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Salt Lake City, UT · Guide

Rainy-day activities for kids in Salt Lake City

Last updated October 13, 2026 · 11 places

When the weather outside isn't cooperating, Salt Lake City offers a variety of indoor adventures to keep kids engaged and entertained. From exploring the wonders of science to stepping back in time, there are plenty of opportunities for fun, learning, and family connection, no matter the forecast. This guide focuses on entirely indoor activities, perfect for a cozy day in the city. Whether you're near downtown or venturing a bit further, these spots provide a welcome escape from the elements.

Good to know this fall

The first truly wet weekends of fall catch everyone off guard — indoor play spaces and museums hit capacity by late morning. Arrive at opening, or save the trip for a weekday afternoon when school is in session.

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  1. 01

    Temple Square

    4.7 (20,816)50 North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150, USA
    CalmAll ages

    Temple Square features beautifully maintained grounds and historic buildings. New exhibits and statues are present, alongside a visitors center. It offers a peaceful and inviting experience, with special seasonal displays.

    Parent tip · Consider buying tickets ahead of time for the guided tour downstairs in the visitor center.
  2. 02

    Natural History Museum of Utah

    4.8 (7,847)301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
    LivelyBest for school-age

    This museum offers impressive dinosaur displays, geology exhibits, and Native American culture sections. Interactive elements make it engaging for all ages, and seasonal exhibits keep it fresh.

    Parent tip · Admissions can sometimes be free with rewards from the county library reading challenge.
  3. 03

    City Creek Center

    4.5 (17,131)50 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    City Creek Center is a clean, modern shopping center with a wide variety of stores and dining options. Its indoor design provides a comfortable atmosphere for exploring, shopping, or enjoying a meal.

    Parent tip · Parking is available in an underground garage and is often free.
  4. 04

    Fashion Place

    4.4 (12,449)6191 S State St, Murray, UT 84107, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    Fashion Place is a busy, well-maintained mall with a good mix of stores and dining options. It has a lively feel and offers plenty of parking.

    Parent tip · Visiting on a Monday can offer a calmer, more relaxing shopping experience.
  5. 05

    Salt Lake Chinatown

    4.6 (2,489)3370 S State St, Salt Lake City, UT 84115, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    Salt Lake Chinatown is an Asian market with a variety of shops, eateries, and a grocery store. It offers unique products, fresh seafood, and games for kids.

    Parent tip · There are games at the entrance where kids can win toys.
  6. 06

    Salt Lake City Public Library

    4.6 (1,261)210 E 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
    Kids' menu likelyCalmAll ages

    The Salt Lake City Public Library features stunning architecture with ample natural light. It has a well-designed children's section, a cafe, shops, and a rooftop garden with beehives.

    Parent tip · Get your parking validated at the library for two free hours in the parking garage.
  7. 07

    Megaplex West Valley City at Valley Fair Mall

    4.4 (4,085)3601 S 2400 W, West Valley City, UT 84119, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    This movie theater location is noted for its XD experience, comfortable seats, and cleanliness. Some reviews mention long waits for concessions and older theater seats in non-XD auditoriums.

    Parent tip · The XD auditoriums offer a more comfortable seating experience.
  8. 08

    The Gateway

    4.2 (13,513)400 W 200 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    The Gateway is a vibrant outdoor mall with shops, restaurants, and art installations. It offers various activities and spaces for families, including an illusion museum and Dave & Buster's.

    Parent tip · There are areas for hanging out or spending money on fun activities with kids.
  9. 09

    Discovery Gateway Children's Museum

    4.4 (2,652)444 W 100 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, USA
    LivelyBest for preschool

    Discovery Gateway Children's Museum offers three floors packed with hands-on activities, including a construction zone, bakery, and farm. It's recommended for children aged three and up.

    Parent tip · Ask about discounted parking at the front desk, which can be as low as $2 for three hours.
  10. 10

    Cinemark West Valley City and XD

    4.4 (2,216)5412 High Market Dr, West Valley City, UT 84119, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    Cinemark West Valley City and XD provides a clean movie-going experience with comfortable seats, particularly in the XD auditoriums. Some reviews mention older seats in non-XD theaters.

    Parent tip · The XD auditoriums feature luxury recliners, offering a more comfortable viewing experience.
  11. 11

    Trolley Square

    4.3 (4,297)602 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102, USA
    Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

    Trolley Square offers a unique historic atmosphere with a variety of shops and eateries. It features a mother's lounge in the women's restroom and spaces with model trains.

    Parent tip · The women's restroom includes an impressive mother's lounge.

Common questions

How were these rainy-day activities in Salt Lake City chosen?

Each place starts from current local listing data for Salt Lake City, then is screened for family fit — things like kids' menus and high chairs, how loud it gets, the ages it suits best, and practical details like stroller room and wait times.

How current is this guide?

This guide was last updated in October 2026. FamSpots refreshes its city guides on a rolling schedule, and each page shows its own update date at the bottom.

Is FamSpots free?

Yes. Every city guide is free to read with no account. Creating a free account adds recommendations tuned to your kids' ages, interests, and dietary needs. No credit card is required.

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