What makes a city great? Those who live on the island of Manhattan know it’s Central Park, in Boston, the Commons, and for the windy city of Chicago, it’s undoubtedly Lincoln Park. A city becomes great when it revolves around a great park. Imagine our SLC now without a space like Liberty Park to go to.
Enjoy food, music and a silent auction with items from local businesses. 21+. We Olive & Wine Bar, Trolley Square, Tuesday, May 28, 6 PM – 9 PM
It’s a stretch to think about the city of Salt Lake some 140 years ago. But if you could—you would see the beginnings of a new centralized city park, good old Liberty. Back in 1881, its 80 acres was purchased by the city, and prior to, Brigham Young had some trees planted, before that it served as space for a mill and other purposes. But in 1881, it became a real park.
What otherwise would be a space packed with the same repetitive urban patchwork of odd-houses, businesses and apartments, is now, an open space to breathe, a place to lay out a blanket to watch fireworks, admire the mountains, visit with some birds, or picnic under a shady tree. Liberty Park is a refuge for city dwellers and puts the GREAT in the city of Salt Lake.
The purpose of a park is to allow the community access to a safe, beautiful, open green area to recreate. Maybe the DABC and Utah Legislature don’t get what that word means exactly—but WE do. As a park, over the years many things have been added, Liberty is unique because of its pure underground stream, and if you haven’t stopped to drink at one of its water fountains, we implore you.
Liberty Park has a lot to offer, with several trails and sidewalks to walk, bike, run or rollerblade. Parking is an issue, so if you don’t have to, don’t. Highlights in the park are the playground with added get-wet splash features and amazing slides, there’s the famous Tracy Aviary, and pool/tennis courts. Events are ongoing, so lather on the zinc, put on your sunglasses, and enjoy this park to the fullest.
Austin, Cooper and Bentley: The cars, not the guys.British Field Day
Saturday, June 15th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Celebrate all types of British vehicles in any condition. This year, kids can earn their way to get a free ride in a British Classic. $5 donation. kids under 12 are FREE.
Get on over to the park to celebrate the 28th annual British Field Day at Liberty. They invite all makes and models of British vehicles to participate. At the Kids Garage, young tikes can earn their way to get a free ride in a British Classic. $5 donation. kids under 12 are FREE. Saturday, June 15th, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Tracy Aviary
A mini-amusement park is also a bird conservatory! Tracy is one of the oldest free-standing aviaries in the country and is going on its 80th year. From raptors to flamingos, they offer an extensive list of nose-to-beak experiences. During the summer, be sure to take advantage of $5 After 5pm on Monday nights June – August, and evening hours are extended until 8 p.m.
Liberty Park Farmers Market
The Liberty Park Farmers Market helps support local farms and businesses by bringing fresh local produce directly to the Liberty Wells community. A smaller more intimate market experience, offering a handful of fresh produce vendors, eggs and honey, as well as arts and craft vendors. Accepts DUFB. Fridays, June 7 – October, 4 pm., until dusk, Liberty Park, SLC.
Sunday Drum Circle
And what would our fair Liberty Park be like without the assembly of drum-loving hipsters every Sunday afternoon? There are no rules, no organizers, no guidelines. If you’re into it, bring your slackline, wear something made of hemp, a lighter for your sage, and you’ll pass as a Liberty Park drum circle beatnik.
And beyond all that. Liberty Park is the optimal place to put E-Scooters to the test.
Thank you, Liberty Park.
To read all our community happenings and other such local fun, go here.
Former Salt Lake Magazine Associate Editor Jen Hill is a SLC transplant from Bloomington, Ind. As a blogger and feature writer, Jen follows the pulse of the community with interests in urban agriculture, business, fitness & beauty and anything that allows her to get out of the office and into the mountains.
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British Field Day
