801 Labs: Salt Lake City's Premier Hackerspace for Peer Learning and Innovation
Written and verified by the Rallyvite editorial team using publicly available data and the business’s official website. Last updated: 23 Dec 2025 19:05
TL;DR: 801Labs Hackathon is One of the Best Group Outing Venues near Salt Lake City
801 Labs is a vibrant community hackerspace located in Salt Lake City, Utah, founded in 2013 with the mission to be a hub for peer learning, knowledge sharing, and collaboration in technology and information security. This nonprofit organization offers a welcoming physical space where individuals passionate about IT, electronics, and cybersecurity converge to participate in workshops, presentations, lectures, and social activities. With no mandatory membership fee and a suggested monthly donation, 801 Labs makes learning and engagement accessible to all. Highlights of this space include a diverse range of interests such as information security tools (Metasploit, Wireshark, NMap), programming languages (Ruby, Python, Go), embedded systems (Arduino, ESP), and physical security practices like lock picking. The community-driven environment is supported and run entirely by volunteers and governed by a board of directors, fostering a grassroots ecosystem of technical skill development and collaboration. The space is well-equipped thanks to donations from members and companies, making it an excellent location to meet like-minded friends and expand one’s technical knowledge in a supportive setting.
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What people think of 801Labs, based on reviews
As of recent, 801Labs holds a 4.9-star rating based on 11 reviews.
Reviews for 801 Labs are overwhelmingly positive, reflected in an excellent 4.9-star rating across 11 reviews. Visitors commonly praise the inclusive and friendly atmosphere, highlighting how it is an ideal environment not only for learning but also for making meaningful connections with peers who share a passion for technology and hacking. Positive remarks often emphasize the quality and variety of events such as workshops and lectures, noting their accessibility to people from beginners to advanced users. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable and welcoming volunteers who run the organization, citing their dedication as a key factor for the space’s strong community vibe. On the other hand, some minor critiques point to the reliance on donations which can sometimes limit resources, and occasional constraints related to space capacity or equipment availability due to the volunteer structure. Nevertheless, these issues are seen as small obstacles relative to the benefits provided. In conclusion, reviews reflect a committed, thriving community space that successfully balances educational opportunities with social interaction, making 801 Labs a top choice for tech enthusiasts in the Salt Lake City area.
How to reach 801Labs
353 E 200 S Suite #201, Salt Lake City, UT 84111, USA
FAQ about 801Labs, your new favorite meetup place for groups in Salt Lake City, Utah
When looking for the ideal spot to host a meetup with friends, 801Labs in Salt Lake City stands out as an exceptional choice. It offers more than just a space; it provides a vibrant community hub where people passionate about technology, electronics, and information security converge. Getting together at 801Labs means immersing in an environment of creativity, learning, and collaboration. This hackerspace is designed to foster peer learning through hands-on workshops, intriguing presentations, and open project work sessions. With a stellar 4.9 rating based on 11 reviews, its quality and welcoming atmosphere are well recognized. Beyond the usual social meetups, 801Labs sparks curiosity and inspiration by encouraging members and visitors alike to dive into new skills or share their expertise. The venue is perfect for groups who enjoy interactive, mentally stimulating activities in a relaxed, community-oriented setting. Whether you’re tech enthusiasts, hobbyists, or simply curious friends, the supportive vibe and well-equipped facilities at 801Labs make gathering here both fun and rewarding.
801Labs offers a rich variety of activities perfect for a group meetup. This hackerspace organizes a diverse range of classes covering topics like electronics design, programming, 3D printing, 3D modeling, and information security. These sessions are often led by members of the local community who are experts willing to teach others, ensuring that the learning experience is both authentic and dynamic. Attending these workshops together allows groups to engage in shared projects and problem-solving tasks that can strengthen bonds and foster friendly collaboration. Beyond classes, 801Labs provides open workspace sessions where groups can work on their individual or collective tech projects in a supportive environment. This free and open-access ethos encourages peer learning and spontaneous idea exchange, making it an ideal setting for friends to experiment, innovate, and grow their skills. The mix of formal classes and casual project time means each meetup can be tailored to whatever the group's interests and goals are.
One of the reasons 801Labs excels as a meetup destination is its community-centered, non-profit nature. Unlike commercial venues, 801Labs exists as a shared space designed exclusively to serve educational and scientific interests, fostering a respectful and inclusive atmosphere free from commercial distractions. The lab’s infrastructure includes specialized equipment like laser cutters, 3D printers, and electronics tools, providing unique hands-on opportunities for groups to explore together. The space is organized to support collaborative learning and innovation, allowing attendees to engage in discussions, hands-on projects, and demonstrations. Moreover, the sense of community here is strong—members often volunteer and contribute, which translates into a warm welcome for newcomers and groups interested in exploring technology in a relaxed, peer-supported way. The location in downtown Salt Lake City also makes it accessible for groups coming from various parts of the city and beyond. For anyone who values intellectual stimulation, creativity, and peer engagement, 801Labs offers an unbeatable environment to enjoy time with friends.
Accessibility and inclusiveness are key features of 801Labs that enhance the group meetup experience. The space is conveniently located in Salt Lake City’s downtown area, easily reachable by car or public transport, with clear directions available for visitors. Upon arrival, guests are met with a friendly and open social environment, emphasizing respect and cooperation as outlined in the organization’s code of conduct. The hackerspace encourages participation from all skill levels—from beginners to experts—making it an inviting place for diverse groups. Its open-door policy fosters a culture where people feel comfortable asking questions, sharing ideas, or simply observing before diving in. Since many events and workshops are free and open to the public, groups can try different activities without significant upfront cost, lowering barriers to entry. This welcoming atmosphere combined with the variety of learning options makes it a great destination for anyone looking to bond over shared interests or discover new ones.
Meeting at 801Labs opens up future possibilities well beyond a single meetup event. By participating in classes and collaborative projects, groups can develop new skills that might inspire ongoing hobbies, side projects, or even career shifts. The community-driven nature means groups can propose their own topics for workshops or offer to lead sessions if someone in the group has expertise to share. This can transform occasional meetups into regular gatherings with a shared purpose and evolving goals. Additionally, the networking opportunities here are substantial—connecting with local technology enthusiasts, industry professionals, and educators can lead to valuable friendships, mentorships, or collaborations. For families as well, there are chances to foster STEM education and curiosity in younger members, nurturing the next generation of innovators. Overall, 801Labs is not just a place to hang out but a launching pad for growth, connection, and continuous learning that groups can return to again and again.