The first known group of white explorers came to the Salt Lake area in 1776. Other men explored the area in the early 1800's in search of beavers. On July 24, 1847, a group of refugees, Mormons seeking religious freedom, founded Salt Lake City. The California gold rush and the completion of the trans-continental railroad brought even more people to the area. By the time Utah became the 45th state in 1896, nearly 250,000 people lived in the area.

Today, Salt Lake City is a beautiful city with a thriving economy and is regularly recognized as one of the best places in the country to live and do business. Spectacular hotels and gourmet restaurants strive to make sure that visitors to the area have a memorable experience.