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City Cast Salt Lake

Terina Ria

This winter has been the warmest in Salt Lake City history, but that’s not the only thing we have in the record books. Think you know what other records SLC holds? Test your knowledge in our mini crossword.

Shelby Hintze

It may be a slow burn but American’s love for small bookshops is intensifying, just like the tension in a one-bed-roadtrip-enemies-to-lovers plotline. The American Booksellers Association says more than 

600 bookstores opened across the country last year

, double the number of new shops from the year before, and membership in the association is the 

These shops provide not only great reading material but community through events, knowledgeable staff, and general third-space-ness. Here are some of our favorites — by trope, of course.

: The Legendarium is a fantasy and science fiction-focused bookstore, where every visit feels like stepping into another realm. Beyond shelves of epic fantasy, sci-fi, and horror, the shop hosts author events, book clubs, game nights, writing groups, and community gatherings that bring readers together. Grab a themed drink from the café, settle in with your next adventure, and discover why it's become a hub for Utah's fantasy-loving community.

: If you’re on a long journey south, take a side quest to Poppy’s Books in Spanish Fork. The store features genre-themed rooms, hidden miniature scenes, fairy gardens, and cozy reading nooks that could hold you captive all day if you aren’t careful. Unfortunately, it is not wheelchair-accessible. If you need wheelchair access and fairy gardens, you can come to my house.

: The longest-running comic shop in Utah, Dr. Volt’s Comics & Games has been a Salt Lake City staple for comic book fans, gamers, and pop culture enthusiasts for decades. Browse new and vintage comics, graphic novels, manga, collectibles, tabletop games, and trading cards, then stick around for regular events like Magic: The Gathering, Pokémon, Dungeons & Dragons, and board game nights.

: Under the Umbrella Bookstore & Café is Utah's first LGBTQ+ bookstore. It offers a thoughtfully curated selection of books, coffee, and gifts in a welcoming, inclusive space. Beyond the shelves, it hosts author events, book clubs, workshops, and community gatherings.

: An independent bookstore mainstay in Salt Lake for nearly 50 years, The King’s English has a story for everyone and an event for every type of reader, from book clubs, to author conversations, to storytime. This is the place you think of when you think of a quintessential, cozy, local bookstore.

: Hear me out on this one. Jo would have loved the expanse of different romance genres available today, and all of them are available at Lovebound. Queer romance, enemies to lovers, a strong, independent woman wooed by an equal partner … just don’t let Laurie near the friends-to-lovers section.

Utah's Best Independent Bookstores

Independent, Niche Bookstores on the Rise

Keep It Local

Sign up for Keep It Local from City Cast Salt Lake

 was founded by award-winning editor, publisher, and romance author Olivia Nightingale to amplify books by and about the African diaspora. One of Utah's first Black-owned bookstores and publishing companies, it has quickly become a destination for readers seeking diverse voices, fresh perspectives, and stories that aren't always easy to find on traditional bookstore shelves.

Although Crowne Books is currently operating through online sales and pop-up events while working toward opening a permanent Salt Lake City storefront, it has already become an active part of 

 since its founding just this year. The bookstore regularly participates in community markets, Juneteenth celebrations, banned book fairs, author events, and literacy initiatives, bringing books directly to readers across the state.

 to help establish Utah's first permanent Black-owned bookstore, with plans that include a future bookmobile and a brick-and-mortar location.

Its carefully curated selection spans romance, fantasy, science fiction, mystery, children's literature, memoirs, history, and nonfiction, with an emphasis on Black authors and independent publishers. Whether you're looking for a bestselling novel, an inspiring memoir, or a children's book featuring characters who reflect a wider range of experiences, Crowne Books offers something for every reader.

Utah's First Black-Owned Permanent Bookstore

From Pop-Ups to a Permanent Home: Crowne Books’ Big Literary Vision

In August, there are three kinds of people:

People who have finished back-to-school shopping weeks ago.

People with a corporate office job who just really love school supplies (🙋🏼‍♀️)

I love strolling the back-to-school sections at the big box stores as much as the next person. But sometimes you need something a little more unique, or a better deal. It can be hard to find your everyday school supplies beyond the national chains, but it’s not impossible. AND you can do it without spending a fortune.

: This is what outlets used to be. NPS resells overstock, unclaimed, or slightly damaged goods at a fraction of the cost at its four locations in Utah. While you’ll never know exactly what is in stock, you can count on deals on just about any category of merchandise you’re looking for. And through Aug. 15, they’ll have even deeper discounts on some of the most sought after back-to-school/end-of-summer items.

: If your goal this school year is to build your at-home library, Marissa’s has an incredible selection of new and used books, for kids and adults alike. Make sure to follow them on 

 and updates on their numerous “free kids books” days!

: This newly opened nonprofit brick-and-mortar helps your wallet and the earth by reselling donated craft supplies. While not your traditional school supply shop, you’ll find plenty of useful items for at-school or at-home use. Think … projects.

 Need I say more? No, but I’m going to. This is the place to buy the planner that will for sure change your life this year. Probably. Maybe. It will at least be really, really cute. You can stock up on your new favorite ballpoint pen, a pencil case to put them in, and all the old school stickers by-the-roll your heart desires. Will the kids love it? Yes. Will you love it? Definitely.

: In another newsletter, I will extol the virtues of the Harmony fabric and yarn selection. But for our purposes today, we’re sticking with the shoppy-shop area of the Provo store. Think of fun notebooks, stickers, pens, bags for all your trinkets, and funky socks, keychains, and jewelry to start the new school year off in style. Now multiply it by like four. You should have learned that in third grade. Good. Now you see the vision. Worth the drive.

: Thwart the dreaded late-night run to the store in desperate search of poster board and cardstock. The Artist’s Corner in Orem features one of the best selections of art supplies locally, so stock up on those special items now.

: This locally owned business is a back-to-school lifesaver, offering printing, binding, laminating, presentation materials, poster printing, and school project supplies. Whether you're printing a research paper or assembling a science fair display, they've got students covered.

Back-to-school Shopping in Salt Lake For Every Budget

Back-to-School Shopping For Every Budget

Are you trying to be on your phone and computer less? Looking to embrace the caress of a sturdy pen and cold-pressed paper? Tucked away in Holladay, 

 is a longtime family-owned shop that has quietly become one of Utah's best-kept secrets for stationery lovers and pen nerds.

While Parry's carries all the practical office essentials — paper, notebooks, binders, printer ink, and school supplies — the real draw is its impressive fountain pen department. Shoppers can browse brands like Pilot, Lamy, and Caran d'Ache alongside dozens of bottled inks from Diamine, Iroshizuku, and more.

Premium notebooks from Clairefontaine, Midori, and Kokuyo complete the experience, making it a destination for anyone who still appreciates putting pen to paper.

Owner Kent Parry has earned something of a 

cult following among Utah's stationery enthusiasts 

for his encyclopedic knowledge, patient customer service, and genuine passion for the craft of writing. Whether you're a longtime collector or raising up the next generation of fountain pen aficionados, Kent takes the time to walk customers through different pen styles, inks, papers, and maintenance without a hint of pretension. He's known for encouraging shoppers to test pens before making a decision and for sharing stories and recommendations that reflect decades of experience in the business.

Many customers return not just for the products, but for the conversations, expertise, and confidence that comes from buying from someone who truly loves helping people find the right pen.

One thing to know before visiting: Parry's keeps limited hours. The shop is open weekdays only, with extended hours until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays, and is closed on weekends. That schedule can make it a little harder to visit, but regulars will tell you it's worth planning around.

Where to Buy Specialty Pens and Office Supplies in Salt Lake

Parry’s Office Supplies is for Analog Lovers

It’s the last full month of summer. Before the season winds down, we’ve rounded up some of the best ways to soak up August in Salt Lake.

Browse hundreds of local artists at the 18th annual 

, Aug. 7-9, then keep the treasure hunt going at the 

 sidewalk sale, Aug. 7-8. And later in the month, spend the day at the 

When you need some reprieve from the heat, there’s nothing like strolling through an art gallery. The 

 starts today, Aug. 4, at Urban Arts Gallery, featuring original artwork on skateboard decks.

What says summer more than barbecue? Bonus points if it’s in the mountains. Head to Deer Valley Resort for smoked meats, cold brews, live music, and killer views at the last 

 where you can swim, paddleboard, kayak, or relax on the sandy beach. Reserve a time slot for your group and enjoy the whole place to yourself.

. Their expansive menu includes crispy poke nachos, fried musubi, and large platters that will feed your whole family.

For even more ideas listen to our August guide episode 🎧

Make the most of August in Salt Lake with festival, art shows, mountain barbecue, and more.

Your Guide to Salt Lake in August 2026

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

Salt Lake’s Best

Salt Lake's Best

Angie Treasure

What better way to celebrate a day all about Salt Lake than by supporting local businesses? Thirty-plus shops, restaurants, and bars up and down 900 South are offering deals in celebration of 

Physical copies will be available for pickup at the following locations:

Visit the businesses for a signature or stamp and enjoy the promotions while you're at it. Every five stamps gets you one ticket to enter an opportunity drawing. Bring your passport with stamps to the City Cast Salt Lake booth at the Milk Block between 5-7:30 p.m. Must be present to win!

Don't want a physical passport? No sweat. Just mention the 801 Day deal at a participating business and enjoy your discount or free activity. (Note: You can only enter the drawing if you have a physical passport.)

The Milk Block is on 402-430 E. and 900 S. The 9 Line is a bike path along 900 South, so we recommend biking. There are a handful of bike racks at the Milk Blocks. If you're looking to take public transit, 

 goes up and down 900 South. If you're driving, you can park on the streets around the venue or at nearby Liberty Park and walk or bike over.

The Milk Block is ADA accessible. We recommend you enter on Denver Street or 900 South.

City Cast Salt Lake is a daily local podcast and newsletter that keeps you up to date on all things Salt Lake City, with conversations and recommendations that make you feel more connected to this beautiful, complex place we call home.

This event is made possible by our sponsors:

City Cast Salt Lake 801 Day Business Deals 2026

The 9 Line Business Passport

 this year gave Salt Lake City its first community-owned grocery store and a year-round home for local food. More than a place to shop, the co-op is built on the idea that neighbors should have a say in where their food comes from and how their grocery store operates. We are so excited to have this resource participating in our 

The co-op's mission prioritizes affordable groceries, sustainable practices, partnerships with Utah farmers and food makers, and a stronger regional food system. On the shelves, you’ll find local produce, bulk foods, pantry staples and specialty products alongside everyday essentials, because sometimes you really do just need the Ben & Jerry’s.

I’m particularly excited by the bulk section, where you're allowed to bring your own containers, instead of keeping track of a million plastic bags that you’ll just put in another container anyway at home.

My beet seeds never really grew, so I’m grabbing some pickled beets from 

Any local lettuce because I really want a BLT with my garden tomatoes but I don’t want … 

 to bring the outdoors in while I stay in the A/C.

The defining characteristic of a food co-op is the fact that the store is member-owned. Anyone can shop there, but for a one-time $300 ownership share (or a $25 monthly payment plan), members gain a voice in 

, including voting for the board of directors and helping shape the store’s future.

Membership also comes with perks like quarterly 10% savings on one purchase, monthly specials, discounts on special orders and events, and potential patronage rebates if the co-op is profitable. Best of all, the investment helps strengthen Utah’s local food economy and support local farmers and producers.

Wasatch Food Co-op Brings A Community-Owned Grocery to Salt Lake

Wasatch Food Co-op Brings A Community-Owned Grocery to 900 South

This 801 Day, we’re taking to the streets. 900 South, to be specific. Businesses from Central Ninth all the way up to 9th and 9th are offering 

 and the new artwork that will be unveiled for the Whale! In addition, you can enter to win prizes by stopping at locations and getting a stamp on your 

Now, I am not a coffee drinker, but I LOVE a coffee shop. The smell, the people watching, the third space of it all. So, I’m starting my day at Loki Coffee for a Peach Please (peach mango syrup, orange juice, and sparkling water) and an avocado toast because I am a homeowner so I can treat myself and I need carbs to gear up for the day.

The husband-wife duo behind Loki Coffee have 

impressive resumes in the coffee shop world

. You can tell there is a lot of passion there, not just for the product but also the community around coffee and local businesses. Loki Coffee emphasizes ethically and sustainably sourced coffee, warm hospitality and meaningful partnerships with local businesses

801 Day Deal: Buy one, get one free voucher

It may be the world we live in, it may be the SSRI, but I have been having weird dreams recently. So I am very intrigued by the 801 Day offer at Blissed Out Heart: a free insight into a dream.

holistic wellness practice founded by Angie Castor

 that helps people reconnect with themselves through body-led healing. Through different mediums, like breathwork and FootZonology, the goal is to help you slow down, release emotional burdens, and listen to yourself.

Next, I’ll be ruminating over the insight into why I am still having dreams about failing a class in high school nearly 20 years later over a lobster roll. I don’t usually associate our landlocked state as a bastion for seafood, but Freshie’s has the awards to prove its bona fides.

The roll, featuring “shore to door in 24” fresh lobster with the perfect blend of butter, mayo, and herbs, was named the 

 at the 2017 Down East Lobster Roll Festival in Portland, Maine. Those folks know their lobstah. And if the unofficial mascot of SLC is going to be a whale statue, might as well lean into it.

801 Day Deal: ½ lobster roll + 8 oz. chowder and drink for $18.01

One of my favorite places to shop, Koo De Ker has been redefining Salt Lake style since 2001 with thoughtfully curated fashion that blends timeless design with everyday wearability. Founder and owner Kyong An Millar has impeccable taste, she’s famous for it (name that movie) and passes it on to her customers. She carries designer pieces alongside inexpensive, but still high-quality pieces for nearly every budget. The store also smells really, really good.

Koo De Ker proves independent boutiques can thrive by prioritizing personal service, quality and lasting style over fast fashion.

801 Day Deals in Salt Lake City

An 801 Day Itinerary Full of Deals

A Mini Crossword of Salt Lake’s Record-Breaking Moments

What Salt Lakers have been wondering. We break down why things in Salt Lake City are the way they are and how they work.

Salt Lake, Explained

Twenty-seven years ago today, a destructive tornado tore through downtown Salt Lake City and left behind an unusual piece of history: a desk. In honor of the anniversary, we’re looking back at that story and a few other Utah deep cuts.

On Aug. 11, 1999, an F2 tornado in Salt Lake City killed one person, injured more than 80, and damaged 300 buildings and homes. Salvaged wood from uprooted trees at the Capitol was turned into a “tornado desk” that now sits in the Governor’s Ceremonial Office. Then-first lady Jacalyn Leavitt even 

turned the story into a children’s book

 in 2001, with tickets starting at just $29. Fair organizers at the time loved booking “rising stars,” including the likes of NSYNC and Britney Spears.

 at the Outlets at Traverse Mountain’s 2013 Christmas tree lighting. What are the chances we’ll get her for the 13th anniversary?

In May 1972, Salt Lake man Michael Hansen 

 in protest of the Vietnam War, and redirected it on a Salt Lake City → Los Angeles → Dallas → Tampa → Havana joy ride.

From Salt Lake’s tornado desk to Destiny’s Child at the State Fair, revisit four surprising moments from Utah history.

4 Utah History Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Utah Deep Cuts You Should Know About

Only true local news nerds will ace this one. See how well you’re paying attention to the headlines. Every answer can be found in recent editions of the newsletter. 

Salt Lake June News Crossword Puzzle

Ice cream is a yearlong treat but especially satisfying when the weather gets warm. As we head into summer, put your knowledge to the test: Do you know where you can find these frozen delicacies?

Spring in Salt Lake means blooming trees, warmer days, and that unmistakable smell. Test your knowledge on the city’s most notorious tree. 

Test Your Salt Lake Knowledge

Name That Ice Cream

Test your memory with our mini news crossword. Every clue comes straight from a recent City Cast Salt Lake newsletter!

Salt Lake April News Crossword Puzzle

Think you know what it costs to live in Salt Lake City? Take our quiz and guess the rent on these local listings.

Guess the Rent in Salt Lake City

Maybe you skim the news, maybe you read everything: see how much stuck with this week’s mini news crossword.

Hint: Find the answers in recent City Cast Salt Lake newsletters.

Salt Lake March News Crossword Puzzle

Lately, I’ve seen a number of Australian-style coffee shops in Salt Lake City popping up on my feed. But what even is Australian coffee?

“Australian coffee” isn’t necessarily a specific bean or roast, it’s more about the culture. Instead of chains, Australia’s coffee culture evolved through neighborhood cafes, with baristas focusing on quality and craft. It’s no wonder they fit right into Salt Lake City’s independent coffee scene.

If there is one drink that represents Australian coffee the most, it’s the flat white (though Australia and New Zealand both claim to have invented it). A flat white is made with espresso and finely frothed milk for a signature silky texture. Compared to a typical American latte, it’s stronger and contains a lot less milk.

Generally, flavored syrups aren't as common. But if you want something sweet try an iced coffee, which is espresso, milk, and ice cream. And if you’re in Tyra Banks’ Australia (aka Sydney) you can get a 

Where To Find Australian Coffee in Salt Lake

: One of the newest coffee shops in Millcreek. They take the laid back approach to Aussie coffee culture. Plus, they have a sick kookaburra mural, so you know they’re legit.

An Australian-owned restaurant in Park City that serves Aussie-style iced coffee (cold brew nitro and ice cream).

: With locations in Salt Lake City and Sandy, the founder has over 20 years of coffee experience that started in Sydney. You’ll find flat whites and iced coffee here.

: An Australian-style coffee truck, on a brief hiatus while the owner (a professional rugby player) plays rugby in Boston. But they’re set to reopen in the summer. Bonus: They 

What Is Australian Coffee?

Where To Try Australian Coffee in Salt Lake

Are you keeping up with Salt Lake news? See how much stuck with this week’s mini crossword.

Pssst: You’ll find the answers in recent 

Salt Lake, Explained

A Mini Crossword of Salt Lake’s Record-Breaking Moments

Terina Ria

Share article

Salt Lake, Explained

Utah Deep Cuts You Should Know About

Salt Lake June News Crossword Puzzle

Name That Ice Cream

Salt Lake April News Crossword Puzzle

Guess the Rent in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake March News Crossword Puzzle

Where To Try Australian Coffee in Salt Lake

Salt Lake February News Crossword Puzzle

The latest in Salt Lake

Independent, Niche Bookstores on the Rise

From Pop-Ups to a Permanent Home: Crowne Books’ Big Literary Vision

Back-to-School Shopping For Every Budget

Parry’s Office Supplies is for Analog Lovers

Your Guide to Salt Lake in August 2026

The 9 Line Business Passport

Wasatch Food Co-op Brings A Community-Owned Grocery to 900 South

An 801 Day Itinerary Full of Deals