When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary

Why Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Nestled within the scenic grounds of Tracy Aviary in Salt Lake City, the Chase Mill is Utah's oldest standing industrial building, dating back to the 1850s. Originally built as a gristmill to alleviate famine pressures in the surrounding community, this venue gracefully marries historic significance with natural splendor, making it an exceptional place to meet up with friends for various occasions. The creamy brick exterior and warm, rustic interior with varnished wood ceilings and floors create an inviting atmosphere that is both understated and charming. Spanning eight acres of lush grass lawns, dotted with mature trees, shrubs, and even striking peacocks, the grounds provide a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor gatherings. Guests can enjoy elegant receptions on the expansive lawn, take in ceremonies within the unique stone amphitheater, or explore remnants of the original mill and the aviary's rare bird exhibits. The venue’s versatility allows for intimate meetings or large celebrations, comfortably hosting from small groups to events of up to 400 people. Furthermore, the option to bring in your own caterer and flexible event spaces add to its appeal for personalized social gatherings. Overall, Chase Mill offers a blend of historical ambiance, natural beauty, and a relaxed yet refined environment, making it a memorable and delightful location for friends to connect and celebrate.
Here's what people think of Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary
As of recent, Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary holds a 5-star rating based on 6 reviews.
Reviews from guests highlight Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary's exceptional quality of service, professionalism, and value, reflected in its high 5.0-star rating. Positive feedback frequently notes the venue’s affordability, flexibility, and the ability to customize events, including choosing one's own caterer, which many found beneficial. Reviewers also praised the beautiful outdoor space with garden lighting and chandeliers enhancing the ambiance, as well as the venue’s warm rustic charm and the serene, picturesque surroundings that contribute to unforgettable memories. One user emphasized that the venue worked perfectly for their special day, indicating strong satisfaction with the overall experience. On the other hand, some critiques include initial difficulties in contacting the staff to reserve a date and unexpected additional costs such as fees for relocating plants from windowsills inside the mill. The average response time and professionalism received slightly lower but still positive ratings, suggesting minor room for improvement in communication and staff interactions. Despite these few drawbacks, the general consensus remains overwhelmingly positive, highlighting Chase Mill’s historic allure, natural setting, and accommodating facilities. Thus, the reviews collectively portray the venue as a superb and cherished destination for celebrations and gatherings at Tracy Aviary.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michelle Simmons
This is such a great venue. Cannot imagine a more special place to have a wedding. The grounds are so beautiful. And you get to see birds! Unbeatable. One of my favorite places in the city. And the staff were so great.
Aubree Della Photography
I've had the pleasure of being a photographer at this event space and it is so beautiful! The staff is incredible, inclusive and so helpful. I've thoroughly enjoyed taking photos here. It is so pretty any time of year, especially in the summer! So many flowers, gorgeous birds and has an option for an indoor space as well. Highly recommend from a Utah Wedding Photographer!!
TEA REX
Great place for an event!
Meagan Price
So amazing! This space is so unique
Michael Levin
How to reach Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary
None
Website: None

Why Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary with your friends? Meeting up at this historic and charming venue provides a unique combination of natural beauty, rich history, and versatile space that few other places can match. Nestled within an eight-acre park filled with lush greenery, rare birds, and scenic walking paths, Chase Mill offers a calm, inviting atmosphere perfect for reconnecting and making memories. The building itself, Utah’s oldest standing industrial structure dating back to 1852, carries a rustic, vintage charm blending history with natural splendor. This setting encourages both relaxation and exploration, offering the kind of backdrop that inspires great conversations and fantastic photos. Additionally, the space’s flexibility accommodates groups of various sizes, making it comfortable whether your meetup is an intimate gathering or a lively party. Friends can enjoy wandering through beautiful gardens, viewing captivating aviary exhibits, or simply lounging outdoors with the pleasant sounds of nature all around. Simply put, this venue effortlessly combines elegance with warmth and fun, making it the ideal rally point to celebrate friendships and create unforgettable experiences together.
What activities are available at The Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary? This venue caters to a wide variety of interests and plans, ensuring your group will be entertained throughout your gathering. Visitors can explore the Tracy Aviary’s bird exhibits featuring local and rare species, offering educational and engaging wildlife experiences right on the site. The eight acres of verdant lawns and gardens provide ample outdoor space for games, picnics, or group bonding activities under the canopy of mature trees and natural shrubs. There is a unique stone amphitheater on the grounds, which can be perfect for outdoor performances, speeches, or simply a scenic spot for your meetup. Inside the mill, the warm, varnished wood floors and ceilings create a cozy ambiance for dinners, toasts, or socializing away from the elements. Advanced amenities such as state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems support everything from private music to presentations. Additionally, the venue offers extra floors and outdoor decks like the swan pond deck, giving your group multiple gathering spots to spread out and enjoy their time together.
Why is The Chase Mill the perfect place for group meetups? One major advantage is the venue’s size and layout — its 1,475 square feet of indoor space combined with expansive outdoor surroundings makes it adaptable for groups from small intimate circles to much larger celebrations of up to 200 guests. Whether your group craves indoor comfort or prefers fresh air and open skies, the Chase Mill provides both options seamlessly. The historic and rustic setting adds a unique character that elevates any gathering beyond the ordinary, allowing guests to feel connected not only to each other but also to the place’s inspiring past. For groups interested in unique photo opportunities, the charming brick exterior, the stone amphitheater, and the beautifully maintained lawns provide ideal backgrounds. Its central Salt Lake City location ensures convenient access for guests traveling from various parts of Utah. Moreover, the venue’s policy encourages flexibility with customizable menus featuring locally-sourced ingredients, alcohol allowed after 5 pm, and rental options including tables, chairs, lighting, and AV equipment, so everything you need for a seamless event is available on-site. This thoughtful combination of historic charm, natural beauty, and flexible amenities makes Chase Mill a truly special place for memorable group meetups.
How does the venue’s historical significance enhance your experience? The Chase Mill, constructed originally as a gristmill in the 1850s, stands as a symbol of community resilience and pioneer spirit. It was built to help the local population survive times of scarcity, giving the site a profound story of endurance and support. Hosting your gathering here adds a layer of meaningful context, connecting modern celebrations with a tangible piece of Utah’s heritage. This rich history and the preservation of original architectural elements such as creamy brick walls and wooden ceilings foster an atmosphere that feels timeless and authentic. For groups, this historical backdrop can spark conversations and deepen bonds through shared appreciation of place and time. The venue’s exhibits allow attendees not only to celebrate each other but also to engage with this legacy and with the natural world around them. In that way, your meetup becomes more than an event—it becomes a moment linked to a larger story of community and continuity.
What makes the amenities and services at Chase Mill ideal for hosting your group? The venue prides itself on providing high-quality services that simplify planning while enhancing the overall experience. It comes equipped with modern sound and lighting systems, making it easy to create the perfect mood or handle speeches and presentations without technical hiccups. Tables, chairs, linens, and other essentials are included with the rental, reducing the need for extra equipment sourcing. The venue’s catering partnerships offer locally sourced menu options tailored to your group’s preferences, supporting personalized dining experiences from casual to elegant. A dance floor is available for groups that want to celebrate with music and dancing, adding to the fun and lively atmosphere. If you’re planning an event that extends outdoors, the lawn and amphitheater spaces complement the indoor facilities beautifully, allowing for movement and variety during your gathering. Parking is convenient and guests can enjoy exploring the aviary exhibits during breaks or after your event, providing additional entertainment and relaxation opportunities.
How accessible and convenient is The Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary for group meetups? Its location in Salt Lake City makes it highly accessible for guests traveling from across the region. Situated at 589 East 1300 South, it is easy to reach via main roads and is well known locally, making directions simple to share with attendees. Parking availability on-site helps ease arrivals and departures for your group, which can be a significant factor when coordinating meetups. The venue offers flexible rental pricing depending on the day of the week and the season, allowing you to find options that fit your budget. Membership holders of Tracy Aviary enjoy a 10% discount on hourly rental rates, encouraging repeat visits and ongoing support of the venue and aviary. All these practical considerations ensure your meetup will be smooth and stress-free while focusing on enjoyment and connection.
What makes the natural setting around Chase Mill a special feature for group gatherings? The venue’s expansive eight-acre grounds create a tranquil outdoor oasis right within city limits. Lush green lawns, mature trees, and natural shrubbery invite groups to step outside and enjoy fresh air, sunlight, and the calm of nature. The presence of peacocks wandering the grounds adds a whimsical and fascinating element, providing one-of-a-kind viewing experiences for guests. The bird exhibits of Tracy Aviary allow nature lovers in your group to engage with diverse species, from colorful local birds to rare ones that make the site unique. The scenic stone amphitheater and swan pond deck offer special focal points for photos, storytelling, or musical interludes during your gathering. These outdoor features not only extend space for your meetup but also contribute to a sense of well-being and relaxation, making your time together refreshing and memorable.
How can different types of events benefit from hosting their gatherings here? The Chase Mill caters to a broad spectrum of group events, from casual family reunions and intimate birthday parties to elegant wedding receptions and formal corporate meetings. Its rustic yet refined atmosphere suits both relaxed socializing and ceremonious occasions, offering the best of both worlds. Event planners appreciate the versatility of the space, which allows customization for themes and styles, whether you desire casual dress or formal attire. The facility’s indoor and outdoor combination facilitates smooth transitions between different parts of your event, like cocktail hour outside followed by dinner inside. This adaptability also supports various entertainment options—live music, speeches, games, or workshops—making the venue an excellent choice for creative and engaging meetups. No matter the occasion, hosting your group at Chase Mill ensures a distinctively charming and accommodating environment.
Why should you choose The Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary over other venues in Salt Lake City? Its unique blend of historic significance, natural beauty, and functional facilities positions it far apart from more conventional event spaces. Unlike generic event halls or hotel ballrooms, Chase Mill offers guests a connection to Utah’s cultural past and the vibrancy of a living aviary. This unparalleled setting enhances the atmosphere and creates lasting impressions on attendees. The venue’s excellent reputation, reflected consistently in its perfect 5.0 rating from reviewers, testifies to its quality and guest satisfaction. Additionally, the staff’s dedication to personalized service and their effort to accommodate diverse needs ensure your group’s gathering will be hassle-free and memorable. When you want a location that evokes charm, comfort, and community spirit, The Chase Mill at Tracy Aviary is the smart and inspiring choice for your next meetup with friends or family.