Things To Do
in Bluffdale

Bluffdale, Utah sits along the Wasatch Front just south of Draper and the Salt Lake Valley. This fast-growing suburb blends a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with convenient access to outdoor recreation in the foothills and canyons. The Jordan River corridor and Corner Canyon offer scenic trails, parks, and community events year-round.

While Bluffdale remains a tranquil residential hub, it’s a short drive to Salt Lake City’s museums, dining, and cultural attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Scenic Jordan River Parkway
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along the Jordan River Parkway, where you can enjoy the serene views of the river and the surrounding nature. As the sun rises, the path comes alive with the sounds of birds chirping and the gentle rustle of leaves. Stop by the nearby picnic area for a light breakfast to fuel your adventure ahead.

afternoon
:

Continue your journey along the Parkway with a leisurely bike ride, taking in the beautiful landscapes and spotting local wildlife. Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic rest stops, where you can relax and soak up the sun. Afterward, visit the nearby Riverton City Park for some recreational activities, such as frisbee or a game of soccer.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy spot along the riverbank to witness the beautiful colors of the sunset reflect on the water. Consider bringing a portable grill for a delightful barbecue dinner with family and friends. Wrap up the day with a peaceful evening walk, enjoying the calm atmosphere under the stars.

day 2
Discovering the Bluffdale Historical Museum
morning
:

Begin your morning by visiting the Bluffdale Historical Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the area. The museum offers fascinating exhibits that showcase artifacts from the early settlers and important events that shaped Bluffdale. Take your time to explore and absorb the stories behind each display.

afternoon
:

After the museum, head to the nearby Bluffdale City Park for a relaxing picnic lunch surrounded by lush greenery. Spend your afternoon enjoying the park's amenities, including playgrounds and walking trails, which provide a perfect setting for family fun. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a paddleboat on the park's small lake.

evening
:

In the evening, take a stroll through the historic downtown area, where you can admire the charming architecture and local shops. Stop by a cozy café for dessert and enjoy some classic American fare while chatting with locals about their favorite spots in town. As night falls, consider attending a community event, if available, to mingle with residents and experience the local culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee$3-5
🛒Groceries (weekly)$60-120
🚗Gas per gallon$3-5
🏨Hotel/Accommodation (per night)$90-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Safe, family-friendly communities with easy access to outdoor recreation
  • Proximity to Salt Lake City amenities while retaining suburban calm
  • Limited nightlife and public transit within Bluffdale itself
  • Heavy traffic on major corridors during peak hours

Places to Visit in Bluffdale

Visit one of these nice places.

Corner Canyon Overlook (Draper)

Panoramic views of canyons, ridges, and the valley below, especially striking at sunrise or late afternoon.

Jordan River Parkway Bridge at Sunset

Golden-hour reflection shots over the river and parkway edges with mountain silhouettes in the background.

Point of the Mountain Overlook

Wide-angle vistas of the Salt Lake Valley and the mountains beyond; excellent for sunset and cityscape photography.

Draper City Center and foothill trails

A mix of small-town charm and rugged foothill scenery suitable for candid street photos and nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bluffdale

Bluffdale and the broader Salt Lake Valley offer hearty American dining with Utah staples. Expect family-friendly diners, casual eateries, reliable coffee spots, and a growing cluster of casual and fast-casual options in nearby towns.

Bluffdale Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Funeral Potatoes

A cheesy potato casserole commonly served at gatherings across Utah; often found on menus at local diners in nearby Draper, Riverton, and Salt Lake Valley communities.

Must-Try!

Fry Sauce

A tangy, creamy dipping sauce ubiquitous on burgers and fries at most Utah eateries.

Utah Scones

Sweet fried dough served with honey butter or syrup, a local favorite at bakeries and cafes.

Green Chile Cheeseburger

A Utah staple featuring melted cheese with green chile; commonly available at casual dining spots and diners in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sandy Farmers Market

Seasonal market in nearby Sandy offering farm-fresh produce, baked goods, local snacks, and crafts.

Jordan River Market (seasonal)

A small cluster of local vendors along the Jordan River Parkway during peak seasons; sample tacos, grilled corn, and sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Bluffdale experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons: hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Spring and fall bring milder temperatures and scenic changes in foliage. The area sees predominantly sunny days with relatively low humidity most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Religious and community norms

Utah has a strong community culture; be respectful in quiet residential areas and observe local practices in religious or community spaces.

Tipping and courtesy

Tipping is customary for service staff; polite greetings and passive-friendly interactions go a long way in everyday exchanges.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally safe and residential, with typical suburban safety concerns. Be mindful of winter driving conditions, wildlife in foothill areas, and standard precautions against petty theft in urban centers. Always carry water and gear if you head into remote canyon trails after dark.

Tipping in Bluffdale

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants, 15-20% of the pre-tax bill is standard. Rideshares and service staff typically expect similar tips; cash tipping is appreciated where possible.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in many establishments; cash is also widely accepted.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with colorful blooms; occasional rain showers. Great for trail hikes and park photography.

Summer

Hot and dry; bring sun protection and plenty of water. Ideal for early-morning hikes and afternoon lake-adjacent outings.

Fall

Cooler temperatures with vibrant autumn foliage in the foothills; comfortable for long hikes and scenic drives.

Winter

Cold with potential snow; layers and traction are essential. Quiet landscapes offer serene photography and snow sports nearby.

Nightlife Guide

Bluffdale at Night

Bluffdale itself offers limited nightlife, with most options concentrated in nearby Draper, Sandy, and Salt Lake City. Expect casual lounges, brewpubs, and family-friendly venues within a short drive, plus a broader selection of bars, clubs, and live music in the city center.

Hiking in Bluffdale

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Corner Canyon Trail Network (Draper)

Diverse trails through canyon terrain with scenic overlooks and challenging climbs.

Jordan River Parkway

Riverside trails that run through multiple cities; easy to moderate hikes and bike paths.

Point of the Mountain Overlook

Short hike or drive to vantage points offering sweeping valley views and sunset photography.

Airports

How to reach Bluffdale by plane.

Salt Lake City International (SLC)

Main regional airport offering domestic and international flights; about a 25-30 mile drive north via I-15.

Provo Municipal (PVU)

Smaller regional airport serving southern Utah and northern Utah destinations; about 40-50 miles away.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bluffdale is largely car-dependent, with most amenities spread across neighborhoods. Some portions offer pleasant neighborhoods and access to the Jordan River Parkway, but for a dense dining, shopping, or nightlife scene, a short drive to nearby Draper, Sandy, or Salt Lake City is typical.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A growing population of families relocating to Bluffdale for a suburban lifestyle and good schools.

Young Professionals

Many residents commute to Salt Lake City or nearby tech hubs for work.

Retirees

A smaller but steady presence seeking quieter neighborhoods and longer-term stability.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Nearby mountains (Big and Little Cottonwood, Park City) offer premier winter sports just over an hour away.

Basketball and Soccer

Popular community and school sports; local clubs and leagues are common in the Salt Lake Valley.

Transportation

Traffic

Salt Lake Valley traffic can be congested during commute hours on I-15 and I-215. Public transit exists via UTA, but Bluffdale relies largely on car travel. Road trips to nearby parks and canyons are straightforward with clear highway access.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bluffdale.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common at chain restaurants and many local diners. Look for veggie burritos, salads, pastas, and sides; when in doubt, ask for meat-free preparations or sauces.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible via nearby clinics and hospitals in Draper, Riverton, and Salt Lake City. Major facilities include regional hospitals in Murray and neighboring cities, with urgent care centers in the area for after-hours needs.

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