Discovery Gateway: where adults have as much fun as kids — Photo courtesy of miss-britt
For the average visitor, Salt Lake City has all kinds of attractions: ski resorts, Temple Square and its outlaying establishments, museums, hiking trails, and a huge variety of restaurants. But those traveling with kids require a special set of activities and restaurants. In other words, you're probably not looking for super-intellectual museums or sushi restaurants. If you're going to be in Salt Lake City with the family, consider following this one-day itinerary to keep the adults and young ones happy.
Breakfast at the Park Cafe
To the joy of many, Salt Lake City is full of modern, hip, and trendy breakfast joints. However, it's a nightmare to take kids to some of these brushed-steel-type establishments. If you want to treat the whole family to a warm and filling breakfast, head to the Park Cafe. Located in Salt Lake City's largest park, Liberty Park, this cute and casual eatery serves homemade American breakfasts that can be enjoyed by the pickiest of eaters. Here you can enjoy a delicious plate of homemade waffles, fresh fruit, or any other classic breakfast items whilst overlooking the Liberty Park pond.
A World of Birds at Tracy Aviary
Also located in Liberty Park, Tracy Aviary is home to more than 400 individual birds and over 130 species. With birds hailing from around the globe, this hidden gem gives visitors the chance to witness many rare and exotic species they might never otherwise see. Having undergone an extensive renovation in 2005, this modern facility is one of the most enjoyable and accessible places for families to visit inside the city. Tracy Aviary can be found in the southern end of this massive park.
Lunch at Salt Lake Pizza & Pasta
After you've had your fill of worldly bird species, head southeast to the Sugarhouse neighborhood for a meal the whole family can enjoy. Salt Lake Pizza & Pasta is a locally-owned Italian establishment that serves delicious, adult- and kid-friendly fare. Here you can get the kids a plain cheese pizza (or possibly one with pepperoni) and a gourmet pie with salad for the adults.
Exploring the Universe at Discovery Gateway
If the kids are feeling energized after lunch, head to west downtown to The Gateway Mall. Here you can check out Salt Lake City's colorful, modern and generally appealing children's museum, Discovery Gateway. In this recently remodeled establishment, stimulating exhibits get kids excited about the world around them. Whether they're into dinosaurs, space, or TV, they can easily learn quite a lot while having fun.
No ordinary bird — Photo courtesy of empracht
