Midvale, Utah: 10 Fun Things To Do Nearby

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10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Midvale, Utah (Salt Lake County)

If you’re looking for an easy home base between Salt Lake City and the mountains, Midvale, Utah is a great pick. It’s right in the heart of Salt Lake County, close to ski resorts, hiking trails, shopping, and family-friendly fun. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, passing through on I‑15, or looking for ideas close to home, here are 10 of the best things to do near Midvale.

1. Hit the Slopes at Big Cottonwood Canyon Ski Resorts

Just a short drive southeast of Midvale, you’ll find some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. Brighton and Solitude Mountain Resort, both in Big Cottonwood Canyon, are usually about a 25–35 minute drive from Midvale (depending on traffic and weather).
  • Brighton Resort – Known for a laid-back vibe, night skiing, and great terrain parks.
  • Solitude Mountain Resort – Slightly quieter, with long runs and a cozy village feel.
In winter, grab your skis or board and spend a full day on the mountain. In summer, these same resorts offer:
  • Scenic lift rides
  • Hiking and mountain biking
  • Cool, alpine air when the valley gets hot
If you’ve ever wanted quick mountain access without paying mountain-town lodging prices, staying in or near Midvale is a smart move.

2. Ride TRAX to Downtown Salt Lake City

One of the best perks of Midvale is how easy it is to get around. You can hop on the UTA TRAX light rail and be in downtown Salt Lake City in roughly 20–25 minutes, depending on where you board. From downtown, you can explore:
  • Temple Square and its beautiful grounds
  • City Creek Center for shopping and dining
  • Utah State Capitol with a nice view over the city
  • Bars, coffee shops, and live music venues
If you don’t feel like dealing with parking or downtown traffic, this is an easy, stress‑free option. It’s also a big plus if you’re visiting without a car.

3. Shop, Eat, and Play at Fort Union

The Fort Union area in Midvale is one of the main commercial hubs in the south end of the Salt Lake Valley. It’s a long stretch packed with:
  • Big box stores and small local shops
  • Plenty of restaurants—from fast food to sit-down spots
  • Movie theaters and entertainment options
This is where many locals run errands, grab quick lunches, or plan casual date nights. If you’re staying in Midvale, odds are you’ll end up in Fort Union at least once. Tip: If you’re road-tripping along I‑15 and need to stop for a few hours, Fort Union is an easy detour with just about everything you might need.

4. Explore Outdoor Gear Heaven at REI and Other Shops

Midvale and nearby cities in Salt Lake County are a dream for anyone who loves the outdoors. If you’re heading to the mountains, you can gear up right in town. In and around Midvale you’ll find:
  • REI (technically in neighboring Sandy, just minutes away)
  • Other outdoor chains and local ski shops
  • Bike shops that offer rentals and repairs
This area is where locals swing by on Friday night to get ready for a Saturday in the canyons. If you forgot your gloves, need hiking boots, or want to rent a bike, you’re covered.

5. Spend Time at Local Parks and Playgrounds

Midvale has several neighborhood parks that are perfect for a low‑key afternoon—especially if you’re traveling with kids or pets. Look for:
  • Green spaces for picnics or tossing a football
  • Playgrounds and swings
  • Walking paths
  • Open fields for frisbee or casual soccer
If you’re used to sitting in a car or in meetings all day, a simple walk in a quiet park can be a welcome reset. Bring a blanket, grab takeout from a nearby spot, and enjoy a relaxed picnic with mountain views in the distance.

6. Hike the Cottonwood Canyons (All Skill Levels)

One of the biggest reasons people love Midvale is how quickly you can get from busy city streets to wild canyon trails. Within a short drive you can reach trailheads in Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood Canyon. A few popular options (check current conditions and parking rules):
  • Donut Falls (Big Cottonwood) – A family‑friendly hike to a unique waterfall formation.
  • Lake Blanche (Big Cottonwood) – Steeper, with gorgeous alpine lake scenery.
  • Cecret Lake (above Little Cottonwood) – Often accessed in summer, great for wildflowers.
Not into intense hiking? That’s fine. Even just driving up the canyon, rolling down your windows, and stopping at a picnic area can be a highlight of your trip.

7. Visit Nearby Gardner Village for Quaint Shopping and Seasonal Fun

Just a few minutes west of Midvale, in West Jordan, you’ll find Gardner Village—a historic mill area turned into a charming shopping and event center. Expect:
  • Cute boutique shops in restored buildings
  • Handmade gifts, candy, and home decor
  • Seasonal events like witch-themed displays in fall
  • Photo‑worthy rustic backdrops
It’s a fun place to wander, take pictures, and grab a treat. If you enjoy small-town vibes but don’t want to drive hours out of the city, this is an easy add‑on to your Midvale trip.

8. Catch a Game or Concert at Nearby Venues

Staying in Midvale puts you in a central spot for big events across Salt Lake County. Depending on what’s happening during your visit, you might head to:
  • America First Field (Sandy) – Home of Real Salt Lake (Major League Soccer).
  • Delta Center (downtown SLC) – Major concerts, Utah Jazz games, and touring shows.
  • Local theaters and performance spaces throughout the valley.
Because Midvale sits right along I‑15 and TRAX lines, it’s easy to get to a game or concert and back without too much hassle. If you don’t love staying in busy downtown areas, Midvale offers a calmer base.

9. Enjoy Local Food, From Comfort Classics to International Flavors

For a city its size, Midvale and the surrounding area have a surprisingly wide range of food options. You’ll find:
  • Classic American diners and burger joints
  • Mexican, Vietnamese, Indian, and other international spots
  • Cafes and dessert shops for a sweet fix
If you like trying local favorites, ask someone at your hotel or a cashier at a nearby store where they go for lunch. Locals usually have strong opinions about the “best” taco or burger in town, and that’s where you’ll want to go.

10. Day Trip to the Great Salt Lake or Antelope Island

If you have a full day to spare, you can use Midvale as a jumping-off point to see the Great Salt Lake, one of Utah’s most famous natural landmarks. One of the best places to experience it is Antelope Island State Park, usually about an hour’s drive from Midvale, depending on traffic. There, you can:
  • See free‑roaming bison and other wildlife
  • Walk along the shoreline and look out over the huge lake
  • Catch sunsets that feel like something from another planet
It’s a nice contrast to the mountains and city life and gives you a bigger picture of what makes northern Utah unique.

Is Midvale, Utah Worth a Visit?

Midvale itself is a small, everyday city, and that’s part of its charm. It’s not a flashy tourist town, but it’s:
  • Central in Salt Lake County
  • Close to mountains, canyons, and ski resorts
  • Well-connected by I‑15 and TRAX
  • Loaded with convenient shopping, food, and services
If you want an easy, affordable place to stay while you explore the Salt Lake Valley, the Cottonwood Canyons, and downtown Salt Lake City, Midvale is a smart choice.

Share Your Midvale Experience

Have you visited Midvale, Utah or the nearby canyons?
  • Which ski resort, hike, or restaurant did you like best?
  • Do you have any hidden gems in Salt Lake County that others should know about?
Drop your tips and stories in the comments—they help other travelers plan better trips. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are thinking about visiting Utah. Your share might be the nudge they need to discover this convenient little hub in the heart of the Wasatch Front.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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