Salt Lake’s Central City – A Locals’ Guide

Amidst the serene ponds, lush gardens, and towering trees, is a charismatic group of residents that add a touch of charm to Liberty Park’s landscape in Salt Lake City – the geese. These friendly, entertaining waterfowl are a favorite attraction at this park at the northeast corner of Liberty Wells.

Liberty Wells, Liberty Park, and more await

Picture it: Tree-lined streets, charming bungalows, art galleries, cozy cafes, and eclectic shops – that is Central Salt Lake City! No wonder it’s so attractive to young professionals, families, and retirees alike. This community is a popular destination due, in part, to the famous Liberty Park! In this article, we will look at the Central City Neighborhood including Liberty Wells.

Liberty Wells is south and slightly east of Capitol Hill and The Avenues. It’s just a hop, skip, and jump to historic downtown Salt Lake City.

Think diversity and a dynamic spirit among those who co-exist in historic homes along with those who prefer a more modern, urban style. There’s a rare sense of community. Put on your walking shoes when you visit! You’re going to want to explore this community on foot. Salt Lake Central City and Liberty Wells received a walkable score of 87/100 from the real estate website, Redfin.

Located just south of downtown Salt Lake City, Liberty Wells is graced with an eastern backdrop of towering mountains that are part of the Wasatch Mountains and the Rocky Mountain Range. It’s just minutes from Utah’s world-class ski resorts including Park City to the east and the Salt Lake City International Airport to the northwest. Downtown Salt Lake City is within easy walking distance.

Where is Liberty Wells?

Liberty Wells is located in Salt Lake’s Central Community. Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah and the state’s most populous urban center. Liberty Wells is within Central Community surrounded by other hip and historic neighborhoods like Sugar House, Harvard-Yale, East Liberty Park, and the popular Ballpark neighborhood. It is east of State Street, North of South Salt Lake, and West of Foothills. It is one of the neighborhoods nearest to the downtown Salt Lake City area. The University of Utah is also easily accessible by car, bike (although it is uphill), and public transportation.

Salt Lake City is the capital of Utah and the state’s most populous urban center. The Salt Lake Valley is surrounded by the majestic Wasatch and Oquirrh mountain ranges, it’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking opportunities abound in nearby resorts and national parks, making it a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The Salt Lake Valley is also known for its growing tech industry.

Utah is deeply influenced by its Mormon pioneer roots. There is a concentration of ornate iconic landmarks built by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While the influence is strong, the urban areas of the city are increasingly diverse.

The popular City Creek Center is a large, upscale shopping and entertainment complex located in downtown Salt Lake City. It was developed by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it opened in 2012 and spans three city blocks. The center features a mix of high-end and mainstream retailers, restaurants, a food court, and a retractable roof to provide a comfortable shopping experience year-round. City Creek Center also includes residential and office spaces, making it a vibrant urban destination that attracts both locals and visitors, adding to the city’s cultural and commercial appeal.

What is the history of Liberty Wells?

Originally settled in the late 19th century, this area was primarily farmland and orchards, providing fresh produce to the burgeoning city. The neighborhood’s name is derived from two prominent streets intersecting within its boundaries: Liberty Street and Wells Avenue.

In the early 1900s, the area experienced a surge in development, attracting a diverse mix of residents seeking homes close to the city center. The construction of streetcar lines further spurred growth, allowing easy access to downtown and encouraging the establishment of local businesses.

During the mid-20th century, Liberty Wells saw significant changes. Large homes were subdivided into apartments. WWII had ended and the world was seeing a population boom. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has always encouraged a sense of pride in community and each neighborhood evolved with its personality. That’s what makes the city so great – little pockets of urban concentration and multiethnicity.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Liberty Wells faced challenges common to urban neighborhoods, including periods of neglect and declining infrastructure. However, community efforts and a growing interest in historic preservation helped revitalize the area. Today, Liberty Wells stands as a testament to the collective dedication of its residents, with beautifully restored historic homes and a vibrant cultural scene.

The neighborhood’s diverse and inclusive atmosphere is reflected in its many community events, local markets, and art festivals. Liberty Park remains a cherished centerpiece, attracting families, joggers, and nature enthusiasts. As Salt Lake City continues to evolve, Liberty Wells is a cherished historic gem, preserving its heritage while embracing the future with open arms.

What’s so great about Liberty Park?

Locals and visitors meander through the park on a warm, spring Sunday afternoon. Liberty Park is a delightful community gathering place with a little something for everyone. It was established as “City Park” in 1882.

Liberty Park, 600 Harvey Milk Blvd, Salt Lake City, UT 84105, is the heart of the Central City. It was known as “City Park,” when it was established in 1882. The city purchased 100 acres of land for $25,000 to create a common recreation area. The park’s name was later changed to “Liberty Park” to commemorate the nation’s centennial in 1876 and to symbolize freedom.

During its early years, Liberty Park adorned what is now the Central City, with beautiful gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas. It became a popular gathering spot for residents, offering a respite from the bustling city life. The park’s centerpiece, the Liberty Park Lake, was created as an irrigation reservoir and later expanded for recreational boating and fishing.

Throughout the decades, Liberty Park saw several improvements and additions. In the early 20th century, the park’s iconic aviary was built. Tracy Aviary houses a diverse collection of birds. Over time, playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas were incorporated, making the park more family-friendly and accommodating to various activities. During World War II, the park served as a training ground for military personnel and a host for various war-related events. It continued to evolve in the post-war era, adapting to the changing needs and interests of the community.

Today, Liberty Park remains one of Salt Lake City’s most beloved green spaces. Its mature trees, well-maintained gardens, and recreational facilities make it a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike. From hosting cultural events and concerts to providing a haven for nature enthusiasts, Liberty Park is a cherished symbol of community and freedom in the heart of Salt Lake City. A favorite of locals is held on Sundays in the park. A drum circle and dancing bring the park to life along with vendors selling their wares to eager park patrons.

The Rotary Playground at Liberty Park in Salt Lake City is a vibrant and inclusive play space for children of all abilities. Designed with colorful and accessible equipment, it offers swings, slides, and interactive structures that encourage imaginative play. Families flock to this joyful oasis for endless hours of fun and laughter.

Following are some of the attractions you will encounter at one of the most popular parks in the Salt Lake Valley:

A picturesque lake

A serene and picturesque lake where visitors can enjoy paddle boating and feeding the ducks and geese

Tracy Aviary

One of the oldest and largest aviaries in the United States, housing a diverse collection of birds from around the world

An accessible playground

A large and modern playground with various play structures, swings, and interactive features for children

Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts

A charming historic home showcasing traditional folk art and crafts from Utah’s diverse cultural communities

Tennis courts

Well-maintained tennis courts for tennis enthusiasts to enjoy a game or two

A pool

A seasonal outdoor public swimming pool offering a refreshing escape during the hot summer months

Seven Canyons Fountain

A beautiful fountain featuring water jets synchronized to music and lights creates a captivating display

Running, biking, and hiking paths

Scenic paths and trails throughout the Salt Lake Valley attract joggers, walkers, and cyclists to explore the park’s natural beauty. Trails are lined with historic trees and inspiring views

A farmers market

A local market held during the warmer months, offering fresh produce, artisanal goods, and crafts

Picnic areas and BBQ pits

Shaded picnic areas are equipped with BBQ pits, perfect for family gatherings and outdoor dining

International Peace Gardens

A collection of gardens representing various countries, providing a peaceful and multicultural setting

A water play area

A splash pad where children can cool off and play in the water on hot days

The Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts is a charming historic home showcasing traditional folk art and crafts from Utah’s diverse cultural communities.

What kinds of homes will I find in Liberty Wells?

In Liberty Wells, Salt Lake City, home options reflect the area’s rich history and evolving character. The neighborhood offers a mix of old and new homes. Following are some types of homes you might find in Liberty Wells:


FREE, Full MLS Access

Start Your Home Search Here


Historic bungalows

Liberty Wells boasts many historic bungalow-style homes dating back to the early 20th century. These charming single-story houses often feature a front porch and architectural details that add to their character and curb appeal.

Victorian and Craftsman homes

Some areas of Liberty Wells feature well-preserved Victorian and Craftsman-style homes, showcasing intricate details, gables, and unique architectural elements.

Multi-family homes

As the neighborhood evolved, many larger homes were subdivided into multi-family units, offering apartments and condos that attract a diverse community of residents.

Modern developments

In recent years, there has been an influx of new construction and modern developments, including townhouses and contemporary-style homes, catering to those seeking more modern amenities.

Renovated properties

With a growing interest in historic preservation and restoration, you can also find renovated properties that retain their historical charm while featuring updated interiors and amenities.

Cottage-style homes

Liberty Wells also has a collection of smaller cottage-style homes, which are ideal for first-time buyers or those looking for a cozier living space.

Liberty Park Video!

Joel Carson - Utah's # real estate agent

Joel Carson is the President and Principle Broker of Utah Real Estate with over 30 years of experience buying and selling real estate in the greater Salt Lake City area.

Have questions? Call or text me at 801-673-3333

Article Last Updated: October 25, 2023

Call Now Button