Salt Lake City isn't just a winter wonderland—it's a living museum of Olympic history. As the proud host of the 2002 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Salt Lake continues to buzz with the same energy that captivated the world. Whether you're gearing up for the 2034 Winter Games or simply looking to soak in some legendary sports history, our Olympic venues offer something for everyone. Step into the shoes—or skates—of champions and relive the exhilarating moments that made history. From avid sports enthusiasts to casual fans, these iconic venues are a must-see on your next Salt Lake adventure.
The 2002 Olympic Medals Plaza's Hoberman Arch
When visiting Salt Lake, your Olympic adventure kicks off the moment you step off the plane. Just outside Salt Lake International Airport, you'll spot the stunning Hoberman Arch, a piece of Olympic history that's as iconic as it gets. This recently restored beauty was the centerpiece of the 2002 Olympic Medals Plaza and found its new home here in 2023.
After the games, the Hoberman Arch was displayed at Olympic Cauldron Park until 2014, when it went into storage and, sadly, had some pieces stolen. But fear not! Salt Lake City is thrilled to have it back in all its Olympic glory, greeting visitors right from the start.
Whether you're in a rental car or a ride-share, keep your eyes peeled as you leave the airport. This impressive 72-foot wide, 36-foot tall arch will be on your left-hand side, ready to welcome you to an unforgettable journey through our city’s rich Olympic heritage.
Utah Olympic Park
Next up on your Olympic adventure, just 25 miles east of Salt Lake City, is the Utah Olympic Park—where fun and history collide. Want to dive deep into the world of Olympic glory? Grab a guided tour and uncover jaw-dropping achievements and quirky stories you won't find anywhere else. Seriously, these tours are popular, so snag your tickets in advance before they’re all gone.
If you prefer to go at your own pace, opt for the self-guided tour and start at the Winter Games Museum. Here, you’re not just a spectator; you’re a part of the action with interactive and virtual exhibits. And guess what? Self-guided tours are completely free! So go ahead, flex those trivia muscles, and immerse yourself in the Olympic spirit.
The Thrills of Utah Olympic Park
Buckle up for adventure because the Utah Olympic Park is not for the faint of heart. Home to one of only four sliding tracks in North America and six Nordic ski jumps, this place is an adrenaline junkie's dream.
In the summer, you can rocket down the ski jumps on tubes, and in winter, experience the ultimate thrill on the 2002 Olympic bobsled track. Professional pilots will take you on a ride that’s one for the bucket list.
Thought that was it? Guess again. Here you can watch athletes put on jaw-dropping shows, zoom over the Olympic jumps on one of the world’s steepest zip lines, or try your hand at a variety of other exhilarating activities. These action-packed experiences are must-dos while you’re visiting.
Emigration Canyon to Olympic Cauldron Park
After getting your adrenaline-pumping at the Utah Olympic Park, it's time to follow the flame. Head back to Salt Lake County and visit the iconic Olympic Cauldron Park, where the 2002 opening and closing ceremonies wowed the world.
If time allows, we recommend taking the scenic route through Emigration Canyon. Fun fact: during the Olympic torch relay, the torch breezed through this very canyon and made a pit stop at This Is the Place Heritage Park (another must-see!). If you're pressed for time, skip the scenic drive and head straight to Rice-Eccles Stadium.
At the southwestern corner of the stadium, you’ll find the very same cauldron that held the Olympic flame, surrounded by eight monuments that tell the story of the games with photos and info plaques. Just remember, it’s an outdoor venue, so bundle up if it's chilly out.
Abravanel Hall's Olympic Tower Chandelier
Calling all art lovers! The 2002 Olympics didn’t just bring athletic glory to Salt Lake City; it brought a wave of artistic brilliance too. Enter Dale Chihuly, the world-renowned glassblower who created the awe-inspiring Flame Chandelier, also known as the Olympic Tower Chandelier. This towering, flame-red glass sculpture is a sight to behold at Abravanel Hall, home of the Utah Symphony.
Just a short drive from the Olympic Cauldron, this stop is perfect for adding a touch of artistic flair to your Olympic tour. So, swing by and prepare to be dazzled by this magnificent masterpiece that perfectly captures the Olympic spirit of Salt Lake.
Delta Center to Utah Olympic Oval
Ready to wrap up your Olympic tour with a bang? As you leave Abravanel Hall, take a drive by the Delta Center. It's not just the home of the NBA's Utah Jazz but also a key Olympic venue where figure skating championships took stage. Although you can't tour the Delta Center, it's a cool spot to drive by and imagine the grace and speed that once graced its ice.
If you’ve still got some stamina, head over to the Utah Olympic Oval, home to the fastest ice on earth. Feel the chill and excitement of a venue where records were shattered and dreams came true. Visitors can glide on Olympian ice during public skating sessions or try out a unique sport with the "Learn to Curl" program. This two-hour on-ice class covers the basics of curling and promises to test your own athletic abilities… and trust us, it’s harder than it looks on TV.
Just remember to check the website in advance—these classes are popular and usually only happen once a week, plus public skating has specific times and dates. So, lace up those skates, grab a curling stone, and channel your inner Olympian. And if you fall on the ice, just call it a "strategic move"—we won't tell.
Impress your friends with your knowledge and plan a fun-filled, historic Olympic day on your trip to Salt Lake. If you’d like to follow this itinerary, here is a Google map of the suggested route: