CITY GUIDE 2017 

Page 2 of 20

Destination: Neighborhoods
By Amanda Rock

Culture and history go hand in hand in Downtown Salt Lake City. Whether your idea of a good time is taking in a Broadway show, then dinner and cocktails at a fine restaurant or spending the day enjoying the many museums and historical landmarks, Downtown is your destination.

Read
at the Salt Lake City Public Library where you'll find books a plenty as well as an impressive collection of graphic novels and zines. Peruse the rooftop garden, art gallery and fun retail shops. Visit the Salt Lake Roasting Co. to enjoy a quick bite and latte while you read, people-watch and admire the architecture. Along with books, you can check out sewing machines, book-club kits, children's nature kits and more.
Salt Lake City Library
210 E. 400 South, Salt Lake City
slcpl.org

Taste
authentic Afghani fare at Curry 'n' Kabobs. Enter through the colorful doors of a convenience store located on Main Street, walk back to the restaurant and get your falafel on. Choose from a mouthwatering selection of curries and kabobs, as well as vegetarian plates and tasty appetizers. Don't leave without trying the lassi, a sweet and tangy beverage.
Curry 'n' Kabobs
268 S. Main, Salt Lake City

Admire
art inside a shoe shop. An integral part of downtown Salt Lake City, the Oxford Shop has been selling shoes with a side of art for 65 years. Paintings and drawings from Gunter Richard Radinger, the original owner's brother-in-law and current co-owner, add something special to the enduring shoe shop. The charm of this little brick-and-mortar is undeniable.
Oxford Shop
65 E. 100 South, Salt Lake City
oxfordshop.biz

Indulge
at The Big O Doughnuts, Salt Lake's premier vegan doughnut shop. Get ready to show your O face with lip-smacking flavors like blueberry lavender, matcha, rose and orange cardamom— all made with natural ingredients. Grab a cup of local coffee or tea to pair with your doughnut and tackle the day, fortified with the time-tested carbs-and-caffeine combo.
The Big O Doughnuts
171 E. 300 South, Salt Lake City
thebigodoughnuts.com

The Avenues, Salt Lake's first official neighborhood, is characterized by skinny streets, Victorian-era houses, impressive architecture and cozy neighborhood restaurants. This 'hood has elbow room and is conveniently located by City Creek Canyon, Lake Bonneville Shoreline Trail and Memory Grove Park—a memorial to Utah's veterans decorated with monuments, fountains and picnic tables.

Take in
Egyptian revival architecture at the Salt Lake Masonic Temple, headquarters to Utah's Masonic brotherhood. Built in 1927, this building is rich in Egyptian and Masonic symbolism. Public tours are held Mondays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. If you miss the tour, stop by to take in the building's facade and visit the stoic sphinx, standing guard.
Salt Lake Masonic Temple
650 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City
wasatchlodge.com

Bite
into a chocolate bear at Mrs. Backer's Pastry Shop. Established in 1941, this family-owned and operated shop offers delectable breads, pastries and cookies. They're famous for their intricate floral cakes and other sugary confections. Visiting this classic bakery titillates your taste buds as well as your eyes—you can't miss the pretty pink building, fancy crest and elaborate neon sign.
Mrs. Backer's Pastry Shop
434 E. South Temple, Salt Lake City
mrsbackers.com

Hike
the Avenues Twin Peaks trail. Get away from it all—just minutes from the city! Bring your camera, as breathtaking views of the valley await you at the top of the trail. This easy hike is also perfect for an after-work adventure with your pup. Check out the sunset, reconnect with nature and be home in time for a late dinner.
Avenues Twin Peaks Trailhead
1250 E. 640 North, Salt Lake City
slcpl.org

Visit
the Salt Lake City Cemetery (est. 1848) to pay tribute to some of Utah's most outstanding historical figures like Orrin Porter Rockwell (history's most bad-ass Mormon), past governors of Utah, LDS prophets and Thomas Battersby Child, mastermind behind the can't-miss Gilgal Sculpture Garden. Do your research and pack a lunch; there's a lot of ground to cover.
Salt Lake City Cemetery
200 N St. East, Salt Lake City
slcgov.com/cemetery

Sugar House is a combination of quiet residential streets and a bustling business district. Established in 1853, it's one of Salt Lake's oldest districts, though its hipness hints otherwise. Look around and you can see remnants of the past alongside sparkling new developments.

Gawk
at the ginormous spinning sugar cone outside the Dreyer's distribution center and pay your respects to the Sugar House of yesteryear. The rotating strawberry-and-chocolate ice cream cone, which appeared on a pin for the 2002 Winter Olympics, was the beacon to Snelgrove Ice Cream, a popular ice cream parlor in the '60s. Now imagine sharing an ice cream soda with your sweetie while the jukebox plays.
Dryer's Distribution Center
850 E. 2100 South, Salt Lake City

Shop
for rusted oddities at American Rust Co. This antique store is a haven for those with a passion for ancient and oxidized gems. Don't miss the nifty upcycled items, like the furniture made from old license plates and an array of steampunk creations. Even if you don't buy a treasure, you'll leave with inspiration for some DIY projects of your own. The American Rust Co.
825 E. 2100 South, Salt Lake City
facebook.com/theamericanrustcompany

Catch
up-and-coming acts at The Borough. Located in the basement of Daly's Clothing, this no-frills venue features burgeoning musical acts and occasional poetry readings in a bohemian setting. With brick walls, thrifted arm chairs and raw talent, The Borough reminds you that Sugar House, with all its gentrification, is still cool. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram for current lineup.
The Borough
817 E. 2100 South, Salt Lake City
facebook.com/theboroughslc

Learn
Morse Code. OK, not really, but the cocktail menu at The Ruin will enlighten you. Their Dot Dash Dot will acquaint you with Smith & Cross Rum, a full-flavored Jamaican rum, and Falernum, a syrup used in tropical beverages that tastes of almond and ginger. Punctuated with lime, the Dot Dash Dot is a refreshing and distinctive cocktail. And The Ruin is a cool place to imbibe.
The Ruin
1215 Wilmington Ave., Salt Lake City
ruinslc.com

9th & 9th is Salt Lake's most happening neighborhood. It's a haven for the hip, packed full of boutiques, popular restaurants and outdoor art. Head here for a successful date night or a leisurely day of shopping. Be sure to take in a flick at the Tower Theatre, Utah's oldest still-operating movie house.

Sit
on a vintage chair at Hobnob and pretend you're on the set of Mad Men. You'll find swanky barware and hip housewares in addition to a great selection of mid-century modern furniture along with friendly customer service. If you're looking for something to make a room pop, or just appreciate the cooler things in life, Hobnob is your antique shop.
Hobnob
937 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City
facebook.com/hobnobslc

Sweat
9th & 9th is the neighborhood to see and be seen, so naturally you want to look and feel your best. Check out the classes at 9th & 9th Pilates, where they offer Barre, yoga and spin in addition to pilates. Millennium Dance Complex offers classes in hip hop, modern dance and even a special class to learn how to get down in heels, offered to men and women alike.
9th & 9th Pilates
854 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City,
9thand9thpilates.com

Millennium Dance Complex
918 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City,
millenniumdancecomplex.com

Chug
any of the half-dozen beers on tap at East Liberty Tap House. To soak it up, their snack menu really hits the spot with flavors ranging from sweet housemade caramel popcorn to savory, spicy shrimp tostadas. Still hungry? Move on to the large plates menu featuring craveable burgers and "sloppy shrooms"—a hearty vegetarian option.
East Liberty Tap House
850 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City
eastlibertytaphouse.com

Snort
from the laughter induced over the novelty items in stock at Cahoots, a 9th & 9th staple that specializes in off-the-wall gifts and hilarious cards. If you're looking for a cheeky or unusual present, or maybe a "SL, UT" souvenir, head on down. This is definitely the most fun you'll have shopping.
Cahoots
878 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City
cahootssaltlake.com

The cure for boredom is a drive down Harvey Milk Boulevard. Named after the gay-rights advocate, 900 South offers local charm, interesting shops and a few choice restaurants and bars. Be sure to stop at Central 9th, one of the most up-and-coming spots in the city.

Play
drag bingo with the Matrons of Mayhem at Club Try-Angles. If you're looking for some fun, check out this fundraiser held on the first Sunday of each month. Raising money for different charities, these glamorous queens call bingo with equal parts buoyancy and merriment. Five bucks gets you a bingo card and a shot at a prize.
Club Try-Angles
251 W. 900 South, Salt Lake City
clubtryangles.com

Buy
homegrown goodies at Jade Market, the jewel of the budding Central 9th neighborhood. Refill your growler of Mamachari Kombucha, stock up on frozen Rico burritos and chips and salsa from Salsa del Diablo. Treat yourself to something sweet from Bubble & Brown Bakery with a cup of local coffee. With a fridge full of local beer and a selection of organic produce—this convenience store has it all.
Jade Market
161 W. 900 South, Salt Lake City
facebook.com/jademarket

Get
a BJ at Pig & a Jelly Jar. Get your mind out of the gutter: The BJ ($4) is a sparkling wine and housemade jam concoction offered here. Other sippable standouts include Pride Punch ($4) made with red cream soda, white wine, orange juice, rosemary and crushed strawberries. If you're craving something savory, try their take on a Bloody Beer with the PBR Mary ($4.50).
Pig & a Jelly Jar
401 E. 900 South, Ste. A, Salt Lake City
pigandajellyjar.com

Cleanse
yourself at Botánica San Antonio. Feeling down on your luck? Head to this colorful shop selling magical wares, folk medicine remedies, candles and statuary. If you're feeling really unlucky, they'll perform a cleansing for $120. If that's not in your budget they'll happily suggest amulets, oils and other good stuff to restore your mojo.
Botánica San Antonio
270 E. 900 South, Salt Lake City

There's culture around every corner in Salt Lake's most charming intersection, 15th and 15th. This quaint and picturesque neighborhood is the antidote to the stress of your modern life. One afternoon here—amid bookstores, art galleries and delightful eateries— will soothe your soul.

Behold
the endless selection of books at The King's English Bookshop. This landmark shop has enjoyed a special spot in the hearts of bibliophiles since 1977. Don't forget the little ones; the selection of kids' books is outstanding. If you need suggestions, don't be shy. The booksellers love to talk books and are happy to make recommendations. Get comfy, because there are plenty of cozy nooks and chairs where you can test drive your new reading material.
The King's English Bookshop
1511 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
kingsenglish.com

See
contemporary art at 15th Street Gallery. Featuring Utah artists, this gallery houses eclectic paintings, ceramics and dramatic glassware. There's also stunning jewelry to pore over. Visit on the third Friday of each month from 6-9 p.m. for the Gallery Stroll and reception; it's a great way to get acquainted with promising artists.
15th Street Gallery
1519 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
15thstreetgallery.com

Learn
about cheese, whiskey or wine at Caputo's Market & Deli. If you're looking for a fun date-night activity, or just want to expand your palate, mentors here are engaging and entertaining instructors. Costs cover samples, nibbles and worksheets where you can retain your newfound knowledge. You can sign up for one of these popular classes in-store or online.
Caputo's Market & Deli
1516 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
caputosdeli.com

Brunch
at Trestle Tavern, an intimate restaurant serving Eastern European cuisine. Served weekends from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., brunch is the ideal kick start to the day, whether you're a pork schnitzel or a beet-and-fennel-salad kind of person. In any case, start your meal with a freshly made pretzel with cheese sauce. Weather permitting, enjoy brunch on the scenic patio covered in ivy.
Trestle Tavern
1513 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
trestletavern.com

Home to the most diverse population in SLC, South Salt Lake offers eclectic dining options—everything from Bosnian fare to Thai food can be found here. While diversity is this neighborhood's strong suit, many businesses call South Salt Lake home. The best part? There's plenty of parking everywhere you go.

Experience
a trip to the Far East at Salt Lake Chinatown, home to the state's largest Asian grocery store, as well as some of the most delicious Chinese restaurants around, including CY Noodles House and Ho Mei BBQ. Shop for gifts, drink a boba tea and admire the many types of tofu in the grocery emporium. With plenty to see and taste, plan to devote a few hours to exploring.
Salt Lake Chinatown
3370 S. State, Salt Lake City
saltlakechinatown.com

Bounce
inside the impressive Wairhouse Trampoline Park. Along with sipping soda, enjoying ice cream and coming up with alternative swear words (Mother-father!), Salt Lakers love their trampoline parks. Here, you can hold your kid's birthday party, bring your co-workers for some bonding time, or maybe just jump out some of your own frustrations. Don your grip socks, sign the waiver and get jumping!
Wairhouse Trampoline Park
3653 S. 500 West, Salt Lake City
thewairhouse.com

Conjure
a spell at Crone's Hollow. Peruse jewelry, magical tools, crystals, stones, books and herbs. Classes are offered to hone your witchy skills and special events are held to further explore the craft and commemorate the sabbats. A gathering place for Salt Lake's pagans, this is a great spot to meet like-minded souls. You can also sign up for psychic and tarot card readings.
Crone's Hollow
3834 S. Main, Salt Lake City
croneshollow.com

Wander
inside the Kentucky Fried Chicken museum at the world's first KFC. Artifacts include vintage advertisements, menus (check out those prices!) and a life-size statue of Colonel Sanders himself alongside business partner (and Utah native) Pete Harmon. Tempted to wipe your greasy fingers on the colonel's pristine white suit? Nice try, buddy; it's behind glass for a reason.
World's First KFC
3890 S. State, Salt Lake City
kfc.com