Brigham Young Historic Park

A Glimpse into Utah's Past

Found in downtown Salt Lake City, Brigham Young Historic Park is a charming pocket of greenery with a story to tell. This small public park sits on what was once part of Brigham Young's family estate back in the mid-1800s, just a stone's throw east of Temple Square.

The park commemorates Young - the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a pivotal figure in Salt Lake City's early days. As you wander through, you'll spot historical markers that help piece together this fascinating chapter of Utah's history.

Pioneer Life Brought to Life

What makes this park special is how it captures the pioneer spirit through thoughtful details. On the east side, you can check out a rebuilt section of the original cobblestone wall that once marked the boundary of Young's property - a tangible link to the past.

At the heart of the park stands a functioning waterwheel, powered by the gentle flow of City Creek. It's not just for show; it symbolizes the industriousness of those early settlers who built a community from scratch.

The life-size bronze statues created by Peter Fillerup are notable features of the park. These detailed sculptures show men, women, and children going about their pioneer lives. One particularly thoughtful arrangement depicts women pioneers tending to a garden - and in a clever touch, this sculpture is surrounded by an actual vegetable garden that sometimes grows corn, tomatoes, and squash. It's an interesting way to connect past and present.

A Green Haven Downtown

The park's design offers a quiet space away from city life. Water features meander through the grounds, complemented by shade trees and flowering shrubs. Rock gardens nestle into the hillsides, creating a natural backdrop for the waterwheel and historical elements.

A grove of mature trees provides shade and creates quiet nooks for a moment of pause. You'll find plenty of places to sit, making this spot ideal for a lunch break, getting lost in a good book, or simply pausing to breathe amid your busy day.

Keep an eye out for the squirrels that call this place home - they're often seen darting among the trees and grassy areas, adding a bit of wildlife charm to this urban sanctuary.

Summer Nights in the Park

When summer rolls around, the park transforms into a community gathering space with free evening concerts typically held on Tuesdays and Fridays. Local talents and sometimes internationally known musicians take to the stage on the north side of the lawn.

These performances draw both Salt Lake locals and visitors, offering a lovely way to experience live music in a beautiful outdoor setting. Just be aware that you might catch occasional city sounds in the background - it is downtown, after all.

Planning Your Visit

The park welcomes visitors year-round from 8AM to 9PM daily. Regardless of whether you're a history buff, looking for a quiet lunch spot, or just need a brief escape from downtown's energy, this park offers a moment of connection with Salt Lake City's pioneer roots.

A walking path winds throughout, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Since the park is maintained by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, do remember to respect the rules and peaceful atmosphere that make this place special.