As eclectic as always, yet on the up-and-up, one of Salt Lake's most popular old 'hoods has a colorful new look: lime green metal benches and purple lampposts, compliments of a renovation project funded by the city and local businesses. Known by its street coordinates, 9th and 9th is lined with vintage brick buildings housing enough one-of-a-kind boutiques and ethnic eats to brighten any gray, late-winter day.
GETTING THERE
The neighborhood is nine blocks south and nine blocks east of downtown Salt Lake City's Temple Square.
NEARBY
Head three blocks west to visit 100-acre Liberty Park (1100 South 600 East; 801/972-7800), one of the oldest and largest parks in the city. It's also home to the Tracy Aviary ($5; 589 East 1300 South; 801/322-2473), where you can mingle with more than 400 birds, including crested tinamou, monk parakeets, and numerous endangered species.
SIP
Coffee Garden. Warm up with a velvety rich latte in the new home of locals' long-loved coffeehouse. INFO: 878 East 900 South (across the street from the original location); 801/355-3425.
