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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Utah

Historical sites

Historical sites that offer a genuine look at the past instead of a sanitized version designed for a quick photo opportunity.

Based on 530 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Hill Aerospace Museum image 1
Hill Aerospace Museum image 2
Hill Aerospace Museum image 3
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Large, climatized hangars house world-famous warplanes and modern jets in a spacious, clean layout that feels like a private hanger. The atmosphere is quiet and family-friendly, with veterans sharing stories and interactive features like a VR flight simulator and aircraft visitors can enter. Free entry and accessible amenities make it welcoming for all ages.

Many interesting facts about aircraft fill the exhibits. Helpful volunteers share engaging history that appeals to both children and adults.

Displays feature aviation history and military aircraft with detailed exhibits. The experience offers a strong sense of historical significance and quality.

People are saying

"You can go inside some of the aircraft at this museum."

"It's a fun place to see aviation history and neat airplanes."

"I found the museum really interesting and informative."

Good to know

1

The Hill Aerospace Museum is free to enter for all visitors.

2

Every Friday features 'Fly-By Fridays,' a special event with unique activities.

3

Open aircraft days allow visitors to explore additional aircraft up close.

02
Museum of Mormon Mexican History image 1

Museum offers a spiritual feeling with varied exhibits on Mormon history in Mexico. Admission is free, supported by donations, and tours are bilingual and knowledgeable. Displays include historic sacrament trays dating back about 100 years.

Exhibits show Sacrament trays from about 100 years ago and cover Mormon Mexican history. Plenty of varied and interesting items appeal even if history is not your thing.

Displays include excellent dioramas of early church history in Mexico. The museum offers a deep look into the Mormon church's past in the region. It holds plenty of interesting exhibits for history buffs and casual visitors alike.

People are saying

"I found the exhibits really interesting and varied."

"I found the Museum of Mormon Mexican History to be an interesting little museum."

"The historical sites here have really knowledgeable staff."

Good to know

1

Admission is free, but donations are encouraged to support the museum.

2

The tour guide is bilingual for Spanish speakers.

3

The museum features a variety of interesting exhibits.

03
Union Station image 1
Rail museum

Spanish Colonial Revival architecture shapes a grand, historic building filled with vintage locomotives and hands-on train exhibits. The atmosphere stays calm and inviting, with quiet spaces that highlight the heritage and history throughout. Interactive areas for children and a mix of museums create a family-friendly educational experience.

Historic locomotives and train history create a vintage vibe throughout the station. Multiple museums offer a collection of interesting exhibits and displays that highlight the area's past.

Historic locomotives and railroading history stand out here. The site also features the John M. Browning Firearms Museum and an antique car exhibit, offering a broad look at industrial history.

People are saying

"It's super interactive and has hands-on activities for kids."

"It's a historical train station packed with cool rail history."

"I found this place pretty interesting for seven bucks."

Good to know

1

Entry to four museums at Union Station costs $7.

2

Union Station hosts a variety of community events throughout the year.

3

The annual model train show is a popular event at Union Station.

04
Hutchings Museum image 1

Museum offers hands-on exhibits and a dense collection covering local history, fossils, minerals, and Native American artifacts. Atmosphere feels welcoming and educational, with spaces suited for families and children. Exhibits include unique features like a Wild West jail and a rare aquarium, creating a varied and engaging experience.

Displays include genuine pottery, ceramics, and petroglyphs from American Indians, plus mineral specimens from across Utah. The collection packs a lot of interesting history and artifacts into a compact space.

Exhibits focus on local history with detailed stories about original users of artifacts. Collections cover both natural history and historic items, offering a deep look into the area's past.

People are saying

"The lantern light tour was a unique and fun activity, even with refinements needed."

"It's really fun and kid friendly with lots of interactive exhibits."

"I found the historical sites packed with local history and personalized displays."

Good to know

1

Admission is free for children under 5 years old.

2

The museum store has affordable gifts and educational items.

3

Special events often feature reenactments and themed activities.

05
Roots of Knowledge at Utah Valley University image 1

A panoramic stained glass wall tells the detailed story of human knowledge through history, culture, and science. Light filtering through the glass creates a breathtaking atmosphere, especially near sunset. Visitors explore intricate panels filled with hidden Easter eggs and use interactive iPads or QR codes to deepen understanding.

Artifacts embedded in glass make the history in the images feel real and relatable. The stained glass display offers a beautiful and interesting visual experience.

A very long wall shows the detailed history of human knowledge from creation to today. Art and embedded artifacts make the story real and relatable while the intricate portrayal adds depth.

People are saying

"The artwork and installations here are incredible."

"The stained glass exhibit here is breathtaking and intricate."

"The historical sites here have incredible detail in the stained glass."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $1 per hour with a two-hour minimum plus tax.

2

There is no cost to visit the exhibit.

3

Visit about one hour before sunset for the best lighting.

06
Springville Museum of Art image 1

Historic building with unique architecture houses a free, well-curated art collection. The atmosphere is peaceful and classy, enhanced by beautiful outdoor spaces including a sculpture garden and courtyard. Activities for children and a diverse gift shop add to the welcoming environment.

Varied collections include Soviet and Russian Art and the Inherit collaborative collection. Paintings and exhibits offer interesting descriptions that engage viewers.

Historic building features unique architecture and houses a variety of history exhibits. Sculpture garden and quilt show add to the cultural experience.

People are saying

"I loved the art museum's curated collection of Soviet art."

"I found the Soviet and Russian art collection really interesting."

"I loved the amazing variety of artwork at this historical site."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free, but donations are encouraged.

2

The museum hosts various events throughout the year, including art shows and concerts.

3

The annual Utah Art Salon showcases local artists and is a popular event.

07
Cathedral of the Madeleine image 1
Catholic cathedral

Cathedral combines stunning architecture with intricate stained glass windows and rich decorations inside and out. Quiet and peaceful atmosphere prevails during prayers, creating a deeply spiritual environment. The space hosts pipe organ music and choir performances that enhance the worship experience.

History and architecture stand out with many interesting details and symbolism. A welcoming usher shares unique information, and the stations of the cross offer a strange but intriguing twist. The gift shop has a plentiful and interesting selection.

Rich history and beautiful architecture define this cathedral. Tours reveal its deep historical significance and community impact.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful and peaceful place for quiet reflection."

"I found the architecture of this historical site to be stunning."

"The architecture and ornamentation here are stunningly beautiful and interesting."

Good to know

1

The Cathedral of the Madeleine is open to the public with free entry.

2

Parking is available behind the church, but it can be difficult to find.

3

The bell rings every 15 minutes from 8am to 9pm daily.

08
Salt Lake City Tabernacle image 1
Historical landmark

Historic pioneer building offers phenomenal acoustics and houses one of the largest working pipe organs in the world. The space feels peaceful and beautiful, filled with rich history and faith. Choirs and organ music regularly fill the hall, creating a unique concert experience.

Welcoming staff share detailed history and facts about the building and choir. The experience offers insight into their faith and rich background, making it truly unforgettable and interesting.

A beautiful, historic venue with amazing acoustics serves as a monument to faith and sacrifice. The museum offers a well-organized walk through the history of the church and region.

People are saying

"The acoustics in this historical site are phenomenal and clear."

"It's a beautiful and peaceful place to relax."

"I found the experience here to be truly interesting and inspiring."

Good to know

1

No tickets are needed to attend events at the Tabernacle.

2

Admission to the Tabernacle is free for all visitors.

3

The Tabernacle hosts free organ concerts daily lasting 30 minutes.

09
Clear Water Distilling Co. image 1

Speakeasy-style tasting room offers a cozy, vintage atmosphere with beautiful, nostalgic decor that invites lingering. Friendly, sophisticated vibe complements unique, sugar-free spirits and innovative flavor infusions. Tours combine education and tasting in a refined, comfortable setting.

Tours include a detailed tasting and explanations about how spirits are made. Guides make the experience engaging and fun.

Staff share detailed history about the liquors and distilling process. Stories behind three special bottles highlight unique historical aspects.

People are saying

"The tour and tasting experience was so fun and amazing."

"The tour and tasting were really interesting and informative."

"The guides here are so informative and passionate about the historical sites."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the tasting tour to ensure availability.

2

The distillery offers a unique tasting experience with a limit of five samples per person.

3

Cigar events are held regularly, providing a great pairing experience with spirits.

10
Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life at Thanksgiving Point image 1

Museum offers spacious layout with detailed dinosaur sculptures and a massive Jurassic Jungle play area for kids. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful mornings to lively, noisy play zones during peak times. Interactive exhibits include a sand-filled fossil dig and a paleontology lab showcasing real fossils.

Exhibits feature interactive displays that engage kids and adults alike. History and information come alive through informative and interesting exhibits created with clear enthusiasm.

Displays include fossils, dinosaur bones, and Earth's physical history. Each exhibit provides detailed history and background. The museum offers a solid overview similar to other natural history museums.

People are saying

"It's a really cool place, especially for kids who love dinosaurs."

"It's an interesting place with fun interactive exhibits for kids."

"I loved seeing all the exhibits and learning history here."

Good to know

1

Admission is $27 for adults, with discounts available online.

2

Dinos After Dark offers games for kids and includes a soda and popcorn.

3

A new dino playground opens on December 17th.

11
This Is The Place Monument image 1

Monument features restored original buildings and informative exhibits rich in symbolism and history important to Mormons. Visitors enjoy incredible views of the Salt Lake Valley and can explore nearby memorials. The site offers a clean, well-organized environment suitable for families and history enthusiasts.

Monument offers lots of interesting information. Exhibits provide engaging details. Black Smith's shop shows authentic craftsmanship.

Monument Park offers free access to a site rich in symbolism and history important to the Mormons. Informative plaques and exhibits provide a deep look into the area's past, while a nearby historic village requires more time to explore fully.

People are saying

"You'll find lots of history and symbolism at these historical sites."

"I found the exhibits and old-fashioned candies interesting."

"The views here are great and incredible."

Good to know

1

Parking and the monument are free to visit.

2

The entrance fee for the Pioneer Village is steep for families.

3

The site has clean restrooms available for visitors.

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