Salt Lake City is rapidly becoming a major travel hub, boosted by new infrastructure, conservation efforts, and high-profile events. The city’s appeal extends beyond its well-known winter sports scene, attracting families, culture enthusiasts, and international travelers alike. This transformation is driven by key developments set to peak in 2026, solidifying Salt Lake City’s place on the global stage.
Expanding Infrastructure and Connectivity
Salt Lake City International Airport is undergoing significant expansion, adding 11 new gates in 2026. More critically, the city gained its first daily nonstop flight to Asia – Seoul – in 2025, marking a major step toward becoming an international gateway. This connectivity is not merely convenient; it’s essential for economic growth, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Entertainment and Sports Scene
The city will co-host the final Sundance Film Festival in Utah in January-February 2026 before the event relocates to Boulder, Colorado. This final Utah run is expected to draw substantial crowds and media attention. Beyond film, Salt Lake City has also welcomed the NHL’s Utah Mammoth, relocating from Phoenix, further cementing the city’s status as a major sports destination.
Conservation and Family Attractions
Salt Lake City boasts the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium (LLPA), a leading conservation facility. Unlike traditional zoos, LLPA actively participates in species preservation, maintaining a reserve population of the western toad and housing endangered species like Asian small-clawed otters. The aquarium’s focus on conservation is a key differentiator, making it a popular attraction for families and eco-conscious travelers. The aquarium stands out not just as entertainment but as a practical example of wildlife preservation in action.
Salt Lake City’s combination of infrastructure investment, entertainment, and conservation initiatives positions it as a standout destination for 2026 and beyond. The city is no longer just a stopover for ski trips, but a vibrant and growing hub for tourism, business, and cultural exchange.
