Exploring Salt Lake City on a Budget: Free and Affordable Activities for SLCC Students

As a student at Salt Lake Community College, you may be looking for fun, interesting, and budget-friendly ways to explore your vibrant city. Salt Lake City offers a plethora of activities that won’t strain your wallet. Whether you’re interested in the arts, nature, or local events, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to free and affordable activities to enjoy in Salt Lake City.

Catch Outdoor Tans at Local Parks

Take advantage of the beautiful Utah weather by visiting some of the gorgeous parks in the area. Here are a few top picks:

• Liberty Park: One of the largest parks in Salt Lake City, Liberty Park features a pond, walking trails, and vast green spaces perfect for picnics and hanging out with friends.
• Sugar House Park: Known for its picturesque views, Sugar House Park is great for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the scenery, especially in the autumn.
• Red Butte Garden: While there is an entry fee for the full garden experience, the outdoor area is free to explore and is a beautiful spot to unwind in nature.

Visit Museums with Student Discounts

Salt Lake City is home to several museums that offer student discounts or have free admission on certain days:

• The Leonardo Museum: Explore exhibitions focused on science, art, and technology. SLCC students can get discounted admission with student ID.
• The Utah Museum of Fine Arts: Enjoy free admission every first Wednesday of the month. The collections span from ancient to modern art.
• The Natural History Museum of Utah: While there is a general admission fee, students can benefit from discounted tickets. Don’t miss the spectacular views from the museum’s location!

Check Out Local Events & Festivals

Keep an eye on community calendars for various local events that are often free or very low-cost:

• The Salt Lake City Farmers Market: Held every Saturday during the warmer months, this market not only offers fresh produce but often features live music and local artisans.
• First Friday Art Stroll: On the first Friday of every month, various galleries in the downtown area host open houses and exhibitions—perfect for art enthusiasts.
• Outdoor Concerts and Movie Nights: Many parks and venues host free outdoor concerts and movie nights in the summer, perfect for a relaxing evening with friends.

Explore Historic Neighborhoods and Landmarks

Take time to discover Salt Lake City’s rich history by walking through its historic neighborhoods:

• Temple Square: A must-see for its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. This area often hosts free events and is a great place to relax and learn about local culture.
• The City Creek Center: This open-air shopping center also features beautiful fountains and areas to relax, perfect for window shopping or people-watching.
• Historic Trolley Square: Explore shops in this restored trolley station, which is often home to events and activities.

Join Campus Organizations and Clubs

Don’t overlook what’s available right on your college campus! Joining clubs and organizations can lead to free activities and events:

• SLCC Student Activities: Frequently hosts events such as movie nights, game nights, and cultural celebrations that are often free for students.
• Outdoor Adventures Program: Offers low-cost excursions and rental equipment for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.
• Clubs and Society Gatherings: Joining interest-based clubs is a great way to meet new people and participate in group activities, often at little to no cost.

Conclusion

Salt Lake City is brimming with possibilities for college students to explore without spending a fortune. By taking advantage of parks, museums, local events, and campus activities, Salt Lake Community College students can make the most of their time in the city while staying within their budget. Get out there and enjoy everything that SLC has to offer!