Liberty Park
Liberty Park is one of Salt Lake City’s most popular public parks, serving as a gathering place in the heart of Utah’s capital. With over 80 acres to enjoy, it is Salt Lake City’s second-largest public park, dating back to the 19th century. It was originally established in 1881. My memories date back to 1970, as a small child I remember fishing for catfish in the pond, and also being terrified by the ominous mass of scary trees! Over the decades since, the park has become a vibrant hub for recreation, cultural activities, and community events, making it a beloved gathering place for residents and visitors alike. Today, Liberty Park offers a wide range of amenities, including walking and jogging paths, playgrounds, picnic areas, sports facilities, and much more.
History of Liberty Park-Isaac Chase
The land that Liberty Park occupies has a rich history that predates its establishment as a public park. Initially, it was part of a large tract owned by Isaac Chase, an early Mormon pioneer, who used the areas abundant agricultural resources for farming and milling. Now Liberty Park features the Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts, located in the historic Isaac Chase House, which celebrates the state’s rich cultural heritage through exhibits and events focused on traditional arts and crafts. The Chase museum is the only state-funded museum in the United States dedicated solely to folk art. It showcases the diverse cultural heritage of Utah’s communities through rotating exhibits of folk and traditional arts, including crafts, music, dance, and stories.
In 1881, Salt Lake City purchased the land from Brigham Young’s estate to create a public park, naming it “Liberty Park” to reflect American ideals of freedom and democracy. Over the years, the park has maintained its historical character while adapting to the needs of a growing city, providing a unique window into Utah’s pioneer past. In 1980, Liberty Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places.
Pioneer Day
Although I grew up in Provo, and have fond memories of the 4th of July, with a big parade and amazing fireworks show, I just don’t think it holds a candle to the celebration in Salt Lake City on the 24th of July! Originally a celebration of the Mormon Pioneers, a more modern cast on the celebration circa 2010, is Pie and Beer Day! It has become a culturally significant part of the 24th celebration at Liberty Park! On July 24th the entire neighbourhood surrounding Liberty Park is engulfed with as much as or more than 10,000 visitors celebrating the states birth! You will have a hard time finding a street parking spot as far as 6-8 blocks away.
Tracy Aviary is within Liberty Park
Liberty Park is home to several notable attractions that draw visitors year-round. One of the most popular is the Tracy Aviary, which was founded by Russell Lord Tracy, a prominent Salt Lake City banker and bird enthusiast who donated his private bird collection to the city in 1938. Upon its 8 acres inside of Liberty Park, the Tracy Aviary houses a diverse collection of birds from around the world and offers educational programs and interactive exhibits. The Tracy Aviary also houses the Chase Mill, the Chase Mill is the oldest commercial building still standing in Utah. The Aviary has conceived this building and uses it primarily as an Events Center. On an interesting note, in the basement of the building is a natural artesian spring, once used as a natural resource for milling and agriculture, it has been preserved but now has to be monitored and pumped to keep the building’s basement from flooding.
Recreational Opportunities
Liberty Park offers many recreational opportunities that cater to all ages and interests. The park’s large, tree-lined paths are perfect for walking, jogging, biking, or rollerblading, and provide a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the park’s tennis courts, basketball courts, and volleyball nets, while families often gather at the many picnic areas or take advantage of the large grassy fields for a game of frisbee or soccer. The park also includes a seasonal swimming pool and the Liberty Park pond. As a child I still remember the where visitors can rent paddle boats during the warmer months.
Throughout the year, Liberty Park serves as a vital community hub, hosting a variety of events and gatherings that reflect the diverse culture of Salt Lake City. From summer concerts and movie nights to holiday celebrations and art festivals, the park is a center of activity and engagement. It is particularly known for hosting the annual Salt Lake City International Peace Gardens, which celebrate global unity and peace through beautifully landscaped gardens representing different nations. These events foster a strong sense of community and offer a space for people from all walks of life to come together and enjoy shared experiences. As one of Salt Lake City’s oldest and most beloved parks, there have been ongoing efforts to preserve Liberty Park’s natural beauty and historical significance. Recent upgrades have focused on maintaining the park’s historic elements while enhancing its facilities to meet contemporary needs. Plans for the future include further sustainability initiatives, such as improved water conservation efforts and the use of native plants to reduce maintenance. As it continues to evolve, Liberty Park remains a vital part of Salt Lake City’s cultural and natural landscape, promising enjoyment and connection for years to come.
Video Production
Levitate Media Group a local Sale Lake City video production company. We have been creating epic video production in the SLC valley for over a dozen years! Whether covering an Arborist working inside the Tracy Aviary, or documenting the celebration of the 24th, we will continue to provide the community of businesses with excellent video production services! If you are thinking about creating any video content, feel free to get in touch, as alway we are happy to provide a free consultation!
