10 Fun Things To Do Near Sandy, Utah (Salt Lake County)
Looking for things to do in and around
Sandy, Utah? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family trip, or you just moved to
Salt Lake County, Sandy is a fantastic home base. You’re tucked right against the
Wasatch Mountains, close to
Salt Lake City, and only a short drive from some of the best outdoor adventures in Utah.
Below are
10 fun things to do near Sandy, Utah that locals love and visitors shouldn’t miss.
1. Catch a Game or Concert at America First Field
If you’re a sports fan,
America First Field (locals still sometimes call it
Rio Tinto Stadium) is a must-visit. It’s home to
Real Salt Lake of Major League Soccer and the
Utah Royals FC in the
NWSL.
The stadium sits right in Sandy, with stunning mountain views behind the stands. On a clear evening, watching the sun drop behind the mountains while a game is in full swing is pretty unforgettable.
- Check out a Real Salt Lake match during MLS season.
- Bring the kids – there are family-friendly sections and great energy.
- Look for big-name concerts and special events in summer.
If you’re visiting from out of state, this is one of the easiest ways to feel like a local fast.
2. Explore the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium
Right off I‑15 in Sandy, the
Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is one of the top family attractions in Salt Lake County. It’s perfect for a cloudy day, a winter visit, or when you just want something indoors.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Colorful tropical fish and coral reef displays
- Penguins, stingrays, and sharks
- Hands-on touch pools for kids
- Rotating exhibits and special events
You’ll also notice the huge “UFO” structure outside, officially called the EECO (Ecosystem Exploration Craft & Observatory). It’s a fun landmark and a great photo spot.
If you’re staying in Sandy, this aquarium is close enough that you can easily pop in for a half-day visit without spending hours driving.
3. Ride the TRAX and Explore Downtown Salt Lake City
One nice thing about
Sandy, Utah is how easy it is to get into downtown Salt Lake City without driving. Just hop on the
UTA TRAX light rail, especially the
Blue Line, and you can be in the city in around 25–30 minutes, depending on the stop.
Once you’re downtown, you can:
Using TRAX is a simple way to avoid downtown parking, and kids usually love riding the trains. It’s also a good option if you’re staying in Sandy and don’t want to rent a car.
4. Hike Bell Canyon for Waterfalls and Views
If you look east from Sandy, you’ll see the steep, rugged Wasatch Mountains. One of the most popular local hikes is the
Bell Canyon trailhead, which starts in the foothills right by Sandy and Draper.
There are a few different ways to hike Bell Canyon:
- Lower Reservoir – A shorter, family-friendly hike with a pretty reservoir and views over the valley.
- Waterfall hike – A steeper trail that takes you up to a beautiful waterfall.
Keep in mind:
- Bring plenty of water, especially in the summer.
- Wear good shoes; the trail can be rocky and steep in sections.
- Parking fills up quickly on weekends and holidays.
If you love nature photography, sunrise or sunset here is hard to beat.
5. Ski or Snowboard the Cottonwood Canyons
One of the biggest perks of staying in Sandy is how close you are to some of the
best skiing in Utah. From Sandy, you’re just a short drive to both
Little Cottonwood Canyon and
Big Cottonwood Canyon.
Within about 30–45 minutes (traffic and snow depending), you can reach:
- Snowbird – Famous for its long ski season and steep terrain.
- Alta – A skier-only mountain with legendary powder.
- Brighton – Very family-friendly, with night skiing.
- Solitude – A bit quieter, with relaxed vibes and great tree runs.
In winter, this is a skier’s dream. In summer, these same canyons offer cool temperatures, wildflower-filled hikes, and scenic tram rides. If you’re visiting from sea level, take it easy your first day, drink a lot of water, and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
6. Shop, Dine, and Stroll at The Shops at South Town
Sometimes you just want an easy day: a little shopping, some good food, and maybe a movie.
The Shops at South Town in Sandy is your go-to spot.
Here you’ll find:
- National chain stores and smaller local shops
- Casual restaurants and quick bites
- Seasonal events, markets, or pop-up activities
It’s indoors, so it’s especially nice when the weather is too hot, too cold, or too stormy to be outside. If you’re staying nearby, it’s a simple way to fill an afternoon without going far.
7. Walk, Run, or Bike the Jordan River Parkway
For a peaceful break without heading into the mountains, check out the
Jordan River Parkway Trail. This long, paved path follows the Jordan River through Salt Lake County and passes not far from Sandy.
It’s great for:
- Morning walks or jogs
- Family bike rides on mostly flat terrain
- Bird watching and quiet time by the water
The Parkway feels surprisingly calm, considering how close you are to the city and suburbs. It’s a nice reminder that nature isn’t just in the high mountains. Grab a coffee, hit the trail, and enjoy the fresh air.
8. Visit the Sandy Amphitheater for Outdoor Shows
In warm months, the
Sandy Amphitheater is one of the best local spots for live entertainment. This outdoor venue sits on the east side of Sandy, backed by the mountains, and has a cozy, intimate feel.
You might catch:
- Outdoor concerts with national or local artists
- Plays or theater performances
- Community events
Bring a light jacket, even in summer—temperatures can drop quickly once the sun goes behind the mountains. If you like more relaxed, open-air venues instead of huge stadium crowds, you’ll probably love it here.
9. Tour the Gardner Village Shops and Historic Buildings
Just a short drive from Sandy in nearby West Jordan,
Gardner Village feels like a step back in time. This cluster of historic buildings has been turned into charming shops, bakeries, and restaurants.
Why go?
- Seasonal decorations and events (their Halloween witch displays are especially popular).
- Photo-friendly old buildings, bridges, and ducks along the water.
- Locally-owned shops with unique gifts and home decor.
It’s a fun place for a slow-paced afternoon. If you like wandering, browsing, and snacking instead of rushing from attraction to attraction, put this on your list of
things to do near Sandy, Utah.
10. Drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon for Scenic Views
Even if you’re not planning to ski or hike, a simple
scenic drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon is worth your time. The canyon entrance is just east of Sandy, and the road winds up between dramatic granite walls.
What to expect:
- Gorgeous rock formations and mountain views around every bend
- Access pullouts where you can safely stop for photos
- Cooler temperatures compared to the valley in summer
In fall, the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and gold. In winter, the mountains look like something off a postcard. Just check conditions before you go, especially in snow season—chains or 4‑wheel drive are sometimes required.
Planning Your Trip to Sandy, Utah
Sandy is one of the best places to stay if you want
easy access to Salt Lake City, the
Wasatch Mountains, and all the fun things to do in Salt Lake County. You get the comfort of a suburban base with big-time outdoor adventure only minutes away.
A few quick tips:
- Car vs. transit: A car is helpful, especially for the canyons, but TRAX makes it simple to reach downtown Salt Lake City.
- Weather: Summers can be hot in the valley but cooler in the mountains; winters bring snow and icy roads.
- Altitude: You’re higher than many U.S. cities, and the canyons go much higher—take it slow if you’re not used to it.
What Would You Add to This Sandy, Utah Bucket List?
Have you visited
Sandy, Utah or Salt Lake County before?
- What was your favorite thing to do?
- Did you find a hidden gem restaurant, trail, or shop?
I’d love to hear your ideas and experiences.
Drop a comment below with your tips, questions, or trip stories, and feel free to
share this post with friends or family who are planning a visit to Sandy or the Salt Lake area. The more local recommendations we collect, the better this guide becomes for everyone.
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