Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass

Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass Review: An Easy Way to Explore the City’s Best

Exploring Salt Lake City with the Downtown Discovery Pass promises a straightforward way to see some of its most popular attractions without the hassle of buying individual tickets. For $56.99, you gain access to up to three different locations from a curated list of museums, gardens, zoos, and family-friendly sites, all within a 9-day period after your first use. While the pass offers good value and variety, it also comes with certain quirks worth considering.

One aspect we particularly like is the flexibility it provides—you can choose different attractions on different days, making it ideal for varied interests and travel styles. Plus, many venues are within easy walking distance or short drives from downtown Salt Lake, so you won’t need to worry about transportation logistics. On the flip side, some reviewers have noted that ticketing procedures can sometimes be a little confusing, which may add extra time to your plans.

This pass suits travelers who want an affordable and flexible way to enjoy multiple attractions without the hassle of individual bookings. Families, cultural explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts will find it especially appealing, as it combines indoor and outdoor activities in one convenient package.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary: Choose your attractions from a curated list, with the ability to visit several spots over 9 days.
• Great value: Price includes admission to 8 different attractions, saving you money compared to individual tickets.
• Limited transportation info: The pass does not cover transit between locations, so plan your route accordingly.
• Ticketing hiccups: Some users have experienced delays or difficulties with the barcode scanning process.
• Diverse options: From museums and gardens to a zoo and heritage park, there’s something for every interest.
• Time management: Most attractions recommend 2-4 hours, so plan your day accordingly for a relaxed experience.

Exploring the Itinerary

The Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass is designed to introduce visitors to a diverse slice of the city’s cultural and natural offerings, all within a compact area. Let’s break down what you can expect at each stop, including some practical tips and insights.

Clark Planetarium

Kicking off with the Clark Planetarium, you’re in for a treat if you’re a space enthusiast or simply curious about the cosmos. The pass grants free admission to the Dome Theatre and IMAX screenings, but be aware that tickets are limited—they are first-come, first-served. The films are only available in the afternoons, so arriving early is advised to secure your spot.

One reviewer mentioned that the process for ticketing could be a bit confusing—a barcode is sent, but staff at the planetarium sometimes weren’t familiar with how to scan it, leading to extra time spent on tickets. So, plan for a slight wait or consider arriving early to avoid missing out on the show.

Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum

Designed to inspire kids of all ages, the Discovery Gateway is a hands-on museum emphasizing imagination, discovery, and connection. We loved the idea that this attraction caters to a broad age range and abilities, making it perfect for families or groups with young children.

Expect interactive exhibits, creative play zones, and engaging activities. The museum recommends about 2 hours for a good visit, but you might want to allocate extra time if kids want to explore everything thoroughly.

Natural History Museum of Utah

This museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world, from dinosaurs to Utah’s unique ecosystems. The exhibits are designed to illuminate the natural history and human connection with the environment.

Since the reviews suggest advanced reservations are recommended, booking ahead is wise, especially if you want a smooth experience. The natural history exhibitions are quite expansive, so plan at least two hours to enjoy the displays without rushing.

Red Butte Garden

As the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West, Red Butte Garden is a visual feast, especially during spring when half a million blooming bulbs light up the landscape. The garden is part of the University of Utah and functions as a state arboretum, offering lush displays and peaceful walking paths.

Many visitors appreciate the outdoor summer concert series and the educational programs, making it a great spot to relax and soak in beauty. Expect to spend around 2 hours wandering through themed display gardens and enjoying the views of Salt Lake City.

The Leonardo Museum of Creativity and Innovation

This museum celebrates art, science, and inventive thinking—a modern homage to Leonardo da Vinci himself. It’s a space that encourages asking big questions, creating, and dreaming big, making it ideal for curious minds and creative souls.

If you’re looking to be inspired, The Leonardo is a highlight. Visitors typically spend about 2 hours exploring interactive exhibits, engaging in creative activities, and pondering the big ideas. It’s a fun, slightly unconventional stop that emphasizes innovation.

This is the Place Heritage Park

For a full-day family experience, this heritage park offers a mix of historical fun and interactive activities. Kids and adults alike can enjoy riding trains, panning for gold, meeting farm animals, and exploring pioneer crafts.

According to a reviewer, the park is a “fun place for everyone”, with attractions like pioneer chores, old-fashioned games, and a Native American village. Expect about 2 hours at this site to get a good taste of pioneer life and family-friendly fun.

Utah Museum of Contemporary Art (UMOCA)

This museum showcases modern and contemporary art, emphasizing the power of current artistic expressions to build community and foster change. It’s a good stop for art lovers interested in cutting-edge work and experimental pieces.

Most visitors spend about 2 hours here, exploring the exhibits and engaging with programming. It’s a space that encourages fresh perspectives and reflection on contemporary issues.

Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA)

Located at the University of Utah, the UMFA offers a broad collection spanning from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. The museum’s inclusive environment makes it welcoming for all, regardless of prior art knowledge.

Expect to spend around 2 hours exploring the galleries. From ancient sculptures to modern paintings, the UMFA provides a deep dive into global artistic traditions and creative expressions.

Utah’s Hogle Zoo

Rounding out the pass is the Hogle Zoo, where you can see a variety of animals and learn about conservation efforts. The zoo’s exhibits are designed to nurture respect and appreciation for the natural world.

As most reviews note, visitors typically spend about 2 hours here. It’s a family favorite and a chance to see animals from around the globe in well-maintained exhibits.

Practical Tips for Using the Pass

• Timing matters: While most attractions are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, check individual hours to plan your day effectively.
• Plan your route: Since transportation isn’t included, mapping out your visits to minimize travel time will maximize your experience.
• Reserve in advance: For places like the Natural History Museum and Clark Planetarium, advanced booking or arriving early can help avoid disappointment due to limited tickets.
• Prepare for extra time: Some venues, especially the planetarium, might have some delays due to ticket processes or availability issues.

Who Will Love the Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass?

This pass is perfect for anyone who appreciates the convenience of bundled tickets, the flexibility to choose different attractions, and the opportunity to explore Salt Lake City at their own pace. Families will enjoy the variety—from playful children’s museums and heritage parks to engaging wildlife and outdoor gardens. Culture lovers will find the museums and galleries enriching, while outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the gardens and zoo.

If you’re on a budget but want to see a good cross-section of the city’s offerings, this pass offers notable savings—especially as individual admissions can add up quickly. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a planned but flexible schedule, rather than booking separate tickets for each site.

The Sum Up

The Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass offers an accessible, reasonably priced way to experience a wide array of Salt Lake City’s best attractions. Its main appeal lies in the combination of value and flexibility, allowing visitors to tailor their experience to their interests and available time. While some process-related hiccups—like ticketing issues at the Clark Planetarium—may cause slight delays, these are minor inconveniences compared to the overall convenience and diversity of options.

This pass is best suited for families, cultural explorers, and outdoor lovers who want to maximize their time in Salt Lake City without breaking the bank. It pairs indoor museums and engaging educational sites with outdoor gardens and zoos, creating a balanced and fun itinerary for all ages.

Travelers who enjoy discovering local highlights at their own pace and value a good deal will find this pass a handy tool for making the most of their visit. Just be sure to plan your route smartly, arrive early at busy sites, and prepare for some waiting at the ticket counters. With a little planning, this pass can be your ticket to a memorable Salt Lake City adventure.

FAQ

Does the pass include transportation between attractions?
No, transportation isn’t covered, so you’ll need to plan your own route, whether walking, biking, or using public transit.

Can I visit more than three attractions with this pass?
The pass is valid for up to three attractions within the 9-day window after your first use, but you are free to choose different ones during your visit.

How long do I have to use the pass after purchase?
You must use your pass within 120 days of purchase and it expires 9 days after the first attraction is visited.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
The pass covers general admission. Extra costs may apply for special exhibits, optional activities, or amenities not included in the listed attractions.

Is it worth the price compared to individual tickets?
For most visitors, yes—since it bundles multiple attractions, it offers savings and flexibility that individual tickets lack.

What should I do if I encounter issues with ticketing?
Arrive early, especially at high-demand sites like Clark Planetarium, and be prepared for some initial confusion if a barcode system isn’t fully understood. Having your confirmation details handy helps.

Can I buy the pass on the day I arrive?
Yes, but booking in advance is recommended to secure your preferred attractions and avoid potential delays or sold-out times.

The Salt Lake Downtown Discovery Pass stands out as a practical, value-packed way to experience the city’s highlights—whether you’re into art, animals, outdoor beauty, or history. With a bit of planning and a flexible attitude, it can turn your Salt Lake City visit into a memorable adventure.