10 Best Architectural Buildings in Salt Lake City, Utah: A Comprehensive Guide

Salt Lake City, Utah, is home to a stunning array of architectural landmarks that capture the essence of the city’s rich history and cultural diversity.

From historic temples and Victorian-era buildings to modern architectural feats, the city offers a visual feast for architecture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. What makes Salt Lake City’s architecture truly special is the unique blend of styles that reflect the city’s evolving identity.

The diversity in architectural styles can be seen in buildings spread across the city, each telling its own story.

Whether exploring the intricate designs of religious structures or the grandeur of government buildings, one can appreciate the craftsmanship and detail that went into these creations.

This article provides an overview of the 10 best architectural buildings in Salt Lake City, highlighting their unique features and historical significance.

1. Salt Lake City Public Library

The Salt Lake City Public Library is an iconic building located downtown. It spans a full city block and features a unique five-story, triangular structure.

The design encourages interaction between the city and the library.

This library houses numerous resources and services, including reading areas, public computers, and various community spaces. It was recognized in a nationwide poll as one of the top 150 favorite buildings.

2. Utah State Capitol

The Utah State Capitol is a prominent neoclassical building located on Capitol Hill in Salt Lake City. Completed between 1912 and 1916, it uses native granite and displays Corinthian columns.

The building houses the offices of the Utah Governor and other state officials. Its elegant design and well-proportioned structure make it an architectural symbol of democracy in Utah.

The surrounding area offers visitors a chance to explore historic buildings ranging from adobe houses to this monumental structure. For more information, visit Utah’s History to Go.

3. Cathedral of the Madeleine

The Cathedral of the Madeleine is an architectural gem located in downtown Salt Lake City.

The cathedral was built from 1899 to 1909 under the direction of Bishop Lawrence Scanlan. It features a blend of Neo-Romanesque and Neo-Gothic styles, designed by Carl M. Neuhausen and Bernard O. Mecklenburg.

This striking building is the only cathedral in the United States dedicated to Saint Mary Magdalene. Its exterior is made of sandstone, while the interior showcases intricate Gothic details.

For more information, visit the Cathedral of the Madeleine.

4. The Leonardo

The Leonardo is a notable museum in Salt Lake City that combines science, technology, and art. Located at 209 East 500 South, it is easily accessible via public transport, including the nearby 400 S Library Square TRAX stop.

This museum offers a unique experience with diverse exhibits, engaging both children and adults. Visitors can enjoy interactive displays and various educational programs during their visit.

Tickets for The Leonardo are priced at $16 for adults and $12 for students, seniors, and military personnel. For more information, visit The Leonardo website.

5. Joseph Smith Memorial Building

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building, originally known as the Hotel Utah, is a notable landmark in downtown Salt Lake City. It features stunning architecture and opulent décor.

The building houses several restaurants and event spaces, making it a prime venue for weddings and conferences. The Family Search Center in the lobby offers genealogical resources to visitors.

You can learn more by visiting the Joseph Smith Memorial Building.

6. The Grand America Hotel

The Grand America Hotel stands tall in downtown Salt Lake City. This 24-story hotel is known for its luxurious design and European style.

Each of the 775 rooms and suites features handcrafted furniture and spacious marble bathrooms. Visitors can enjoy the views of the mountains to the east or the city sunset to the west.

The hotel also boasts beautifully landscaped parterre gardens and a grand lobby. It’s a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, making it one of Salt Lake City’s most iconic buildings.

7. The McCune Mansion

The McCune Mansion is an iconic building in Salt Lake City. Built between 1898 and 1901, it showcases Gilded Age architecture. Alfred W. McCune, a wealthy businessman, commissioned the mansion.

Located on Capitol Hill, it offers views of the Utah State Capitol and the Mormon Temple. The mansion features 21 rooms and imported materials from around the world. Visitors can take tours by scheduling in advance. To learn more about its history, visit McCune Mansion – Haunted Houses.

8. City and County Building

The Salt Lake City and County Building stands as a prominent example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture.

Completed in 1894, this historic landmark features a distinctive clock tower that rises 256 feet tall.

Located at the center of a ten-acre urban park on Washington Square, it serves as a notable civic landmark known for its gray sandstone facade.

9. Trolley Square

Trolley Square is a historic shopping center located in downtown Salt Lake City. Originally built by E. H. Harriman in 1908, it served as a trolley car barn for the Utah Light and Rail company.

The standout feature of Trolley Square is its 97-foot water tower. This tower, visible from miles away, was once used for the trolley barns’ sprinkler system.

In 1972, Trolley Square was converted into a festival marketplace. Today, it is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment, blending historic charm with modern amenities. Learn more about its history here.

10. Rice-Eccles Stadium

Rice-Eccles Stadium, located on the University of Utah campus, is an iconic structure in Salt Lake City.

Built to host the Opening and Closing ceremonies of the 2002 Winter Olympics, the stadium will reprise this role for the 2034 Winter Olympics.

The stadium has a seating capacity of 46,500, expandable to 55,000 with additional bleachers, making it a central hub for major events in the city.

Architectural Styles in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is known for its diverse architectural styles, ranging from historic buildings to modern structures. This diversity reflects the city’s rich history and evolving urban landscape.

Influence of Modernism

Modernism has a significant presence in Salt Lake City. This style emphasizes clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and functional design.

Key examples include the Utah State Capitol, which boasts a neoclassical design with modern elements.

Another notable building is the Abravanel Hall, known for its sleek glass façade and symmetrical form.

Modernism in the city often integrates local materials like stone and brick to blend with the surrounding natural environment. These elements of modernism aim to create functional yet aesthetically pleasing spaces.

Historic Architecture

Historic architecture in Salt Lake City is marked by Victorian and Gothic Revival styles.

Buildings like the Cathedral of the Madeleine stand as testaments to these styles, with intricate details and grand designs. The Cathedral features stunning stained glass windows and a beautifully ornate interior.

The Salt Lake City and County Building is another significant historic structure. Built in the Victorian Revival style, it has a distinctive clock tower and a gray sandstone façade.

These historic buildings not only provide a glimpse into the city’s past but also serve as cultural landmarks.

Contemporary Trends

Contemporary architecture in Salt Lake City embraces sustainability and innovative designs.

Newer buildings often feature green roofs, energy-efficient systems, and materials that reduce environmental impact.

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a prime example with its eco-friendly design and use of native copper in its exterior.

Another trend is the use of mixed-use spaces, combining residential, commercial, and recreational areas.

The City Creek Center exemplifies this trend with its blend of shopping, dining, and living spaces.

These contemporary trends aim to create versatile and environmentally conscious urban areas.

Preservation Efforts

The preservation efforts in Salt Lake City focus on securing historic landmark designations and supporting local and community initiatives. These efforts ensure that the city’s architectural treasures are maintained and protected for future generations.

Historic Landmark Designations

Historic landmark designations are key to preserving Salt Lake City’s architectural heritage.

Buildings like the Salt Lake City and County Building, completed in 1894, are recognized for their historical and architectural significance.

Such designations often provide buildings with protection from demolition and alteration.

They ensure that any changes made respect the original architecture and historical context. This legal recognition also helps secure funding and grants for restoration, ensuring that important structures do not fall into disrepair.

Government agencies and organizations like Preservation Utah work to identify and nominate buildings that should be protected. This process can be lengthy, but it is crucial for maintaining the integrity of Salt Lake City’s architectural landscape.

Local and Community Initiatives

Beyond official designations, local and community initiatives play a vital role in preservation.

Organizations like Preservation Utah organize events and tours to raise awareness about the importance of historic buildings.

One such event is the Historical Home Tour in the 9th and 9th neighborhood, showcasing various architectural styles.

These initiatives often rely on volunteers and donations to support their efforts.

Community involvement is crucial, as it fosters a sense of ownership and pride in local heritage.

Residents and local businesses sometimes collaborate to maintain and restore buildings, ensuring they remain part of the community’s daily life.

Education programs are also important, as they teach younger generations about the value of preserving historic architecture.

Schools and local groups may partner to provide hands-on experiences, like restoration projects, which instill a deeper appreciation for the past.

Impact on Local Culture

Salt Lake City’s architectural landmarks have significantly shaped local culture.

The Salt Lake Temple, iconic for its design and years of construction, stands as a religious and community center, influencing city planning and social gatherings.

The Utah State Capitol is more than a government building. It symbolizes state pride and hosts many public events, strengthening community ties.

Abravanel Hall fosters a love for the arts, hosting performances that draw both residents and tourists, enriching cultural life.

The Natural History Museum of Utah located in a modern building by Ennead Architects combines education with architecture, making science accessible and engaging for all ages.

Provo City Center Temple and other religious buildings not only serve spiritual needs but also contribute to the distinctive architectural identity of the area.

Beehive House, once home to Brigham Young, offers historical insights and connects visitors with the early days of Salt Lake City’s development.

The Cathedral of the Madeleine brings a touch of European architecture and culture, serving as a spiritual and cultural hub.

Grand America Hotel combines luxury with architectural elegance, hosting numerous cultural and social events.

Red Butte Garden integrates natural beauty with architecture, providing a space for community engagement and environmental education.

Finally, the hosting of events like the 2002 Winter Olympics in notable buildings has boosted tourism and international recognition, impacting the city’s global cultural footprint.