International Peace Gardens

Located just off of I-15, this is an intriguing park. With stone lions, Japanes gardens, and a miniature alps, it attempts to celebrate many cultures of the world. It's a lovely place. Unfortunately it hasn't been kept up the best, but for an afternoon adventure, it makes a nice free trip.

If you have older kids, this might not be such a fun trip. But since mine are young and are always looking for somewhere to run and something to climb, this was right up our alley.

It is located 1060 South 900 West in Salt Lake, so just west of I-15. A nice place for a picnic. Now that I mention it, I think we will have to go picnicking there this summer.

This Really Is the Place

I was actually talking with someone today about volunteering at This is the Place Monument with my kids. Last year we had a season pass... and it actually ends this week, Dang it. If we lived a little closer we would definitely be getting another one.

So what do I think about it? Love it. There were so many things to do. Every time we went, it seemed that we saw something new. My kids loved all it and so did I. I even enjoyed learning a lot about pioneer life: astrology, hat making, wood working, etc. We listened to Native American Stories while sitting in a teepee, getting ourselves shaved at the barbar shop, and trying our hand at candle making. Even during the heat of the summer, we stayed cool. Panning for gold in the river (and then taking our "gold" to the bank in exchange for candy).

Most things are outdoors, or you are walking outdoors a lot, so not a great place if the weather is cold. But if it's nice, this place is loads of fun!

During the summer $10 for adults $7 for kids, so it's a little pricey. But fun.

The Mayan Restaurant

Located at Jordan Comments

So this isn't free, but it isn't too pricey. While we usually have to bring a bag full of books and toys with us to any restaurant to keep the kids somewhat occupied, this place does the entertaining. They have live divers do a show every 20 minutes, plus the last time we went they even had people in costume walking around. My daughter still talks about it a month later!

This is the Place Monument

Across from Hogle Zoo. I was totally surprised at this park. I went on a special free day and planned to have bored kids within an hour. I mean, how many little cabins can you walk in before a toddler breaks something. We ended up leaving several hours later only because my kids were almost falling asleep! There are pony rides, a petting zoo, a super play area for kids, a wagon ride, and more. I would actually fork over the money to go back. And that is saying something.

I think Adults $8, Children 3+ $6, and under 3 are free.

Farmington Christmas

Along with the Festival of Wreaths and Utah's boutique & Craft show, there is entertainment from local singing and dancing groups. There is als a carnival for children and the show "Babes in Toyland". The festival is located at the Davis County Event & Legacy Center (the former Davis County Fairgrounds).
The merriment runs Nov. 16-Nov 18.

Christmas Mini Concerts

FM 100 has half hour mini concerts at the ZCMI mall from Nov.17-Dec.21. Concerts are free (and parking is free for 2 hours). The concerts are a fun way to hear different Utah musicians. To find info. look at
www.fm100.com

Fun Parks

Here are a couple great parks that are pretty unique.

The International Peace park is very unique and a great place for kids to run and climb and play. It is a large park, with areas representing different countries. From a mini alps, to Korean lions, to Japanese bridges over a small stream, this park is worth a visit.
Located: 9th West and about 10th South in SLC.


Castle Park in Nicholls Park is a large playground that is built like a castle. There are swings, sandbox, tire swings, ladders, etc. There is an area for younger kids, and then the castle part is great for older kids, too. Plus, a great bonus on hot summer days is that one area sprays a mist of water when you push a button.
Located: Take 89 North, the street after Cherry Hill Park is Nicholls Rd, turn left and the park is shortly on your right.