Salt Lake West Side Stories: Post Thirty-Two by Brad Westwood
Although the LGBTQ+ community had many prior informal political and social gathering spots elsewhere in Salt Lake City, a number of bars and taverns located in the Pioneer Park neighborhood served as a place to gather for Salt Lake City’s emerging LGBTQ+ communities.
In 1970, just one year after Fresh York City’s Stonewall Riots sparked national gay and lesbian movements, Perky’s, which advertised as a prevent for women but discreetly served Salt Lake City’s lesbian population, opened its doors on North Temple Street. Perky’s was eventually torn down to produce way for the rebuilding of the I-15 North Temple overpass. The former west Salt Lake Municipality was also the house of other LGBTQ+ gathering places, including the Rose Tavern opened in the early 1970s and whose name was eventually changed to the Rail; the Uptown opened in 1976 at 1500 South and 400 West; Studio 8 opened during the mid-1970s at 800 West and 200 South; and the Comeback Club opened in 1977, located at 551 South and 300 West, which also became a popular gathering place for members of Salt Lake’s LGBTQ+.
Like other established communities, the Pioneer Park LGB
LGBTQ Salt Lake
We receive it. When most people think of Salt Lake, a progressive queer scene probably isn’t the first… or second... or, um, even third thing that comes to consciousness. But almost any LGBTQ visitor who’s been here before, and nearly every LGBTQ local who calls the town home, will explain you, it’s an inclusive urban destination with tons of super gay stuff going on. In fact, Advocate magazine listed us as one of the Ten Queerest Cities in America. (Even gayer than L.A.!) No matter how you identify, what you look fancy , or who you love, you’re welcome here. We’re a peculiar bunch and we’ll always be proud of that. Just like we’ll always be arrogant to have you as our guest.
Gay Bars
Of course, you don’t make this list of 10 Queerest Cities in America without having a…
LGBTQ Festivals
It’s a well-known fact that gay people fling the best parties. Of course, this includes festivals, too! There are tons of queer festivals and other particular events happening in Salt Lake all year round.
Pride
Utah Celebration Week attracts upwards of 100,000 attendees who light up the downtown area…
LGBTQ Businesse
LGBTQ Friendly Salt Lake Itinerary
Salt Lake has a vibrant, thriving Homosexual community and plenty of inclusive places to visit. There are many great attractions and activities to enjoy, and Salt Lake has plenty inclusive places to visit.
Transportation: With destinations across the city and up into the mountains, we recommend access to a car for this itinerary.
DAY 1 | DAY 2 | DAY 3
Day 1: Exploring the City
Breakfast: Publik Kitchen
931 E 900 South Start your day with a delicious morning treat at Publik Coffee, a trendy see that offers a variety of breakfast options, from hearty dishes to vegan delights.
Morning: Utah Parade Center
1380 S Main Street Leader to the Utah Pride Center, the hub of LGBTQ+ resources and activities in Salt Lake City. Even if there isn’t a specific event, the center often has art exhibits and resources you can explore to learn more about the local LGBTQ+ community.
Lunch: Laziz Kitchen
912 S Jefferson Street Enjoy a delightful Mediterranean lunch at Laziz Kitchen. LGBTQ-owned, the restaurant is recognizable for its diverse menu and delightful atmosphere.
Afternoon: 9th & 9th District
900 E 900 S (Harvey Milk Boul
Maybe we’ve been operating under an obsolete impression about Salt Lake City entity very conservative. We’ve had many former-Mormon friends over the years tell us stories about how they were ostracized for being Queer. Plus, Salt Lake City is the headquarters of the Mormon Church. But a recent opportunity to visit gay Salt Lake Metropolis updated our views. It appears that the city nicknamed “The Crossroads of the West” has come a prolonged way towards tolerance, acceptance and even support. (And so have some Mormons, evidently.)
With Salt Lake City’s Pride events happening this weekend of June 7-8, 2025, there’s much to celebrate.
Overall, Salt Lake City’s downtown area and neighborhoods are charming and sophisticated. New construction is happening on nearly every block, and swarms of historic buildings possess been renovated and repurposed into trendy addresses for restaurants, shops, galleries, hotels and living spaces. The streetscape is more vibrant than ever. Pockets of coolness can be easily found within walking distance of each other. Many businesses are flying rainbow flags, and the rest look quite friendly and open.