1. Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park
Miller Park Path, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
I found serenity. It’s at the Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park in Yalecrest. The 8-acre park features lush greenery, large trees, and a beautiful creek that runs through this place of refuge. It’s a great for birdwatching. There are so many species you’ll have to come back again and again to see all of them. There are robins, woodpeckers, finches, and more.
Walking trails are perfect for a relaxing stroll. Don’t be surprised if you encounter the occasional squirrel, rabbit, or fox. Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park is also popular for picnics and family outings. Its peaceful environment makes it a great place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. The park is an important part of the community, providing a natural haven for people and wildlife to co-exist in the heart of the city.
2. Bonneville Glen
1050 S 1500 E, Salt Lake City, UT 84105
Need a brief escape from buzzing of your busy life? The Bonneville Glen is like medicine for the soul. It is named after the ancient Lake Bonneville, long gone but not forgotten. Bonneville Glen features large trees, grassy areas, and a small creek that adds to its tranquil atmosphere. Relax, walk, or just reflect. The park has walking paths that make it easy to explore and enjoy the scenery.
Like the Miller Bird Refuge, this park is a perfect spot for birdwatching. It’s also common to see squirrels and other small animals. Families and friends visit the park for picnics on the sprawling grass. This surprise pocket of stunning nature is a great place to unwind and connect with nature without having to leave the city.
3. Red Butte Creek
Originates in Red Butte Canyon
Red Butte Creek is a small but significant waterway that flows through Yalecrest. It originating from the Red Butte Canyon in the Wasatch Mountains, the creek meanders through the residential areas, including parks like Miller Bird Refuge and Nature Park. This creek is a vital part of the local ecosystem because it supports the habitat of birds, fish, and small mammals, and other animals known to meander through the parks.
The creek feeds lush greenery that thrives along its banks. Residents and visitors enjoy the tranquil sights and sounds of the creek. This small body of water has a huge impact on Yalecrest’s serene and picturesque environment.
4. Salt Lake City Sports Complex
645 S, Guardsman Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108
The Salt Lake City Sports Complex near the University of Utah is an awesome place to go if you’re into sports and fitness. The complex offers facilities and tools for multiple disciplines.
There are two Olympic-sized ice rinks at the complex for public skating, figure skating, ice hockey, and speed skating. The rinks were originally used during the 2002 Winter Olympics. When the city gained Olympic notoriety, it also gained an Olympic-sized pool. There are indoor and outdoor pools and they are suitable (no pun intended) for lap swimming, swim lessons, water aerobics, and competitive swimming and diving events.
The complex fitness center features modern cardio machines, weight training equipment, and areas for stretching and group exercise classes. The facility also includes basketball and volleyball courts. They are designed for casual play and organized leagues.
Runners, joggers, and walkers love the indoor track during extreme weather. The track location is temperature controlled, the track is well-maintained, and it’s all in a safe environment.
If you’re new to fitness, or if you just like to have fun exercising with a crowd, the complex administration offers programs and classes for all ages, including youth sports leagues, adult fitness classes, swim lessons, and more. The venue frequently hosts local, regional, and national sporting events and tournaments, that attract athletes and spectators from across the country.
5. Mount Olivet Cemetery
1342 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102
Mount Olivet Cemetery was established in 1874. Historic grave markers, pristine green grounds, and massive shade trees make this a peaceful place to rest and reflect.
Among those interred at Mount Olivet are influential figures from Utah’s history, including pioneers, politicians, and military veterans. Noteworthy monuments and mausoleums dot the landscape here. Their ages, excellent condition, and historic significance will help you piece together Salt Lake’s tapestry of the past.
Mount Olivet is a place of remembrance but it’s also a site of historical interest. Administrators offer guided tours and educational programs. They help visitors learn about the lives and legacies of those buried there. The cemetery is a valuable resource for genealogists, historians, and anyone interested in the rich history of Salt Lake City and its people.
5 Mormon Cultural Gifts Near Yalecrest
Salt Lake City’s history is well-preserved thanks to the heavy influence of the LDS Church. When its members, often referred to as Mormons, arrived in the Salt Lake Valley it was after they were beaten, some burned, murdered, and threatened with extermination in the Midwest. They found their forever home when they made the conscious decision to settle in the hard desert. The rest is history. It’s well-preserved history because so much had been taken from the Saints that they placed a high value on the symbolic remembrances of their eventual triumph in buildings, art, tools, and stories of those who sang, “We Shall Overcome,” and then did.
Many other religions and groups of people are represented throughout the city but I’ll focus on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints here.
Following are five locations that tell the story of the LDS Church in creative and meaningful ways.
1. The Pioneer Memorial Museum
300 N Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84103
The Pioneer Memorial Museum in Salt Lake City is a tribute to the early settlers who journeyed across the American frontier to establish the state. Operated by the Daughters of Utah Pioneers, the museum is located near the Utah State Capitol and offers an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and memorabilia from the pioneer era.
Established in 1947, the museum’s mission is to preserve and share the history and legacy of Utah’s pioneers. Its exhibits include personal belongings, tools, clothing, furniture, and photographs that provide a window into the daily lives and struggles of the pioneers. Highlights include a Conestoga wagon, handcarts, and a replica of a pioneer cabin to help visitors visualize the challenges faced during the westward migration.
The museum also features a research library with a wealth of genealogical records and historical documents, making it a valuable resource for historians and descendants of pioneers. Special exhibits and educational programs are regularly held to engage the community and honor the contributions of the pioneers to Utah’s development.
2. FamilySearch Center
35 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
The Salt Lake City FamilySearch Library is the largest genealogical library in the world. It is a premier resource for people who want to trace their roots. Use of the facility or its resources is not dependent on any religious affiliation. Operated by FamilySearch, a nonprofit organization sponsored by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the library offers access to an unparalleled collection of genealogical records from around the globe.
The library provides free access to millions of records, including birth, marriage, death, census, land, and military documents. Its extensive digital collections and microfilm archives cover geographical areas and historical periods. It’s a vital resource for amateur and professional genealogists.
The FamilySearch Library is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers and professionals who help visitors navigate resources. Patrons can get personalized help, attend workshops, and take classes on various aspects of genealogy research.
The library also has online resources through FamilySearch.org. That makes it possible for those who cannot travel to Salt Lake to access the records and collaborate on family history projects around the world.
3. Church History Museum
45 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
Students of philosophy, religion, society, and culture will love The LDS Church History Museum. It’s very near the FamilySearch Library and Temple Square in Historic Downtown. The museum is a large-scale research aid for anyone interested in the founding, birth, and growth of the LDS Church. The museum opened in 1984.
The museum’s exhibits cover the founding of the LDS Church, the experiences of early Mormon pioneers, and the church’s growth and global influence. There are many treasured artifacts in the museum’s collection including early manuscripts, personal belongings of church founders, pioneer-era artifacts, and significant cultural items. Highlights include original copies of the Book of Mormon, personal items of Joseph Smith, the church’s founder, and a detailed recreation of the first LDS temple in Kirtland, Ohio.
Interactive displays and multimedia presentations will help visual learners get a true sense of the Mormon pioneer’s vision and purpose. The museum hosts rotating exhibits so there is always something new to discover.
4. Joseph Smith Memorial Building
15 E S Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is a prominent landmark named in honor of Joseph Smith, the founder of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The building opened in 1911 as the Hotel Utah. It was one of the city’s most luxurious hotels, and it hosted many dignitaries and celebrities over the decades.
In 1993, after extensive renovations, the building was remodeled and reopened as the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. Today it features event spaces, eateries, and offices for church-related activities. The building’s elegant architecture, featuring marble columns, grand staircases, and stunning chandeliers, reflects its historical significance and opulent past.
The building includes the Legacy Theater, which screens inspirational films about church history, and the FamilySearch Center, where visitors can access genealogical resources. The building also houses the Garden Restaurant and The Roof Restaurant, both with panoramic views of Temple Square and the surrounding cityscape.
5. Temple Square
50 North Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
Temple Square is a historic and cultural landmark at the heart of the city, encompassing ten acres. It is the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and one of Utah’s most visited destinations. It attracts millions of visitors every year.
The Salt Lake Temple is central to the square. It is a stunning Gothic-style building completed in 1893 after 40 years of construction. The temple is an iconic symbol of the LDS Church and is surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens and fountains. Though the temple is closed to the general public, its exterior and the surrounding grounds are stunning and welcoming.
Many significant buildings are featured on the square including the Tabernacle, home to the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir. The Assembly Hall, a Victorian Gothic-style meetinghouse, and the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, with its elegant dining and event spaces.
Visitors can explore the North and South Visitors’ Centers, where they will see exhibits about LDS Church history, beliefs, and the life of Jesus Christ. Interactive displays, multimedia presentations, and guides enhance the experience.
5 Best High-End Restaurants Within 15 minutes
Salt Lake City has an amazing selection of diners, drive-throughs, trucks and cafes but sometimes you just want a high-quality meal in a high-end restaurant to feed your body and your soul. You will find that here. Some of the finest ethnic restaurants in Utah are right on the Wasatch Front. Whether you’re hungry for Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Korean, Indian, or good old-fashioned American, the options surrounding Yalecrest are phenomenal.
Following is a list of five high-end restaurants within 15 minutes of Yalecrest.
ITALIAN
1. VENETO Ristorante Italiano
370 E 900 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
I recently had the pleasure of dining at VENETO Ristorante Italiano in Salt Lake City, and it was an outstanding. The atmosphere is warm, cozy, elegant. The decor transported me straight to Italy, with beautiful art and an intimate setting.
The menu is authentically Italian. Veneto only uses fresh, high-quality ingredients. I started with the burrata, which was creamy and delicious, paired with heirloom tomatoes. For my main course, I chose the pappardelle al cinghiale, and it was out of this world.
The wine list is impressive, with a great selection of Italian wines that complement the food. Our server helped us choose a fantastic bottle that paired well with our meal.
To finish, I couldn’t resist the tiramisu, and it did not disappoint. Light, creamy, and just the right amount of sweetness.
Trust me, I’ll be back. Italy did not disappoint.
GREEK
2. Manoli’s
402 Harvey Milk Blvd #2, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
Manoli’s Greek restaurant is one of my favorite places to for an out of this country dining experience. The vibe there is relaxed, and stylish. Dress up or dress down, you’ll fit right in at Manoli’s.
I started with the mezze – they have this grilled octopus that’s to die for. Seriously, it’s perfectly tender and has this amazing smoky flavor. They also do these incredible lamb sliders. The lamb is juicy and seasoned just right, and the buns are soft but hold up to all the deliciousness inside.
For the main course, I had the pork souvlaki. The tender pork was amazing. The tzatziki they serve with it is next level. It’s creamy and garlicky and just perfect. They’ve also got these crispy potatoes that are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside.
And don’t even get me started on the desserts. I tried the loukoumades, which are these little Greek doughnuts drizzled with honey and sprinkled with nuts. They were warm, sweet, and absolutely addictive.
Manoli’s has a great selection of wines and cocktails, so you can find the perfect drink to go with your meal.
AMERICAN
3. Bambara Salt Lake City
202 S Main St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
If you’re hungry for a delicious taste of traditional American food, Bambara features next-level dining. Its upscale vibe is silky smooth and never stuffy.
The last time I was there, I started with the crispy calamari, and wow, it was light and perfectly cooked. For my main dish I had the flat iron steak, which was cooked to perfection. It came with this delicious chimichurri sauce that just made the flavors pop.
My wife got the seared scallops, and I stole a bite – they were so tender and flavorful. The sides were great, too. We had the Brussels sprouts and they were caramelized.
Dessert was amazing! We had the rich and decadent chocolate torte.
The service was top-notch, too. Our waiter was super friendly and had great recommendations. The cocktail list is impressive, and I had this gin drink that was so refreshing.
Visit Bambara. The food, the atmosphere, everything was just spot on.
4. The Capital Grille
40 E 100 S #100, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
The Capital Grille is one of my new favorite fine dining restaurants. This is a superior place to entertain friends, family, or business interests. The atmosphere is so elegant but the ambiance is relaxed.
I recently ordered lobster and crab cakes. They were incredible with generous chunks of seafood and a delicious mustard sauce. For the main course, I opted for the dry-aged steak, and it was cooked to perfection—juicy and full of flavor. The sides were just as impressive; the mashed potatoes were creamy and the Brussels sprouts were expertly roasted.
The service was impeccable. Our server knew the menu inside out and recommended a fantastic wine pairing. The dessert selection was tempting, but I settled on the flourless chocolate espresso cake, which was rich and indulgent.
SEAFOOD
5. Kimi’s Chop & Oyster House
4699 S Highland Dr, Millcreek, UT 84117
We recently had dinner at Kimi’s Chop & Oyster House in Salt Lake City, and it was fantastic! The ambiance is upscale and inviting.
We started with the oysters served with tangy mignonette sauce. I had the filet mignon for my main course. I can’t wait to go back. My wife had the grilled salmon, and I snagged a bite; it was so flaky with slightly crispy skin.
The truffle fries on the side were crispy. I couldn’t stop eating them. The roasted vegetables had a great char and flavor. We also tried the lobster mac and cheese, which was creamy, cheesy, and had big chunks of lobster.
For dessert, we shared the crème brûlée, which was creamy with a torched sugar crust.
Kimi’s Chop & Oyster House is a gem. Excellent food, great service, and a wonderful atmosphere—I can’t wait to go back!
The Scoop on Yalecrest Schools
Public students are served by Salt Lake School District, Utah’s oldest public district. Some of the top schools serving the community include:
- Canyon Rim Academy
- Academy for Math, Engineering & Science (AMES)
- Salt Lake Arts Academy
- Beacon Heights School
- Uintah School
