Utah is home to some of the most iconic and well-preserved historic buildings in the nation. From Pioneer-era cabins to stunning Victorian-era mansions, Utah’s collections of preserved sites offer a window into the state’s rich past. These historic buildings are some of the must-see monuments that should be visited by anyone visiting Utah:
The Salt Lake Assembly Hall
The Salt Lake Assembly Hall is an iconic site in Utah, steeped in history. Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, the hall was opened in 1882 and served as the seat of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints until the larger Tabernacle replaced it a decade later.
Even though its role shifted, visitors to the assembly hall found themselves enchanted with its bright colors, intricate carvings, and unique design that made it an iconic space even while continuing to be used for religious ceremonies and small civic events. Now a part of Temple Square, The Salt Lake Assembly Hall serves as a reminder of how things were before statehood and offers insight into Utah’s rich cultural past.
Walker Bank Building
Established in 1888, the Walker Bank Building is one of Utah’s most iconic historic landmarks. Located on Main Street in Salt Lake City, this visually-stunning building has been standing tall for well over a century, offering both occupants and passersby a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Erected by Tracy L. Merrill and Charles S. Burton, it is renowned for its sandstone masonry and intricate cornice designs; the red brick wall that supports it adds to its historical appeal and charm. Notable tenants include The Office of Economic Development, the First Security Bank, Lamm’s Jewellers, and The First Lutheran Church of Commerce – all of whom have helped preserve its status as an important part of Utah’s history.
Browning Arms Company Building
The Browning Arms Company Building in Ogden, Utah is an iconic example of early 20th-century architecture. The building was commissioned by John Moses Browning and designed by his son Val A. Browning; it was completed in 1929.
This historic structure offers a glimpse into the industrial past of Utah as it stands proudly on a street corner as a testament to its enduring legacy. Constructed from bright red brick and illuminated with white stone accents, the building’s most recognizable feature is its curved entranceway, decorated with metal latticework and glass panels.
The building has been restored to maintain its original features while also meeting all modern safety standards and providing much-needed space to accommodate the growing population of Ogden residents. For locals and visitors alike, the Browning Arms Company Building remains a symbol of the city’s unique history.
Fort Douglas
Founded near Salt Lake City in 1862 to help protect early Mormon settlers, Fort Douglas is one of Utah’s most historically significant buildings. From the 1860s until the end of the Second World War, Fort Douglas served as one of the most important posts of the United States Army.
Remnants of its history still remain today in its parade grounds, barracks, and powder magazine. Travelers visiting Fort Douglas also get to visit its museum which contains artifacts from both Native Americans and more recent soldiers assigned to serve at the fort.
This amazing landmark of history is a must-see for anyone visiting Utah, as it serves to remind us that even during difficult times throughout American history, sacrifice and bravery were constants on our path to current stability.
Beehive House
Located in Salt Lake City and originally built for Brigham Young, the Beehive House is a historic building of immense significance in the state of Utah. Constructed from 1854 to 1855, it was the official residence of Brigham Young during his tenure as Utah’s first Governor.
Additionally, this two-story home served multiple purposes including an office, residence, meeting place, and even as an art gallery – giving us a glimpse into its rich history. This Greek revival-style building is one of the few residential buildings that remain from the era and stands today as a testament to Utah’s shared history and architectural contributions.
Union Pacific Depot
Utah’s Union Pacific Depot is a piece of the state’s history that many appreciate and a source of local pride. This beautiful building, designed in Spanish Colonial Revival style architecture, dates to 1925. While it currently serves as an Amtrak station and restaurant, it was originally built to serve as a passenger stop on the Union Pacific Railroad.
Many are familiar with its bright tower rising like a beacon over Ogden’s downtown skyline, but it contains much more than meets the eye. Descendants of the original owners have kept records and artifacts from the early days when it was built, filling its walls with stories and fond memories of its past. The Union Pacific Depot serves as an important reminder of Utah’s rich railroad heritage and adds historic charm to an otherwise modern cityscape.
Castleton Tower
Castleton Tower, located near the town of Castle Valley in Utah, is an iconic historic building that has stood for more than 100 years. Built in 1914 by two local ranchers, the tower has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1973.
The grand four-story structure was a way station and point of navigation for travelers prior to its nomination as a historic building—its view from the heights can provide travelers with a beautiful backdrop of red rock desert. Though the tower serves no longer serves its original purpose today, it remains a treasured landmark and symbol of Utah’s heritage. Thanks to routine maintenance and repairs over the years, arguably one of Utah’s most stunning historic buildings will grace our landscape for many decades to come.
Capitol Theatre
The Capitol Theatre in Salt Lake City, Utah is an iconic and historical building. Constructed in 1913, this theatre has hosted some of the most beloved shows, films, concerts, and programs in the area for over a century. It is currently owned by the supportive nonprofit organization Plan-B Theatre Company and regularly hosts performances from their award-winning residence productions.
Even during times of difficulty, the theater continues to entertain people with its nostalgic decor, state-of-the-art production capabilities, and ongoing commitment to bringing the community together through entertainment. Whether attending a performance or simply admiring its intricate architecture from the outside, visitors can’t help but marvel at the ongoing legacy of this historic Utah building.
Each of these historically significant sites offers insights into different periods in Utah’s history while also providing a glimpse at life during their respective building heyday. Exploring them is an absolute must for any traveler or guidebook enthusiast.