Sunnyside Park

Recreation Facilities

This sprawling park offers many sports options. Multiple well-kept fields for soccer, softball, and baseball give you plenty of room to play, whether you're joining a league game or just tossing a ball around with friends. The softball fields are well-maintained and light up for evening games, hosting everything from high school teams to community leagues.

For basketball enthusiasts, there's a full court available, but it's admittedly pretty basic with some uneven concrete and minimal line markings. Two tennis courts that also feature pickleball lines give racket sports fans options, and there's a volleyball court for those spike-and-dig moments. The expansive open fields work great for flag football and lacrosse, but be aware that some areas can be a bit bumpy underfoot.

Family-Friendly Spots

If you've got kids in tow, there's a small playground area where the little ones can burn off some energy. Just know that it's relatively simple with basic equipment like swings and a slide - perhaps a bit underwhelming for a park of this size.

The vast grassy spaces are great for spreading out a blanket, having a picnic, or simply lounging with a good book. It's also a fantastic spot for kite flying when the breeze picks up, and many locals love walking their dogs here. Remember that pets should be leashed, but you'll probably notice this rule isn't strictly followed by everyone.

Gathering Spaces

Planning a big get-together? The park features a reservable pavilion that can accommodate up to 175 people. This covered picnic area comes with plenty of tables, making it ideal for everything from family reunions to birthday parties or work events.

You'll find shaded benches scattered within the park, especially near the parking areas - ideal for taking a breather or enjoying a quick snack. Drinking fountains are available when you need to hydrate, and there are grilling areas if you're in the mood for a cookout.

Natural Features

A unique highlight of Sunnyside is Red Butte Creek, which meanders along one edge of the grounds. This lovely natural waterway enhances the park's scenery and offers some peaceful moments of nature watching. There are some informal trails alongside the creek, however they're not particularly well-maintained.

Thankfully, the park is dotted with large trees that cast generous shade around the grounds - a true blessing during those hot summer months in Salt Lake City.

Facilities and Access

The restrooms are generally clean and accessible during park hours, with an interesting layout where the sinks are located outside the toilet area. For dog owners, dog waste bag stations are conveniently placed across the park to help keep the grounds clean.

You'll usually find plenty of parking available, however spaces near the back fields can fill up quickly during tournaments or busy weekends. The park's location near the University of Utah and the VA Hospital makes it a convenient green escape for students, staff, and hospital visitors.

Hours and Overall Experience

Stretching across 39.4 acres along Sunnyside Avenue, this public park welcomes visitors daily from 5AM to 11PM. While Sundays can get particularly crowded with organized sports leagues taking over many fields, there's typically enough space for everyone to find their own little corner.

All in all, Sunnyside Park strikes a nice balance between recreational facilities and natural beauty. Some areas could certainly use a maintenance boost and modernization, but it remains a cherished outdoor space for locals and visitors seeking fresh air and activity options.