about the refuge’s unique wetland ecosystems.
- Visit the James V. Hansen Wildlife Education Center to learn about the region’s birds and explore its wetland trail.
- Look out for seasonal migrations of tundra swans, shorebirds, and bald eagles across the refuge’s 74,000 acres.
- Enjoy photography, walking, or peaceful observation along easy-access paths perfect for families and casual explorers.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes north by car—an easy nature day trip.How to Get to Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge:
Head north on I-15, then take Exit 363 toward Forest Street in Brigham City. Follow Forest Street west straight to the refuge and visitor center.Romantic Day Trips from Salt Lake City:
6. The Bonneville Salt Flats - 1 hour and 45 minutes
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Location:
Bonneville Salt Flats, UTHighlights:
Craving otherworldly views just a drive from Salt Lake City? The Bonneville Salt Flats are like stepping onto another planet—flat, gleaming, and surreal in the best way.Recommended For:
Road trippers, photographers, geology buffs, race fans, and travelers seeking epic landscapes off the beaten path.What I Love: ♥
That mirror-like salt crust, the peaceful silence, and catching a glimpse of world-speed record attempts in action.- Marvel at the vast salt crust left behind from prehistoric Lake Bonneville—stretching across 30,000+ acres of open flats.
- Stop at the I-80 viewing area near Wendover, where you can walk onto the salt and take in endless panoramic views.
- Watch land speed races during Bonneville Speed Week in August or other major speed events held throughout the year.
- Respect the delicate ecosystem—avoid driving or walking during wet conditions, and stay on designated areas to protect the crust.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
Around 1 hour and 45 minutes west by car on I-80.How to Get to the Bonneville Salt Flats:
Drive west on I-80 from Salt Lake City toward Wendover. Use the signed Bonneville Salt Flats exit for the viewing area and speedway access.7. Cedar City - 4 hours by car
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Location:
Cedar City, UTHighlights:
Need a weekend escape from Salt Lake City? Cedar City is your perfect basecamp for national park hopping and award-winning theater in one charming small town.Recommended For:
Road trippers, national park explorers, theater fans, families, and anyone craving both outdoor beauty and cultural buzz.What I Love: ♥
Access to Zion and Bryce, the jaw-dropping views at Cedar Breaks, and summer nights under the stars with Shakespeare.- Explore nearby national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Capitol Reef are all within a few hours’ drive, plus the North Rim of the Grand Canyon.
- Visit Cedar Breaks National Monument for stunning high-altitude views and wildflower-filled meadows just 30 minutes away.
- Catch a world-class play at the Utah Shakespeare Festival or laugh along with the Neil Simon Festival’s summer lineup.
- Stroll through downtown Cedar City, filled with local shops, friendly cafes, and the vibrant Southern Utah University campus.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
Around 4 hours by car—ideal for a long weekend getaway.How to Get to Cedar City:
Head south on I-15 from Salt Lake City all the way to Exit 59. Follow signs into Cedar City’s historic downtown district.8. Cove Fort - 2 hours and 30 minutes from Salt Lake City
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Location:
Cove Fort, UTHighlights:
History buff or road tripper from Salt Lake City? Cove Fort is a quick detour that offers a rare glimpse into Utah’s pioneer past—perfect for stretching your legs and your curiosity.Recommended For:
History lovers, families, road trippers, and anyone interested in pioneer-era stories and architecture.What I Love: ♥
The fort’s volcanic rock construction, period-furnished rooms, and stories of Pony Express and telegraph days.- Tour the fully preserved 1867 fort with all 12 rooms furnished just like they were in pioneer times.
- Learn about its role as a 19th-century waystation, complete with blacksmith shop, telegraph office, and Pony Express stop.
- Appreciate the rare volcanic rock construction that’s kept this place standing through more than a century of Utah history.
- Enjoy free guided tours daily—led by friendly, knowledgeable volunteers from the LDS Church.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
About 2 hours and 30 minutes south by car on I-15—easy to add to a southern Utah road trip.How to Get to Cove Fort:
Take I-15 south from Salt Lake City to Exit 135. Merge onto Highway 161 and follow signs to the fort, located between Fillmore and Beaver.Family Day Trips from Salt Lake City:
9. Crystal Hot Springs - 1 hour and 30 minutes
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Location:
Honeyville, UTHighlights:
Need a little R&R just north of Salt Lake City? Crystal Hot Springs is a natural wonder that’s all about soaking, sliding, and relaxing—with a fascinating history to match.Recommended For:
Families, wellness seekers, campers, road trippers, and anyone looking for a warm dip in a natural setting.What I Love: ♥
The mineral-rich pools, jetted hot tubs, waterslides, and the WWII-era healing legacy of the springs.- Soak in the world’s largest natural hot springs, with pools ranging in temperature from 65°F to 134°F.
- Swim in the Olympic-sized pool or relax in one of three jetted hot tubs open year-round.
- Slide down two 360-foot water slides that add some splashy fun to the hot springs vibe.
- Camp under the stars at over 100 shaded campsites with fire rings, restrooms, and even a carp pond for fishing.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
Just about 1 hour and 30 minutes north by car—an easy half-day or weekend getaway.How to Get to Crystal Hot Springs:
Drive north on I-15 to Exit 372 (UT-38). Head east into Honeyville and follow signs to the entrance at 8215 UT-38.10. Eden - About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car
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Location:
Eden, UTHighlights:
Just a short drive from Salt Lake City, Eden is our favorite hidden gem for epic skiing in winter and jaw-dropping mountain views year-round. It’s peaceful, scenic, and packed with adventure.Recommended For:
Skiers, snowboarders, hikers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the crowds and breathe in alpine air.What I Love: ♥
Powder Mountain’s legendary slopes, scenic gondola rides, and summer hot-air balloon views over Pineview Reservoir.- Ski or snowboard at Powder Mountain, one of Utah’s most laid-back and expansive ski resorts.
- Ride the Needles Express Gondola to 8,800 feet and dine with a view at Needles Lodge.
- Hike or bike the South Skyline Trail—9.5 miles of stunning terrain with year-round views.
- Soar in a summer hot-air balloon and take in panoramic views of the Ogden Valley and mountain peaks.
Distance from Salt Lake City:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes by car—easy for a day trip or long weekend stay.How to Get to Eden:
Drive north on I-15 to Ogden, then follow UT-39 east through Ogden Canyon. Take Highway 158 to reach Eden and the surrounding resorts.Plan Your Trip