Off the Beaten Path Salt Lake City

Our Local Expert Says:

If you would like to check out something a bit more off the beaten path, Gilgal Gardens, with its odd statues and creepy vibes, is definitely it.

Description:

This local garden is famous for its mix of cultural heritage captured in several statues, along with quotes from Rousseau, Emerson and the Bible. Gilgal Gardens is part of (and pokes fun at) Utah cultural history, although the locals scratch their heads in wonder at some of the chosen subject matter. The garden will provide visitors with a nice stroll and will certainly arouse curiosity in all who take the time to look around. The park is open daily from 9am until dusk, or by appointment. No entrance fee is required.

Description:

Stretching along the banks of the Jordan River, this interesting International Peace Garden and park encourages visitors to consider the many cultures contributing to the prosperity of the Salt Lake Basin. More than 25 cultures are represented with statues, structures and garden plots. Visitors can stroll among windmills, pagodas and Viking tombs and pause for contemplation in front of statues depicting a preaching Buddha or Hans Christian Andersen. Learn something new about Utah. Admission is free. Call ahead for seasonal hours.

Description:

This 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was founded in 1980 to assist Salt Lake's creative community. In a world where affordable living and working space is hard to come by -particularly for those who fall into the stereotypical, underpaid "starving artist" category, Artspace steps up and offers help.

This organization offers living and working space for those seriously involved in creative endeavors. Painters, photographers, artisan craftsman, and the like may come to Artspace with whatever housing, gallery, studio, or even small retail shop needs they may have. The organization does its best to meet the needs of these artists and nonprofits, and at a price that won't kill their dreams. The nature of these Artspace projects create densely cultural areas througougt Salt Lake City, ripe for gallery strolls, as well as provide pleasant environments in which the artists may live and work in harmony with their like-minded neighbors. Check out Artspace online to see what they're up to. read more

Description:

It is a sensory delight to shop here whether one buys anything or not. The store carries an enormous selection of books dealing with the spiritual and metaphysical realms of life, as well as gifts, cards, and an excellent selection of CDs. Gentle fountains, hidden corner couches, and the aromas wafting into the bookstore from the adjacent Oasis Cafe (The) are all strong inducements to spend several hours in pursuit of refreshing one's mind and spirit.

Description:

The original territorial jail downstairs is a must-see -- the dark, tiny cells were state-of-the-art in 1886! The upstairs is a bit more civilized, displaying a stagecoach, 19th-century mining equipment, historic photographs, and early ski gear. You'll also see an exhibit describing the fire destruction wrought on the town over the years. The museum also houses a visitor center. Allow about 1 1/2 hours.