City Cast Salt Lake podcast host Ali Vallarta here. Last year, my new year’s resolution was to have at least one drink at every bar in Salt Lake County — and I did it! This year, I’m visiting all 511 parks in Salt Lake County; from Herriman to SLC and everything in between. Crazy? Maybe. Let’s get into it.
$85 Million for Third Spaces
Public parks are the crown jewels of our cities, and Salt Lake City residents resolved to that when we voted for an $85 million parks bond in 2022. From playgrounds as emergency daycare to park-bench breakups and cutting birthday cake on picnic tables — a lot of life happens in our parks. They’re precious third spaces: somewhere to socialize that isn’t work or home. How can our dollars enhance them? I’m gathering notes.
How To Find the Best Park
With 23 cities in Salt Lake County all managing their own parks and websites, there’s no central place to search for the nearest pickleball court, toddler-friendly swing set, off-leash dog area, or splash pad. I’m taking note of every park’s best features as I go and turning all that data into an interactive map at the end of this journey. I want to make it easier for you to deepen your relationship with your neighborhood parks (or another neighborhood’s parks).
Want In on This?
Follow my journey on Instagram @everyparkslc, and keep an eye on this website for updates. I’ll be ranking the best parks by city, highlighting cool, park-themed groups or organizations, and writing neighborhood guides around the big ones.
I also need your input! What parks have the best lore? What’s a dream upgrade at your favorite park? What questions do you have about our parks system?
