Chase Home Museum

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Description

The Chase Home Museum of Utah Folk Arts is one of those places that quietly sneaks up on you. It’s tucked away in a peaceful corner of Salt Lake City’s Liberty Park, and honestly, it’s the kind of spot you might walk past without realizing how much history and heart are packed inside. This museum isn’t about grand marble halls or intimidating modern art pieces—it’s about people. Real people. The kind who make quilts, carve wood, bead jewelry, or play fiddles at community dances. The museum celebrates Utah’s living traditions, the crafts and stories that have shaped its communities for generations.

I remember my first visit—it was a warm afternoon, and I wandered in expecting something small and maybe a little dusty. Instead, I found myself standing in front of a Navajo weaving that looked alive with color, and a display of handcrafted cowboy gear that told stories of grit and pride. The Chase Home Museum feels personal, like being invited into someone’s home (which, fun fact, it actually was—the historic Chase family home built in the 1850s). That’s part of the charm. You’re not just looking at art; you’re stepping into the lives of the people who made it.

What sets this museum apart is its focus on living folk traditions. The exhibits rotate regularly, showcasing everything from Mexican paper art to Polynesian dance costumes to Scandinavian wood carving. It’s a reminder that Utah’s cultural identity isn’t static—it’s still being crafted, sung, and danced today. And while the museum is small, it’s mighty in spirit. Each gallery feels like a conversation between past and present, between generations keeping their roots alive.

Key Features

• Authentic Folk Art Exhibits: Displays of traditional crafts, music, and dance from Utah’s diverse communities, including Native American, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and pioneer influences.
• Historic Setting: Housed in the original Chase family home, one of the oldest buildings in Liberty Park, adding a layer of local history to the experience.
• Rotating Displays: Exhibits change throughout the year, so every visit offers something new—sometimes even live demonstrations from local artists.
• Free Admission: Always free and open to the public during posted hours, making it an accessible cultural stop for travelers on any budget.
• Accessible Facilities: Wheelchair-accessible entrance, parking, and restrooms ensure that everyone can enjoy the exhibits comfortably.
• Guided Tours: Friendly staff and volunteers offer tours that bring the stories behind the art to life.
• Family-Friendly: A great place for kids to explore hands-on art forms and learn about Utah’s rich cultural diversity.
• Wi-Fi Available: Visitors can stay connected while exploring or sharing their experience online.

One of the things I love most about this place is how approachable it is. You don’t need to be an art expert to appreciate what’s on display. Each piece tells its own story, and the curators do a wonderful job of explaining the people and traditions behind them. It’s the kind of museum that makes you feel smarter without trying too hard. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a live performance or workshop—a fiddler playing an old tune or a weaver showing how to spin wool by hand.

Best Time to Visit

Honestly, the Chase Home Museum is lovely year-round, but if you want to make the most of your visit, spring and fall are ideal. The weather in Salt Lake City is just right for strolling through Liberty Park before or after exploring the museum. The trees are either bursting with blossoms or turning shades of gold, and there’s usually a soft breeze that makes the whole experience feel peaceful.

Summer can get a bit warm, but the museum’s air-conditioned galleries offer a nice break from the heat. Plus, summer often brings special events and cultural festivals nearby, which add to the experience. Winter visits have their own charm too—the park is quieter, and you can take your time soaking in the exhibits without the usual weekend crowds. If you’re the type who prefers a more reflective, slower-paced visit, that’s your season.

If you’re planning a trip, check whether the museum has any temporary exhibitions or artist residencies going on. They often host seasonal displays or community art projects that highlight new stories and traditions. It’s those little extras that make each visit feel fresh and meaningful.

How to Get There

The Chase Home Museum sits right inside Liberty Park, one of Salt Lake City’s most beloved green spaces. Getting there is pretty straightforward. If you’re staying downtown, it’s just a short drive—maybe ten minutes tops. There’s plenty of parking near the park entrances, and from there, it’s a pleasant walk under big shady trees to the museum itself.

For those relying on public transportation, several city buses stop near Liberty Park, and it’s also a popular spot for cyclists. I’ve biked there a few times myself—it’s a nice ride, especially in the morning when the park is quiet and the air smells faintly of cottonwood. If you’re using a rideshare service, just set your destination to Liberty Park, and once you’re there, follow the signs toward the Chase Home Museum. It’s hard to miss once you’re inside the park.

And here’s a little tip: plan some extra time to wander around after your visit. Liberty Park has walking trails, ponds, and even a small aviary nearby. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, grab a coffee from a food truck, or just sit under a tree and think about the stories you just learned inside the museum.

Tips for Visiting

If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to dig a bit deeper into local culture, the Chase Home Museum is a must. But to make your visit even better, here are a few personal tips I’ve picked up over the years.

• Go during weekdays if you can. Weekends can get a little busier, especially when the weather’s nice. A weekday visit means more space to linger and chat with the staff.
• Take a guided tour. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and genuinely passionate about folk art. They’ll point out details you might otherwise miss—like the symbolism in a bead pattern or the story behind a hand-carved figure.
• Bring your curiosity. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Folk art is full of meaning, and every piece has a backstory that connects to Utah’s communities in surprising ways.
• Combine it with a park day. Bring a picnic or rent a paddleboat after your visit. Liberty Park is one of the city’s gems, and spending the day there makes the trip feel more like a local experience.
• Check for workshops. Sometimes the museum hosts hands-on sessions where you can learn a traditional craft directly from an artist. It’s a rare chance to get your hands dirty—in the best way possible.
• Take photos, but respectfully. Most exhibits allow photography, but remember that many of these pieces represent living traditions and personal heritage. Treat them with care.

And maybe this is just me, but I always like to bring a small notebook when I visit places like this. There’s something about seeing handmade art that makes you want to jot down ideas or sketch a little. The museum has this quiet energy that sparks creativity—it’s hard not to leave inspired.

In a city filled with big attractions and outdoor adventures, the Chase Home Museum offers something different: a quiet, heartfelt look at the people who make Utah what it is. It’s a place where you can slow down, listen, and maybe see a bit of your own story reflected in the art of others. Whether you’re a traveler passing through or a local looking for a new perspective, it’s well worth the stop. And who knows—you might just leave with a newfound appreciation for the beauty in everyday things.

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