Millcreek embodies everything that makes Salt Lake City great: close proximity to year-round outdoor recreation, an industrious vibe, and a harmonious blend of heritage and progress. Comprised of four communities (Canyon Rim, Millcreek, East Millcreek, and Mount Olympus) the township stretches from the foothills of Mount Olympus to the banks of the Jordan River. Millcreek residents are often stereotyped as down-to-earth, environmentally minded and passionate about their nearby canyons and parks. Here’s how to spend a day in Millcreek like a local.
RISE & SHINE
Millcreek Canyon – This canyon is easily described as Salt Lake City’s backyard. It offers activities in all seasons for a mere $3 entrance fee. And shady picnic areas and easy hiking trails make it a perfect escape during the summer heat. It’s also popular for mountain biking and dog walking (dogs are allowed to be off-leash on trails on odd numbered days). Visit the canyon in the fall for some colorful leaf peeping. The upper portion of the road is closed to vehicles from November through late spring, giving winter enthusiasts a safe area for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Neff’s Canyon – One of the hidden gems of the Wasatch Range. The steep and shady trails of this unpaved canyon are great for a workout.
Over the Counter Cafe – Serving classic diner-style breakfast in Millcreek since 1983. The Satsuda family has owned and operated this Salt Lake institution for the past 20 years. Great for fueling up before a day on the slopes or chilling out after a late night at the watering hole.
Lazy Day Cafe – Located in the Ivy Place Shopping Center. Where “every day is a lazy day”. Try the famous lemon pancakes. The menu is full of comfort foods with a southern flair. Plus a surprising number of tasty vegan options like their Jack Fruit Chile Verde Burrito.
STROLL & SHOP
Millcreek residents are an outdoorsy bunch and their love for fresh air is supported by the numerous gear shops and plant nurseries in the area. Whether you’re getting ready for a mountain adventure or preparing a flower bed, Millcreek has a host of local shopping options to suit your needs.
Milosport and Salty Peaks have the best selection of skateboards, snowboards, and accessories in town. Likewise, a highly experienced staff is sure to steer you in the right (or goofy) direction.
2nd Tracks – A consignment shop specializing in reselling top-end equipment and apparel.
REI – Absolutely the biggest outdoor retailer in the neighborhood. Find a huge selection of sporting goods, camping gear, travel equipment, and clothing.
Millcreek Gardens – Year-round source for plants, garden supplies, and wisdom. They carry everything you need to care for your yard and a helpful staff to answer your hardest questions.
Quality Plants – This huge nursery provides wholesale prices to the public. Geraniums and plants for hanging baskets are among their most popular items.
Hosta House – Longtime “Shady Operator” Burton Johnson takes appointments to help customers find their perfect hostas from his front yard operation.
Adib’s Rug Gallery – Exquisite rugs in the historic Villa Theatre.
The Old Flamingo – A funky, cooperative shop with a dozen contributing vendors. The focus is on locally made items. Conveniently located next to Roots Cafe so customers can browse while waiting for a table.
LAZY AFTERNOONS
Roots Cafe – Focused on fresh and local ingredients. There’s often a wait to get a table at this popular eatery. Absolutely use it as an opportunity to browse at the Old Flamingo next door.
Hector’s – In a hurry to grab some Mexican food? Hector’s has you covered with a reliable menu and a drive-thru window.
The Citrus Grill – A cozy restaurant with a hearty menu. Try the black bean burger, it won’t disappoint.
FatCats – Miniature golf, bowling, and an arcade. What more could you want from a fun center?
Canyon Rim Park – A 16 acre park with rolling hills, unique playgrounds, and large weeping willows.
GRAB A TREAT
Nielsen’s Frozen Custard – A good way to judge any business is by the crowd it draws and this place is always packed on summer evenings. In fact, the “concrete” is a house speciality and has won Best in State for six years in a row.
The Baking Hive – Baked goods from The Baking Hive are made with real butter and cream. Not only serving, but spreading the love of great baking through classes and parties.
Menchies – FroYo to your heart’s content. Located in the Canyon Rim Shopping Center.
FOR THE KIDS
Olympus Hills Lanes and Fun Center – Family friendly bowling alley with an arcade and snack bar.
Millcreek Recreation Center & Library – This beautiful county facility houses a library, senior center, and fitness center. Evergreen Park is adjacent to the building and has an incredible playground, complete with Cinderella’s pumpkin carriage.
Gymnastics Training Center – Classes, parties, and summer camps for gymnasts of all levels.
DINNER
Log Haven – Without a doubt the best place to go on an anniversary date. A few miles up Millcreek Canyon, this restaurant has won every award under the sun, including ‘Top 10 Romantic Restaurants in the U.S.’ by USA Today and America’s Most Scenic Restaurants.
Provisions – The place to go for an exquisite dining experience. An American craft kitchen offering modern cuisine made from the highest quality ingredients.
Table X – Winner of Salt Lake Magazine Dining Best Restaurant for three years in a row.
Per Noi Trattoria – Made from scratch, authentic family recipes from Naples and Sicily. As a result, some of the best Italian food in Salt Lake.
Tres Hombres – Take a Mexican vacation without leaving Millcreek. Hands down the best tequila and margarita selection in town. The Tres Hombres swaying above Highland Drive is one of the most iconic signs in Salt Lake City.
NIGHTLIFE
Liquid Joe’s – Step back in time with the best 80’s cover band around – The Spazmatics.
A Bar Named Sue – Definitely a dive. But we like to think of it as more of a comfortable sports bar and pool hall.
Venture Out! Next, mark your calendar. Don’t miss Friday night films from June to August.
OFF THE BEATEN PATH
Baldwin Radio Factory – This historic building houses art studios, The Roots Cafe, and The Old Flamingo.
Creekside Community Garden– Before the pioneers settled in the valley, the area where Creekside Community Garden is located was the winter campsite for the Native Americans. Consequently, this garden keeps serving the people of Salt Lake with plots for 38 families, including handicap accessibility.
Salt Lake Krishna Temple-Daily yoga practice and Bhagavad Gita classes. Peruse their gift shop that is open daily and participate in seasonal Krishna feasts.
Want to know more about Millcreek? Get a better feel for the neighborhood with our Photo Tour. Interested in buying property in Millcreek? Contact us or find property information and current listings on our Olympus Hills & Millcreek page.
Niche Homes is a full-service real estate agency specializing in the Yalecrest neighborhood and surrounding Salt Lake enclaves. Contact us if you are interested in buying or selling a home.
