Liberty Park

A Touch of Salt Lake History

In the heart of Salt Lake City lies Liberty Park, the city's oldest and second-largest public green space sprawling across 80 acres. The land has gone through a few identities over the years - after Brigham Young acquired it in 1860, he planted mulberry, cottonwood, and other trees across the property, and it went by various names including Mill Farm, Forest Park, and Locust Patch before the city bought it in 1881. Following the purchase, the city held a public design competition for the park's layout, won by Joseph Don Carlos Young - a son of Brigham Young and Utah's first academically trained architect. The park was officially named Liberty Park and opened to the public on June 17, 1882.

In 1980, the park as a whole was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with the listing recognizing it as Utah's best example of the central park model - one designed in the tradition of New York City's Central Park and the broader urban park reform movement of the era. Today, that legacy continues across more than 140 years as one of the city's most-visited green spaces.

Paths and Places to Wander

Walk beneath the canopy of mature trees that dot the landscape, offering welcome shade on sunny Utah days. The park unfolds with generous grassy areas and a picturesque pond complete with two islands. If you're looking to get your steps in, the 1.5-mile woodchip jogging path loops around the park's perimeter - a favorite among the morning run crowd and afternoon strollers.

Prefer something smoother? The 1.42-mile paved path is perfect for everything from rollerblades to skateboards to leisurely walks. Both paths stay well-lit after sunset, so your evening constitutional remains safe and pleasant.

Must-See Spots

Liberty Park isn't just about green space - it houses some real retreats. The Tracy Aviary traces its origins to a donation by Salt Lake City banker Russell Lord Tracy, who gave his personal bird collection to the city and its children. Today the AZA-accredited facility covers 8 acres and houses around 400 birds across roughly 135 species - among them swans, flamingos, eagles, vultures, and Victoria crowned pigeons. Several of those species take part in the Species Survival Plan, a breeding program designed to maintain genetic diversity in captive animal populations.

History buffs will appreciate the Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts and the Isaac Chase Mill - the latter being Utah's oldest commercial building still standing and proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Near the park's central area, the Jordan River Sculpture and Fountain traces the course of the Jordan River and its canyon tributaries in sculptural form, and doubles as a play area where kids can wade and splash around in summer.

During warmer months, the central pond transforms into a mini-adventure zone where you can rent paddle boats and explore the water. A charming gazebo sits perched on a small peninsula - a nice spot to pause and take in the scenery.

Two bald eagles perched on a log at Tracy Aviary

Photo: james michael thomas (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Family Fun Zone

Kids have plenty of space to burn energy at multiple playgrounds, including the expansive Rotary Playground. When summer heats up, the splash pad becomes the coolest spot in the park - literally. Sports enthusiasts can take their pick from tennis, basketball, volleyball, or even try their hand at bocce ball on dedicated courts.

The public swimming pool offers relief on hot days, while seasonal amusement rides bring carnival vibes to the city. Hop on the Ferris wheel or carousel during summer months for about $3 per ride - a small price for the smiles they bring.

Chill and Grill

Picnic opportunities abound with tables scattered throughout the grounds and several pavilions you can reserve for bigger gatherings. Fancy some outdoor cooking? BBQ grills stand ready in designated areas for your culinary adventures.

Four-legged friends are more than welcome to join the fun, with plenty of space for leashed dogs to explore. You'll come across dog waste bags conveniently located at stations on both the north and south ends of the central walkway.

Community Vibes

Liberty Park truly comes alive through its community events. During warmer months, Sundays bring the rhythmic beats of drum circles that continue all day, creating a melting pot of musicians and curious onlookers.

Car enthusiasts should head to the southwest corner on Sunday afternoons from 1-5pm to check out the Utah Lowriders gathering. All year long, you might stumble upon farmers markets, cultural festivals, and special Pioneer Day celebrations on July 24th, complete with fireworks and local vendors.