Hanging with friends is always a good idea, but sometimes dinner and drinks just don’t cut it. If you're looking to shake things up and try something different, Salt Lake is full of offbeat, exciting, and meaningful ways to connect. This county has a little bit of everything: wild events, art festivals, heart-pumping activities, and even opportunities to give back while spending time together.
Whether you're into live music, food, or outdoor fun, there’s something on this list that’ll have your group saying, “Let’s do that this weekend.” Let’s dive into 10 unique experiences you can only have with your crew in Salt Lake.
1. Enjoy the Los Muros on Main: Midvale City Mural Festival
Kick off summer with a colorful celebration of art and culture at the Los Muros on Main: Midvale City Mural Festival. Held in the heart of the Midvale Main Arts & Culture District, this event transforms blank walls into massive works of art with live mural painting by local, national, and international artists.
The festival also features live music, food trucks, art shows, pet adoptions, and a beer garden hosted by 2 Row Brewing. With over 40 existing murals and more being created during the event, it’s the perfect place to stroll, snap photos, and soak in creative energy. This year’s festival takes place on June 7, and admission is free.
2. Test Your Brainpower at Alcatraz Escape Games
Up for a challenge? Grab your crew and head to Alcatraz Escape Games, one of Utah’s top-rated escape room experiences. With a mix of traditional escape rooms, virtual reality options, and even city-wide scavenger hunts, it’s a great way to put your teamwork (and friendships) to the test.
Whether you're solving puzzles in a haunted house or exploring the city with your phone as your game master, these adventures are thrilling, clever, and downright fun. It’s the perfect activity for groups looking to do something a little different.
3. Explore Antelope Island
For a mix of natural beauty and outdoor recreation, Antelope Island State Park is hard to beat. Located in the Great Salt Lake, this 28,000-acre island is home to wildlife like bison and pronghorn antelope, along with miles of scenic hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.
You’ll also find white sand beaches, peaceful picnic spots, and stunning views—especially at sunset. Whether you’re up for an active day or a laid-back afternoon soaking in the scenery, Antelope Island is a serene yet dramatic backdrop for a group adventure.
4. Feel the Beat at the Utah Blues Festival
Gather your friends and groove under the stars at the Utah Blues Festival, held annually at the Gallivan Center in downtown Salt Lake City. This festival brings together top-notch blues artists like Kenny Neal, Ana Popovic, Rick Estrin & the Nightcats, and Carolyn Wonderland.
With free workshops, food trucks, drinks, and vendors, the event has a relaxed, community-focused vibe. Plus, it’s family-friendly! Whether you're a longtime blues lover or new to the genre, it’s a soulful and fun way to spend a summer evening.
5. Sample the Finest Brews at the Big Cottonwood Canyon Brew Fest
Beer lovers, take note: the Big Cottonwood Canyon Brew Fest is a two-day celebration of Utah’s finest brews. Held at Solitude Mountain Resort, this high-elevation festival pairs live music and delicious food with craft beer from over a dozen local breweries, including Bewilder, Uinta, Wasatch, and more.
Ride the scenic Link chairlift, sip small pours in the sunshine, and relax with friends in a mountain setting that feels worlds away from the city. Admission is free, and the atmosphere is pure summer bliss.
6. Visit the Market & Craft Fair at The Gateway
Salt Lake’s local makers shine at the Market & Craft Fair at The Gateway, happening on June 20. With over 60 local vendors, hourly giveaways, photo ops, and a simultaneous art stroll showcasing local installations, this free event is a shopper’s dream.
Come for the crafts, stay for the creativity, and maybe leave with something you didn’t even know you needed. It’s a lively, low-pressure way to support small businesses and enjoy a summer evening out with friends.
7. Experience the Magic of the Salt Lake City Water Lantern Festival
Few things feel more magical than watching thousands of glowing lanterns float across the water—and that’s exactly what the Salt Lake City Water Lantern Festival offers. Held at Sugar House Park on June 21, this family-friendly event includes food trucks, music, and lantern decorating, culminating in a breathtaking launch of personalized lanterns at dusk. It’s a peaceful, reflective event perfect for honoring friendships, hopes, and new beginnings.
8. Eat Your Way Through Salt Lake’s Food Scene
If food is your love language, Salt Lake County delivers in spades. The culinary scene here is more diverse than it gets credit for, blending long-standing institutions with modern craft kitchens and global flavors.
Try Ruth’s Diner in Emigration Canyon for a side of history with your breakfast, or Cultivate Craft Kitchen for farm-to-fork freshness and inventive dishes that are perfect for sharing. This is a county where foodie adventures are meant to be savored with friends.
9. Kayaking on the Great Salt Lake
Explore Utah’s most iconic natural feature in an unexpected way: by kayak. The Great Salt Lake, with its 10,000 miles of shoreline, offers a tranquil and surreal paddling experience.
As the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, it’s a peaceful spot where you can float with ease, enjoy panoramic views, and learn about the lake’s fascinating history and folklore (monster sightings, anyone?). Whether you're a seasoned paddler or trying it for the first time, it's a relaxing and memorable group activity.
10. Volunteer Together at Utah Food Bank
Sometimes the most meaningful memories come from doing something good together. Volunteering at the Utah Food Bank is a simple way to give back as a group. You’ll help sort food, pack meals, and make a real difference for families in need.
It’s not just about service—it’s also a powerful bonding experience. Plus, knowing you spent time making someone else’s day better brings a kind of joy that lasts.
Make the Most of Your Time Together
Every group of friends has their own vibe. Some love food and festivals, others want adrenaline, and some just need a chill day in the park. The great thing about Salt Lake is you don’t have to choose. From outdoor adventures to local festivals or meaningful volunteering, there’s always something new to try.
So skip the usual “What should we do this weekend?” text loop. Pick something from this list and go make a memory. You'll be glad you did—and probably planning the next one before the day’s even over.
Need help finding more local favorites? Just ask. Salt Lake is full of surprises.
Leave a Reply