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During your Salt Lake City vacation, don't miss these great establishments and attractions:
Joseph Smith Memorial Building
Formerly the historic Hotel Utah, this magnificent building has been renovated and converted into offices, meeting spaces, restaurants, and reception areas (it's very popular for wedding receptions). Between 1911 and 1987, this was a world-renowned hotel; the lobby retains its art-glass ceiling and massive marble pillars, and the architectural details have been lovingly restored throughout. It's worth a stop for a peek inside.There are 200 computers in the FamilySearch Center (tel. 801/240-4383), and a staff to help with your genealogical research. A big-screen 500-seat theater offers free (but ticket required, call tel. 801/240-4383 for schedule and to reserve a ticket) showings of an hour-long movie about the life of Christ. Allow half an hour to an hour and a half.
Capitol Building
Built between 1912 and 1915 of unpolished Utah granite and Georgia marble, the capitol, considered one of the finest examples of Renaissance Revival style in the West, rests on a hill in a beautifully landscaped 40-acre park. The state symbol, the beehive (representing industry and cooperation), is a recurring motif both inside and out. Those who don't want to take the free tour can walk through on their own.The Rotunda, which stretches upward 165 feet, is decorated with murals painted during the WPA years (the four largest depict important scenes in the state's early history) and houses several busts of prominent historical figures, including Brigham Young and Philo T. Farnsworth, the man whom we can all thank for bringing us television. The chandelier is astounding -- weighing 6,000 pounds and hanging from a 7,000-pound chain.Other rooms include the State Reception Room, known as the Gold Room because the walls are made from locally mined gold-traverse marble; the offices of the governor and lieutenant governor at the west end; the Hall of Governors, a portrait gallery that honors all those who have served as governor of Utah since statehood in 1896; and at the east end, the offices of Utah's attorney general. Downstairs, you'll find a small souvenir shop and some exhibits, including a large topographical map of Utah.The third floor houses the Senate, House of Representatives, and Supreme Court of Utah. You can either climb one of the two marble staircases or take the elevator. The state legislature meets for 45 days in January and February; visitors are welcome to sit in the galleries on the fourth floor, which overlook the chambers. In front of the House of Representatives, you'll see a replica of the Liberty Bell, one of 53 bronzed and cast in France in 1950. Allow at least an hour to explore here.
Governor's Mansion
Silver magnate Thomas Kearns built this palatial home in 1898, sparing no expense to make it as lavish as possible. African and Italian marble and exotic woods from around the world were used extensively throughout. Kearns' widow deeded it to the state in 1937, and the 36-room mansion is now the governor's residence. It suffered a devastating fire just before Christmas 1993, but has been fully restored to its 1902 appearance (1902 was the year that Kearns and his family first moved in). The best time to see the mansion is in December, when it's elaborately decorated for Christmas. Allow about half an hour.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Salt Lake City-Downtown, UT
The brand new Homewood Suites Salt Lake City Downtown is located near the heart of downtown and one block south of the trendy Gateway Center. The Gateway has several shops, restaurants and theaters. Additionally the downtown business district is located a short three blocks from the hotel. Another nearby attraction is the Delta Center, where concerts and sporting events are held. The Delta Center is two blocks north of the hotel. Finally, the Salt Place Convention Center is located three ...
Hampton Inn and Suites Ogden, UT
A ''boutique'' style hotel with its art deco design within walking distance to a wide variety of shopping, restaurants, and ...
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