Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center

Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center is on the University of Utah campus at 301 Wakara Way. A 42,000-square-foot ribbon of locally mined copper wraps around the exterior of this sustainable building, a five-level structure whose modern design mimics the topography of the surrounding foothills. An active research institution, the museum presents the natural and cultural history of the Great Basin region. Ten themed galleries contain such exhibits as dinosaur skeletons, live insect specimens, and gems and minerals. Hands-on displays, wall murals and multimedia presentations enhance visitors' understanding of Utah's landscapes and people. On the fourth level of the facility is an indoor-outdoor interpretive space featuring dazzling views of Salt Lake City and the Salt Lake Valley. In addition, the museum is located on the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, a developing hiking and biking route that, when complete, will stretch from Nephi to the Idaho border. Food is available. Time: Allow 1 hour, 30 minutes minimum.