The Utah State Capitol, located in Salt Lake City, serves as the seat of government for the state of Utah. Completed in 1916, the neoclassical-style building was designed by architect Richard K.A. Kletting and is perched atop Capitol Hill, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. The Capitol houses the Utah State Legislature, the Governor’s Office, and the Supreme Court.

Constructed primarily of Utah granite from Little Cottonwood Canyon, the Capitol features a 256-foot-high dome, inspired by the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Inside, its grand marble staircase, murals, and historic artifacts highlight Utah’s rich heritage. Renovations in 2004–2008 included seismic upgrades, restoration of original details, and the addition of modern amenities.

The Capitol grounds span 40 acres and are meticulously landscaped with trees, sculptures, and monuments. Key features include the Mormon Battalion Monument, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Law Enforcement Memorial. Lining the approach to the Capitol are cherry trees, gifted by Japan, which bloom spectacularly each spring. The Utah State Seal is embedded in the plaza, and reflection pools enhance the setting.

As a hub for public events, the Capitol hosts legislative sessions, public tours, and annual celebrations and public protests.

The Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (UMOCA), located in the heart of Salt Lake City, is a leading institution for contemporary art in Utah. Established in 1931, UMOCA has evolved into a dynamic space for innovative and thought-provoking art that reflects the complexities of the modern world. The museum’s mission is to advance and elevate the appreciation of contemporary visual arts through exhibitions, artist residencies, and educational programs.

UMOCA showcases diverse contemporary works from local, national, and international artists. Its exhibitions span various mediums and explore pressing social, political, and cultural issues. UMOCA’s programming fosters dialogue and creativity, strongly emphasizing engaging the community. The museum offers artist workshops, lectures, and events that provide a platform for learning and interaction.

In addition to its exhibitions, UMOCA is known for its commitment to supporting emerging artists through its Artist-in-Residence program, which offers studio space and resources to foster creative development. By continuously pushing the boundaries of contemporary art, UMOCA has become a vital cultural institution in Utah, contributing significantly to the region’s artistic landscape and connecting Utah’s art scene with the global art community.

The Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre, located at 5150 Upper Ridge Road in West Valley City, Utah, is a premier outdoor concert venue renowned for its impressive lineup of performances and scenic backdrop. Established in 2003 as the USANA Amphitheatre, it underwent a rebranding in early 2024 following a new sponsorship agreement with Utah First Credit Union.

According to KSLTV.Com, with a seating capacity accommodating up to 25,000 attendees, the amphitheater offers both reserved seating and expansive lawn areas, providing a versatile environment for a wide range of musical events. Its strategic location near Salt Lake City, combined with state-of-the-art facilities, has made it a favored destination for both artists and fans.

Over the years, the venue has hosted an array of notable performances spanning various musical genres. In October 2024, Imagine Dragons, the acclaimed rock band originating from Las Vegas, delivered a series of electrifying shows as part of their “Loom World Tour,” captivating audiences with hits like “Thunder” and “Radioactive.”

In September 2024, legendary rock bands Def Leppard and Mötley Crüe co-headlined a memorable concert, treating fans to classic anthems such as “Pour Some Sugar on Me” and “Kickstart My Heart.” The amphitheater’s diverse lineup has also featured performances by artists like Earth, Wind & Fire, Janet Jackson, Ghost, Marilyn Manson, and Limp Bizkit, showcasing its commitment to offering a wide spectrum of musical experiences.

As it continues to evolve, the Utah First Credit Union Amphitheatre remains a cornerstone of Utah’s live music scene, attracting major artists and providing unforgettable experiences for concertgoers. Its blend of top-tier performances and picturesque setting ensures its status as a cherished venue for years to come (Wikipedia).

The Utah Cultural Celebration Center (UCCC) is a vibrant community hub located in West Valley City, Utah. Established as a space to celebrate the diverse cultural heritage of the region, the UCCC plays a key role in fostering understanding, unity, and appreciation among the various cultural communities in the area.

The center hosts a wide array of events, including art exhibitions, performances, festivals, and educational programs that showcase the rich cultural tapestry of Utah. These events range from traditional dance and music performances to contemporary art shows, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists from different cultural backgrounds.

The UCCC’s facilities include a large outdoor amphitheater, galleries, and event spaces that are used for both public and private gatherings. The center is particularly known for its annual festivals, such as the WorldStage! Concert Series and the Dia de los Muertos celebration, which draw large crowds and highlight the traditions and customs of various cultures.

In addition to its event offerings, the UCCC is deeply committed to community engagement and education. Through workshops, lectures, and collaborative projects, the center encourages dialogue and learning, helping to build bridges between different communities and promote a more inclusive society in Utah.

Urban Arts Gallery, located in Salt Lake City’s bustling downtown at The Gateway, is a vibrant space dedicated to showcasing contemporary and urban art from Utah’s diverse community of artists. Operated by the Utah Arts Alliance, this nonprofit gallery champions local talent, highlighting a dynamic mix of street art, pop art, surrealism, photography, and mixed media. Urban Arts Gallery frequently rotates its exhibitions, offering monthly themes that allow artists to explore new concepts, connect with audiences, and address timely cultural or social topics.

The gallery is particularly popular for its collaborative, community-centered atmosphere. It often hosts events, artist talks, workshops, and live art demonstrations, providing a platform for engagement between artists and visitors. Urban Arts Gallery is well-known for making art accessible and appealing to all, with pieces available for purchase and prices that range from entry-level to higher-end works. Its mission to foster creativity, inclusivity, and expression has made it a beloved cultural hub for locals and tourists alike.

Through its commitment to diverse artistic voices, Urban Arts Gallery has significantly contributed to Salt Lake City’s vibrant art scene, making it an essential stop for anyone interested in experiencing the pulse of modern art in Utah.

The Union Event Center, located at 235 North 500 West, Salt Lake City, is a premier venue renowned for hosting diverse events, including concerts, corporate gatherings, and non-profit functions.

Over the past three years, the center has welcomed many notable performers across various genres. In 2024, the venue featured acts such as Nothing But Thieves on October 22, Dan and Phil’s “Terrible Influence” tour on October 20, Neck Deep’s “The Dumbstruck Dumbf!@k North American Tour” on October 17, Alec Benjamin’s “12 Notes Tour” on October 14, and Valley on October 13. Earlier that year, performances included Dropkick Murphys on October 9, Judah & The Lion’s “The Process Tour” on October 8, Atmosphere’s “The Traveling Forever Tour” on October 5, lovelytheband & Mod Sun’s “Here’s Your Flowers Tour” on October 4, and Faye Webster on October 3. In 2023, the venue hosted The Mars Volta on October 12, delivering an outstanding show with impressive sound quality and atmosphere. (Source: Concert Archives.)

The Union Event Center boasts a capacity of 3,500, making it one of the larger venues in the area. Its versatile space is designed to accommodate a wide range of events, from intimate gatherings to large-scale concerts. The venue is committed to providing exceptional experiences for attendees, with a focus on high-quality sound and lighting systems to enhance performances. (Source: Bandsintown.)

As of January 2025, the center continues to attract top-tier talent, with upcoming performances by artists such as Jack White, The Used, and Mayday Parade scheduled for later in the year. (Source: Bandsintown.)

For more information on upcoming events, ticket purchases, or venue rental inquiries, interested parties can visit the official website at theunioneventcenter.com or contact the venue directly at (385) 831-7771 or via email at info@theunioneventcenter.com.

Under the Umbrella Bookstore in Salt Lake City is an independent, queer-owned bookstore that celebrates LGBTQ+ voices and stories. Located in the heart of the city, this vibrant space is dedicated to fostering an inclusive, welcoming environment where people of all identities can find literature that resonates with them. The store specializes in books by and about queer authors, focusing on themes of self-discovery, resilience, and community. It features a thoughtfully curated selection spanning genres from fiction and memoirs to young adult and children’s literature, ensuring diverse voices are represented across its shelves. Alongside its book offerings, Under the Umbrella hosts events like book clubs, author readings, and community discussions, providing a platform for connection and expression. With its commitment to representation and inclusivity, Under the Umbrella has become a cultural hub in Salt Lake City, creating a safe and inspiring space for all.