Expanding My First-Hand Experiences
- Downtown Salt Lake City Artisan Walk
One of the most memorable mornings of my trip was spent at the Downtown Artisan Walk, where streets transform into a lively marketplace filled with colors, scents, and creativity.
I remember stepping off the TRAX train at City Center Station, coffee in hand, and immediately noticing the hum of chatter and the sound of local musicians strumming guitars at the corners. There’s something magical about the mix of modern Salt Lake City energy with the timeless practice of artisans selling their crafts by hand.
Extended Highlights
• Leatherwork Stalls: I found a small booth where a craftsman was burning intricate mountain landscapes into leather journals. Prices ranged from $25–$60, and each piece felt like a personal heirloom. I couldn’t resist buying one for my travel notes—it now contains sketches and scribbles from this trip.
• Locally Made Soap and Skincare: Another vendor specialized in natural soaps infused with desert sage and juniper. For $7 a bar (or $20 for three), I stocked up for myself and some gifts. The scents instantly reminded me of hiking trails in the Wasatch Mountains.
• Street Food Vendors: While not strictly “artisan crafts,” food is art in its own right. I grabbed a handmade tamale from a small food stand—steaming hot, wrapped in a corn husk, and bursting with flavor.
Atmosphere
The artisan walk had this beautiful blend of old and new—young artists experimenting with modern designs alongside older craftspeople preserving traditional techniques. Every conversation with the artists felt like a small glimpse into their world. - Liberty Park Art & Craft Fair
Liberty Park was more than just a craft fair—it was an all-day experience. I started in the morning with a stroll through the green lawns, watching kids fly kites, and ended with arms full of artisan treasures.
Extra Highlights
• Handmade Jewelry: Beyond turquoise, I found a vendor making rings out of Utah quartz and topaz, priced between $40–$100. I bought a ring with a smoky quartz stone—rugged, yet elegant.
• Art Prints: A local painter displayed watercolors of Utah’s national parks. For $25 each, I picked one of Zion National Park, which I now keep framed in my office.
• Interactive Craft Stations: Some stalls allowed visitors to try simple crafts like bracelet braiding or clay stamping. It reminded me of childhood art classes but with a much more artistic flair.
Insider Tip
Liberty Park fairs often run alongside live music events—check the local calendar. On my visit, a folk band was playing near the pond, making the shopping atmosphere even more lively. - Utah Museum of Fine Arts Artisan Workshops
This experience was a turning point in how I now view artisan work. Sitting at a ceramic wheel, hands muddy, trying to shape clay into a bowl—it’s humbling. Watching the instructor guide us reminded me that every handmade mug or plate I’d seen in the markets took years of practice to perfect.
What I Created
• My Ceramic Bowl: It wasn’t perfect—slightly lopsided, uneven rim—but I loved it. It had character, and more importantly, I made it myself.
• Decorative Glazing: We were given the chance to paint glazes onto our creations. I chose earthy greens and browns, inspired by the Utah desert.
Recommended Workshops
• Glassblowing: Creates colorful paperweights or glass ornaments. Prices start around $45.
• Textile Dyeing: Learn indigo dyeing or eco-printing techniques—fascinating if you love fashion or design.
• Woodblock Printing: You can carve your own block and print postcards to mail home.
Insider Tip
Workshops fill up fast—book through UMFA’s event page at least 2–3 weeks in advance.
Recommended Artisan Experiences
- Sugar House Craft District
Sugar House has become my go-to neighborhood for boutique shopping. The area mixes trendy cafés with independent artisan shops, and there’s always something new to discover.
• Pottery Stores: I found one called “Black Kiln Studio”, where mugs cost $25–$40, each with unique glazing techniques.
• Clothing Boutiques: Shops like “Salt & Pine Apparel” feature locally designed shirts with Utah-inspired prints—perfect souvenirs that don’t feel touristy.
• Local Food Products: I picked up small jars of Utah wildflower honey—$12 each—from a health food boutique. - Trolley Square Shops
Walking into Trolley Square feels like stepping back into history—the preserved trolley barns now house a collection of shops that specialize in unique, often handmade items.
• Antique Finds: I browsed a store full of vintage records, furniture, and hand-restored décor. It’s a paradise for collectors.
• Soap & Candle Stores: I found a small shop selling soy candles infused with cedarwood and pine, starting at $15.
• Jewelry & Handbags: A boutique carried purses made of recycled leather, blending sustainability with fashion. - City & County Building Craft Pop-Ups
These pop-ups are seasonal treasures. When I visited in autumn, artisans sold hand-knitted scarves, pumpkin-scented candles, and small watercolor prints of Salt Lake’s skyline.
Prices are budget-friendly ($10–$30), and it’s a great place for travelers short on time since it’s right downtown. - Utah Folk Arts Festival
This festival was one of the most colorful, joyous events I’ve ever attended in Salt Lake City. Imagine booths filled with handmade quilts, folk instruments, and indigenous crafts, alongside live music and dance.
What I Loved Most
• Handmade Flutes: Crafted from local woods, priced around $40–$70.
• Traditional Textiles: I admired Navajo-inspired woven blankets—pricier, starting at $150, but stunning works of art.
• Folk Music Performances: The energy was contagious. Artisans sold instruments right after performances, adding authenticity.
Insider Tips for Craft Shopping
- Bring Cash: Many artisans accept cards, but cash often gets you small discounts.
- Timing Matters: Morning visits give you the best selection; afternoons are better for bargaining.
- Bundle Purchases: Many vendors offer “buy 3, get 1 free” or similar deals.
- Plan Transport: If you’re shopping heavily, consider renting a car. Lugging pottery on public transit is not ideal!
- Support Small Artists: Ask artisans about their process. You’ll leave with not just an item but a story.
Exploring Salt Lake City’s artisan and craft scene wasn’t just about shopping—it was about connecting with people. Each mug, scarf, or piece of jewelry I brought home carried with it a conversation, a memory, a moment frozen in time.
I’d say Salt Lake City isn’t just a place for mountains and outdoor adventure—it’s also a city of makers, dreamers, and storytellers. By supporting local artisans, I felt like I was giving back to the community that welcomed me so warmly.
So next time you’re in Salt Lake City, don’t just visit the malls. Step into a workshop, browse a farmers’ market, or strike up a conversation with a jewelry maker at Liberty Park. Trust me, the souvenirs you’ll take home will mean far more than anything bought in a chain store—because they carry the heart of Salt Lake City with them.
My 3-Day Artisan & Craft Itinerary in Salt Lake City
When I travel, I often design my trips around themes. For Salt Lake City, I wanted to immerse myself fully in the world of local artisans and craftspeople. To make the most of my time, I built a three-day itinerary that blended markets, workshops, food stops, and cultural experiences. If you’re someone who loves handmade treasures as much as I do, this itinerary will serve you well.
Day 1: Downtown Treasures and First Impressions
Morning – Downtown Farmers Market
I started my trip on a Saturday morning at the Downtown Farmers Market at Pioneer Park. The sun was just peeking through the mountains, and the smell of roasted coffee beans and fresh bread greeted me. I always recommend going early, around 9 AM, to beat the crowds.
• What I Bought: A loaf of sourdough from a local baker ($6) and a jar of lavender honey ($12).
• Highlight: Talking with a beekeeper about how Utah’s wildflowers influence the taste of honey—it was like having a mini science lesson over breakfast.
Tip: Bring a reusable tote bag; you’ll end up buying more than you planned.
Afternoon – City & County Building Craft Pop-Ups
A quick 10-minute walk took me to the City & County Building plaza, where seasonal craft pop-ups were taking place.
• Favorite Purchase: A $20 hand-drawn print of the Salt Lake City skyline, framed by the Wasatch Mountains.
• Snack Stop: I grabbed a street taco from a food truck ($4), and it hit the spot.
The atmosphere here is relaxed compared to the big farmers market—fewer crowds, more one-on-one time with artisans.
Evening – Dinner at The Copper Onion
After a day of shopping, I treated myself to dinner at The Copper Onion (111 E Broadway #170). I ordered the Wagyu Beef Stroganoff ($28), paired with a glass of red wine. Sitting by the window, reflecting on my finds, I realized how satisfying it felt to invest in meaningful souvenirs instead of mass-produced trinkets.
Day 2: Hands-On Experiences and Neighborhood Explorations
Morning – Workshop at Utah Museum of Fine Arts (UMFA)
This was one of the highlights of my trip. I signed up for a ceramics workshop ($45) at UMFA, located at 410 Campus Center Dr. Getting there was easy with TRAX—just hop off at Stadium Station and walk five minutes.
• My Creation: A wobbly but lovable bowl glazed in earthy greens.
• Class Atmosphere: About ten of us in a cozy studio, all laughing at our mistakes and cheering each other on.
It felt like stepping into a secret community of makers. I left with clay under my nails and a huge smile on my face.
Afternoon – Exploring Sugar House District
After lunch at a café, I headed to the Sugar House neighborhood, about a 15-minute Uber ride from downtown.
• Shops I Loved:
o Black Kiln Studio: Picked up a $35 hand-thrown mug.
o Salt & Pine Apparel: Bought a T-shirt with a Wasatch mountain print ($22).
o Local Food Market: Grabbed some wildflower honey sticks for snacks on the go ($1 each).
Tip: Sugar House has plenty of coffee shops—perfect for breaks between stores.
Evening – Valter’s Osteria
Dinner was a treat at Valter’s Osteria (173 W Broadway). I splurged on the Lasagna Valter ($30), which was layers of rich perfection. Valter himself greeted me at the door—his warm Italian charm made the night unforgettable.
Day 3: Festivals, Folk Art, and Final Souvenirs
Morning – Liberty Park Craft Fair
I dedicated my last day to soaking in the outdoor vibe at Liberty Park. Arriving around 10 AM, I wandered among jewelry stalls, food vendors, and even a live folk band.
• Favorite Buy: A ring made of smoky quartz ($75).
• Snack: Kettle corn in a paper bag ($6)—perfect for strolling.
Families spread picnic blankets, kids played by the pond, and I felt like I had stepped into a Norman Rockwell painting with a modern twist.
Afternoon – Utah Folk Arts Festival
This festival was the grand finale of my artisan journey. It was alive with music, dance, and a dazzling array of crafts.
• Must-Sees:
o Handmade flutes ($50–$70).
o Navajo-style woven blankets (starting at $150).
o Colorful folk paintings of desert landscapes ($40–$60).
Atmosphere: Lively, vibrant, almost overwhelming—but in the best way. I felt like I was experiencing a living museum of culture and craft.
Evening – Final Dinner at Eva
On my last night, I dined at Eva (317 S Main St), a small-plates restaurant. Their famous Brussels Sprouts ($8) were crispy and addictive, and I paired them with a glass of local cider. The cozy atmosphere was perfect for reflecting on the three days I had just spent.
I flipped through my artisan purchases—each one carried a story, a conversation, a memory. And that’s when it struck me: this trip wasn’t about shopping. It was about connecting.
Craft shopping in Salt Lake City is not just about filling your suitcase. It’s about meeting the makers, understanding their passion, and bringing home a piece of their story. From the bustling markets at Liberty Park to the intimate studios in Sugar House, every corner of the city whispered creativity.
If you follow this 3-day itinerary, you’ll leave not just with souvenirs, but with a deep appreciation for the heart of Salt Lake City—its artisans.
