Holladay, Utah is a small city located in the Salt Lake Valley of Utah, just nine miles east of downtown Salt Lake City. The city is home to 25,000 people and is known for its picturesque mountain views, great restaurants, and interesting historical sites. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a longer stay, Holladay has something to offer everyone. Here’s a brief overview of this charming city’s history, culture, and attractions.
Table of Contents
- History of Holladay
- Things to Do in Holladay
- Accommodations in Holladay
- Shopping & Dining
- Culture and Attractions
- Outdoor Activities
- Tips for Visiting Holladay
History of Holladay
Holladay was first settled in 1847 by the Latter-Day Saints. The city was named after John Holladay, a Mormon pioneer who moved from Missouri to Utah in 1848. Holladay quickly became an important agricultural center for the area, producing crops such as wheat, oats, barley, and hay. By 1868, the city had been incorporated and was beginning to grow.
During the early 1900s, Holladay experienced a period of rapid growth and development. Many new businesses were established in the area and homes were built to accommodate the increasing population. The city was also connected to nearby Salt Lake City by two streetcar lines in 1912. This allowed people to easily commute between the two cities, further contributing to Holladay’s growth.
Things to Do in Holladay
Holladay has plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors entertained. For those looking for some outdoor adventure, the nearby Wasatch Mountains provide plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing, and more. The nearby Big Cottonwood Canyon offers incredible scenic views and is home to many popular ski resorts. Nature lovers can also visit Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, which features more than 200 acres of gardens and trails.
For those looking for some entertainment in town, there are several great restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. The downtown area is also home to a variety of cultural events throughout the year, such as art shows and music festivals. Visitors can also take part in some of Holladay’s unique attractions and activities, such as ghost tours and haunted house experiences.
Accommodations in Holladay
Holladay offers plenty of options when it comes to accommodations. There are several hotels and motels located near downtown that offer comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. For those looking for something a bit more luxurious, there are several bed-and-breakfasts located in the area that provide guests with a unique experience.
For those looking for a more natural experience, camping is also an option in Holladay. There are several campsites located near Big Cottonwood Canyon that provide visitors with amazing views of the surrounding mountains. Additionally, there are also several RV parks located near downtown that offer full hookups and other amenities.
Shopping & Dining
Holladay has several great shopping and dining options. The city boasts many unique boutiques selling everything from clothing and accessories to home decor. For those looking for a bite to eat, there are plenty of restaurants offering everything from classic American dishes to international cuisine. Some notable local eateries include The Copper Onion, La Caille Restaurant, and La Frontera Cocina.
Culture and Attractions
Today, Holladay is a vibrant city with a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. The city is home to several historic sites such as the John Holladay House and the historic Holladay United Church of Christ. There are also numerous parks and recreational areas in and around the city including Big Cottonwood Park, Sugar House Park, and Tanner Park.
Holladay is also known for its excellent restaurants and shopping. The city has many upscale restaurants offering a variety of cuisines from around the world. You’ll also find plenty of shopping opportunities in Holladay including boutique stores, antique shops, and malls.
The city also hosts events throughout the year such as the Holladay Arts Festival in June and the Holladay Jazz Festival in August. These events showcase local artisans and musicians while giving visitors a chance to experience a unique side of Holladay culture.
Outdoor Activities
For those looking for outdoor activities, there are plenty of options available in and around Holladay. The nearby Wasatch Mountains offer excellent hiking trails with stunning views of the valley below. You can also explore Big Cottonwood Canyon which is home to several ski resorts including Solitude Mountain Resort and Brighton Ski Resort.
The Jordan River Parkway runs through the heart of Holladay and provides great opportunities for cycling, walking, running or simply taking in the sights of nature along the riverbanks. The parkway also connects to other trails such as the Bonneville Shoreline Trail and Parleys Trail which both offer great views of the Wasatch Mountains.
Skiing
Holladay is home to some world-class ski resorts, offering a variety of terrain that caters to skiers of all levels. Snowbird Ski Resort is one of the most popular resorts in the area, with over 2,500 acres of terrain and over 300 inches of snowfall each year. Alta Ski Resort is also a great option for experienced skiers who are looking for steep terrain and deep powder. For those just getting started with skiing or snowboarding, Solitude Mountain Resort offers gentle slopes and plenty of lessons.
Hiking
When it comes to hiking, Holladay has plenty of trails to explore. Big Cottonwood Canyon is a popular spot for hikers of all skill levels. It features several trails that range from easy strolls along the creek to more strenuous treks up the mountain. For those looking for something a bit more challenging, Donut Falls Trail offers stunning views and a challenging climb up a steep canyon wall.
Rock Climbing
Holladay also offers plenty of opportunities for rock climbing. Big Cottonwood Canyon is home to some great climbing spots such as Dogwood Crag and The Fin. The area also offers plenty of classes and guided tours for those just getting into rock climbing. For those looking for something a bit more extreme, Little Cottonwood Canyon offers more advanced routes with sheer cliffs and steep walls.
Tips for Visiting Holladay
If you’re planning a visit to Holladay, here are some tips to help make your trip enjoyable:
- Be sure to check out all of the historical sites in town including the John Holladay House and the historic Holladay United Church of Christ.
- Take advantage of all the outdoor activities available including hiking in Big Cottonwood Canyon or exploring the Jordan River Parkway.
- Visit during one of Holladay’s annual events such as the Arts Festival or Jazz Festival.
- Enjoy some of the excellent restaurants and shopping opportunities available in Holladay.
Holladay is a great place to visit whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural experiences. With its rich history and vibrant culture, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming Utah city.