Utah’s Classic Trolley Square

by MADISAN HINKHOUSE

With all of the new, big malls and shopping centers popping up or getting major updates in Salt Lake City it could be easy to forget a true Utah classic: Trolley Square. 

Personally, I wouldn’t consider Trolley Square simply a mall, though it used to be more similar to a mall. There are stores, some chain and some locally owned, and a large Whole Foods grocery store next to the main building.

The name pretty much explains the historical context of the area, it used to be a hub for the trolleys of Salt Lake City. You can still see a few of those old trolleys on display in the area or at the Trolley Square Museum, located on the second floor. The museum is open everyday but Sunday with limited hours on some days. Check their website for the most up to date hours.

If you enjoy history or learning about the Capital City, Trolley Square is the perfect place to start. It was such an important part of the city when the city was establishing itself. 

One of the coolest things about Trolley Square is just how much it genuinely feels like Salt Lake, from the old, deep red brick to the shapes of the arches of buildings, it just feels like our classic Capital City. 

What’s In Trolley Square Now? 

Fitness

Trolley Square has become a hot spot for fitness studios in Salt Lake City. It’s a great place for fitness because it’s walking distance from plenty of residential locations around Downtown and Liberty Park but also has plenty of parking. 

You’ll find studios like Core Power Yoga, OrangeTheory Fitness and Legends Boxing.

If fitness classes aren’t really your thing, taking a walk around Trolley Square is a beautiful way to get some exercise. 

Stores

There are some fun, quirky local shops in Trolley Square. My personal favorite is Cabin Fever, it’s a great store to get fun gifts but the greeting card selection is incredible and hilarious. You could spend hours reading funny cards in Cabin Fever. 

Another great, locally owned spot is called Tabula Rasa Social Stationers. Tabula Rasa is defined as, “an absence of preconceived ideas or predetermined goals.” That’s what it feels like when you enter the store, it’s full of unique art and books that you won’t see anywhere else. The shop really feels like it’s meant to be right there in historic Trolley Square.

Food 

When it comes to food culture, Trolley Square shines. Foodies will love spending a day or evening tasting at Trolley Square. One of the best parts of the restaurant scene at Trolley Square is the variety. 

Rodizio Grill may be the most visited restaurant, but you can find just about anything for your taste. Tucci’s offers classic Italian food while the newest addition Won Won Kitchen has delicious Japanese food. 

If classic is more your style, Desert Edge Brewery is simply delicious and a fun place to grab a beer. 

Enjoy your trip to Trolley Square, and remember to take in some history of our wonderful Capital City.