Explore Utah's Nightlife: Top Things to Do After Dark

Whether you're a night owl or just looking for something new to do after dark, Utah has plenty of options to keep you entertained.

Explore Utah's Nightlife: Top Things to Do After Dark

Utah is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, but the fun doesn't end when the sun goes down. The state has a diverse range of activities to enjoy at night, from live music and comedy shows to stargazing and planetarium exhibitions. Whether you're a night owl or just looking for something new to do after dark, Utah has plenty of options to keep you entertained.

One of the best things to do at night in Utah is to explore the state's vibrant nightlife scene. Salt Lake City, in particular, has a variety of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Whether you're into live music, dancing, or just grabbing a drink with friends, there's something for everyone. If you're looking for a laugh, check out one of the city's comedy clubs for a night of stand-up or improv. And if you're feeling adventurous, why not try a ghost tour of some of Salt Lake City's most haunted spots?

Nightlife in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City has a diverse and exciting nightlife scene, with plenty of options for those looking for a fun night out. From bars and breweries to live performances and nightclubs, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Bars and Breweries

Salt Lake City is home to a number of great bars and breweries, where you can enjoy a delicious craft beer or cocktail. Some popular options include Epic Brewing Company, Fisher Brewing Company, and Whiskey Street. These places offer a great atmosphere and a wide selection of drinks to choose from.

If you're looking for something a little more low-key, consider checking out some of the city's neighborhood bars. These spots offer a more laid-back environment where you can grab a drink and hang out with friends. Some popular options include The Red Door and Cheers to You.

Live Performances

Salt Lake City is also known for its vibrant live performance scene. There are a number of venues throughout the city that host concerts, plays, and other events on a regular basis. Some popular options include The State Room, The Depot, and The Eccles Theater.

In addition to these larger venues, there are also plenty of smaller, more intimate spaces where you can catch a live performance. Check out venues like Kilby Court or The Urban Lounge for a more intimate setting.

Nightclubs

For those looking to dance the night away, Salt Lake City has a number of great nightclubs to choose from. Some popular options include Sky SLC, The Moose Lounge, and Area 51. These clubs offer a great atmosphere and a wide variety of music to dance to.

Overall, Salt Lake City has a diverse and exciting nightlife scene that is sure to please anyone looking for a fun night out. Whether you're into craft beer, live performances, or dancing the night away, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant city.

Outdoor Activities at Night

Utah is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise, offering a plethora of activities to enjoy during the day and night. When the sun goes down, the fun doesn't have to stop. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy at night in Utah.

Hiking and Nature Trails

Utah's natural beauty is breathtaking, and hiking at night is a unique way to experience it. The cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it an ideal time to hit the trails. Some of the best hikes to do at night include Ensign Peak, Living Room Trail, Donut Falls, and Timpanogos Cave National Monument. Make sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight, wear sturdy shoes, and let someone know where you're going.

Water Activities

Utah has plenty of water activities to enjoy at night. One of the most popular is stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) under the stars. Jordanelle State Park and Deer Creek State Park are great places to try this activity. Another fun water activity is kayaking or canoeing at night. The calm waters of the Jordanelle Reservoir and the Provo River are perfect for this. Make sure to wear a life jacket and bring a waterproof flashlight.

National Parks

Utah is home to some of the most stunning national parks in the country, and they are even more breathtaking at night. Bryce Canyon National Park is a popular spot for stargazing, with its dark skies and clear views. Zion National Park offers a unique night hike called the "Riverside Walk," where you can see the park's famous cliffs and waterfalls illuminated by the moonlight. Capitol Reef National Park is another great spot for stargazing, and visitors can attend ranger-led astronomy programs.

Utah offers a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy at night. Whether you're hiking under the stars, paddling on calm waters, or stargazing in one of the state's national parks, there's something for everyone. Just make sure to come prepared and always prioritize safety.

Annual Events and Festivals

Utah is known for its vibrant and diverse cultural scene, and there's no better way to experience it than by attending one of the many annual events and festivals held throughout the state. From film festivals to music festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Sundance Film Festival

One of the most famous events in Utah is the Sundance Film Festival, held annually in Park City. This festival is a celebration of independent film and attracts filmmakers, actors, and film enthusiasts from around the world. The festival showcases a variety of films, from documentaries to dramas, and features both established and emerging filmmakers.

Egyptian Theatre Events

The Egyptian Theatre in Park City is a historic venue that hosts a variety of events throughout the year. From concerts to comedy shows to film screenings, there's always something happening at the Egyptian. The theatre is known for its intimate atmosphere and stunning architecture, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the performing arts.

City Creek Center Festivals

City Creek Center in Salt Lake City is a premier shopping destination, but it's also home to a variety of festivals throughout the year. From the annual Christmas tree lighting to the summer concert series, there's always something happening at City Creek. The center also hosts a variety of cultural events, including Chinese New Year celebrations and Hispanic Heritage Month festivities.

Whether you're a film buff, a music lover, or just looking for a fun night out, Utah's annual events and festivals have something for everyone. Be sure to check out the Sundance Film Festival, Egyptian Theatre events, and City Creek Center festivals to experience the best of Utah's cultural scene.

Family-Friendly Nighttime Activities

Utah is a great place for families to enjoy nighttime activities together. Whether you're looking for children's activities, comedy shows, or Eccles Theatre performances, there's something for everyone.

Children's Activities

Utah has a variety of children's activities that are perfect for families looking for a fun night out. Here are a few options:

  • Cache Valley Fun Park: This park offers extreme bowling, a state-of-the-art roller rink, arcade games, laser tag, and soft play mazes.
  • The Leonardo: This museum offers interactive exhibits that inspire creativity and curiosity in children.
  • Clark Planetarium: This planetarium is on the list of fun things to do in Salt Lake City, and offers a variety of shows that explore space and science.

Comedy Shows

Utah has a thriving comedy scene, with many venues offering family-friendly shows. Here are a few options:

  • Wiseguys Comedy Club: This club offers shows from both local and national comedians, with many shows appropriate for families.
  • Dry Bar Comedy Club: This club offers clean, family-friendly comedy shows.
  • ImprovBroadway: This improv comedy club offers family-friendly shows that are appropriate for all ages.

Eccles Theatre Performances

The Eccles Theatre is a world-renowned venue that offers a variety of performances, including Broadway shows, concerts, and more. Here are a few upcoming performances that are perfect for families:

Performance Date Time Disney's The Lion King June 1-19, 2023 Various Harry Potter and the Cursed Child July 6-23, 2023 Various Cirque du Soleil: Corteo August 10-20, 2023 Various

Overall, Utah offers a variety of family-friendly nighttime activities, including children's activities, comedy shows, and Eccles Theatre performances.

Unique Nighttime Experiences

Utah is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique outdoor activities. The state offers a range of nighttime experiences that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Here are three unique nighttime experiences to consider during your visit to Utah.

Salt Flats Tour

The Bonneville Salt Flats are a unique and breathtaking natural wonder, located just outside of Salt Lake City. The salt flats are a vast expanse of white salt that stretches for miles and miles. One of the best ways to experience the salt flats is by taking a guided tour at night. The tour guides will take you to the most scenic spots and provide you with interesting facts about the history and geology of the area. The salt flats are particularly beautiful at night, when the stars are out and the moon reflects off the salt.

Float in the Great Salt Lake

The Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere and one of Utah's most unique natural wonders. One of the best ways to experience the lake is by taking a nighttime float. The lake is known for its buoyancy, which makes it easy to float on the water's surface. At night, the lake takes on a magical quality, with the stars reflecting off the water and the moon casting a soft glow over the landscape.

Moab Stargazing

Moab is a small town located in southeastern Utah, known for its stunning red rock formations and outdoor activities. One of the most unique nighttime experiences in Moab is stargazing. The town is located in a remote area with little light pollution, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. There are a few different stargazing tours available, which provide you with telescopes and knowledgeable guides to help you identify the constellations and planets.

Overall, Utah offers a range of unique and unforgettable nighttime experiences. Whether you choose to visit the salt flats, float in the Great Salt Lake, or stargaze in Moab, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Utah offers a plethora of exciting and unique activities to enjoy during the night. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there is something for everyone. From stargazing at the Clark Planetarium to dancing the night away at the Westerner Club, there is no shortage of things to do in Utah after dark.

If you're looking for a more active experience, consider going on a nighttime hike. Yelp recommends Ensign Peak, the Living Room Trail, and Donut Falls for short and easy hikes. Make sure to bring a flashlight and be aware of the potential risks.

For those interested in culture and art, the BYU Museum of Paleontology and the BYU Museum of Art are highly recommended. Visitors can also check out the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum for a unique experience.

If you're looking for something more interactive, consider checking out the Immersive Gamebox in Salt Lake City. This gaming center offers a range of virtual reality experiences that are sure to keep you entertained.

Enjoy your night out in Utah!