Salt Lake City Summers

There is an evident outdoorsy-family vibe in Salt Lake City, Utah

. You know this high-altitude region for its snow-capped mountains, scenic peaks and epic ski resorts, but the summer brings out a whole new side to this lakeside town.

With the warmer weather comes biking, hiking and swimming — all conveniently located within steps of downtown attractions. Plan for it all with the family this summer and purchase a Visit Salt Lake Connect Pass for easy access to all the top city sites, including discounted admission to The Leonardo, Natural History Museum of Utah, Red Butte Garden and the Clark Planetarium, among about a dozen others.

Depending on the length of your stay, choose from one-, two- or three-day passes, beginning at $32 per adult and $26 for children aged 3–12. For families really looking to take advantage of the city’s top locales, the pass can offer 50–80 percent discounts from full-priced individual admission tickets.

© Steven Melanson | Dreamstime.com

With the warmer weather and blossoming foliage, your nature lovers will enjoy a ride up the Wasatch Mountains for the Snowbird Aerial Tram ride to Hidden Peak. Enjoy the unbeatable view with the kids and explore the city’s beautiful landscape.

Speaking of nature, there is plenty to explore on foot or bike if heights aren’t your thing. Hit the trails by foot through City Creek Canyon or check out Red Butte Bridge for a more challenging trek.

Rent a bike and ride along Bonneville Shoreline Trail for miles or get out on the road through Emigration Canyon. For those feeling adventurous, check in with Canyon Sports and rent some sporting supplies, or opt for some mountain biking and more challenging trails with the help of Trek Bicycle Store. For a simple bike ride through town, to and from destinations enjoying the warmer weather and exercise with the family, GREENbikeSLC is a local non-profit fit for the job.

Relax from a long day of riding, sightseeing and hiking with an alfresco family meal. For cheap eats and a casual vibe, Beerhive Pub’s comfort menu and massive beer selection is a no-brainer. Just looking for something quick and easy for the kids after a long day? Check out JB’s Family restaurant. The comfort food menu and kid-friendly atmosphere will do the trick.

For something a little more upscale, treat yourselves at Current Fish and Oyster with a spacious outdoor patio and fresh seafood, or check out Avenues Proper for something in between. Either way, you’ll have relaxing atmosphere, beautiful scenery and something good to eat — for all ages and appetites.

Keep the fun going with one of Salt Lake City’s many summer concert series lineups. Check out the long list of summer events from Kenny Chesney to Sam Smith. Find your show and plan your trip around the concert or check out more from the versatile city before your next trip. Clearly, Salt Lake City has more to offer than just snow peaks and skiing.