Discover Salt Lake City: Top Movies, TV Series and Books Set There

Salt Lake City, Utah’s high-elevation capital, is not only famous for its stunning natural landscapes and vibrant urban scene but also for its significant contribution to film, television, and literature. With its breath-taking mountains, unique desert landscapes, and architecturally rich cityscape, Salt Lake City has been the backdrop for numerous iconic works of art. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the famous films shot in Salt Lake City, along with TV shows, animated films, and books set in this one-of-a-kind location.

Famous Films Shot in Salt Lake City

Over the years, many renowned films have used the picturesque landscapes and cityscapes of Salt Lake City as their filming locations. Notably, the 1969 classic “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” starring Paul Newman and Robert Redford, featured several scenes shot in the surrounding areas of Salt Lake City.

Other prominent films shot in Salt Lake City include the timeless family drama “Footloose” (1984), the thrilling “Independence Day” (1996), and the transformative journey of “127 Hours” (2010).

Here are ten notable films shot in Salt Lake City:

1. “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid” (1969)
2. “Footloose” (1984)
3. “Independence Day” (1996)
4. “127 Hours” (2010)
5. “Dumb and Dumber” (1994)
6. “The Sandlot” (1993)
7. “High School Musical” (2006)
8. “The Stand” (1994)
9. “Hulk” (2003)
10. “The World’s Fastest Indian” (2005)

Each of these films showcases Salt Lake City’s unique attributes, from its scenic natural beauty to its architectural splendor.

TV Shows Set in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City has also been the setting for several popular TV shows. One such show is “Touched by an Angel” (1994-2003), a series about an angel sent to Earth to help people in need. The series was primarily filmed in Salt Lake City and surrounding areas, showcasing the city’s charm to a broad audience.

Other notable TV series set in Salt Lake City include:

1. “Everwood” (2002-2006)
2. “Big Love” (2006-2011)
3. “Andi Mack” (2017-2019)
4. “Blood & Oil” (2015)
5. “The Outpost” (2018-present)

These series utilize various Salt Lake City locales, from suburban neighborhoods to the city’s buzzing downtown, offering viewers a taste of life in this vibrant city.

Animated Films Set in Salt Lake City

While perhaps not as well-known as live-action films, several animated films have also found inspiration in Salt Lake City’s enchanting landscapes. The city’s diverse topography, from its glittering cityscape to its surrounding desert and mountains, provides a beautiful backdrop for animated storytelling.

A few animated films set in Salt Lake City include:

1. “The Land Before Time” (1988)
2. “An American Tail: Fievel Goes West” (1991)
3. “The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars” (1998)

These charming animated films provide a whimsical perspective of Salt Lake City, capturing the city’s unique natural beauty through vibrant animation.

Famous Books Set in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City’s rich history and cultural significance have also made it a popular setting for a range of literary works. Many classic and contemporary novels have chosen Salt Lake City as their backdrop, providing readers with a literary journey through the city’s past and present.

Classic books set in Salt Lake City include:

1. “Riders of the Purple Sage” by Zane Grey
2. “The Great Brain” by John D. Fitzgerald
3. “Desert Solitaire” by Edward Abbey

Contemporary works set in Salt Lake City include:

1. “The 19th Wife” by David Ebershoff
2. “The Lonely Polygamist” by Brady Udall
3. “Under the Banner of Heaven” by Jon Krakauer

Each of these novels captures a unique aspect of Salt Lake City, from its pioneering history to its modern-day complexities.

Exploring Salt Lake City’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

To truly immerse yourself in Salt Lake City’s cinematic history, there are a few key locations you must visit. Start your journey in the city’s heart, Temple Square. This beautifully landscaped 10-acre plot is home to nearly 20 attractions related to Latter-day Saint history and genealogy, including the Salt Lake Temple, Salt Lake Tabernacle, Salt Lake Assembly Hall, the Seagull Monument, and two visitors’ centers.

From there, make your way to the Utah State Capitol, a film favorite due to its grand architecture and the pivotal role it plays in Utah’s governance.

Some other must-see places chosen by filmmakers and authors to shoot films or set novels in Salt Lake City include:

1. Trolley Square
2. Antelope Island State Park
3. Bonneville Salt Flats
4. Monument Valley
5. Zion National Park
6. Bryce Canyon National Park
7. Arches National Park

Where to Sleep in Salt Lake City

When it comes to accommodation, Salt Lake City offers a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, the city has something for every traveler.

Budget accommodation options in Salt Lake City:

1. Salt Lake City Hostel
2. Camelot Inn & Hostel
3. Avenues Hostel

Luxury accommodation options in Salt Lake City:

1. The Grand America Hotel
2. Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek
3. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City

Where to Eat in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City’s culinary scene is as diverse and vibrant as its arts scene. From traditional American cuisine to international flavors, the city has a plethora of dining options.

Budget dining options in Salt Lake City:

1. The Pie Pizzeria
2. Red Iguana
3. Bruges Waffles & Frites

Luxury dining options in Salt Lake City:

1. Valter’s Osteria
2. The Roof Restaurant
3. Log Haven

Best Itinerary for Exploring Salt Lake City’s Filming Locations Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Salt Lake City, we have curated a comprehensive 3-day itinerary that will take you to the city’s most iconic filming locations.

Day 1: Central Salt Lake City

1. Start your day at Temple Square, the heart of Salt Lake City.
2. Visit the State Capitol, a grand building that has been used as a backdrop in many films.
3. After lunch, visit the City and County Building, another popular filming location.
4. End your day with dinner at The Roof Restaurant, which offers stunning views of the city.

Day 2: Natural Filming Locations

1. Begin your day with a visit to Antelope Island State Park, a popular filming location.
2. After lunch, head to Bonneville Salt Flats, another famous filming location.
3. End your day with a visit to Monument Valley, which has been the setting for many Western films.

Day 3: Downtown Salt Lake City

1. Start your day at Trolley Square, featured in several films and TV shows.
2. From there, go to the Cathedral of the Madeleine, a beautiful filming location.
3. After lunch, visit the Gilgal Sculpture Garden, a unique spot that has been used for shooting in films.
4. End your day with a stroll along Main Street, a popular location for filming cityscape scenes.

Local Legends and Curiosities About Salt Lake City’s Film Industry

Salt Lake City’s film industry is steeped in fascinating legends and curiosities. One such legend is the story of the “Hollywood of the Rockies,” a term used to describe Salt Lake City’s significant contribution to the film industry. The city’s diverse landscapes and unique architecture have made it a favorite amongst filmmakers.

Hidden Gems in Salt Lake City

Beyond its well-known landmarks, Salt Lake City also houses several hidden gems that have been featured in films and literature. These lesser-known locations offer a unique perspective of the city and are worth exploring.

1. Gilgal Gardens: This small public city park, filled with unusual symbolic statuary associated with Mormonism, especially to the Sphinx with Joseph Smith’s head, has been featured in a few local indie films.
2. The King’s English Bookshop: This local bookstore is a gem for literary lovers and has been referenced in various local novels.
3. Eagle Gate: This historic monument in Salt Lake City has been the backdrop for numerous local photoshoots and a few films.

What to Pack for a Trip to Salt Lake City

When packing for your trip to Salt Lake City, consider the city’s semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Pack for warm summers, cold winters, and mild spring and autumn seasons. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, as you’ll be exploring various filming locations on foot.

Transportation Tips for Getting Around Salt Lake City’s Filming Locations

Getting around Salt Lake City is relatively easy thanks to the city’s extensive public transportation system. The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) provides buses, light rail service (TRAX), and a commuter rail service (FrontRunner) connecting Salt Lake City with other parts of Utah.

Whether you’re a film enthusiast or a bibliophile, a trip to Salt Lake City offers a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters and scenes. From its iconic cityscape to its stunning natural landscapes, Salt Lake City invites you to explore its cinematic and literary history. So, pack your bags, and let the adventure begin!