9th & 9th
Discover the vibrant charm of 9th & 9th, one of Salt Lake City's most walkable and eclectic neighborhoods filled with historic bungalows, local boutiques, and public art like the iconic humpback whale. From catching an indie film at the historic Tower Theatre to enjoying farm-to-table dining at Pago, this creative hub effortlessly blends community spirit with unique local flavor.
SALT LAKE’S CREATIVE CROSSROADS
Roots & Stories
THE WHALE IN THE ROUNDABOUT
The famous “Out of the Blue” humpback whale sculpture was installed in 2014 and has since become the symbol of the neighborhood. Locals often dress it up with scarves, hats, or holiday décor
MURALS EVERYWHERE
From rainbow-colored walls to myth-inspired sculptures, 9th & 9th has one of the city’s highest concentrations of public art per block, making it feel like an outdoor gallery.
FESTIVAL ROOTS – THE 9TH & 9TH STREET FESTIVAL
began in the early 1990s as a small block party thrown by neighbors. Today it draws thousands, but it’s still run by local volunteers and keeps its community-first vibe.
TOWER THEATRE’S LEGACY
Built in 1928, the Tower Theatre is one of Salt Lake City’s oldest cinemas. It helped launch the Sundance Film Festival’s local roots and still screens independent and foreign films today.
Treasures You Might Miss
TOWER THEATRE An art-deco cinema from the 1920s showing indie, foreign, and classic films; a cornerstone of Salt Lake’s film culture and home to the Utah Film Center. OUT OF
THE BLUE WHALE The whimsical humpback whale sculpture in the roundabout; quirky, photogenic, and symbolic of the neighborhood’s creative spirit.
COFFEE GARDEN PATI A cozy corner for peoplewatching, tucked along the main drag; a favorite hangout spot for neighbors and artists alike.
CENTRAL BOOK EXCHANGE A used bookstore with an eclectic, ever-changing selection; perfect for book lovers seeking hidden finds.
LOCAL MURALS & PUBLIC ART From kinetic sculptures inspired by Greek mythology to colorful wall murals, the neighborhood is a mini open-air gallery.
