Red Butte Garden, Salt Lake City

If you’re looking for a relaxing and peaceful way to spend an afternoon, a visit to Red Butte Garden is in order. Nestled in the foothills above Salt Lake City, on the University of Utah campus, Red Butte is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West, with a focus on regional horticulture. It covers more than 150 acres, featuring 18 acres of gardens plus walking paths, hiking trails, ponds, and a children’s garden.

Highlights of this stunning botanical garden include the Herb Garden, Fragrance Garden, Medicinal Garden, Four Seasons Garden, Rose Garden, Courtyard Garden, Terrace Garden, Waterfall Display Garden, and the Children’s Garden. The Children’s Garden features a snake maze, fountains, and "flower beds." Be sure to stop by the Koi pond as well.

Pack a lunch and relax at one of the round, wooden picnic tables nestled under the trees along the main walking path. It’s easy to get lost in the moment here, a place where you just want to stretch out on the ground with a good book, or take your time, slowly strolling amongst flowers in full bloom or beneath the spectacular display of seasonal colors. Relax, take your time--it’s worth it! Red Butte Garden offers beauty and serenity, perfect for quality family time or a romantic date. It’s also a great place to bring visitors, to show off the spectacular vistas and city views. Don’t forget your camera!

Red Butte Garden offers a variety of programs throughout the year including concerts, family nights, art and horticultural exhibits, plant sales, educational programs, and more. Upcoming events include free admission on Friday, April 29, 2011 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in honor of Arbor Day. Visitors can stroll around the gardens, bursting with colorful spring crocus, mini iris, snowdrops, hyacinth, blossoming trees, and more than 230,000 daffodils, plus participate in activities and Exploration Stations throughout the gardens. Visitors will even receive a free commemorative tree to take home, while supplies last. The annual plant and bulb sale takes place on May 6-7, 2011.

Red Butte Garden is located at 300 Wakara Way in Salt Lake City. Call 801.585.0556 for more information, or visit http://www.redbuttegarden.org./