Salt Lake CityOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt
In the heart of the Rockies, where Mormon history meets grand nature
What to do in Salt Lake City? Nestled at the foot of the majestic Wasatch Mountains, Salt Lake City is a unique city, rich in history and culture. Founded by Mormon pioneers, it offers a fascinating blend of iconic architecture, vast green spaces, and breathtaking views of the Great Salt Lake. Explore the famous Temple Square, admire the imposing Utah State Capitol, or stroll through the modern City Creek Center. For an unusual activity, our outdoor escape game invites you to transform your visit into a real urban treasure hunt. This scavenger hunt will lead you to discover the city's secrets and anecdotes, off the beaten path, all while solving exciting puzzles. Ideal for an original outing with family or friends, this trail promises a fun immersion in Salt Lake City's heritage. Discover below the trail we offer in Salt Lake City:
Temple Square — Pioneers' Hidden Legacy
Decipher the coded legacy Brigham Young hid among Temple Square's monuments to protect the pioneers' founding secrets from hidden foes. Uncover the truth before it's lost forever.
Temple Square — The Desert Covenant
Decipher the hidden covenant that bound the pioneers in secrecy. Uncover coded clues across Temple Square to expose the forbidden pact that shaped their desert empire before it's lost forever.
Landmarks of Salt lake city
Monuments and sites covered by our escape games across the city.
Unusual things to do in Salt Lake City
For an unusual activity in Salt Lake City, our outdoor escape game is a perfect option. Far from traditional guided tours, this trail immerses you in the city's mysteries, revealing hidden details about Mormon history, Victorian architecture, and urban legends. Imagine deciphering symbols carved on the facades of the historic district or following clues leading to unexpected corners around Temple Square. It's an original outing that stimulates the mind and allows you to see the city from a new perspective, turning every street into a potential clue. A memorable experience for those looking to go off the beaten path.
Things to do in Salt Lake City with kids
What to do with the family in Salt Lake City? Our outdoor escape game is an ideal activity for all ages, suitable from 8 years old. Children will love searching for clues and feeling like real explorers, while teenagers will be captivated by the puzzles to solve. Parents, meanwhile, will appreciate discovering the city's heritage in a fun and interactive way. The trail is designed to be safe, with GPS guidance ensuring no one gets lost. It's a kids' activity and a teen outing that offers a unique bonding experience, transforming a simple walk into a memorable family adventure.
Salt Lake City for couples
Salt Lake City for couples offers beautiful views and a serene atmosphere, ideal for a romantic getaway. Our outdoor trail transforms a simple stroll into an interactive and memorable couples' outing. Imagine holding hands, solving puzzles while exploring the peaceful gardens of Temple Square or the charming downtown streets. It's a romantic activity that allows you to share laughs, tackle challenges together, and create unique memories. Away from the crowds, you'll discover fascinating anecdotes about the city, strengthening your bond with each clue found. An original way to experience Salt Lake City as a couple.
What to do in Salt Lake City when it rains
What to do in Salt Lake City when it rains? Although our escape game is an outdoor activity, it's entirely possible to enjoy the trail even in light rain. Downtown Salt Lake City offers several covered passages, notably within the City Creek Center, an open-air mall with a retractable roof and numerous arcades. The areas around Temple Square and the State Capitol also provide sheltered spots. The scavenger hunt will lead you through these locations, allowing you to continue the adventure while staying relatively dry. It's a wet-weather activity that reveals another charm of the city, when its landmarks take on a special hue in the rain.
Where is Salt Lake City, and where do the routes start?
Starting points of our routes and the places they pass through.
Route starting points
Places in Salt Lake City
- This Is The Place Heritage Park ("This Is The Place" Monument)
- Temple Square (Salt Lake Temple exterior)
- FamilySearch Library (main entrance)
- Beehive House (main facade)
- Lion House (facade)
- Utah State Capitol Building (front entrance)
- City Creek Park (Mormon Pioneer Memorial Monument)
- Pioneer Memorial Museum (facade)
- Assembly Hall
- Beehive House
- Lion House
- Salt Lake Tabernacle
- This Is The Place Heritage Park Monument
- Pioneer Park
- Council Hall (former City Hall)
- Salt Lake City and County Building
The history of Salt Lake City
Pioneer Settlement and City Foundation
Salt Lake City's history began on July 24, 1847, when Brigham Young, leading 148 Mormon pioneers, entered the Salt Lake Valley. They sought refuge from religious persecution and a place to establish their religious community. Young reportedly declared, "This is the right place." The pioneers immediately began cultivating the land and planning their new city. The city was laid out in a grid pattern of 10-acre blocks with wide streets, following Joseph Smith's vision for the "City of Zion." It was initially known as Great Salt Lake City, a name shortened to Salt Lake City in 1868. The region was part of Mexico upon their arrival but was ceded to the United States in 1848 by the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Utah became a U.S. territory in 1850.
Growth, Industry, and Architecture
The California Gold Rush in 1849 contributed to the city's early growth. Salt Lake City served as the territorial capital from 1856 to 1896, becoming the state capital upon Utah's admission to the Union. The opening of the mining industry in the 1860s and the arrival of the Utah Central Railroad in 1870 transformed Salt Lake City into a commercial center. Many of the city's architectural landmarks date from this period. The Salt Lake Temple took 40 years to build, with construction beginning in 1853 and its dedication occurring in 1893. The Utah State Capitol Building, a neoclassical revival structure, was constructed between 1912 and 1916, using granite from Little Cottonwood Canyon.
What to see in Salt Lake City
- Temple Square — This 10-acre complex is the center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It contains the Salt Lake Temple, the Salt Lake Tabernacle known for its acoustics, and the Gothic Victorian-style Salt Lake Assembly Hall. Two visitors' centers provide information about the Church.
- Utah State Capitol Building — This neoclassical revival building, completed in 1916, houses the state government. Its dome is covered with Utah copper, and the grounds feature native Utah plants and monuments, including a Vietnam Memorial and the Mormon Battalion Monument.
- Beehive House — Built in 1854, this was one of Brigham Young's residences and served as the executive mansion for the Utah Territory. Designed by Truman O. Angell, it is a Greek Revival style home with a beehive sculpture on top.
- Lion House — Constructed between 1855 and 1856, this stuccoed adobe home was also a residence for Brigham Young and his family. It is named for the recumbent lion statue on its front portico and was designed to accommodate Young's large family, including a dining room that could seat 70 people.
- This Is The Place Heritage Park — This living history park commemorates the arrival of the Mormon pioneers in 1847. It features historical buildings, monuments, and offers a view into pioneer life.
- FamilySearch Library — This facility is one of the largest genealogical libraries in the world, offering resources for tracing family history and is open to the public.
When to visit Salt Lake City
The best times to visit Salt Lake City are during the shoulder seasons: March to May and September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and crowds are smaller than in peak summer or winter. Spring offers warming temperatures in the valley while snow can still be found in the mountains. Fall offers crisp temperatures and autumn foliage in the nearby canyons. Summers (July and August) can be hot and dry, with temperatures frequently reaching above 90°F (32°C), making it less suitable for extensive outdoor city exploration. Winters (December to March) are cold and snowy, with temperatures often below freezing, suitable for ski enthusiasts but less for city sightseeing.
Getting around Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is the main airport, located about 7 miles northwest of downtown. Public transportation is managed by the Utah Transit Authority (UTA), offering buses, TRAX light rail, and the FrontRunner commuter rail. The TRAX light rail has three lines (Red, Blue, Green) serving downtown, the University of Utah, and the airport. A Free Fare Zone operates within downtown for TRAX and buses. For longer distances, the FrontRunner connects Salt Lake City with cities like Ogden and Provo.
Walking is an option in many central areas. Downtown offers over 32,000 parking spots in garages, lots, and metered street parking. Metered street parking costs $3.50 per hour and is enforced Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 10 PM. Parking at City Creek Center offers the first two hours free. On Sundays, street parking at meters is free.
Things you probably do not know about Salt Lake City
Verified details most visitors walk straight past.
- Salt Lake Temple
- What unusual material was initially considered for the Salt Lake Temple's massive walls? Brigham Young initially favored building the Salt Lake Temple's walls from adobe with a thin veneer of stone, which would have required very thick walls. However, the decision was later made to use solid hand-carved pieces of granite of the same thickness.
- Utah State Capitol Building
- What unexpected source provided crucial funding for the construction of the Utah State Capitol? Seed money for the construction of the Utah State Capitol Building came in 1911 when the state collected nearly $800,000 in inheritance tax from the estate of railroad magnate E.H. Harriman.
- Beehive House
- Beyond being a residence, what diverse roles did the Beehive House play for Brigham Young and his family? The Beehive House not only served as Brigham Young's primary residence but also functioned as his office and a reception area for official visitors. His estate also included numerous other structures to accommodate his large family, such as a barn, wood shed, dovecote, carpenter shop, and even a general store.
- Lion House
- The Lion House is named for a statue, but what inspired that particular lion? The lion statue on the front portico of the Lion House is a replica of one that occupied a similar position on a prominent home in Vermont, where Brigham Young was born and spent his youth.
- Temple Square
- How did the completion of the Transcontinental Railroad impact the construction of the Salt Lake Temple? Before the Transcontinental Railroad was completed in 1869, it took four days for each quartz monzonite block to be transported from Little Cottonwood Canyon to Temple Square by oxen. After the railroad, the journey became much quicker by rail.
- City Creek Park (Mormon Pioneer Memorial Monument)
- What natural event led to the seagull becoming Utah's state bird? In 1848, a late frost, drought, and a plague of crickets threatened the pioneers' harvest. Flocks of seagulls consumed the crickets, saving enough of the crop for the settlers to survive the winter of 1848-49. In gratitude, the seagull was later designated Utah's state bird.
Questions about visiting Salt Lake City
What is the best way to get around Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City has a public transportation system operated by UTA, including TRAX light rail, buses, and the FrontRunner commuter train. There is a Free Fare Zone downtown for TRAX and buses. Walking is also an option in central areas.
How many days should I spend in Salt Lake City?
To see the main historical sites, cultural attractions, and some of the nearby natural areas, a visit of 2 to 4 days is recommended. This allows for exploration of downtown and a day trip to the surrounding mountains.
What are the best neighborhoods to explore in Salt Lake City?
Beyond downtown, consider exploring areas like the Avenues for historic homes and views, Sugar House for its atmosphere and local shops, or the University area for its collegiate charm and museums. Each offers a different local character.
What is the typical budget for a trip to Salt Lake City?
A mid-range budget for Salt Lake City could be around $150-$250 per night for accommodation during peak seasons, with shoulder seasons offering lower rates. Daily expenses for food and activities can vary, but budget for meals and attractions.
Is Salt Lake City a good destination for families with children?
Yes, Salt Lake City offers many family-friendly attractions, including This Is The Place Heritage Park, the FamilySearch Library for genealogy, and several museums. The city's parks and proximity to outdoor activities also make it appealing for families.
What are the local transportation options from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)?
From SLC, you can take the TRAX Green Line directly to downtown Salt Lake City. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also available.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an outdoor escape game in Salt Lake City cost?
Our outdoor escape game in Salt Lake City starts at €12 per team (1 phone). For multiple players on the same trail, it's €19 for 2 phones and €25 for 3. The price remains the same regardless of the number of participants in your team, making it a very affordable activity for families or groups of friends. There is no City Pass available as we currently offer only one trail.
Is the escape game in Salt Lake City suitable for children / families?
Yes, our trail in Salt Lake City is perfectly suited for families and children aged 8 and up. The puzzles are designed to be accessible and fun for all ages. Younger players can enjoy searching for visual clues in the environment, while teenagers and adults focus on solving logical and historical challenges. Step-by-step GPS guidance ensures a smooth and safe progression, with no risk of getting lost in the city.
How long does an outdoor escape game in Salt Lake City last?
Our outdoor escape game in Salt Lake City typically lasts between 1h30 and 2h30, depending on your pace and ability to solve the puzzles. It's a self-guided game, meaning you can start whenever you want and take breaks if needed. This offers great flexibility to fit it into your sightseeing schedule, whether for a morning, an afternoon, or a slot between other activities.
Do I need to book in advance for an escape game in Salt Lake City?
Online booking for our escape game in Salt Lake City is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended, especially if you plan to play on weekends or during peak tourist seasons. You receive an activation code instantly by email after purchase, and this code has no expiration date. So you can use it whenever you wish, offering you great organizational freedom.
What is Salt Lake City known for? / What to visit in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City is primarily known for its Mormon history and unique culture. Must-sees include Temple Square, the world headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with its beautiful gardens and iconic temple. The Utah State Capitol, offering impressive architecture and panoramic views, is also a must-visit. Finally, the Great Salt Lake, one of the largest saltwater lakes in the world, is a natural wonder not to be missed. Our escape game trail naturally incorporates these iconic locations, allowing you to discover them while playing.
What is the best season to visit Salt Lake City?
The best season to visit Salt Lake City depends on your preferences. Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer mild temperatures and a beautiful setting with the Wasatch Mountains covered in wildflowers or autumn colors, ideal for outdoor activities. Summer (July-August) is hot and sunny, perfect for enjoying parks and patios, but it's best to play early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Winter (November-March) is ideal for winter sports, but our escape game remains playable thanks to the covered passages downtown.
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Activities to discover nearby
Guided tours, skip-the-line tickets and local experiences to book in advance.
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