Become a Spring Scientist at Clark Planetarium 

This 10,000-square-foot planetarium will have you and your kids channeling your inner scientist. From robot racing, to the popular IMAX Dome Theatre, this is an experience that is out of this world and fun for the whole family.

Thanksgiving Point

This venue, Thanksgiving Point, is a site for two separate and equally awesome museums, The Museum of Natural Curiosity and The Museum of Ancient Life.

Explore the Spring Sky at Thanksgiving Point's Museum of Natural Curiosity

First up, the Museum of Natural Curiosity offers an immersive educational experience designed to ignite curiosity in visitors of all ages. Interact with wind, water, and earth or design and construct your own plane or rocket. Get lost (and found) in an interactive maze with aviation facts, NASA history and puzzles. With over 400 interactive exhibits spread across five engaging galleries, families can explore science, art, and nature in dynamic ways. From the waterworks zone to the outdoor adventure area, there's something for everyone to discover and enjoy at this innovative museum.

Study the Dinosaurs' Last Spring at Thanksgiving Point's Museum of Ancient Life

Second, the Museum of Ancient Life, offers a captivating journey through prehistoric times with its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, interactive exhibits, and lifelike reconstructions. Visitors can marvel at the impressive displays, including a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton and a recreation of a Jurassic-era ecosystem, providing an immersive and educational experience for all ages.

Play Like a Grownup at Discovery Gateway Children's Museum

Located in downtown Salt Lake at The Gateway, this museum will have children playing “grown-up” with immersive exhibits like a grocery store, paleontology lab, bank, life-sized house, and farmland. The museum also has walkable restaurants, murals, and playgrounds all at The Gateway and is a great day activity.

Study Dr. Jan Goodall and her Chimpanzees at the Natural History Museum of Utah

One of Utah’s most renowned museums, NHMU, is located in the foothills of Salt Lake. With sprawling dinosaur exhibits and cultural artifacts, this museum will not disappoint and is fun for both children and adults alike. Also, right in time for spring break, teach your children about the chimpanzees with the museum’s inspiring traveling exhibit, Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Dr. Jane Goodall. 

Study the Intersection of Art and Science at The Leonardo Museum of Creativity and Innovation

The Leonardo Museum is a dynamic fusion of science, art, and technology, providing visitors with hands-on experiences and thought-provoking exhibits that inspire creativity and innovation. From interactive displays exploring the intersection of art and science to workshops and events fostering experimentation, the museum offers an immersive journey into the realms of invention and discovery.

Harness Your Inner Utah Pioneer at This Is The Place Heritage Park

Step back in time at this living history park nestled against the picturesque backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains, where visitors can experience the pioneer spirit. With over 50 historic structures, interactive demonstrations, docents in historic attire, and engaging activities, the park offers a captivating glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of Utah's early settlers.

Enjoy a Sunny Spring Day at Utah’s Hogle Zoo

What better family activity than a day at the zoo with over 800 animals representing diverse species from around the world? From the African savanna to the Asian highlands, visitors can explore naturalistic habitats and engage in conservation efforts while enjoying captivating animal encounters and interactive exhibits.

Listen to the Bird's Spring Songs at Tracy Aviary

Nestled within one of Salt Lake’s largest outdoor parks, Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary provides a serene escape into the world of birds with its diverse collection of over 400 species. Visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with a variety of avian inhabitants, participate in educational programs, and explore beautifully landscaped exhibits that promote conservation and appreciation for our feathered friends.

Spy Spring Wildflowers on the Living Room Hike

One of the staple Salt Lake hikes is The Living Room. Located above The Natural History Museum of Utah, this is a great hike to do after the museum or great to do on its own. It’s known for its famous views of the valley while relaxing on sandstone slab couches. This hike is considered a moderately challenging route of 2.3 miles out and back, and 977 feet of elevation gain.

See the Entire Salt Lake Valley from the Ensign Peak Hike

If you’re looking for an easier and shorter hike while not compromising views, check out Ensign Peak. This hike is 0.9 miles out and back, and 374 feet of elevation gain. Although short, it is a steady and steep climb that will leave you rewarded with sprawling views of the valley and educational signage at the monument on top.

Find Floral Architecture and Garden Displays at International Peace Gardens

Sitting along the Jordan River Pathway, the International Peace Gardens serve as a tranquil oasis promoting unity and cultural understanding through its diverse array of meticulously curated gardens representing nations from around the world. Visitors can stroll through themed sections, each reflecting the unique flora and cultural heritage of different countries, fostering a sense of harmony and global cooperation.

Enjoy a Spring Picnic at Liberty Park

Liberty Park offers a picturesque retreat for locals and visitors alike, boasting sprawling green spaces, recreational facilities, and serene ponds. With its scenic walking paths, playgrounds, and picnic areas, Liberty Park provides the perfect setting for outdoor relaxation and family-friendly activities amidst the vibrant heart of the city.

Breathe in Fragrant Roses at Gilgal Sculpture Garden

This peculiar garden is a secret spot that many locals still don't know about. Tucked in the middle of the city behind houses and businesses, this garden contains 12 original sculptures and over 70 stones engraved with scriptures, poems, and literary texts. Although small, it is a unique and eclectic garden to check out while visiting.

Beyond Salt Lake Adventures - Take a Road Trip to Utah's National and State Parks

Looking to extend your spring break trip? Did you know that Salt Lake has over 60 national and state parks only a few hours away? Yet another spectacular perk of choosing Salt Lake for your spring break family vacation. Try one of Utah's famous Mighty 5 national parks - Arches, Canyonlands, Zion, Bryce, or Capitol Reef. Or explore one of the many unique state parks like Antelope Island, Goblin Valley, or Dead Horse Point, all of which will provide you and your family with unforgettable, Utah-only adventures with mind-blowing outdoor fun and beauty. Salt Lake is a great jumping off point for any of these vacations, and will give you even more to do.