There’s nothing quite like snow-capped pine trees dressed in blinking, twinkling lights to set the mood for the holiday season. Whether you spend the day pounding powder or you’re more of a see-and-be-seen snow bunny, downtown Salt Lake City is one spot you don’t want to miss.
Here’s how to spend the holiday season in Salt Lake City. (Photo Credit: David Hunter)
You don’t need to fly too far south for that idyllic winter experience. (Photo Credit: Jake Nackos)
At the heart of it all is Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City, mere steps from the city’s top restaurants and bars, and a quick shuttle bus ride from the region’s famous ski slopes. From holiday markets and art festivals to the lighting of the Christmas Tree in Temple Square, Salt Lake City is a great home base for all your local holiday adventures.
A Park With Spirit
This is the Place is a park that certainly lives up to its name — especially during the holiday season. Head over during the daytime and take a ride on the trains or shop in the village, where the Mercantile Store stocks old-time candy, children’s gifts, and classic toys.
Enjoy the holiday markets in SLC, reminiscent of those in Europe. (Photo Credit: @maximalfocus)
Twinkle lights sparkle all over Salt Lake City in the winter. (Photo Credit: Jake Weirick)
In December, there’s a Christkindlmarkt, a shopping experience similar to Germany’s famous Christmas markets. Taking place the first week of December, the Christkindlmarkt is packed with holiday shopping, food, and entertainment. Get there early at the start of the market so you can experience the stunning Christmas Tree Lighting.
A Square With Rhythm
The holidays come to life at Temple Square, the central location of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The Square starts its holiday transformation the day after Thanksgiving, when the Christmas lights are lit and members of the church start decorating the square with lights and various nativities.
Temple Square is the crown jewel of the city. (Photo Credit: Devin Justesen)
Free concerts from local schools and choirs happen daily, but the Mormon Tabernacle Christmas Concert is the most coveted Christmas event in the Square.
A Ski Experience With Speed
There’s no place quite like Olympic Park, which was used during the 2002 winter Olympic games. Just 25 miles east of SLC, the park is a perfect day trip for the sports lover on your list, where you can visit the world’s highest-altitude ski jumps or just relax on the chair lift as you make your way to the top of the ski run.
Mountain slopes define the landscape of Salt Lake City. (Photo Credit: Bradyn Shock)
If adrenaline runs through you, make your way to the Comet Bobsled ride for an 80-mile-per-hour ride down the trail. And if adrenaline does not run through you, explore the Alf Engen Ski Museum, an ode to the 2002 Olympics.
A Museum With Style
The Utah Museum of Fine Arts has more than what adorns its walls. Take in the art collections, then shop at the museum’s boutiques which feature jewelry, pottery, and art crafted by local artists.
Swing by the MFA for some culture in the city. (Photo Credit: Jake Nackos)
Every third Saturday of the month is “Family Day,” during which admission is free to all families. And during the first week of December, the MFA hosts its annual Holiday Market — don’t miss a chance to find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list.
Where to stay: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
Sking, visit museums, …,,,