Utah has so much to offer, and after road-tripping across the U.S., it’s become one of our absolute favorite states! In this post, we’re sharing our top 5 must-visit destinations in Utah — places that will leave you in awe with their almost otherworldly beauty.
Of course, there are many more incredible spots worth exploring, and if you have extra time in Utah, we highly recommend checking those out too (more on that later!).
By the end of this post, you’ll know everything you need to plan your visit to the Bonneville Salt Flats, Antelope Island State Park, Zion National Park, Forrest Gump Point, and Valley of the Gods. Get ready to be inspired, spark your wanderlust, and start planning your next adventure in the breathtaking state of Utah!
After reading this blog, you’ll have a solid list of the best places to visit in Utah — a perfect starting point for planning your trip to this incredible state.
This post is all about The Top 5 unique places to visit in Utah!
Top 5 unique places to visit in Utah!
Before diving into our Top 5 unique places to visit in Utah, here are a few things you’ll want to pack for the journey. These are our must-have road trip essentials for exploring Utah!
Road trip essentials
Insider tip
Before your trip, make sure to download the Recreation.gov app! It’s the go-to tool for booking national park passes, campsites, and hiking permits across the U.S. Including spots in Zion National Park and other Utah destinations. The app also works offline, which is super helpful since many areas like the Valley of the Gods or parts of Zion have limited signal. Having it ready on your phone can save you time and keep all your trip details in one place.
Suggested Route (West to East / North to South)
1. Bonneville Salt Flats
The Bonneville Salt Flats are truly one of Utah’s most surreal landscapes — white salt stretching endlessly in every direction making it look like you’ve landed on Mars!
We entered from the westbound rest area off I-80, which is the easiest and most convenient place to access the flats. There’s plenty of parking, public restrooms, and even a water station to rinse off your salty shoes after exploring.
It’s also a wonderful stop for photos! Our tip: Arrive around sunrise or sunset when the light reflects beautifully off the salt surface.T
he flats are located just 20 minutes from Wendover, Nevada, where you can grab food, fuel, or a place to stay before or after your visit.
2. Antelope Island State Park
Antelope Island State Park is a true hidden gem just north of Salt Lake City — a peaceful escape surrounded by the waters of the Great Salt Lake. What makes this place so special is its abundance of wildlife and panoramic views. You’ll likely spot bison, pronghorn antelope, and maybe even coyotes! It feels like a mini safari in Utah! The park is accessible via a 7-mile causeway, and there’s a small entrance fee paid at the gate. Once inside, be sure to stop by the Visitor Center, which offers fascinating exhibits about the island’s geology, history, and wildlife, plus a viewing deck with amazing lake views.
A few things to be aware of: the Great Salt Lake can have a strong odor, especially in warmer months, and gnats or brine flies can be active near the water — so bring bug spray, especially in spring and summer. The island can also get quite hot during midday, so pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. There are restrooms, picnic areas, and hiking trails scattered throughout the park, making it easy to spend a relaxed few hours or an entire day exploring. Antelope is in our opinion an underrated place to visit in the State of Utah! A must-visit spot for nature lovers and photographers alike.
3. Zion National Park
Zion National Park blew us away — especially the Canyon Overlook Trail, a one-mile (round-trip) gem that rewarded us with a breathtaking view. The trail begins just east of the Zion–Mount Carmel Tunnel and the parking lot is right after exiting the tunnel on the east side, which made access super convenient. Along the way, we even spotted a bighorn sheep roaming the cliffs — such a thrill!
We also hiked part of The Narrows (a must-do), though it can get quite crowded — so come early and consider wearing water shoes. Regarding park access: yes, you need to pay for a recreational use pass to enter Zion. But Zion is open 24/7, so you can still drive in during off hours (though visitor centers and shuttles have limited schedules)
4. Valley of the Gods
Valley of the Gods quickly became one of our favorite spots in Utah — a place that feels both wild and peaceful. The desert and the light feel magical here. What makes this area even better is that it’s located on BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land, which means free dispersed camping is allowed! Campsites are scattered along the Valley of the Gods Road, a scenic 17-mile dirt road that connects to U.S. Highway 163. Just make sure to camp only in existing sites and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve this incredible landscape.
To get there, the turnoff for Valley of the Gods Road is about 15 miles west of Bluff or 7 miles northeast of Mexican Hat. Keep your eyes peeled — there’s a small sign but no dedicated turn lane, so it’s easy to miss. The road is generally manageable for most vehicles in dry conditions, but a high-clearance vehicle is recommended if you plan to drive the full loop, especially after rain.
We loved camping here — it’s peaceful, offers amazing stargazing.
Be sure to bring plenty of water, food, and fuel, as there are no facilities once you’re in. If you prefer developed camping, check out Goosenecks State Park nearby, which also offers incredible views and basic amenities.
Valley of the Gods is truly a must-see for anyone road-tripping through the state.
5. Forrest Gump Point
The iconic Forrest Gump Point is the perfect way to end your Utah adventure — it’s the exact spot where Forrest decided to stop running in the famous movie scene. Located along U.S. Highway 163, about 15 miles north of Monument Valley (also a breathtaking place to visit) and just outside the town of Mexican Hat, this stretch of road offers one of the most recognizable views in the American Southwest.
Believe us, you’ll know you’ve arrived when you see cars pulled over and travelers lining up for that classic shot with the long straight highway framed by the stunning red rock formations in the distance. There’s no official parking area, but there are several gravel pull-offs on the side of the road where you can safely park. Just be cautious — it’s an active highway! To capture the best photo, we recommend visiting during sunrise or sunset when the rich colors of the landscape come to life! It’s a quick stop, but truly a must-see highlight and a fitting finale to any Utah road trip.
Have extra time?
If you have extra time to explore, Utah is overflowing with incredible destinations beyond our Top 5.
Salt Lake City is a great starting or ending point, offering vibrant culture, great food, and the stunning backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains. Nature lovers won’t want to miss Arches National Park near Moab, home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, or the nearby Canyonlands National Park. Bryce Canyon National Park is another must-see!
Other noteworthy stops include Capitol Reef National Park for its unique geological formations, Dead Horse Point State Park for incredible panoramic views, and Goblin Valley State Park.
Each of these places adds a unique flavor to a Utah road trip and is well worth the extra time if your itinerary allows it.
This post is all about the top 5 unique places to visit in Utah
From the surreal Bonneville Salt Flats to the wildlife-rich Antelope Island, Utah is full of unforgettable landscapes. Hiking the Canyon Overlook Trail in Zion National Park, wandering through The Narrows, driving the stunning Valley of the Gods, or capturing the iconic shot at Forrest Gump Point, each stop offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
These five destinations are perfect for Utah photography, outdoor adventure, and soaking in the state’s natural beauty.
Pack your camera, plan your route, and get ready to explore some of Utah’s most breathtaking hidden gems.
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