Lindsey Gardens Park

A Piece of Salt Lake History

Situated in the Avenues neighborhood, Lindsey Gardens isn't just any park - it's a living piece of Salt Lake City's story. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this green space once hosted croquet courses, a baseball diamond, a charming arbor-like dance hall, and even a swimming pool that pulled double duty as a baptismal font for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

When you're strolling through these grounds, you're walking through a genuine historical landmark - one of the first recreational spaces established by settlers in the 1800s. It's pretty cool to think you're visiting the site of the city's first playground, park, and baseball field all in one spot.

What You'll Find Here

Covering 12.8 acres, Lindsey Gardens has plenty of options for recreation. The park is naturally divided into distinct areas that each have their own character and purpose.

Baseball fans will appreciate the three baseball and softball fields, with the main field dramatically positioned atop a steep hill in the northeast section. There's even an old-school white cinderblock concession and scorers building nearby - a touch that adds to the park's timeless feel.

The southern portion features an open, unstructured space with a noticeable downward slope. Tall, mature trees frame the northern and southern edges, creating natural boundaries and welcome shade on hot Utah days.

Its location in the elevated Avenues neighborhood provides impressive views of the mountains and much of the Salt Lake Valley. The sunset views are particularly nice.

Family Fun Central

If you've got kids in tow, head to the newly renovated playground area just south of the rustic bowery shelter. The playground hits all the classics - swings, slides, monkey bars, and climbing structures - keeping children of different ages happily occupied.

Planning a picnic or gathering? The covered pavilion provides shelter, with multiple tables available. Surrounded by trees and seasonal flowers, it's a pleasant spot to enjoy a meal outdoors.

In winter, Lindsey Gardens becomes popular for sledding. The rolling hills provide options for different skill levels - from gentle slopes for beginners to steeper runs for the more adventurous. Many locals come here to sled when there's enough snow.

A Dog's Paradise

The southern section of Lindsey Gardens includes an off-leash area where dogs can run freely in a natural setting.

Just note that this area isn't fenced, so you'll want to bring dogs with reliable recall skills. The good news is that the park has built a reputation for responsible pet owners and well-mannered dogs, creating a positive vibe for canine socialization.

There's ample space for frisbee throwing and fetch games, making it popular among local dog owners.

The Practical Stuff

You'll find public restrooms conveniently located near the pavilion area, regularly maintained for your comfort.

Getting here is straightforward, with street parking readily available around the park's perimeter - a welcome convenience in this otherwise parking-challenged neighborhood.

A heads-up if you have mobility concerns: the park's layout includes several hills and some narrow sidewalks that might present challenges for those with limited mobility.

Green Initiatives

Beyond recreation, Lindsey Gardens plays a role in environmental conservation efforts. The park participates in a thoughtful Native Plant Program and supports initiatives to protect monarch butterflies, which are currently under federal protection and may join the threatened species list by late 2025.

The park's abundance of large, mature trees does not only provide welcome shade - they contribute to the peaceful atmosphere that makes Lindsey Gardens such a treasured green space in Salt Lake City's urban landscape.