When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Welfare Square
Why Welfare Square is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Welfare Square, located in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, is a unique and inspiring place owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). It serves as a cornerstone of the Church's Welfare Program, providing vital material assistance to those in need, particularly members of the LDS community. The complex includes a variety of facilities such as a grain silo, fruit orchards, a milk-processing plant, a cannery, a bakery, and the LDS Church's largest Bishop's storehouse, along with a Deseret Industries thrift store and a private employment office. These diverse services make Welfare Square a comprehensive source of aid and support. Beyond its functional role, Welfare Square is also a welcoming space for visitors, featuring beautifully maintained grounds with vibrant roses that create a friendly and uplifting atmosphere. The facility employs around fifty individuals regularly and benefits from the dedication of about two hundred volunteers who rotate through its many operations. The ethos of Welfare Square emphasizes personal responsibility, thrift, and work, encouraging recipients of aid to contribute through volunteering in return. It is a great place to meet friends and engage in tours that reveal the intricate workings of a large-scale welfare system, showcasing an enduring spirit of community and humanitarian support.
Here's what people think of Welfare Square
As of recent, Welfare Square holds a 4.7-star rating based on 296 reviews.
Reviews of Welfare Square consistently highlight the profound impact and effectiveness of the facility in serving those in need, alongside the welcoming and educational experience it offers visitors. Many users praise the informative and engaging tours available, which are often led by knowledgeable sister missionaries who share inspiring volunteer stories and outline the mission behind the welfare initiatives. Positive reviews emphasize the well-maintained environment, the comprehensive welfare services such as food production and distribution, and the compassionate approach taken by the staff and volunteers. Visitors appreciate learning about the Church’s extensive efforts to uplift individuals and families while seeing the practical operations first-hand. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews point toward occasional challenges such as scheduling tours or needing clearer guidance for those seeking immediate assistance, including homeless individuals. While these concerns are relatively few, they suggest some room for improved communication and accessibility. Overall, the consensus remains strongly positive, viewing Welfare Square as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the power of organized community aid underpinned by kindness and service.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Eric F
We went to the desert industries store. It was very well organized and prices were reasonable enough. Vladimir, our cashier was super nice. He charged us a lot less than the marked prices for slightly damaged items.
Heidi Renate Reinhardt
We took a tour with our kids and they loved it! We also invited some friends to join us. We got to see the bishops store house, the bakery, cannery, Deseret industries and the dairy where my kids could see how cheese is made and how milk is filled into the gallon jugs! Their favorite part was the chocolate milk sample at the end. It was a great to show kids how service big or small can help so many people. The sister missionaries did a great job and were so kind.
Ivan Wolthuis
Nice to see how the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints takes care of those in need. They really demonstrate the true spirit of Jesus Christ. ….And the chocolate milk was the BEST!!
Nicole Demke
Missionaries were so kind, fun to talk to and they taught us so much! Definitely worth checking out… especially the DI. We immediately found some really good stuff!
Ryan Thomsen
The tour and information about the variety of services they provide was touching. They are currently providing free tours each hour on the hour from 10am to 3pm. Keep in mind that the dairy plant part of the tour closes at noon on Fridays. That's where the samples are given out!
How to reach Welfare Square
None
Website: None
Why Welfare Square may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Welfare Square with your friends?
Choosing Welfare Square as a destination for a group meetup offers a unique blend of meaningful engagement, education, and community spirit that few other places can match. This remarkable facility, operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is not just a place but an experience that brings friends together around the powerful themes of service, compassion, and humanitarian aid. When you gather at Welfare Square, you are stepping into a vibrant hub where history, industry, and heartfelt volunteer efforts intersect. The tours, led by friendly sister missionaries, provide an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at how the welfare program functions to help those in need locally and globally. This shared experience fosters conversation, reflection, and a sense of camaraderie rooted in the betterment of society. Beyond the enriching narrative, the beautifully maintained grounds—with blooming roses and inviting spaces—create a relaxed, welcoming environment perfect for reconnecting with friends and family. Whether you want to learn about the production of foods like milk, cheese, bread, and even ketchup or enjoy sampling fresh products at the end of your visit, Welfare Square offers a compelling reason to rally together in support of community upliftment and shared human kindness.
What activities can groups enjoy at Welfare Square?
Welfare Square provides a rich variety of activities that make it an ideal spot for group visits, offering more than just a standard tour. The central experience is the free guided tour led by knowledgeable sister missionaries, who provide not only historical insights but also share inspiring stories about the program’s ongoing service efforts. Your group can explore the bustling dairy plant where milk and cheese are produced, witness the bakery crafting fresh breads daily, and see facilities canning vegetables and meats, highlighting the breadth of food production on site. The tour illuminates the integration of paid employees and volunteers working together to distribute these essentials worldwide. This hands-on learning experience is often supplemented by food samples, such as fresh chocolate milk, providing a delightful sensory component to the visit. Moreover, groups can visit the employment center, which offers vital support for job seekers, and the bishops’ storehouse—a place that supplies food and clothing to families in need. Welfare Square’s large grounds and well-kept gardens create a lovely setting for friends to gather after a tour, making it perfect for relaxed conversations and group bonding with a meaningful backdrop.
Why is Welfare Square perfect for group meetups?
Welfare Square’s unique blend of educational content, community service, and welcoming atmosphere makes it exceptionally suited for group gatherings. The facility’s design encourages interaction and shared discovery, with tours tailored to accommodate diverse age groups and interests, ensuring everyone in your party stays engaged. The presence of friendly missionaries as guides adds a personal touch, creating opportunities for participants to ask questions and connect with the values behind the welfare initiatives. Additionally, the fact that visits and tours are free removes financial barriers, making it easy for groups to organize gatherings without stress. The spacious grounds provide ample room for friends and family to socialize before or after tours, whether enjoying the rose gardens or grabbing a snack together. For those interested, the center also offers volunteer opportunities, allowing groups to extend their meetup into a service activity, enhancing group cohesion through shared purpose. This combination of accessibility, meaningful programming, and a community-oriented environment makes Welfare Square an ideal venue for meetups that go beyond mere socializing into deeper experiences of learning and giving.
What can visitors expect from the guided tours?
Visitors to Welfare Square can expect a comprehensive, engaging, and educational tour experience lasting about an hour, suitable for all ages and group sizes. The tours are led by sister missionaries who bring warmth, knowledge, and passion for the welfare program’s mission. Attendees learn about the extensive operations that take place at Welfare Square, including the production of milk, cheese, bread, canned goods, and even ketchup, all critical components in the church’s food distribution efforts. The guides share stories of dedicated volunteers who work alongside paid staff to ensure that aid reaches people in need, locally and worldwide. Visitors also gain insight into the employment center and other support services emphasizing the holistic nature of the welfare program. A notable highlight is the opportunity to sample fresh food products made onsite, like chocolate milk, adding a sensory and memorable element to the tour. Through video presentations, talks, and live observations, guests leave with a deep appreciation for the mission’s depth and breadth. The tours are designed not only to inform but also to inspire visitors about the impact of communal efforts and faith-driven service.
How does Welfare Square support community service and upliftment?
Welfare Square serves as the operational heart of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ extensive welfare program, which was initiated during the Great Depression to address poverty and self-reliance. Today, it continues as a beacon of community support and humanitarian aid, producing and distributing food, clothing, and employment assistance worldwide. The facility’s dairy plant, bakery, and canning operations showcase how local production feeds into a global relief network, all supported by a combination of paid workers and a vibrant base of volunteers, including full-time missionaries dedicated solely to service work. This system exemplifies practical compassion through efficient resource management and community participation. The program relies on donations and “fast offerings” from church members to maintain these services, reflecting a communal responsibility ethos. Welfare Square stands as a model of how organized humanitarian efforts can blend faith, industry, and service to meet urgent needs while fostering self-reliance and dignity. Visitors witnessing these operations firsthand often feel inspired by the scope and efficacy of the program and its commitment to uplift individuals facing hardship.
What makes the environment and setting inviting for group visits?
The setting of Welfare Square enhances its appeal as a venue for groups with its well-kept, spacious grounds and horticultural beauty giving it a peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. Located on approximately 13.5 acres, the complex includes lush rose gardens and open areas where visitors can comfortably gather, relax, and chat, making it ideal for family get-togethers or friend reunions. Such an environment contrasts favorably with many indoor-only attractions by providing room to socialize outdoors and soak in pleasant surroundings. The aesthetic care taken reflects an overall philosophy of respect and hospitality extending from the facilities to the visitors. The venue’s layout also supports smooth group flow during tours, with ample space for group discussions, photo opportunities, or casual picnics. This harmonious blend of natural beauty and purposeful design fosters a relaxed, uplifting ambiance conducive to quality time with others, complementing the enriching educational experience found inside.
How can groups engage beyond touring at Welfare Square?
Beyond the engaging tours, Welfare Square offers meaningful ways for groups to deepen their experience by getting involved with its ongoing service activities. Volunteers form an integral part of the operations, helping with food production, sorting, distribution, and other essential tasks. Groups interested in philanthropy or team-building around service can coordinate volunteer opportunities either locally or through the church’s global welfare network. This transforms a meetup into an impactful service event, reinforcing bonds through shared contribution. Additionally, the community-oriented ethos of Welfare Square encourages visitors to reflect on the value of mutual support and charitable work, often motivating participants to continue involvement beyond their initial visit. Those looking for a more immersive group experience can request specialized tours tailored to youth groups or other organizations by scheduling in advance. By combining education, service, and social interaction, Welfare Square supports a spectrum of group engagement styles, making it an ideal location to convene with friends or family for growth, learning, and giving back.
Why do visitors consistently rate Welfare Square so highly?
Welfare Square enjoys an outstanding average rating of 4.7 out of 5 from nearly 300 reviews, reflecting the high level of satisfaction among visitors. This consistently positive feedback stems from the facility’s unique offering of free, well-organized tours filled with valuable insights into the welfare program’s mission and operations. Guests frequently praise the knowledgeable and personable sister missionaries who lead tours, making the visit engaging and accessible for all ages. The hands-on aspects, such as food sampling, add a memorable touch that sets Welfare Square apart from typical tour attractions. Reviewers also emphasize the inspiring element of seeing compassionate service in action and gaining a deeper appreciation of community-driven humanitarian efforts. The welcoming environment, combined with the blend of education, service, and hospitality, creates an overall experience that visitors find rewarding and meaningful. This rating confirms that Welfare Square is not only an excellent place for friendly meetups but also a destination where people leave enlightened and uplifted.
What practical information should groups know before visiting Welfare Square?
Groups planning to visit Welfare Square should note several key details to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. The tours are free of charge and generally last about an hour, providing a well-paced introduction to the diverse welfare operations. While walk-ins are welcome, groups, especially youth or larger parties, are encouraged to schedule their visit in advance to ensure adequate arrangements and guide availability. The facility is located just west of Salt Lake City, covering a large area that includes production plants, an employment center, and charitable service buildings, making comfortable footwear advisable. Photography policies and specific visitor guidelines can be confirmed when booking. After the tour, visitors can experience the gardens and enjoy casual time together, so bringing snacks or planning for a picnic is a good option. For those interested in giving back, volunteer opportunities can be discussed either before or after the visit. Overall, this information helps groups make the most of their time at Welfare Square, turning any meetup into an informative and inspiring outing.
In summary, Welfare Square stands out as an exceptional location for bringing friends or family together. Its blend of heartfelt service, detailed educational tours, inviting atmosphere, and community engagement opportunities delivers a multifaceted experience worth rallying around. Whether for gaining new knowledge, participating in charitable activities, or simply enjoying each other’s company in a beautiful setting, Welfare Square provides a meaningful backdrop that will enrich any group gathering.