Welcome to Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is a vibrant destination with easy access to cultural, culinary and outdoor adventures. In the month of May, Salt Lake City enjoys mild temperatures and while mountains are often still snow-capped, the valleys are green and blooming. You will find there are many activities around and within the city, which will make your breaks during the Annual Meeting enjoyable.

Temple Square and downtown

While visiting, it is a great opportunity to learn about the culture and history of Salt Lake City. The city was founded on July 24, 1847, by early pioneers of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints led by Brigham Young, escaping persecution in the east of the US. The city is built around Temple Square, where the Salt Lake Temple can be found. Although the Temple is currently closed while under construction, the Church History Museum at Temple Square will offer a detailed history on Salt Lake and the pioneer settlements.

The city grid is based on the Temple, with street numbers increasing to all four directions (North, East, South, West) based on the proximity to the Temple. The Salt Palace Convention Center (home to ARVO 2025) is located on 100 S (one block south of the Temple) W Temple Street (street on the west side of Temple Square). The area by the Convention Center is quite walkable, and just across the street you can find City Creek Center, a mall that is great for a stroll. Many restaurants and bars are within walking distance, including Keys on Main — be sure not to miss the ARVO Karaoke Night* there on Wednesday night (May 7)!
* must be 21 years or older to attend (tickets can be purchased with/added to your Annual Meeting registration)

The Utah State Capitol

Perched on a hill overlooking the city is the Utah State Capitol. Surrounded by cherry trees, which typically bloom in mid-to-late April, the grounds around the Capitol offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. You can also learn about Utah’s history there, or simply enjoy the architecture of the building. The adjacent Memory Grove Park invites for a walk, and the Capitol scenic overlook offers a nice sunset spot.

Concerts, museums and culture

Salt Lake City is home to many concert venues, and locals especially enjoy outdoor concerts during the summer months. While most concerts are during the months of June - September, it is worth checking local venues if you are a music enthusiast. The Utah Symphony is fantastic, and for those interested in opera, the Utah Opera will perform Puccini’s Madame Butterfly during the week of ARVO 2025 at the Janet Quinney Lawson Capitol Theatre.

The Natural History Museum of Utah with exhibits on dinosaurs, Native American culture, and Utah’s geology is a local favorite. The Utah Museum of Fine Art is also worth a visit — it currently presents a traveling exhibition called “Gateway to Himalayan Art” from the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art. The Downtown Farmers Market kicks off in May, offering fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food from Utah-based vendors on Saturdays from 8am to 2pm. It’s a great way to support local businesses.

Gardens, parks and hikes

Spring is the perfect time to visit the various parks and gardens in Utah. Red Butte Garden is a stunning botanical garden and arboretum featuring themed gardens and scenic walking paths. Located in Liberty Park, the Tracy Aviary is home to a diverse collection of birds from around the world. The Tulip Festival at Thanksgiving Point (about 30 minutes south of Salt Lake City) will be open from April 9 – May 17, offering beautiful gardens to enjoy the beauty of spring.

Various hiking trails may give you some exercise after a long day at the Annual Meeting. Nice hikes in close proximity to downtown are Ensign Peak, which overlooks the city, as well as the Living Room Trail on the west side of the Wasatch Mountains.