When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park
Why Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park is a premier nature center and bird sanctuary located in the heart of Salt Lake City. Home to over 400 birds spanning 135 species from around the globe, this aviary offers a unique oasis for visitors of all ages to explore and appreciate avian diversity. Open 363 days a year, it is a welcoming space perfect for meeting friends and family. The aviary's lush botanical gardens and thoughtfully curated habitats provide serene walking paths and interactive exhibits that make your visit both educational and enjoyable. Highlights include encountering a wide variety of birds such as North American eagles and owls, as well as exotic species like Chilean flamingos and South American red-legged seriemas. The aviary also offers engaging programs for all ages, including volunteer opportunities, birthday parties, and conservation education. Its location within Liberty Park enhances the experience, combining natural beauty, fresh air, and community vibrancy. The tranquility of the gardens coupled with the vibrant birdlife fosters conversation, discovery, and relaxation, making Tracy Aviary an outstanding social and learning destination.
Here's what people think of Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park
As of recent, Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park holds a 4.7-star rating based on 4457 reviews.
Visitors overwhelmingly praise Tracy Aviary for its extensive collection of birds and beautiful setting within Liberty Park. Positive reviews highlight the aviary's well-maintained grounds, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and the opportunity to see an impressive range of bird species, including many not commonly viewed in other zoos. Many appreciate the wheelchair accessibility, clean facilities, shaded areas, and the peaceful atmosphere that makes it ideal for photography and leisurely exploration. The free daytime admission adds to its appeal as a family-friendly and affordable outing. On the other hand, some negative feedback mentions occasional construction or maintenance activities that may affect certain areas, as well as challenges in photographing birds that prefer darker or more secluded habitats. A few visitors note that some birds, like owls and eagles, tend to remain hidden during hot days. Despite these minor points, the general consensus is that Tracy Aviary offers an enriching and rewarding experience. The positive aspects far outweigh the negatives, making it a top-rated destination for nature lovers and a pleasant place to socialize and learn about bird conservation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Cristi K
We spent well over an hour here. The staff was really nice and professional. The park is beautifully landscaped. The birds are gorgeous. There is a small shop to get a drink , it is two story for seating. There are a lot of kid friendly play areas also.
Jackson Carter
An absolute hidden gem. This is one of my favorite spots in the city. One of the only freestanding, public aviaries in the entire country. They have so many bird species, a fabulous daily show, and an incredible variety of plants all through the garden. I get an annual pass every year. It's a great place to take a quiet walk. Fun for the family or for date night. Not to mention Dole Whip at the Birdfeeder cafe. Please support awesome little attractions like this. We want to keep things like this going for years to come. Consider picking up an annual pass. It's a cheap way to ensure that the aviary can support the birds as well as the people to take care of them.
S W
I had so much fun there. :) It's a reasonable admission price. There's a wide variety of activities, even interactive ones with the birds (for an additional cost). A cafe has light refreshments, and a gift shop has souvenirs and snacks. :) I recommend bringing a bag with a bottle for water, a hat, and sunblock. There's also decent amount of benches along the paths. :) So many different kinds of birds! My favorites were the owls. 😊❤️🦉
Yevgeny Krymov
A great place to see many interesting birds that you wont easily see in the wild. It’s best to come earlier in the morning while the birds are roaming and singing. Here, you see the birds from different continents and appreciate the vastness of this world. There are two indoor pavilions and the rest are outside. The owls are in a forest patch. The eagles are hiding often, and the toucans are lively. No feeding. But it’s a good idea to bring snacks for yourself.
Indah Huegele
A splendid place to visit! Parking is easy, the collection of birds is great, the plants are well labeled, and the overall value for admission is fantastic. This is a crowd pleaser that folks of all ages will enjoy. You can pop in for a quick (c. 1 hour) visit or take your time and spend the whole afternoon here. I highly recommended checking if you can time your visit to catch some of the daily shows and/or seasonal events. I've been to zoos across the United States and Europe and, let me tell you, this is a gem. It may be a small zoo, but they make the most of it and fill it with a good variety of birds. They seem well cared for too, and we got to see a good variety of birds behaviors during our visit (we came in the afternoon). As a botanist, I enjoyed their choices of plants (they have cannonball trees in their tropical house!). The signage for the birds is top quality: clear, consise, informative, and full of interesting facts that people of all education levels can enjoy. Our group was composed of a low-attention span kiddo, a cranky hard-to-impress teenager, my elderly asian grandmother, and my parents... and we all had a really great time! This is one of the best places to visit in Salt Lake City; definitely check it out!
How to reach Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park
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Why Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park with your friends?
Gathering with friends at Tracy Aviary at Liberty Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, engaging wildlife experiences, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes any meetup enriching and memorable. Located within Salt Lake City’s expansive and scenic Liberty Park, the aviary is not just a bird exhibit but a serene escape where groups can slow down, appreciate nature, and connect in a peaceful setting. Its reputation for being well-maintained, clean, and wheelchair-friendly ensures everyone in your group can explore comfortably regardless of mobility levels. Moreover, the aviary houses a diverse collection of bird species from around the world, many of which are rare and not commonly seen in other local zoos or parks, providing a fascinating educational experience for all ages. The carefully curated exhibits, combined with shaded pathways and plentiful benches, offer ample opportunities to pause, chat, and enjoy each other’s company amidst vibrant wildlife and lush greenery. Tracy Aviary’s friendly staff, attractive gift shop, and abundance of free amenities like cold water and clean restrooms add to the ease and enjoyment of your visit. Whether your group prefers casual bird-watching, photography, or simply relaxing in nature, Tracy Aviary creates a compelling reason to rally friends and family together for a refreshing outdoor outing.
What activities can groups enjoy at Tracy Aviary?
Tracy Aviary provides a variety of activities that perfectly cater to groups looking to spend quality time together while immersing themselves in nature and wildlife. Walking through the aviary’s different habitats, visitors can observe and photograph more than 400 birds from over 135 species, including tropical birds, native Utah birds, and exotic species. These immersive exhibits are thoughtfully designed to recreate natural environments, offering up-close viewing of birds effortlessly interacting within their spaces. For those interested in education, the aviary offers interactive programs and daily bird shows that showcase feeding behaviors, training, and conservation stories, enhancing group knowledge and engagement. The aviary grounds include shaded picnic areas and benches, ideal for group rests or bringing your own snacks to enjoy together. Additionally, the aviary is nestled within Liberty Park, so groups can easily extend their meetup with access to nearby playgrounds, walking trails, and even the park’s classic carousel and pool, making the day enjoyable for all ages and interests. Photography enthusiasts will especially appreciate the abundant photo opportunities provided by the vibrant birds and natural scenery, making any meetup both fun and memorable. The combination of hands-on educational experiences, scenic strolls, and social relaxation positions Tracy Aviary as a versatile venue tailored for groups.
Why is Tracy Aviary the perfect spot for a group meetup?
Tracy Aviary stands out as an ideal group meetup destination due to its unique blend of accessible natural beauty, engaging wildlife exhibits, and accommodating visitor services. The spaciousness of the aviary and Liberty Park ensures that groups can spread out comfortably without feeling crowded, an important factor for social gatherings and safety. Ample parking near the entrance and clear, wheelchair-accessible paths throughout the aviary eliminate common logistical challenges associated with group outings, making it easy for everyone to join. The combination of shaded walkways, plentiful seating, and clean restroom facilities contributes to a comfortable visit regardless of weather conditions or group size. Its location within Liberty Park also means groups can enjoy a whole day of activities under one roof — from bird watching, educational shows, and interactive exhibits inside the aviary to picnicking, playground fun, and leisurely park strolls outside. For groups interested in conservation and learning, the aviary staff’s friendly and knowledgeable approach provides an enriching experience that is both fun and informative. Moreover, admission pricing is reasonable given the quality of the experience, making Tracy Aviary a great value for group meetups seeking both entertainment and education.
What makes the bird collection at Tracy Aviary special?
The bird collection at Tracy Aviary is renowned for its diversity, rarity, and the immersive environments that bring species to life. Unlike traditional zoos where animals may be viewed through standard cages, Tracy Aviary focuses on creating naturalistic habitats that give visitors a sense of witnessing birds in near-wild conditions. This approach allows groups to connect meaningfully with species such as rare tropical birds, native raptors, and endangered birds rarely displayed locally. Many visitors note spotting bird species they have never encountered before, making the aviary exciting and fresh on every visit. The aviary also places significant emphasis on the wellbeing and conservation of its birds, ensuring they are healthy and active — a factor that enhances the authenticity and vibrancy of the experience. For groups interested in bird conservation, the aviary provides educational signage and interpretive talks that deepen understanding of each species’ ecology, challenges, and role in global biodiversity. This thoughtful curation and care enrich the visit, offering a blend of entertainment and enlightenment rare in many urban wildlife attractions.
How accessible and visitor-friendly is Tracy Aviary for groups?
Tracy Aviary is exceptionally accessible and visitor-friendly, making it well-suited for group outings that include participants with a variety of needs and preferences. The entire aviary is wheelchair accessible, with smooth, wide paths enabling easy navigation for strollers, wheelchairs, and mobility aids. Ample seating areas and shaded spots throughout the aviary offer natural rest points, ideal for groups to pause and socialize comfortably. The availability of clean, large restrooms and water fountains with free cold water increases convenience and ensures visitors stay refreshed. Additionally, the friendly and helpful staff are readily available to assist with any questions or special accommodations, creating a welcoming environment that puts groups at ease. The aviary’s location inside Liberty Park includes abundant parking options, reducing stress for group drivers. Its proximity to other park attractions provides options to tailor the visit according to your group’s interests and energy levels, whether that means a quick walk past the playground or an extended picnic in the shade. Overall, Tracy Aviary’s thoughtful amenities and supportive services enhance group comfort, making it a stress-free and enjoyable destination.
How can groups enhance their visit to Tracy Aviary?
Groups can maximize their experience at Tracy Aviary by planning a well-rounded visit that combines the aviary’s core attractions with activities within Liberty Park. To start, consider arriving early to enjoy the cooler morning hours and beat any crowds, especially for larger groups. Take time to participate in educational bird shows or staff-led talks, which add engaging narratives and interactive content that bring bird behavior and conservation to life. Packing a picnic or snacks allows the group to take breaks at shaded benches or picnic areas inside or near the aviary, encouraging relaxed social time. Photography enthusiasts should bring cameras with good low-light capabilities to capture the tropical birds and shaded exhibits beautifully. After exploring the aviary, groups can extend their time by enjoying Liberty Park’s amenities — walking trails, playgrounds, and even the historic carousel provide excellent entertainment options for all ages. Finally, visiting the aviary gift shop offers souvenirs that commemorate your group’s visit, adding a sentimental touch to the day. By blending wildlife viewing, education, leisure, and socializing, groups can create a memorable outing that resonates long after the visit ends.