Deseret News | Salt Lake dull? Perfect? Readers weigh in

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Salt Lake dull? Perfect? Readers weigh in

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Dan Evensen | 12:41 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Having lived in Germany and Austria for 2 years (mission) and mainland China for four months (study abroad), I can tell you that Salt Lake City is as boring as they say. Most of the valley is inaccessible without a car (TRAX is awful), and Salt Lake is nearly inaccessible WITH a car. To boot, you can walk down the sidewalks downtown at any time of day without even the chance of running into anybody other than beggars and anti-Mormon protesters.

Aside from Mormonism, the culture here is typical of the American Southwest. Friends from out of state (or out of country) who visit tend to be bored after seeing Temple Square and the other church sites. Shopping in downtown SLC's only current mall, the Gateway, is incredibly expensive.

But at least we have the scenery! I haven't been anywhere with such a dramatic view from the mountains, and that includes the epic, rolling hills of Germany and Austria.

And, let's face it, at least you're not talking about Provo. Provo is where all culture goes to die.

OH, COME ON!! | 12:46 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

I've lived in many different states including Utah. What's funny is every state suffers from the "grass is greener on the other side" syndrome. No one is going to find diversity and culture sitting at home complaining. I've had a wonderful time on the beach, hiking in Arches Nat. Park, and sitting in a coffee shop in Nebraska.

Surround yourself with good people. A few great friends, a couple good friends, and a lot of random friends. Support the arts by going to the events your city has to offer. Stop complaining and DO SOMETHING.

Utah is beautiful and I do miss many things about it. Right now, however, the word I would use to describe Utah would be "bicker".

Ghost of Joseph | 1:04 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

I think the word should be "persecute" as it is what people on this comment board are doing to those who aren't pro-Utah. Remember, the saints were driven from everywhere they went because of the "assimilate or get out" attitude in their new home.

Those of you who are LDS ought to be ashamed of yourselves if you take that attitude. You soon forget how loud and hard you cry "foul" when discussing the saints being driven out of their homes because they didn't agree with the "norm".

Comments continue below

Spencer | 1:49 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

The word I would use to describe it is...TRITE.

It's not fashionable | 1:51 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

to say you're happy to be from here, or that you like it here. Most people grumble or make jokes about being from Utah because it's expected. That's just nuts. I've lived in San Diego, beautiful city, but I came back here. Why? Because I like living in Utah. I like Salt Lake. World-class symphony and other attractions. I miss having a football and baseball team...though the Bees can be fun..., but hey, nowhere has it all. I'm not Mormon. I love my hometown and I wish everyone would be brave enough to say similar things. One thing I've found over the years, if you're waiting for a situation to be just right (housing market)it just never happens. Get out and enjoy your city. If you can't, go to plan B. Life's too short to be angry at your lot in life. My one word for Salt Lake, HOME.

Robo | 2:07 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

The "if you don't like it leave" can be intended and taken two ways: 1) I don't want to hear your differences of opinion and your criticism so please leave, or 2) if you are really that miserable there are other altervatives, why not consider some? Really, to intentionally stay somewhere when you are that miserable and it is obvious to you that it is the Mormon culture causing your misery, it seems odd that you don't search for a better option. To get away from strong Mormon influence, you only need stay away from Utah, Idaho and some parts of adjacent states. I hated Laramie, Wyoming. To me, it was cold, rude, uncouth, and bigoted. It took me over 6 years to get out, but I got out! I also agree with an earlier comment asking why every place has to be the same. Why can't different places have their own unique culture? As long as there is freedom to locate anywhere within the U.S. that you want, I think the widely unique cultures is a definite plus.

althepal | 2:11 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Old phrases are sometimes the best phrases. I like "Des Moines without the glitz."

Can't remember where I first heard that.

Satisfied | 2:27 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

What is missing from the culture? How can we improve it. Or do we just have the wrong culture? Love it here and I am completely Satisfied.

Anonymous | 2:34 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

My word for SLC specifically and Utah in general is SAFE. I mean that in a good way. Sure there isn't every kind of culturally based resturant and a huge art community, but I feel like SLC isn't high on a terroist list of places to explode.
Plus if something did go bad I feel like I could get out of town and away because there isn't miles and miles of people between me and the mountains.
I Used to live in Detroit and man, if there was a mushroom cloud on the horizon, there would be no way to get out of the city. You were stuck. So from a survival point of view, Utah is an A+.

Anonymous | 2:37 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Peculiar

A nod to Salt Lakes uniqueness and strangeness at the same time. A term excepted by Mormons. However itï¿½s more adjective them symbol.

If Rome = sex then Salt Lake = safe sex. Not really!

It seems that salt lake had a similar problem a few years ago when New Orleans was asking for its Jazz moniker back. If not the Jazz, then what?

Salt Lake has never set its self apart from any other place. There is nothing original about Salt Lake. No special food, music variation, art or industry.

I think that largely this is because the people of Salt Lake have never joined on any one interest. Large segments are divided by differences in lifestyle and so Salt Lake is not the same thing to any large group of people.

It is up to the people of Salt Lake to find a creative interest that sets its self apart. Something broad enough to satisfy most groups interests. Something worth while enough to set aside differences as well as catch other cities attention.

If Salt Lake can do this, maybe weï¿½ll have less divisive comment pages.

UTAHN"S ARE CONFORMISTS | 2:38 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

That mormons are a peculiar people is a hoax. I have been in Utah a short while and the members of the church here act a lot different than where I used to live. I have noticed many of the memnbers conform to what's cool and popular even though it is against the church's best interest. BOOB JOBS, CRAZY DEBT, DEPRESSION, Just look at the youth in utah today. No better than anyone else when 20 years ago, I heard Utah was a lot different. Stop conforming and be proud of your state, religon and be yourself.

WHINE | 2:38 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

describes the lack thereof (wine + h) and the incessant whining on the DN blogs.

Ah, my word is simply | 2:40 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

HOME. Even though I've re-located,(16 yrs ago) Salt Lake City will always be my home. I'm missing it enormously right now.At least I'm missin g the salt Lake City I grew up in. Although I will always love the mountains, the cooling evening breezes that smell of sagebrush, the dear friends who still reside there, I'm saddened by the changes that have taken place since I left. When I come back to visit, it does seem more materialistic, competetive and crowded. The traffic has become nightmarish, many attitudes have become self-centered (both non-LDS and LDS alike), and the housing prices reflect greed. The little house we sold in 1992 for $85,000 would now catch $350,000+. That's insane!! I'd love to come back to live there but unfortunately, we've been edged out. Hopefully, the "market" (whoever, whatever is driving it) will come to it's senses.

At least I have wonderful memories of growing up in a place that felt like Mayberry to me.

Stenar | 2:47 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

SIN is the word. Mormons are obsessed with stopping anyone from committing sin and everyone else wants to commit a little sin now and then.

Bret | 3:11 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

It's the people of Utah that's ruining the "awesomeness" of this state. Traffic wall? If they didn't like living near the freeway, why consider buying the property near the freeway? The mountains, clean air, outdoor recreations is what makes Utah wonderful. If only we can remove crazy, destitute people out, then it would be THE PLACE to live!

SLC Resident | 3:21 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

"Spectactular" as in Spectacular Setting, wedged between the Wasatch and the Great Salt Lake. "Majestic" as in the Majestic mountains to the East and West, the Majestic spires of the SLC LDS Temple at night. "Diverse" as in SLC is much more diverse than people think. "Progressive" as in SLC politics are much more progressive (small l liberal) compared with the rest of the state. "Cultural" as in a great Arts scene, with full-time Symphony, Ballet, Opera, and Dance Companies. "Divided" as it, unfortunately, tends to be divided along religious lines, something you don't see too often in other US Cities.

Contradictory | 3:48 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

is the one word I'd use describe Utah. Nowhere do people contradict themselves anywhere near the extent Utahns do. Utah is the capital of "do as I say, not as I do". People are so quick to point out the faults and shortcomings of their friends, neighbors and family, but are slow to recognize and accept their own faults. Each and every Sunday, chances are you'll be told by someone what you're doing wrong and what you need to change in your lives, yet that person is usually the one doing exactly what they are telling you not to do.

I'm LDS, and I grew up in Utah. I thought I would never leave the state, actually thought I'd never want to leave the state. But, I have left and each time I return to visit I'm reminded of why I'm happy I left and why I will never return to the state.

I will say the scenery is breathtaking, I do like there are four distinct seasons, but the people leave a lot to be desired. Take the sensitive, holier than thous out of the picture and it would be a "pretty great state".

OC Surfer | 4:00 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Safe? According to recent FBI stats, South Orange County, California is the safest area in the nation (way over SLC or even Provo).

The one word I would describe SLC is "Naive" or "Clueless" or "Immature".

I only go to up to SLC to catch General Conference or see old friends. But after a long weekend, it's time to head back to where the Church is truer, the OC.

Re: Ghost of Joseph | 4:13 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Okay, there is a HUGE difference in forcing people to leave an area because you don't like them and advising them to leave because they won't stop complaining about where they live. I don't really care who lives in Utah but when you complain about an area because of a lack of leisure, recreation, or entertainment, I don't care if they still stay here but it might be a good idea to move, because you're only making yourself miserable. To me there is nothing to do in a small farm town, but many people love outdoors. I stay where I enjoy the area. I think everybody should. It makes life better.

Native SLC | 4:18 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

15 min from amazing wilderness, 15 min to beautiful downtown. Strong Univ, strong economy, small lines. Totally 'BALANCED.'

and may I add beautiful women. (and for those who dont thinks so.. your just to Ugly to be able to talk to them) haha

Fraud | 4:54 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Fraud

UTAH = MLM HEAVEN | 5:01 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Noni. Need I say more?

When multilevel marketing companies like Morinda form the backbone of a state's economy, you know you've got problems.

russ | 5:51 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

"Culture" is man's learned behavior according to a famous cultural geographer. Obviously, every place has "culture." Every single place.

But for me, who has come in and out of SLC many times over many decades the word that best describes SLC is "pollution."

What have you people done with the Valley? Good grief! In conservation the phrase is, "We have messed in our nest." You certainly have.

Why? I don't know, but probably the answer is hiding in that word, "culture." Man's learned behavior. Collectively, as a group, you have let pollution run amok in the valley. For what purpose?

I don't understand why the valley is so polluted. Don't you care?

INTOLLERANT | 6:02 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

INTOLLERANT
The legislature began meeting today, read the opening speaches, enough said.

Danger | 7:03 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

DANGEROUS is my one word description for SLC and surrounds. Dangerous for pedestrians, bicyclists, car passengers, wives, children, husbands, anything that breathes the air here, citizens whom are represented by the legislative body, and people with a hint of common sense.

to OC surfer | 7:39 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Yeah, I've been to the OC with it's 2 hours of traffic just to drive 5 miles and tiniest little houses that cost a million buck. Greaaaat place.

Anonymous | 7:58 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

My word for Utah is Grandeur, mainly to describe the outdoors. My wife likes peculiar, because it works for our unique culture and landscape.

A place is more what you make of it.

I've lived in Detroit, Sydney Australia, Sao Paulo Brazil, St. Louis and rural Missouri. For the most part people are the same whereever you go. As for my favorite city, Sydney Australia. My favorite area, Utah. It's unbelievably beautiful here.

RE: Anonymous | 8:38 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

I can't believe you'd ever mentioned Missouri?? Worst place to live! St. Louis is 2nd highest in crime! How can you ever compare MO with Utah? It's incomparable! Utah is one million times better than MO in EVERY way.

Stuck | 9:16 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

I happen to be stuck in utah for the time being, and there is nothing I can do about it. I can't wait to leave it and you all in the dust. I love the climate and landscape, but cannot stand the culture. Hopefully you all will be rid of me sooner than later.

utah boy | 9:33 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

I like living in utah and that's all i need to know.

LoveUtah | 10:03 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

I have lived in Utah most of my life. However, I have traveled to 14 different countries and experienced many different cultures from India to Japan. I also lived in Northern Virginia near Washington, D.C. for some time and absolutely hated it. Utah suits me very well. I have a young family and like to spend quiet time with my family, and enjoy a night at the movies and dinner. I just don't understand those people that get off on talking about how much more cultured they are than others because they moved elsewhere. Yes, I cherish my experiences outside of Utah (42 out of 50 states) and as I stated 14 different countries. However, I love to come back to good old Utah. True, there is far more culture elsewhere, but that is true of any smaller city that is landlocked in the middle of the U.S. Take some demographics for what they are and stop acting like the way you do.

elisabeth luntz | 10:19 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

Sparkeley.

Solomon | 10:33 p.m. Jan. 21, 2008

One word that comes to mind about Utah: Naive

Jimbo | 4:23 a.m. Jan. 22, 2008

I live in Ireland but have been a frequent visitor to Utah and find it truly awesome and refreshing. To those who complain about the restrictions in the city try living in a seaside town where anything goes and you cannot go into the town centre any night with safety. Northern Ireland used to be mocked because of the restrictions especially on a sunday but since al the restrictions were lifted lifestyle and freedom have deteriorated for most people even those that advocated change years ago have now grown older and are reaping their harvest, so be happy that you have a city and culture that is out of step with 'the real world'.

Culture | 10:44 a.m. Jan. 22, 2008

Every Place has a Culture!!

What you make of it is Your choice.

Every family has its unique culture.

Stereotypes tell only part of the story...
Las Vegas, San Francisco, LA, New York City, etc.

But it's much more faceted!!

There's Good and Bad everywhere from the biggest city to the smallest hamlet.

It's what you choose it to be in Your mind.

You have a choice to "act" or "re-act".

The choice is UP to the individual.

Iluminar | 11:28 a.m. Jan. 22, 2008

It is interesting to read all the comments of people complaining how bad Utah is, but a quick check on the Internet will provide you with quotes from some of the national publications that gave outstanding reviews to the state (Best in the US) this past year (2007):
Employment review - Money Magazine - Inc. magazine - Places Rated Almanac - Entrepreneur magazine - Financial World - Adweek magazine - Morgan Quinto Press

So, maybe it's not only Utah hicks that believe this is such a great place.

As far as those that would claim that Utah is culturally (but can't even spell CULTURE) deprived, they may not know that Salt Lake City is home to the largest collection of world art in the intermountain west. There are over 25 art galleries and museums, Ballet West is one of the six largest in the US, The Utah Shakespearean Festival was awarded the 2000 Tony Award and in the world of Ballroom Dance Utah has got a larger presence than many other locations in the world. The state has many other cultural venues that can be found by looking for them.

COMPLEX | 11:37 a.m. Jan. 22, 2008

I've lived in several Western cities over the years (Denver, Boise, Seattle, Oakland, Albequerque) and SLC is probably the hardest to define using a single word. For most people who have never lived in SLC, the word MORMON probably springs to mind most readily. But for those who know SLC beyond it's stereotypes also know that the word NON-MORMON carries just as much weight, if not more.

MORMON will also be identified as central to the city's history and tradition, but the city's future is being principally shaped by it's NON-MORMON elements.

DIVIDE | 12:57 p.m. Jan. 22, 2008

My favorite word I've read so far- while I agree that some of the adjectives mentioned may be accurate, the point of this game is not to describe Salt Lake, but rather to find a word that captures the essence of the city. It think because of its characteristic geography and also the polarized mindsets of its citizens, divide is a good word for the city.

Anonymous | 1:17 p.m. Jan. 22, 2008

Why are we so Nieve

Anonymous | 2:40 p.m. Jan. 22, 2008

Naivete occurs in a society when its members are told exactly how to dress, think, what to eat, drink, etc.
It's the 12th Article of Faith that is the key here.

MISUNDERSTOOD | 9:03 a.m. Jan. 23, 2008

Simple word, but one I've felt nearly my entire life being a native, LDS Utahn. My three favorite words from the Proclamation of The Family that the prominent religion here has released are "wholesome recreational activities". I'll confess that the lack of beach isn't the best - I'll confess that there is an aristocracy in this state (but that has more to do with money then it does religion) - The cold weather kills the bugs each year and springtime is gorgeous. I don't like commercial development in areas like Herriman and what not, but the folks who live there do enjoy a relative state of affluence comparitevly. I like horses and horseback riding and kayaks and kayaking and I intend to get out to Antelope Island this coming year. I like skiing and snowmobiling and motorcycles and motorcyle riding and climbing when I can. I also like Native American culture although it's so under appreciated and diminished it seems. - I don't like brats from any religion but everyone is a child of God in my book and that's pretty far out considering God's universe is a h u m u n g o u s place.

Franky | 10:34 a.m. Jan. 23, 2008

I have to agree with INSECURE being the word. Thats not how I feel about SL, but it seems to be how it feels about itself. I for one love it, and Ive had friends come up from San Antonio and theyve been impressed as well. SL has a little of everything but not a whole lot of any one thing.

DahktaD | 11:58 a.m. Jan. 23, 2008

I believe Chernobyl has more nightlife and excitement than Salt Lake...and it has been abandoned for 20 years or so.

Lacey | 1:28 p.m. Jan. 23, 2008

Dear John....P l e a s e .. don't drive yourself crazy any longer. MOVE!!!

Mouse | 3:42 p.m. Jan. 23, 2008

I find Utah to be Snobbyville. If you aren't in the who knows who crowd at church every Sunday than you might as well give up your membership in the Mormon church. However, it does have a few genuine people professing religion. But on the most part those who attend for some reason or another, it's the weekly gossip sessions that really count. Lets see who we can grumble about today. Perhaps snob them for a month or two...Tee Hee Hee!

Other then this, the state has the most beautiful scenery in the whole world. You just need to get by the funny business of church.

Steve - Re: John | 4:22 p.m. Jan. 23, 2008

Unless I missed it in my quick browsing of the replies, you failed to answer what one person asked... if you find Utah so dull and dislike it here, why have you kept moving back here? Why didn't you stay in one of those other places you moved to or when moving from one of them pick another place rather than return to Utah yet again?

Life in Salt Lake is hardly dull, life is what you make of it. Perhaps for some the city itself might be lacking, but it's surrounded by multiple things to do (camping, waterskiing, snow skiing, hunting, fishing, Wendover and gambling is only a short drive away, great varieties of concerts come to town, a pro-basketball and soccer team, Hockey team, night clubs, dancing, restaurants gallor, etc. etc.). I don't see how someone can fail to find SOMEthing they enjoy here in Salt Lake or Utah.

As for those who drink... you do realize you don't have to drink in order to have fun, it honestly is possible to have great fun without alcohol.

Cindy | 4:52 p.m. Jan. 23, 2008

to Anonymous

Why are you so obsessive?

Utah is quite lovely!

Anonymous | 8:03 p.m. Jan. 23, 2008

Utah IS lovely Cindy.
Too bad about the crazy cultists that inhabit it and determined to run (ruin) it.

Anonymous | 9:42 a.m. Jan. 24, 2008

It's very dull!

Rob | 10:32 a.m. Jan. 24, 2008

Utah is one of the worst places to live. Almost, everyone here is very close minded and conforming. People are nice, but they discriminate against those who have open minded opinions. If Utah became a little more open minded I wouldn't mind living here, but as for now I am planning on moving to California where even though cost of living is much higher and taxes, it's worth it not to have a religion stuffed in your face every turn you take, and close minded ideas and assumptions. Please Utah, take the time to think for yourself, don't do what everyone else is doing and believing. Make your own choices!

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