FEATURE and Salt Lake City collide for the first time in celebration of the NBA’s annual All-Star Weekend. Being held at Vivint Arena in Salt Lake City, while you’re not taking part in the NBA’s All-Star Weekend celebrations (like our exclusive FEATURE NBA Pop-Up), there’s much to do in Salt Lake City that is ideal for anybody visiting this historic city for the first time. Keep reading to take a look at some of our top picks for things to see and do in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Valter’s Osteria

First opening in 2012, luxury Italian restaurant Valter’s Osteria is located in Downtown Salt Lake City, and describes itself as a modern twist on a Tuscan granary. This high-end dining experience is sure to make an impression on any trip to Salt Lake City. This Salt Lake City mainstay was established by the late legendary chef Valter Nassi, whose restaurateur resume spans all the way from Italy and Switzerland to England and Kenya. The contemporary Itlaian aesthetic makes it a popular spot for not only locals and tourists, but is also a frequent stop for Utah Jazz players and other notable Utah figures. Some notable dishes from the restaurant include the handmade lasagna and simple bean soup.

Click here to visit Valter’s Osteria website + to book a reservation.

Antelope Island State Park

For something more geared towards the outdoors types, at a glance, the 28,022 acres of Antelope Island State Park appears to be barren and deserted. But this historic state park is actually home to a massive amount of flora and wildlife, most notably the antelope and american bison. Antelope Island State Park is a perfect place to take a step outside of the city and watch some beautiful sunrises and sunsets. Enjoy the marina, beach picnic area, and camping areas with your loved ones. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches that are perfect to spend your day at. The Great Salt Lake is connected to Antelope Island, so its essential to visit this lake’s extremely salty water (It’s even saltier than the ocean, and its extra buoyancy results in people floating on the surface). 

For more information on Antelope Island State Park + to book a campsite, click here.

Historic Main Street in Park City

Located on the basecamp of a former silver mining town, Main Street in Park City has become a Salt Lake City classic with its array of luxury shops, art galleries, and boutique restaurants. Walk along this historic street and take in the sights of what has come to represent the heart of one of the most popular mountain towns in the west. Main Street is perfect for the whole family and you’re guaranteed to find the perfect place to eat with restaurants such as Riverhouse on Main, Yuki Yama Sushi, and Grappa Italian Café. Other more laid-back eateries can be found at Wasatch Brewery and No Name Saloon. For those interested in bars, breweries, and distilleries, Wasatch Brewery and High West Distillery are great options to enjoy a hand-crafted beverage after a long day of exploring Salt Lake City.

Click here for a more in-depth look at Historic Main Street in Park City.