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City Cast Salt Lake

We had a reader searching for Caprese sandwich recommendations. Here’s what you declared as the best:

 - The best Caprese sandwich in SLC is the Fior di Latte from Caputo’s (either downtown or at 15th and 15th). It comes with a magnificent slab of mozzarella that can’t be beat. Pair it with a Chinotto to really live la dolce vita.



 - I have two favorite Caprese sandwiches. One is the Fior di Latte at Caputo's (classic!). It's a cold sandwich with big, juicy hunks of cheese, tomatoes, and basil. Ask for extra olive oil and balsamic vinegar for dipping. I also love the Caprese from Robin's Nest. Get it with their homemade orzo pasta salad, and don't forget dessert!




The mozzarella, tomato, and basil (aka Caprese) sandwich at Tulie Bakery. It’s warm, gooey, and has that perfect panini-pressed crunch.

Shelby Hintze

For small businesses, it’s not always about selling you something. Sometimes, the goal is to also bring people together — through classes, book readings, seasonal celebrations, and events that turn strangers into regulars. (Of course, if you want to spend a little money while you’re there, no one’s going to complain.)

Whether you’re a corporate baddie (or a corporate saddie) looking for an excuse to leave the house, a parent trying to keep the kids entertained over fall break, or just someone who thinks autumn is best spent out in the community, Salt Lake businesses have plenty going on. Here’s what to add to your weekend agenda.

 On Saturday, Oct. 17, The Gateway will host a full day of author conversations, panels, signings, and local vendors from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. There’s also a dedicated kids’ stage and storytimes, like with the author of “How to Escape a Playdate.” General admission is free, though select events require tickets. I am going to stock up on books from 

 in the valley. Even if you and the kids have already been to a pumpkin patch this season, run them ragged here anyway and snap cute pictures while you’re at it. Plus, the swings, bean pool, and slides are free with $2 wagon rides, seven days a week. P.S. Check out the 

 for great home decor, local foodstuffs, and see if you can get some love from the shop cat!

 experience for older kids or wimpy adults (guilty). Go trick-or-treating through the haunted house: Same decor and lighting as the main attraction, but nothing is jumping out at you.

Debauchery for Students, Singles, and DINKs

 The Salt Lake Book Festival is for grown-ups, too. Browse independent vendors, catch an author conversation, or make Friday night’s 

Prologue at the Salt Lake City Public Library

 your literary pregame. The kickoff includes an adult spelling bee and a rooftop party with drinks, dancing, and authors.

 at Studio at Soundwell, featuring vintage horror movie decor, spooky cocktails, themed bites, DJs, tarot, and weekly scary-oke. Plus, check out the daytime 

Bring your sense of humor to Crone’s Hollow

 for BYOC Comedy: Bring Your Own Cauldron, featuring 

, and magical mischief. The show is free, but there’s a suggested donation for the performers.

Keep the kids busy with a no-scare haunted house and pumpkin patch, or treat yourself to scary-oke, witchy comedy, and a rooftop book festival party.

Salt Lake Fall Break Guide: Pumpkin Patches to Parties

Fall Break for the Pumpkin Patch Crowd and the Party Crowd

Keep It Local

Sign up for Keep It Local from City Cast Salt Lake

Because sometimes you just want to support Utah-based small businesses from the comfort of your couch. Here’s what I’m eyeing right now.

 from Harmony is giving me “Over the Garden Wall” 

I will read anything by Barbara Kingsolver, so I’m excited to get her new book, 

I’m loving the trend of teeny buttons on a cardigan, and this 

Peach Dragonfruit gummies from Swedish Moose

I allow myself one new candle each fall, and as a proud Rose Park resident, I think I need this 

. Buying candles online is risky, but I need to represent my neighborhood!

Cafe Rio…beauty products? Look, I’m intrigued. Idaho-based Poppy and Pout has teamed up with the iconic Salt Lake City brand. I might have to try the mint limeade-inspired 

 lip balm. Although I think I would prefer a Tomatillo Ranch flavor.

My Salt Lake shopping list

🛍️ What are you buying locally this month? Tell us!

Because sometimes you want to support Utah-based small businesses from the comfort of your couch. Here’s what we’re eyeing right now.

Utah Small Businesses to Shop Online This October

Add to Cart: October Edition

Terina Ria

) — the best way to experience Salt Lake is through the eyes of someone who lives here. Yep, that’s me! Here’s how I’d spend a day around town.

, an SLC staple. My go-to is the browned-butter caramel latte. Or catch 

, a monthly pop-up. Their next gathering is on Oct. 25 at 1809 West Temple. Grab a pastry, sandwich, or tartine at 

, a 10,000-square-foot warehouse packed with vintage finds, or explore the oddities at the newly opened 

, just in time for Halloween. Then bring some Y2K fashion home from 

 created by the owner of Kissing Whiskey Vintage. This handy directory features over 175 vintage shops.

, an independent record shop tucked inside a historic 1930s home. They’re open Wednesday through Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

, which features 28 distinct gardens representing countries from around the world.

, a communal bathhouse where you can cycle between saunas, cold plunge, and warm pool. Then enjoy Northern Indian cuisine for dine-in or takeout at 

, which just received recognition by the Michelin Guide.

Explore Salt Lake City with a local’s guide to the best coffee shops, vintage stores, restaurants, and hidden gems.

A Local's Guide to Salt Lake City Fall 2026

A Local's Guide to Salt Lake City

Everything to know about Salt Lake City neighborhoods: Where to go, eat, shop, drink, and more.

Salt Lake Neighborhood Guides

Neighborhood Guides

It’s quiz time! Think you know Salt Lake’s haunted trivia? Test your knowledge to find out!

Is the McCune Mansion haunted? Or the Walker Center? Test your haunted history knowledge in this scary quiz.


How Well Do You Know Salt Lake’s Haunted Spots?

Halloween costumes don’t have to come from a plastic bag at a big-box store, and honestly, they’re a lot more fun when they don’t. Whether you want a fully assembled costume, are hunting for the perfect weird accessory, or just want to sneak a little Halloween into your everyday wardrobe, there are plenty of local options. Here’s where to start.

If you want to buy (or rent!) a costume that you can put on and go, these local shops have you covered.

 has a wide selection of new and used adult costumes and accessories, including makeup and temporary hair dye. If you’re building your own costume, the shop also has a solid vintage clothing section.

 in Provo is a theater kid’s dream, with a huge selection of makeup, wigs, and fake blood. You can also rent more elaborate costumes by phone or in-store if your Halloween plans require a little more production value.

, or a bald cap that could transform you into any number of Utah politicians.

 rents pieces to local theater companies, but you don’t have to be in a production to take advantage of the selection. The shop has costumes and pieces from dozens of recent Scera shows, so you can get a little more theatrical with your Halloween look.

Skip the corporate thrift shop and check out local vintage and consignment stores for pieces you can mix, match, and wear again.

 has locations in Salt Lake City and offers new and used clothing and consignment. It’s a good place to start if your costume needs something a little more fashion-forward — or a little more revealing.

 Sexy…anything, Coachella attendee, rave king or queen

 is perfect for costume pieces you’ll actually want to wear again. The curation leans celestial Y2K, ’90s art teacher, Lilith Fair attendee — basically the clothes we wanted to wear but our moms wouldn’t let us.

Look for Halloween-inspired clothes and accessories that can work beyond Oct. 31, whether you want a subtle nod to the holiday or something that says, “Yes, I celebrate Halloween year-round.”

 has fun, kitschy clothes and accessories for men and women with just enough Halloween flair to feel festive without being a one-day-only purchase. I’m particularly into this 

Skeleton tees are about as low-commitment as Halloween fashion gets. This 

 let you celebrate Halloween without worrying about storing a full witch costume for a year.

Halloween costumes don’t have to come from a big-box store. Here are eight shops in the Salt Lake City area to source your 2026 costume.

Trick or Treat Yourself to a Salt Lake Costume

Trick or Treat Yourself to a Local Costume

You may already be seeing Christmas decorations creeping onto the shelves at your favorite big-box stores, but thankfully, local retailers are giving Halloween the attention it deserves. From spooky home decor and creepy collectibles to vintage finds and delightfully weird odds and ends, these local shops are keeping the spirit of Halloween alive … at least until Christmas stuff inevitably takes over.

While Spirit Halloweens are taking over strip malls across the country, 

 has your spooky decor on lock all year long! This South Salt Lake shop specializes in horror, oddities, spooky home decor, and collectibles. The shop started when Landrie Miller wanted to 

 in her house but couldn’t find macabre decor outside of Halloween season. And Spoox Bootique was born, just like Rosemary’s Baby.

And if you’d like your spooky season purchases to not be limited to decor, but also lean towards … the practical, check out 

 for your metaphysical supplies, classes, and events year-round.

For Halloween decor with the oh-so-important touch of nostalgia, check out 

Bonus! Used stuff is more likely to be haunted, too!

 not only has adorable Halloween decor, books, and clothes, but also a 

 is really fun. I’m probably going to add these 

 to my growing candle collection. And while you’re at it, get some 

 at the candy counter and your flu shot at the pharmacy (walk-ins welcome before 5 p.m.)!

And if you’re ready to become the person with the incredible Halloween village that grows every year, or the friend with the figurine collection that takes up the whole mantle, check out 

. Pro tip: Start collecting something now so all your friends and family know what to get you for gifts. It’s a public service, really.

From spooky home decor and creepy collectibles to vintage finds and delightfully weird odds and ends, these local shops are keeping the spirit of Halloween alive.

Spooky Season Starts at these Salt Lake City Shops

Spooky Season Starts at These Local Shops

I have a hard time buying plants. I mean, I do it — and I do plenty of it — but I always get caught up on questions like, “What will this look like once all the flowers are gone?” and “How big does this actually get?”

To get answers to those questions, and to find inspiration, I love visiting the many planned gardens and demonstration gardens around Utah. They’re a great way to see native and water-wise plants in action. Many gardens also offer classes and workshops and host tours led by gardening experts.

Plus, fall is the PERFECT time to get outdoors post-heat, pre-cold.

 include Water Conservation Garden, Herb Garden, Medicinal Garden, and Four Seasons Garden.

 covering gardening, horticulture, nature and ecology, wellness, and creative activities.

 led by knowledgeable staff and volunteers.

 demonstrates drought-tolerant plants and hydrozoning, showing you plants that need no supplemental watering, all the way up to plants that need a shower a couple times a week.

Perennial Water-wise Garden showcases low-water perennials that provide color throughout the growing seasons.

Powerline Arboretum features trees appropriate for planting under or near power lines — a helpful resource if you’re trying to avoid the classic “oops, this tree got enormous” problem.

 from Master Gardeners and a horticulturist.

Jordan Valley Water Conservation Garden Park

 featuring Utah-friendly plants, pathways, and educational exhibits.

More than 1,000 water-wise plants in the 

, with information about water needs, maintenance, and bloom seasons.

 covering water-efficient landscaping, irrigation, plants, and conservation.

Plant labels throughout the garden, making it easy to identify plants you might want to use in your own yard.

Utah's Best Fall Gardens To Visit

Get Inspired by Fall Gardens

When it comes to gardening, we usually think about spring planting. But here’s a little secret: Many of the best spring plants were actually planted in the fall. Cooler temperatures give plants time to develop strong, healthy root systems before winter, so they’re more established — and often need less water — when spring arrives.

The nurseries below have knowledgeable staff who can help you figure out what to plant, when to plant it, and where it will thrive.

Right now at Millcreek Gardens, you can find markdowns on trees while supplies last. We’re talking 30% to 50% off fruit trees, 20% off shade and flowering trees, and 40% off dogwoods. You’ll also find perennials marked down.

Take it from me. The only tree I’ve had die was one I planted in the spring, while all of my fall-planted trees are thriving. Don’t be like me. Plant your trees now.

⏳ Best Deal for the Time-Strapped Gardener: 

Have you ever looked at a plant at a nursery and thought, “That’s lovely, but it’s not going to fit in my Honda Civic”? Glover Nursery has you covered.

The family-owned nursery has a huge selection of trees, shrubs, and perennials. With certain minimum purchases and plant sizes, they’ll even 

. I did this with one tree, and it was so worth it.

For fall plants, seasonal décor, and a little gardening inspiration, check out Sun River Gardens in Orem. This garden center and home décor powerhouse has some of the best 

 for adding a little fall color to your porch right now.

I also love getting pumpkins here because of the creative displays they put together. And, really, it’s all about the merchandising.

🌿 Best Place for a Little Bit of Everything: 

Red Butte Garden Fall Bulb and Plant Sale

Red Butte Garden’s Fall Bulb & Native Plant Sale runs Sept. 25-26. You’ll find 

, with plenty of options suited to Utah’s climate.

The sale will be at the Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre, and admission is free.

And if you have any other questions about where to even start planning your water-wise yard, friend of the pod 

YardFarmer has a great list of free resources

Plant Now: Your Utah Garden’s Fall 2026 Shopping Guide

Plant Now: Your Utah Garden’s Fall Shopping Guide

The Best Caprese Sandwich

Find the best that Salt Lake City has to offer.

Find the best of everything that Salt Lake City has to offer.

Salt Lake’s Best

Salt Lake's Best

Will you be leaning into the spooky or snuggly this month? The best thing is you don’t have to choose and you can do it all.

Your Guide to October 2026 in Salt Lake

Are you in a creative slump? Join a free, 

 working their way through Julia Cameron’s “The Artist’s Way” at Make Well studio. The program kicks off Oct. 1 and meets every other Thursday. No artistic experience required.

 is a scary movie club with a twist: Every month, view a horror, thriller, or cult classic at Murray Theater, but you won’t know what you’re watching until you arrive. Memberships start at $15.

Remember, It’s Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus

Celebrate everyone’s favorite Halloween movie, “Hocus Pocus,” by watching it all month long: 

This month was made for book nerds. Start things off with a 

 at The King’s English Bookshop on Oct. 4. Then fill the rest of your calendar with author talks, workshops, and other literary fun at the 

Visit Lake Effect’s “Nightmare Before Christmas” pop-up, which turns the downtown bar into a 

 every Monday through Oct. 26, featuring the Pumpkin King himself. Tickets are $25 per person.

Make the most of October in Salt Lake by creating, watching scary movies, and nonstop reading.

Your Guide to Salt Lake in October 2026

Ivana Martinez

September is about as dog-friendly as it gets, with events all month long. Here are some places you should take your furry friend.

Who said Oktoberfest was just for the humans? Bring your pup to the festival Sept. 5-7 at Snowbasin Resort. Get there early: The first 50 dogs will get a free bandana. Dogs must be on leashes.

Take your dog out to the ballgame Sept. 9 to see the Salt Lake Bees play at The Ballpark at America First Square. Expect pet-friendly amenities and other dog lovers.

As pool season comes to an end, dogs all over the valley will get to take a dip Sept. 12. Find a pool or splash pad near you:

Maybe you’re looking for a buddy for your dog? On Sept. 11 and 12 at Wheeler Farm, there will be adoptions, a pet psychic, food trucks, and a chance to have your photo professionally taken.

Can’t take your dog anywhere because they have behavioral issues? Same. But the Humane Society of Utah has a cool two-part training starting Sept. 26 to address some of those pesky triggers. Hopefully, it'll give you and your pup the confidence to venture out more.

Here's where you should take your furry friend this September in Utah. 

Best Places To Take Your Dog in Utah in September 2026

Best Places To Take Your Dog This September

September is summer and fall: Keep enjoying warm days while settling into cozy nights. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this in-between month.

Your Guide to September 2026 in Salt Lake

Head to Red Butte Garden for the Intermountain Hoop Dance Competition on Sept. 12, where Indigenous dancers use hoops to tell visual stories. Then stick around for drum groups, artists, food trucks, and community organizations.

Take an early fall road trip to Torrey in southern Utah for Fort Desolation Fest from Sept 24-26. The three-day outdoor music festival brings together Andrew Bird, Tune-Yards, and Bella White. It’s right near Capitol Reef so there’s plenty of adventuring to do between shows.

No hair? No problem. Meet some fellow baldies at this Salt Lake City meetup on Sept. 26. Among all the shiny heads, you can expect games, competitions, and giveaways. Bald caps are welcome, too.

Get ahead of your winter weaving and attend a class at Bewitched by Alpacas in Bluffdale. You’ll learn the basics on a handcrafted loom while alpacas and goats hangout nearby. Classes take place on various days throughout the month.

Atelier’s fourth annual Dollhouse Show on Sept. 12 features tiny worlds handmade by more than 20 local artists. It might even inspire you to take on a tiny hobby of your own.

Make the most of September in Salt Lake with meetups, crafting, hoop dancing, and festivals.

Your Guide to Salt Lake in September 2026

September in Utah screams festival season. Here are some recommendations to add to your list.

: Rise up, mi gente Latina, 'cause from Sept. 4-7, we’re dancing and eating our hearts out in Utah County's Historic Courthouse. Bring the whole family and make a day (or weekend) of it.

: Immerse yourself in Afro culture on Sept. 5 at Salt Lake City’s Library Square. You’ll shop local, see fashion and art showcases, and hear live music performances. Make sure to come with an empty stomach.

: Enjoy the fall foliage at Snowbird with a stein and a brat, now till Oct. 11. Make the most of it and rent a room at the resort or plan a ride back. Pro-tip: Thrift your stein mug or borrow one so you don’t get up-charged.

: Experience the locals version of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” from Sept. 11-13 at Holy Trinity Cathedral, marking the festival's 50th year. You already know I’ll be in the baklava line.

: Samba your way to Orem on Sept. 12, home to one of the state's largest Brazilian festivals. Expect live music, capoeira, art, activities, and a full day of culture.

 For vegetarians and animal lovers, VegFest is back on Sept. 12 at Salt Lake’s Library Square. Prepare yourselves for a beer garden, kid-friendly activities, and delicious food.

: Calling all pasta lovers to the Gateway from Sept. 19-20; get ready for the food coma of your lives. Bring on the vino.

Salt Lake's Best

The Best Caprese Sandwich

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