Fort Douglas Military Museum
Explore Utah's military heritage at Fort Douglas, featuring historic structures, vehicles, and a poignant 9/11 artifact. Free admission!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Fort Douglas Military Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more personal attention
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Utah's military heritage at Fort Douglas, featuring historic structures, vehicles, and a poignant 9/11 artifact. Free admission!
"A great hidden gem with impressive artillery and friendly staff, offering a deep dive into Utah's military history."
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this gem. :heart:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring both indoor exhibits and outdoor grounds, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Artillery & Machinery
Museum Grounds
Explore impressive tanks, helicopters, and cannons that tell tales of American military might.
9/11 Slurry Wall
Museum Grounds
A poignant section of the World Trade Center slurry wall serves as a solemn reminder of recent history.
Historic Barracks
Fort Douglas Grounds
See original 1870s Red Butte sandstone barracks, offering a tangible connection to the fort's past.
Band of Brothers Connection
Museum Exhibits
Discover artifacts and stories related to the units that trained here, famously featured in 'Band of Brothers'.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Beyond the Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this gem. :heart:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring both indoor exhibits and outdoor grounds, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
👨👩👧👦 Bring the Whole Family
It's a fantastic spot for kids interested in military history. Free admission makes it budget-friendly!
📸 Capture the History
Plenty of photo opportunities with vehicles and historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission, Donate!
Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged to support this gem. :heart:
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be exploring both indoor exhibits and outdoor grounds, so comfy shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:
👨👩👧👦 Bring the Whole Family
It's a fantastic spot for kids interested in military history. Free admission makes it budget-friendly!
📸 Capture the History
Plenty of photo opportunities with vehicles and historic buildings. :camerawithflash:
🗺️ Explore the Fort Grounds
Don't miss the surrounding historic structures; they add so much context to the museum.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Fort Douglas Military Museum for its free admission and impressive collection of military vehicles and artifacts, calling it a 'hidden gem.' While some wish for more extensive displays, the friendly staff and the unique historical context, including the 'Band of Brothers' connection and the 9/11 slurry wall, make it a worthwhile stop. A notable point of feedback concerns the historical framing of the Bear River Massacre, with suggestions for more nuanced context.
"I wish there were more displays, but it was still great to visit. My son is super into military history, and he loved all the artillery and machinery on display. The staff was very friendly and we enjoyed our chat. If we go to UT again, I know we'll be making another stop."
Erica Cornelison
"Enjoyed my visit, staff were very kind, and displays were great - though a few could use some updates. Strange to see the Bear River Massacre (the largest mass killing of native people - men, women, and children - in US history) still characterized as “an impressive victory” or “a decisive victory at the Battle of Bear River.” As a historian, I think there should be a little more context around violence toward indigenous people in the west, and some needed updates on the Bear River Massacre. Other than these suggested updates, had a great visit!"
Brendan Lee
"I didn't know this gem of a museum existed until I walked past it. There are so many amazing artifacts covering Utah's and America's military history. The displays are well presented. I was surprised at some of the more unique items I haven't seen in other museums. There are also an impressive number of vehicles and artillery pieces on the museum grounds. The staff was very friendly and helpful. This is definitely worth a visit!"
Andrew Notarfrancesco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is located on the University of Utah campus in Salt Lake City. It's easily accessible by car, and there are often parking options nearby. Public transportation is also an option, with bus routes serving the university area.
Parking availability can vary, especially on weekdays due to university activity. It's advisable to check for visitor parking regulations on the University of Utah campus or consider public transport.
Absolutely! It's a perfect destination for a day trip, offering a rich historical experience that can be enjoyed in a few hours.
While many areas are accessible, it's always a good idea to contact the museum directly for specific accessibility information regarding exhibits and grounds.
The museum is situated within the historic Fort Douglas area, which is part of the University of Utah campus. Walking is a great way to explore the fort's grounds and see other historic structures.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Fort Douglas Military Museum is free! However, donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain the museum and its exhibits.
Opening hours can vary, so it's best to check the museum's official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can typically walk in during operating hours.
The museum sometimes hosts special events, like Founders Day celebrations. Keep an eye on their social media for announcements.
Generally, pets are not allowed inside museums or historic buildings, though service animals are typically permitted. It's best to confirm their pet policy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features an impressive collection of military vehicles, including tanks, helicopters, and artillery pieces, offering a fantastic visual history lesson.
While not always formally scheduled, friendly volunteers are often available to provide more information about the exhibits if you wish.
The museum displays a section of the slurry wall from the World Trade Center, a powerful and moving artifact commemorating the events of September 11, 2001.
The museum covers Utah's military history from its founding in 1862 through World War II, with a special section on the 9/11 attacks.
Yes, kids often love the large military vehicles and artillery on display. The free admission also makes it a great family outing.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed inside the museum, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on flash photography or certain exhibits.
The outdoor exhibits with tanks and artillery, the historic sandstone barracks, and the 9/11 slurry wall offer compelling photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted in areas with historical significance and near universities. Check local regulations and university policies before flying a drone.
For commercial photography or filming, you will likely need to obtain prior permission from the museum or the University of Utah.
Indoor lighting varies by exhibit. Outdoor areas are subject to natural daylight, making mornings and late afternoons ideal for softer light.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the large vehicles, the museum's exhibits provide engaging stories and artifacts that can spark curiosity. The historic fort grounds also offer space to explore and imagine life in the past. Consider bringing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds, as suggested by some visitors, making it a full and enjoyable family day out.
💰 Budget Travelers
While there's no entry fee, consider making a donation to support the museum's preservation efforts. The wealth of historical information and the impressive display of military hardware offer significant value for zero cost, allowing you to immerse yourself in history without spending a dime.
📚 History Buffs
Pay special attention to the exhibits detailing the fort's evolution and the stories of the soldiers who served there. The 'Band of Brothers' connection and the 9/11 slurry wall add significant layers to the historical narrative, appealing to a wide range of interests within the history community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Utah's Military Past
+1Visitors can expect to see a diverse array of exhibits, including personal items, weaponry, and historical documents that paint a vivid picture of the soldiers' lives and the fort's evolution. The museum also features a significant section dedicated to the Bear River Massacre, though some reviews suggest a need for more contextual updates regarding the historical narrative.
Beyond the indoor displays, the surrounding Fort Douglas grounds are dotted with over 100 original structures, many dating back to the 1860s. Exploring these buildings, like the Ordnance House, provides a tangible connection to the past and offers a deeper appreciation for the fort's architectural and historical significance.
+1 The presence of large military vehicles and artillery pieces outside the museum further enhances the immersive experience, making it a compelling visit for history enthusiasts of all ages. The 'Band of Brothers' Connection and Beyond
Beyond this specific connection, the museum's collection is broad, encompassing artifacts from various conflicts. The inclusion of a section of the 9/11 slurry wall from the World Trade Center adds a poignant layer, bringing recent history into the museum's narrative and serving as a solemn memorial.
Real visitors often express surprise at the depth of history contained within the museum, noting the presence of unique items not commonly found elsewhere. The friendly and knowledgeable staff and volunteers further enrich the experience, often willing to share additional insights and stories, making the visit both informative and engaging.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit