Named after a prophet from the Book of Mormon, Lehi lies between Salt Lake City and the shores of Utah Lake. It was settled by Mormons in 1850 and was originally known as “Evansville” after a local bishop, David Evans. Just two years after its founding, Evans petitioned to have the rapidly growing settlement incorporated as a city.
Things to do in Lehi
In the centre of Lehi is the Hutchings Museum Institute, which showcases cultural artefacts, fossils and geological findings from across Utah. Its collection is based on that of John and Eunice Hutchings, with many of the objects designed to be handled and interacted with. Learn about the dinosaurs that once roamed the area and meet some of the live reptiles that call the museum “home”.
If you’re particularly interested in prehistoric life, don’t miss the Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life at Thanksgiving Point. This family-friendly institution boasts 60 complete dinosaur skeletons and exhibits that detail life in Utah more than 65 million years ago. You can get hands-on at the Quarry Dog or watch palaeontologists in action as they unearth a 150-million-year-old Barosaurus.
Also at Thanksgiving Point is the Ashton Gardens, which encompasses 20 hectares of landscaped beds and grassy lawns. Follow the brick pathways that meander through the gardens to see one of the largest manmade waterfalls in the United States before relaxing over a meal at the Trellis Cafe. Botanical-themed gifts are available at the Garden Path Greenhouse.
Getting around Lehi
Lehi is around 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of Salt Lake City and 40 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the United States. Buses connect to Lehi, although renting a car will give you greater freedom to explore the area.