Trolley Square - a close up of the front of a red truck
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Trolley Square

4.3
·4k reviews·Salt Lake City, United States

Historic trolley barn transformed into a charming mall with unique boutiques, diverse dining, and car shows.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Car shows & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
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Trolley Square - a close up of the front of a red truck

Trolley Square

Best Time

Weekends

Car shows & lively atmosphere

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic trolley barn transformed into a charming mall with unique boutiques, diverse dining, and car shows.

4.3
(4k reviews)

"It's eclectic, it's eccentric, and it's easily one of my favorite spots in Salt Lake."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Park Smart

Parking can be limited, especially during events. Arrive early or be prepared to search for a spot.

📚 Bookworm's Paradise

Don't miss Weller Book Works for a unique browsing experience, even if you're not a regular reader.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture

Historic Architecture

Admire the stunning Spanish-Mission style buildings, a testament to Trolley Square's past as a trolley barn.

Instagram
Weller Book Works

Weller Book Works

Lose yourself in this charming two-story bookstore, a treasure trove of literary gems and historical tomes.

Reddit
Rodizio Grill

Rodizio Grill

Indulge in a Brazilian steakhouse experience with endless skewers of grilled meats paraded to your table.

Reddit
Automotive Addiction Museum

Automotive Addiction Museum

Discover a rotating collection of unique and classic cars at this car enthusiast's dream.

Instagram+1
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History & Architecture

Trolley Square's unique Spanish-Mission style architecture is a major draw. Originally a trolley barn, it's now a vibrant mall. Explore its historic charm before diving into shopping and dining. Instagram

Plan Your Shopping & Dining

While Trolley Square offers a curated selection of boutiques and restaurants, it's not an overwhelming mega-mall. Check store hours and consider making reservations for popular dining spots like Rodizio Grill. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Car shows & lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Quieter shopping experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The trolley tour also only does same day walk up tickets in person! #salemma #salemmassachusetts #salemwitchtrials #visitsalem #traveltips #traveltok #destinationsalem #salemtiktok
@periodicadventures
16.3K likes • 249.9K views

🚗 Park Smart

Parking can be limited, especially during events. Arrive early or be prepared to search for a spot. Reddit

📚 Bookworm's Paradise

Don't miss Weller Book Works for a unique browsing experience, even if you're not a regular reader. Reddit

Water Trolley en Ft Lauderdale y #GRATIS 🤑🛥 Recomendaciones: 👉🏻 Llega temprano 👉🏻 Recorre las Olas Blvd (esta muy cerca) 👉🏻 Lentes y agua indispensables para el calor de #florida #monicadeviaje
@monicadeviaje
10.6K likes • 277.7K views
Here is what you should know 👇 👉 First, make sure to follow @zee.travel for more unique and hidden gems in Utah + surrounding states 📍 Flanker SLC (@flankerslc ): They have a pop-up bar inside which they change the theme for every few months. At this time, they have the flamingo which is 80s cocktail inspired and absolutely gorgeous. Located at @atthegateway 📍 Sayunara SLC (@sayonaraslc ): Ins...
zee.travel
8.3K likes • 228.6K views

🍽️ Dining Delights

Explore diverse dining options from Brazilian steakhouse to classic Italian pasta. Reddit

🚗 Car Show Fun

Check the schedule for car shows hosted by Automotive Addiction Museum for a unique spectacle. Instagram+1

Good old Trolley Square FKA Utah’s Territorial Fairgrounds! The architecture here is just gorgeous in a super unique Spanish-Mission style. And you can find some of the best shopping in town! Great area to live nearby! #utahrealestate #utahhomes #utahrealtor #utah #realestate #saltlakecity #saltlakecity #realtor #utahhistory #saltlakehistory #historytok #utahliving #historytiktok #utahhomeforsale...
thebabsdelay
651 likes • 10K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Park Smart

Parking can be limited, especially during events. Arrive early or be prepared to search for a spot. Reddit

📚 Bookworm's Paradise

Don't miss Weller Book Works for a unique browsing experience, even if you're not a regular reader. Reddit

🍽️ Dining Delights

Explore diverse dining options from Brazilian steakhouse to classic Italian pasta. Reddit

🚗 Car Show Fun

Check the schedule for car shows hosted by Automotive Addiction Museum for a unique spectacle. Instagram+1

🛍️ Boutique Browsing

Discover unique gifts and fashion at local boutiques like Himalayan Artswear and Tabula Rasa. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(4k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Trolley Square is praised for its unique historic architecture and eclectic mix of specialty shops and restaurants, offering an experience beyond typical mall shopping. While some find the number of stores limited, the charm of places like Weller Book Works and dining at Rodizio Grill are consistent highlights. Parking can be a challenge, but the overall atmosphere is considered charming and worth a visit.

"Trolley Square is like Salt Lake’s quirky cousin, equal parts historic, eclectic, and charmingly unpredictable. You don’t come here just to shop, you come here for the experience.

My wife and I love eating at Rodizio Grill, where they parade skewers of meat past your table until you either wave the white napkin of surrender or quietly calculate if you can get your money’s worth in grilled pineapple alone. Then there’s The Old Spaghetti Factory, which is like stepping into a time capsule of vintage décor and hearty pasta. Where else can you eat spaghetti in a room that looks like it was furnished by your great-aunt Mildred’s estate sale?

Shopping is where Trolley Square really flexes its personality. Weller Book Works is a two-story bookstore full of literary treasures and historical tomes, it’s the kind of place where you walk in for a paperback and leave feeling like you should run for Congress. Then there’s Tabula Rasa Social Stationers, a shrine to fine pens, bespoke paper, and elegant gifts. You may not have written a letter since middle school, but suddenly you’ll convince yourself you need Italian stationery and a fountain pen that costs more than your phone.

And let’s not forget Himalayan Artswear, where you can pick up unique clothing, incense, or maybe even find your spirit animal woven into a scarf. One minute you’re just browsing, the next you’re wondering if you should book a trip to Nepal.

All in all, Trolley Square is one of those places where you go in hungry, come out full, and somehow end up holding a bag with a candle shaped like a narwhal and a $40 notebook. It’s eclectic, it’s eccentric, and it’s easily one of my favorite spots in Salt Lake."

David DiGirolamo

"I remember going to Trolley Square more than 40 years ago... in town visiting and wanted to pop in. It's still beautiful and peaceful. While there weren't as many stores as would be nice, and nowhere to get a quick drink or snack, it seems a few businesses are moving in soon. There were two eateries, but I believe they were both sit down and not a place to grab something on the run. There is a charming bookstore, Wellers, that is an absolute must on a shopping trip to Trolley."

Dawn Cranfield

"This is such an interesting, unique building, and they've done a really nice job of renovating it and filling it with cute stores, as well as a playpen for younger kids and a small trolley themed museum exhibit. We really enjoyed the informational panels with the lives of important people from Utah that are placed on the balustrade on the second floor. A great bookstore, some lovely shops to buy fancy gifts... This just needs a café to be perfect, and there was a sign saying one is coming soon!"

Anna Leader

What People Like

Historic architecture
Unique shops
Eclectic dining

What People Dislike

Limited store selection
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Trolley Square is located at 602 E 500 S, Salt Lake City, UT. It's accessible by car, and public transportation options are available. Consider ride-sharing services for convenience. Instagram

Yes, parking is available, but it can be limited, especially during peak times or special events like car shows. Arrive early to secure a spot. Reddit

There are multiple places named Trolley Square. The one described here, known for its historic architecture and shopping, is in Salt Lake City, Utah. Another Trolley Square is located in Wilmington, Delaware. Instagram

Driving is a common way to reach Trolley Square. Public buses also serve the area, and ride-sharing services offer a convenient alternative. Instagram

Yes, public transportation, including buses, serves the Trolley Square area. Check local transit schedules for routes and times. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Trolley Square itself is a shopping and dining destination and does not require an admission ticket. Individual attractions or events within Trolley Square may have their own ticketing requirements. Instagram

There are no general entrance fees for Trolley Square. You only pay for purchases made at the shops or restaurants, or for specific ticketed events. Instagram

Operating hours can vary by store and restaurant. It's best to check the specific hours for individual businesses you plan to visit. The mall generally opens mid-morning and closes in the evening. Reddit

Yes, there is a small trolley-themed museum exhibit and informational panels about Utah's history located within Trolley Square. Reddit

Trolley Square occasionally hosts free events, such as car shows organized by the Automotive Addiction Museum. It's advisable to check their schedule. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Trolley Square features a mix of local boutiques, national retailers, and specialty shops. You can find bookstores, gift shops, clothing stores, and more. Reddit

Popular dining options include Rodizio Grill for Brazilian steakhouse, The Old Spaghetti Factory for classic pasta, and various other eateries offering diverse cuisines. Reddit

Absolutely! Shops like Weller Book Works, Tabula Rasa Social Stationers, and Himalayan Artswear offer unique items, from books and stationery to artisan crafts and clothing. Reddit

While specific ice cream parlors might change, there are usually dessert options available. Keep an eye out for cafes or restaurants offering sweet treats. Reddit

Popular stores include Weller Book Works, Tabula Rasa Social Stationers, Himalayan Artswear, and various clothing and gift boutiques. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The unique Spanish-Mission architecture provides a beautiful backdrop. Capture the historic buildings, the interior courtyards, and any special exhibits or events. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed for personal use, but it's always polite to ask permission before taking extensive photos inside individual shops, especially if it might disrupt business. Instagram

The car shows hosted by Automotive Addiction Museum offer fantastic opportunities to photograph unique vehicles. The historic building itself is also a prime subject. Instagram+1

Trolley Square is great for architectural photography, lifestyle shots, and capturing the ambiance of unique shops and dining experiences. Instagram

Drone photography is generally not permitted in public spaces like malls due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local ordinances before flying a drone. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Trolley Square offers a pleasant outing for families, with a small trolley-themed museum exhibit and informational panels that can engage curious minds. There's also a playpen area for younger children, providing a space for them to burn off energy. Reddit

While the shopping and dining options cater to a broad audience, families can enjoy a meal together at places like The Old Spaghetti Factory. The unique architecture also provides a visually interesting environment for a stroll. Keep in mind that parking can be a bit challenging during busy periods. Reddit

📚 Book Lovers

For bibliophiles, Weller Book Works is an absolute must-visit. This expansive, two-story bookstore is a treasure trove of new, used, and rare books, offering a delightful browsing experience. You can easily spend hours here discovering literary gems and historical tomes. Reddit

Beyond Weller Book Works, the general atmosphere of Trolley Square, with its unique shops and historical context, appeals to those who appreciate character and individuality. It’s a place where you can find more than just bestsellers; it’s about the joy of discovery. Reddit

🚗 Car Enthusiasts

Trolley Square is a destination for car lovers thanks to the Automotive Addiction Museum. They frequently host car shows, showcasing an impressive array of vehicles from classic Ferraris and Porsches to modern supercars. Instagram+1

These events are free to attend and offer a fantastic opportunity to admire unique machines and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Check the museum's schedule for upcoming shows to plan your visit. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Trolley Square's Past

Trolley Square began its life as a historic trolley barn, a vital hub for Salt Lake City's public transportation system in the early 20th century. The distinctive Spanish-Mission style architecture is a direct reflection of this era, making the building itself a significant historical landmark. Today, this beautifully restored building serves as a vibrant shopping and dining destination, preserving its unique character while offering modern amenities. Instagram

Visitors can still feel the echoes of its past. The informational panels placed on the balustrade on the second floor detail the lives of important figures from Utah's history, connecting the present-day experience to the region's rich heritage. This blend of historical preservation and contemporary use is what gives Trolley Square its unique charm and appeal. Reddit

The Shopping Experience at Trolley Square

Trolley Square offers a more curated and intimate shopping experience compared to larger, more conventional malls. It's a place where you can discover unique boutiques and specialty stores that you might not find elsewhere. From the literary haven of Weller Book Works, a two-story bookstore brimming with treasures, to the elegant stationery and gifts at Tabula Rasa Social Stationers, there's a focus on quality and individuality. Reddit

Beyond books and stationery, you can explore shops like Himalayan Artswear for distinctive clothing and crafts, or browse for artisanal goods. The selection encourages browsing and discovery, often leading to unexpected finds. It’s less about ticking off a shopping list and more about enjoying the process of finding something special. InstagramReddit

Culinary Delights and Unique Dining

The dining scene at Trolley Square is as eclectic as its shops, offering a range of experiences from hearty classics to international flavors. Rodizio Grill is a standout, providing a lively Brazilian steakhouse experience where servers bring an endless parade of grilled meats directly to your table. It's a feast for the senses and a popular choice for those seeking a substantial meal. Reddit

For a taste of nostalgia and comfort food, The Old Spaghetti Factory offers a charming, time-capsule atmosphere with its vintage décor and generous pasta dishes. Beyond these well-loved establishments, Trolley Square also features other eateries, ensuring there are options to satisfy various palates. The recent addition of new businesses suggests an evolving culinary landscape. Reddit

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