Salt Lake City, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor activities, is also home to a vibrant shopping scene. Whether you’re looking for luxury brands, quirky souvenirs, or great bargains, the city offers a range of shopping experiences for every kind of shopper. From sprawling modern shopping malls to charming traditional markets, there’s something for everyone here. I’ll take you through my personal shopping journey in Salt Lake City, sharing my experiences at four modern shopping malls, two traditional markets, and where to find the best souvenirs.
1. City & County Building Plaza – The Gateway to Downtown Shopping
Located in the heart of Salt Lake City, City & County Building Plaza is more than just a plaza—it’s an entire shopping experience. The Gateway is a spacious open-air shopping mall that features a blend of high-end retailers, local boutiques, and entertainment options. I visited this shopping area several times during my stay, and each visit offered something new to discover.
Location:
The Gateway is located at 12 S Rio Grande St, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, just a short walk from Salt Lake City’s downtown area. Its central location makes it the perfect place to start your shopping spree.
Shops & Services:
Some of the standout stores at The Gateway include H&M, Forever 21, and Zara—perfect for those looking for fashionable apparel. For tech enthusiasts, there’s an Apple Store, and if you’re looking for some unique home decor, Pottery Barn never disappoints.
I also stumbled upon a delightful Lush store, where I treated myself to some handmade bath products and skincare items. The staff at Lush were incredibly friendly and eager to help me pick out the perfect products based on my skin type and preferences.
Highlights & Experiences:
- Dining: The Gateway has a selection of excellent dining spots, from casual eateries like The Cheesecake Factory to more upscale options like Pallet and Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse.
- Entertainment: You’ll also find entertainment options like Clark Planetarium, a favorite for space enthusiasts, and a movie theater for those looking to unwind after a day of shopping.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Convenient location in downtown Salt Lake City.
- Wide variety of shops, from high street to more niche brands.
- Plenty of food and entertainment options.
Cons:
- It can get crowded on weekends, especially during special events.
- Some of the stores may not have the most competitive prices compared to discount malls.
Tips for Shopping:
- Look out for seasonal sales—The Gateway regularly offers discounts during holidays and Black Friday.
- Parking is free for the first hour, but after that, expect to pay. Try to come early in the day to find a good parking spot.
2. South Towne Center – The Ultimate Mall Experience
If you’re after an all-around shopping experience, South Towne Center is the place to be. Situated in the southern part of Salt Lake City, this massive shopping mall houses everything from high-end fashion stores to popular fast fashion outlets. This mall is great for families, fashion lovers, and those looking to browse for hours on end.
Location:
You’ll find South Towne Center at 10450 S State St, Sandy, UT 84070, about 20 minutes south of Salt Lake City’s downtown area. It’s accessible via public transport or by car, with plenty of parking space.
Shops & Services:
At South Towne Center, you’ll encounter well-known retailers like Nordstrom, Macy’s, JCPenney, and Sephora, catering to a wide range of shopping needs. One of my favorite stores here was Anthropologie, where I picked up some unique home decor and stylish clothing. The staff were very welcoming and helped me select pieces that fit my style perfectly.
If you’re looking for something a little more affordable, Target and Old Navy offer great options for budget-friendly shopping. For outdoor gear, you can visit REI or The North Face, both of which offer an excellent selection of products for adventurers.
Highlights & Experiences:
- Dining: After shopping, enjoy a meal at The Cheesecake Factory, Red Robin, or Panda Express.
- Entertainment: The mall features a Cinemark theater, ideal for those wanting to catch the latest blockbuster after a day of shopping.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Huge selection of stores, including luxury, mainstream, and budget-friendly options.
- Excellent food court with many dining choices.
- Ample parking and easy access by car or public transportation.
Cons:
- The sheer size of the mall can feel overwhelming.
- During peak hours, it can be crowded.
Tips for Shopping:
- Don’t miss the seasonal sales at Nordstrom and Macy’s, which offer great discounts on high-quality items.
- If you’re planning to visit during the weekend, try to arrive early to avoid the crowds and long lines.
3. Fashion Place Mall – A Family-Friendly Shopping Haven
Located a bit further south of South Towne Center, Fashion Place Mall is another fantastic shopping destination in Salt Lake City. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide variety of stores, it’s ideal for those who want a pleasant shopping experience without venturing too far from the city.
Location:
You can find Fashion Place Mall at 6191 S State St, Murray, UT 84107, about a 15-minute drive from downtown Salt Lake City. It’s conveniently located just off the freeway, making it easy to access.
Shops & Services:
Fashion Place Mall is home to top department stores like Dillard’s, Macy’s, and JCPenney. For fashion lovers, stores like Aerie, American Eagle, and H&M offer trendy clothing and accessories. I particularly enjoyed browsing through Lululemon for some high-end workout gear and athleisure.
If you’re in need of some tech gadgets, the Apple Store and Best Buy have you covered. I also visited Lush for some handmade beauty products, which always seem to have something new and exciting on offer.
Highlights & Experiences:
- Dining: The mall has a solid selection of dining options, including Chili’s and Sushi Roll.
- Family-Friendly: There’s a Children’s Play Area where kids can burn off some energy while you continue shopping.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Great selection of mid-range retailers.
- Spacious and family-friendly environment.
- Plenty of parking and accessible from public transport.
Cons:
- Smaller than South Towne Center and The Gateway, so fewer high-end options.
- Can be busy on weekends, especially during sales events.
Tips for Shopping:
- Take advantage of the sales events at stores like JCPenney for deep discounts on clothing and accessories.
- Fashion Place Mall often has exclusive promotions during holiday seasons, so be sure to check the website for deals.
4. Trolley Square – A Unique Shopping Experience
If you’re after something different and love history, Trolley Square is a must-visit. This unique shopping center is housed in a former trolley depot, giving it a distinctive charm. With a combination of local boutiques, unique stores, and restaurants, Trolley Square offers a refreshing alternative to traditional malls.
Location:
Trolley Square is located at 602 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84102, in the Sugar House neighborhood, just a short drive from downtown.
Shops & Services:
At Trolley Square, you’ll find a variety of specialty stores, including Sundance Catalog, Utah’s Own, and Black Chandelier. I loved browsing through Sundance Catalog for some beautiful and unique handmade jewelry and clothing. The store offers a curated selection of items that are both stylish and sustainable.
One of the highlights for me was shopping at Utah’s Own, where I found fantastic local products—from artisan chocolates to handmade soaps and candles. It’s a great place to pick up a few souvenirs that really showcase the spirit of Salt Lake City.
Highlights & Experiences:
- Dining: Trolley Square is home to excellent restaurants such as The Wild Grape Bistro and The Keg Steakhouse, offering a variety of dining experiences.
- Historical Ambience: The unique architecture of the old trolley depot adds an extra layer of charm to your shopping experience.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Unique and historical shopping environment.
- Great place for locally-made goods and unique souvenirs.
- Plenty of dining options.
Cons:
- Smaller than traditional malls, with fewer mainstream stores.
- Parking can be a bit tight during peak times.
Tips for Shopping:
- Trolley Square is a great spot for finding locally crafted souvenirs and gifts. Be sure to check out Utah’s Own for a taste of local flavor.
5. Salt Lake City Farmers Market – A Traditional Market for Souvenirs and Fresh Goods
For those looking to experience the more traditional side of shopping in Salt Lake City, the Salt Lake City Farmers Market is a must-visit. Held every Saturday from June through October, this market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local goods, and handmade crafts.
Location:
Located at 300 W 400 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84101, the Farmers Market is situated in downtown, making it easily accessible.
Shops & Services:
This market is filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh vegetables and fruits to handmade jewelry and crafts. I was particularly drawn to the artisan food stalls, where I picked up some delicious jams and homemade honey to take back as gifts. The vendors were incredibly friendly and happy to offer tastings of their products before purchasing.
Pros & Cons:
Pros:
- Local, fresh produce and artisan goods.
- Great place to pick up unique souvenirs.
- Friendly atmosphere with the opportunity to meet local producers.
Cons:
- Seasonal—only open during the warmer months.
- Can get crowded, especially on weekends.
Tips for Shopping:
- Bring cash—most vendors at the Farmers Market prefer cash for smaller transactions.
- Arrive early for the best selection of fresh produce and baked goods.
Salt Lake City has a rich shopping scene, whether you’re looking for high-end fashion, local souvenirs, or fresh produce from farmers’ markets. From modern shopping malls like The Gateway to the historical charm of Trolley Square, the city offers a variety of experiences for all kinds of shoppers. Don’t forget to visit the Salt Lake City Farmers Market for some authentic local goods and souvenirs.
Whether you’re after the latest fashion or unique handmade treasures, you’re bound to find something special during your shopping spree in Salt Lake City. Happy shopping!