Memory Grove Park

A Peaceful Urban Retreat with History

Since 1924, Memory Grove Park has honored Utah's veterans while giving Salt Lake City residents a place to find some natural calm. The park sits at the mouth of City Creek Canyon, making it one of the more serene escapes you'll find at the edge of a busy city.

What You'll Find Here

Stretching across about 20 acres, Memory Grove blends natural beauty with thoughtful tributes to history. Around the park, you'll encounter various monuments honoring those who served in conflicts from World War I through the Korean War.

The Meditation Chapel is perhaps the most striking feature - completed in 1948 to memorialize Utah soldiers lost during World War II. Its beautiful stained glass windows represent each military branch from the war. If you're lucky, you might catch it during one of its occasional public openings.

The Korean War Wall of Honor with iron benches on the memorial plaza

Photo: Ken Lund (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Natural Surroundings

The park's landscape feels like a green oasis within the city. Mature trees cast generous shade, while City Creek meanders through the grounds, adding a soundtrack of gentle running water that makes the urban world feel miles away.

Winding paths follow the creek and weave through the park, excellent for a contemplative stroll or your morning jog. Even in the height of Utah's summer heat, those towering trees create cool, shaded areas throughout the park.

The Meditation Chapel with a commemorative red ribbon draped across the entrance marker

Photo: Ken Lund (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Historic Touches

Look around and you'll spot interesting architectural elements across the park. The Memorial House, with its elegant design, began life as a 1890s stable before being transformed in the 1920s. Today, it hosts events and adds to the park's historic character.

You'll also find a replica of the Liberty Bell here, reinforcing the park's patriotic significance.

The Utah State Capitol is visible beyond the park landscape

Photo: Ken Lund (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Things to Do

Sitting at the base of City Creek Canyon makes Memory Grove an ideal jumping-off point if you're looking to hike or bike the canyon trails. Its location - a stone's throw from downtown and the Utah State Capitol - means you can easily slip away from city meetings into nature within minutes.

Dog owners particularly appreciate Memory Grove for its dog-friendly atmosphere. The designated off-leash areas have become something of a canine social hub, where dogs splash in the creek while their humans connect.

The picturesque setting, with its mix of historical elements and natural beauty, has made the park a favorite spot for wedding photos and community gatherings during the year.

One of the Memory Park pillars along Canyon Road on the park's western edge

Photo: Ken Lund (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Good to Know Before You Go

You can find street parking near the entrance, but it tends to fill quickly on weekends and sunny days. The park prioritizes pedestrians, with gates limiting vehicle access most hours.

While picnic tables are somewhat limited, the wide lawns are well-suited for picnic blankets. Restrooms are available, but hours may vary seasonally. Many locals and visitors come to Memory Grove for a moment of peace away from the city.