Eagle Gate
A historic eagle-topped archway built in 1859, marking the entrance to Brigham Young's property and a symbol of Salt Lake City's pioneer heritage.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer cars, softer light
Eagle Gate
Best Time
Fewer cars, softer light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic eagle-topped archway built in 1859, marking the entrance to Brigham Young's property and a symbol of Salt Lake City's pioneer heritage.
"An impressive landmark that's a fascinating piece of Salt Lake City's history."
📸 Best Photo Spot
Stand on the concrete division of South State Street for a centered shot of the eagle. Be patient with traffic!
🚗 Traffic Hazard Alert
This intersection is busy and can be dangerous for pedestrians. Be extra cautious when crossing.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Eagle Topping
Top of the Archway
The impressive eagle sculpture, with its wide wingspan, is the focal point, symbolizing the historical significance of the entrance.
The Archway Itself
North State Street
This historic archway, built in 1859, once served as a toll booth and entrance to Brigham Young's estate.
View Towards the Capitol
From beneath the Archway
Stand beneath the gate to frame a view of the State Capitol building, offering a picturesque perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Understanding Its Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spot
Stand on the concrete division of South State Street for a centered shot of the eagle. Be patient with traffic!
🚗 Traffic Hazard Alert
This intersection is busy and can be dangerous for pedestrians. Be extra cautious when crossing.
📍 Combine with Beehive House
It's right next to the Beehive House, so visit both for a historical double-header.
🚁 Drone Photography
Creators have used drones to capture unique angles, but be mindful of local regulations.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spot
Stand on the concrete division of South State Street for a centered shot of the eagle. Be patient with traffic!
🚗 Traffic Hazard Alert
This intersection is busy and can be dangerous for pedestrians. Be extra cautious when crossing.
📍 Combine with Beehive House
It's right next to the Beehive House, so visit both for a historical double-header.
🚁 Drone Photography
Creators have used drones to capture unique angles, but be mindful of local regulations.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Eagle Gate an impressive and historically significant landmark in Salt Lake City, particularly noting the striking eagle sculpture and its role as an entrance to Brigham Young's estate. While it's a quick stop, many appreciate its visual appeal and historical context, especially when combined with nearby attractions. Some reviewers mention the busy intersection and potential pedestrian hazards.
"Many things to view and a double right turn make this the most dangerous intersection I know of for pedestrians to enter. Rush hours are also particularly dangerous as this is also the main thoroughfare to exit downtown to head northbound on the freeway."
Buddha Buddh
"In case you'd never seen Eagle Gate before - like me - I think it will have the biggest 'Wow'-effect when walking on South State Street towards North State Street (heading towards the State Capitol).
What I did was actually go and stand on the concrete division in the middle of South State Street in order to get the best possible pictures where the Eagle itself is beautifully centered.
Depending on traffic you may have to show a bit of patience 😉
Definately something worth seeing!
I also read that the original Eagle (this one's a copy) is being kept at the Pioneer Museum."
Pascale S.
"Impressive Landmark - Eagle Gate Monuments
The Eagle Gate Monuments are a fascinating piece of Salt Lake City’s history and an iconic landmark with deep cultural significance. Located near downtown, the monument catches the eye with its towering eagle perched atop a large gate structure. It was originally built in the mid-1800s as an entrance to Brigham Young’s estate, and over the years, it has been updated to honor the pioneer spirit that helped shape the region. The eagle itself, with its wide wingspan, is a beautiful and intricate design that adds character to the structure.
While it’s not a destination in itself, the monument is worth a visit if you’re in the area or exploring other nearby historic sites. A plaque provides a bit of history, though it would be great if there were more information or a small exhibit to explain its origins in detail. The monument also sits at a busy intersection, which can detract from the experience a bit, especially with the noise of traffic.
Overall, Eagle Gate Monuments is an interesting, if brief, stop for those interested in local history. It’s a striking landmark that reflects Salt Lake City’s heritage, and while it may not require a lengthy visit, it’s a meaningful addition to a day spent exploring the city’s historical sites."
Muataz Al kurdi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Eagle Gate is located in downtown Salt Lake City at the intersection of State Street and South Temple. It's easily accessible by car, and public transportation options like buses stop nearby. If you're driving, be aware that it's a busy intersection.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the Eagle Gate, there are several parking garages and street parking options in the surrounding downtown area. You'll likely need to walk a short distance.
Yes, the Eagle Gate is a short walk from Temple Square, making it convenient to include in a walking tour of downtown Salt Lake City's historic sites.
For the best photos, many visitors recommend standing on the concrete division in the middle of South State Street to get the eagle centered. Be patient due to traffic.
Absolutely! Several bus routes service the area around the Eagle Gate, making it a convenient stop for those using Salt Lake City's public transit system.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Eagle Gate is an outdoor monument and is freely accessible to the public at all times. There are no tickets or admission fees required.
The Eagle Gate is a public monument, so you can view it at any time of day or night. However, for the best photographic opportunities and safety, daytime visits are recommended.
There is no entrance fee to see the Eagle Gate. It's a historical landmark that's part of the city's landscape.
Yes, as an outdoor monument, the Eagle Gate is always accessible. However, visiting during daylight hours is advisable for safety and better viewing.
While there's a plaque at the site, more detailed historical information can be found at the nearby Pioneer Museum or through local historical societies.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more picturesque glow. Avoid midday sun for more balanced shots.
Many visitors find standing on the central median of South State Street provides a great, centered view of the eagle. Experiment with angles from different sides of the street.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations. While some creators have captured aerial footage, always check current FAA and city ordinances before flying a drone in the area.
No, general photography is permitted. However, be mindful of traffic and pedestrian safety while you're taking pictures.
For daytime shots, use a moderate aperture (f/8-f/11) for good depth of field. Consider a polarizing filter to reduce glare on the monument and enhance the sky.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Built in 1859, the Eagle Gate originally served as the entrance to Brigham Young's property and was a toll booth. The current structure is a replica, honoring Salt Lake City's pioneer heritage.
The Eagle Gate was originally built in 1859, commissioned during the time of Brigham Young's leadership in the Utah territory.
The original Eagle Gate is reportedly preserved and housed at the Pioneer Museum in Salt Lake City.
The eagle, with its wide wingspan, is a prominent symbol of the historical significance of the entrance and the pioneer spirit that shaped the region.
No, the Eagle Gate is now a historical monument and a landmark. It is no longer a functional entrance or a toll booth.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that it's located at a busy intersection, so supervision is crucial to ensure children's safety when crossing streets. The historical context can be simplified for younger audiences, focusing on it being an old entrance to a leader's home. It's a good way to introduce them to local history without requiring a long visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different times of day to capture the best light – golden hour is particularly effective. Consider using a wide-angle lens to encompass the entire structure and its surroundings. Be prepared for traffic; some photographers have even used drones for aerial perspectives, though this requires adherence to regulations.
🏛️ History Buffs
Make sure to visit the nearby Pioneer Museum to see the original Eagle Gate and delve deeper into the stories of Utah's pioneers. Understanding its role as an entrance to a significant figure's property provides context for the city's development.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Salt Lake City's Past
This landmark is more than just an archway; it's a symbol of the pioneer spirit that shaped the region. The prominent eagle atop the gate, with its expansive wings, adds a majestic quality and reinforces its historical importance. While the original gate is now housed at the Pioneer Museum, the replica continues to draw attention and spark curiosity about the city's origins.
Visiting the Eagle Gate offers a brief but meaningful connection to Salt Lake City's foundational history. It's a testament to the vision and efforts of the early settlers and serves as a reminder of the city's unique heritage.
Navigating the Intersection: Safety and Photography
Many visitors find the best vantage point for photography is from the concrete median in the middle of South State Street. This allows for a centered shot of the eagle and the archway. However, it requires patience and awareness of the surrounding traffic. Early mornings and late afternoons are often recommended for softer lighting and potentially less congested conditions.
Pedestrian safety is a key consideration here. The intersection is known to be dangerous for those on foot due to the volume and speed of vehicles. Visitors are strongly advised to exercise extreme caution when crossing streets in the vicinity of the Eagle Gate.
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