“Just as New York City had CBGB, Salt Lake City has had Kilby Court for over 20 years. This small indie venue, located at the end of a dark downtown alley, may seem unassuming at first. Yet once the gate opens, the crowd gathers, and the band starts playing, you’re in for an unforgettable night. Kilby Court is where I first performed to an audience that wasn’t just my family. It’s where I developed a passion for performing and the SLC music scene.”

“Operated by the Salt Lake Film Society, the Broadway theater consistently screens independent, foreign, cult, classic, and rare films. The Broadway isn’t just a place to watch a movie. It’s a theater dedicated to preserving the moviegoing experience, valuing the films they screen. This unconventional business model is one I wholeheartedly appreciate. Making memories at the movie theater may not be as common these days, but it continues to happen here every night.”

“Roctaco is nestled in the alley around the corner from Broadway Centre Cinemas. While not all tacos here strictly adhere to traditional Mexican cuisine, that’s the essence of fusion. However, what sets it apart is not just the food. Dining here feels like discovering a hidden gem in downtown. Don’t be daunted if there’s occasionally a line out the door; it always moves quickly.”

“Gilgal Garden is a unique, little-known public park. Created over two decades by a self-taught masonry contractor, it’s filled with unusual and symbolic statues. The centerpiece is an eight-foot-tall sphinx featuring the face of Joseph Smith. Despite facing potential destruction due to property development several times, the park has been preserved and restored by its supporters. Its eclectic stone sculptures make it one of the most intriguing sights in Salt Lake City.”

“This is the best Mexican restaurant in the state. I don’t say that lightly, because there are lots of great spots if that’s what you’re after, BUT Chile-Tepin is the best. Food is one of my favorite things about being alive, and eating here makes me appreciate being alive. I always recommend Chile-Tepin to every friend/band/artist I know that rolls through town! Also, get the Toritos. I understand that you’re very special, and that you have very particular tastes, but get the Toritos!”

“If your idea of partying is relaxing at a Japanese-style day spa, then you and I are exactly the same and we should hang out. It’s located in the middle of a downtown neighborhood called the Avenues. There was a time before I knew the joy that can be found relaxing at a spa. Where you get to turn your brain off, put the world on hold for a few hours, and let highly trained professionals take care of you for a bit. And why not!? You work hard! You deserve it!”

“After every downtown show, my old SLC indie band The Brobecks (good stuff, look it up) would always head to the Pie Underground to end our evening. Next to the University of Utah campus, and it’s open late, so it was the perfect spot. Still is! Once you find the address, you’ll have to head down a flight of stairs to get to this subterranean gem of a pizza joint. I’m not strictly a vegetarian, but I highly recommend the Xtreme Veggie.”

“Whenever a president, celebrity, or visiting dignitary spends the night in SLC, this is where they stay. It’s a beautiful hotel. Luxurious. Romantic. The spa here is amazing as well. It’s where my Mrs. and I held our wedding reception, and we still stay the night on occasion, whenever we feel like we need a getaway that’s not far from home. It’s particularly stunning during the holidays. I have a lot of special memories here.”

“Of all the donut shops in the city, this is the one my family and I love best. Whenever we drive anywhere that’s reasonably close to it, we have to make a stop to pick up a few. If you’re a sucker for donuts, this is the place.”

"Normally, I wouldn't recommend a cemetery as a place to visit, but this particular resting place is not only strangely serene, but it also houses a very interesting headstone that reads: 'Lilly Gray, victim of the beast 666'. Sitting on a hill above the city, it's a local urban legend. Regardless of what you may or may not believe about the supernatural, or know about the real Lilly Gray and her very real life story, such a unique monument is definitely something you need to see for yourself."