Gilgal Sculpture Garden

A Hidden Urban Oasis

Nestled behind homes and businesses like a well-kept secret, Gilgal Sculpture Garden rewards explorers with that magical "oh, wow" moment when you first step inside. This unique public park sits at 749 East 500 South in Salt Lake City, Utah, just a stone's throw from Trolley Square (pun absolutely intended).

The garden is the brainchild of Thomas Battersby Child, Jr., who created this fascinating space in the mid-twentieth century. It's a small urban retreat featuring an eclectic mix of sculptures and engravings that showcase Child's spiritual wonderings and philosophical musings. It's free to visit, and you'll likely spend anywhere from 15-45 minutes exploring, depending on how deeply you examine the artwork and inscriptions.

Stone figures and monuments along a snowy pathway

Artistic Elements

Wandering through the garden, you'll encounter twelve original sculptural arrangements and more than 70 stones carved with scriptures, poems, and literary texts. A notable piece is the sphinx with Joseph Smith's face - yes, that's the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints portrayed as a mythical creature.

Other eye-catching works include a sacrificial altar, a touching monument to Child's wife, and various biblical and philosophical references scattered throughout. What makes these sculptures so interesting is their unpolished, heartfelt quality - Child had no formal artistic training, but what he lacked in technique, he more than made up for with sincere passion and a desire to create a space that makes you think.

Beautiful Gardens

The sculptures aren't the only feature. Gilgal's flower gardens add color and serenity to the space. Roses and assorted perennials bloom during the warmer months, creating a peaceful backdrop to the stonework.

Dedicated volunteers keep these gardens looking their best year-round. The gentle fragrance of flowers mingles with the quiet atmosphere, making this an ideal spot to clear your head or simply enjoy a moment of calm amid city life.

Various stone sculptures on the snow-covered garden grounds

Visitor Information

Getting around is pretty straightforward thanks to paved walking paths that make most areas accessible, although you might encounter a few unpaved trails if you want to check out certain features. You'll come across benches dotted throughout when you need a rest or just want to sit and contemplate the art around you.

Just so you know - there aren't permanent restrooms here, but a portable toilet sometimes makes an appearance. Feel free to bring your four-legged friend, but keep them leashed at all times. While there's no designated picnic area, nobody will mind if you enjoy a small snack on one of the benches.

Majestic stone eagle sculpture standing against winter trees

Preservation and Legacy

What began as Child's backyard project found new life as a public park in 2000, thanks to the Friends of Gilgal Garden (FOGG) who stepped in to save it from developers.

Today, it's Utah's only identified "visionary art environment" - offering a window into one man's spiritual journey and creative vision. It's a quiet spot in the city where you can take a break and appreciate Child's distinctive artistic expression.

Don't forget to grab one of the free informational brochures at the entrance. They explain the stories behind each sculpture and add helpful context about how this wonderful oddity came to be.