When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
The SunTrapp
Why The SunTrapp is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The SunTrapp, originally founded as The Sun Tavern in 1973 by community trailblazer Joe Redburn, stands as a longstanding sanctuary and vibrant gathering place in downtown Salt Lake City. More than just a bar, it has served as a safe, nurturing space where patrons seeking community and acceptance can thrive. The name itself—SunTrapp—symbolizes a warm and inviting environment that captures light and vitality, reflecting the venue’s role as a sanctuary for growth and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community. Its cozy atmosphere, inclusive ethos, and varied event programming including DJ sets, drag performances, and comedy shows invite visitors to engage socially without barriers such as dress codes or discrimination. The SunTrapp boasts a well-curated selection of beers and drinks, making it an ideal spot for friends and newcomers alike to enjoy social interaction, entertainment, and community spirit. Its location in the heart of downtown further bolsters its appeal as a convenient and accessible meeting point that continues the legacy of community focus set forth nearly five decades ago.
Here's what people think of The SunTrapp
As of recent, The SunTrapp holds a 3.9-star rating based on 522 reviews.
User reviews of The SunTrapp, aggregated from 522 ratings with an average score of 3.9 out of 5, convey a complex but generally positive impression. Many patrons praise The SunTrapp for its welcoming and inclusive environment that makes it a cherished space for the LGBTQ+ community in Salt Lake City. Positive feedback highlights the friendly staff, diverse events like drag shows and live DJ sets, and the varied, quality drink selection, which collectively foster a fun and safe atmosphere for socialization. Additionally, many reviewers appreciate the bar's history and its ongoing commitment to community values, maintaining an accessible and discrimination-free environment. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to occasional issues such as uneven crowd management, limited space during peak hours, and inconsistency in service speed or bartending staff professionalism. A few reviewers express concerns about noise levels or event scheduling not always aligning with personal preferences. Despite these criticisms, the overall conclusion from reviews suggests that The SunTrapp remains a beloved fixture within Salt Lake City’s nightlife and LGBTQ+ scene, offering a rare combination of historic significance, community focus, and engaging entertainment that outweighs the occasional inconveniences.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
melialvarez23
This place has definitely changed. The DJ for disco night was so awesome! Definitely not what this place had in the past. The bar now has digital pads to sign and pay for drinks. But it is set to tip high and definitely watch out. Because I almost tipped hundreds of dollars because I pushed an extra zero. Definitely not user friendly if you're drunk at this place.
Simple Squish
Too pricey. Love the space, love the vibe, but 3 drinks is not worth 30 dollars. Even with an event going on, thats actually ridiculous. I genuinely came here for a nice queer friendly space and quite honestly i feel almost robbed. You do not value patrons enough it seems to provide them a well rounded experience.
Sam Henderson
Disappointing experience. For a space that markets itself as inclusive and queer-friendly, the vibe was anything but. Judgmental staff, inconsistent energy, and an atmosphere that feels more policed than free. If you’re looking for a place that actually celebrates queer expression without the holier-than-thou attitude, keep walking. New ownership trains employees to value a queer but still Mormons experience. Don’t give them any of your money.
rob
Looks like a dive bar but very nice inside. Has a great patio out back. DJ and dance floor. Large bar in the front and back. Pool table and darts. Around 930 on Saturday started to get very busy.
Darylann Halter
Great Bartenders that make you feel like you’ve known them forever. You can come in a newbie and leave an old friend. In a world where there is so many mean people this place is the exact opposite. So if your ever having a bad day come make some new friends at the trapp.
How to reach The SunTrapp
None
Website: None
Why The SunTrapp may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Rallying at The SunTrapp with your friends offers a unique blend of vibrant social energy, a welcoming atmosphere, and plenty of space to enjoy quality time together. Why choose The SunTrapp as your meetup spot? First, it caters primarily to the LGBTQ+ community but is a well-known venue for inclusivity and celebration. Its lively environment encourages connection and fun, whether for a casual hangout or a special night out. The venue features a generous outdoor area that is perfect for groups wanting to relax and socialize under the open sky, especially during pleasant seasons. For those who value safety and comfort, many visitors have noted that The SunTrapp maintains a secure space, allowing friends to focus on each other without distractions or concerns. Although the bar has faced some criticisms in the past, recent new ownership has sparked hopes for revitalized and more engaging experiences, making it increasingly popular among locals. Overall, The SunTrapp’s mix of spaciousness, inclusive vibe, and dynamic scene makes it an inviting choice for gathering with friends or family for memorable social encounters.
What types of activities does The SunTrapp offer that make it perfect for group meetups? The SunTrapp boasts an array of entertainment options tailored to diverse tastes and moods. The expansive outdoor patio offers a relaxed setting where groups can enjoy drinks and conversation while soaking in the vibrant Salt Lake City atmosphere. Indoor spaces feature a lively dance floor with frequent DJ events and themed parties that fuel energy and collective fun, ideal for groups who like to dance and celebrate together. The venue often hosts special events, including drag shows, karaoke nights, and pride celebrations, which add an exciting, communal spirit and give groups unique reasons to come together. The event calendar under its current management promises even bigger and more engaging experiences year-round, beyond just Pride season, enhancing its appeal as a social hub. The SunTrapp also offers a good selection of cocktails and beverages that cater to varied preferences, ensuring everyone in your group can find something delightful to sip on while socializing. This diverse range of activities makes The SunTrapp not just a bar but a versatile space where friends can gather for different types of social engagement.
Why is The SunTrapp considered an ideal venue for a group meetup compared to other local nightlife options? One key factor is its genuinely inclusive and welcoming environment designed around community building. Unlike many places that cater to niche crowds, The SunTrapp is openly supportive of LGBTQ+ patrons while also fostering a friendly, respectful atmosphere for all guests. The layout features both cozy indoor spots and a large outdoor area, which provides ample room for groups to spread out, chat, and enjoy multiple experiences at once without feeling cramped or rushed. Safety is another priority at The SunTrapp—guests often mention feeling comfortable and secure, which is vital for relaxed social gatherings. The vibe strikes a balance between lively and laid-back, allowing groups to tailor their experience—whether it’s dancing energetically or enjoying quieter moments over drinks. While there have been reports of occasionally stringent door policies, the venue’s focus on maintaining a safe, quality environment helps ensure groups can have a trouble-free meetup. Additionally, its central Salt Lake City location makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike, facilitating convenient planning for any group outing.
How does the atmosphere at The SunTrapp support memorable experiences for friends and family? The SunTrapp’s environment is infused with a sense of joy, expression, and belonging that empowers guests to enjoy each other’s company fully. The combination of friendly staff, diverse patrons, and well-organized events creates a welcoming energy that helps groups feel immediately comfortable. The venue regularly transforms with themed nights and special celebrations, keeping the atmosphere fresh and exciting. This dynamic setting encourages spontaneity and creates opportunities for fun memories, whether through lively dance-offs, supportive applause at drag performances, or casual conversations in the outdoor lounge. The space is designed to accommodate both large gatherings and smaller, more intimate groups, allowing all kinds of social dynamics to flourish. Music plays a central role in setting the tone, with DJs curating energetic playlists that suit the crowd’s mood. This layered atmosphere—vibrant yet secure, festive yet inclusive—makes The SunTrapp a fantastic place for groups looking to connect deeply while enjoying a night out or weekend gathering.
What makes The SunTrapp’s location and facilities convenient for hosting group events? Situated in Salt Lake City’s lively downtown area, The SunTrapp benefits from easy accessibility via various transportation options, including ride shares, public transit, and parking facilities nearby, making it hassle-free for groups to convene. The interior is thoughtfully designed with ample seating and standing areas, allowing flexibility in how groups position themselves and interact. Its prominent outdoor patio extends the usable space significantly, accommodating larger parties comfortably while providing a refreshing change of scenery. The staff are experienced in managing events involving sizable groups, ensuring service runs smoothly and efficiently, which enhances the overall experience. Additionally, the regular scheduling of special events gives groups exciting options to coordinate their meetups with a calendar full of entertainment. This combination of a prime location, versatile indoor/outdoor spaces, and event-focused management equips The SunTrapp as a top contender for anyone seeking a dependable and enjoyable venue to gather friends and family.
In summary, The SunTrapp stands out as a strong choice for hosting meetups due to its vibrant yet safe environment, versatile entertainment offerings, and inclusive community spirit. Whether your group prioritizes dancing, watching drag performances, or simply lounging with drinks on a spacious patio, this venue accommodates it all. New ownership has infused fresh energy and programming into the establishment, promising a lively calendar and improved guest experiences. Its central downtown location and well-equipped facilities make organizing group outings straightforward and enjoyable. Ultimately, The SunTrapp delivers a festive and welcoming atmosphere that fosters connection, laughter, and unforgettable moments for friends and family to rally together.