Sunset from the baseball fields on the west end
1 / 10

Draper City Park

4.7
·2k reviews·Draper, United States

A sprawling park featuring an inclusive playground, splash pad, sports fields, and a breathtaking holiday light display.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

December evenings

Magical Christmas lights

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Sunset from the baseball fields on the west end

Draper City Park

Best Time

December evenings

Magical Christmas lights

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sprawling park featuring an inclusive playground, splash pad, sports fields, and a breathtaking holiday light display.

4.7
(2k reviews)

"This is the biggest playground I’ve ever seen, with something for children of all ages and abilities."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive early for lights

Beat the crowds for the dazzling Christmas lights; parking can be tough.

👟 Wear comfy shoes

The park is large, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Tree of Life

The Tree of Life

Central area of the park

A breathtaking display of millions of lights adorning a massive tree, creating a magical winter wonderland.

Unity Playground

Unity Playground

Southwest section of the park

An expansive, 90% wheelchair-accessible playground with unique features for all children to enjoy.

Splash Pad

Splash Pad

Near the playground

A fun and refreshing water play area perfect for cooling off during warmer months.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Holiday Lights Spectacle

Draper City Park transforms into a magical wonderland with its annual Christmas lights display, featuring the iconic 'Tree of Life.' The lights are on from December 1st to January 1st, typically from 5-10 PM. Arrive early for the lighting ceremony on Dec 1st, which includes free hot chocolate and Santa visits. Parking can be challenging during peak hours, so consider arriving before sunset or after the initial rush. TikTok+3

Inclusive Playground Paradise

The Unity Playground at Draper City Park is a standout feature, designed for children of all abilities. With 90% wheelchair accessibility, it boasts ramps, sensory play areas, zip lines, and Utah's tallest playground slide. It's a fantastic spot for families seeking inclusive fun, with plenty of shade and restrooms nearby. TikTok+2

Best Times

When
December evenings
Why
Magical Christmas lights
Crowd
High
When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temperatures for play
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays, late afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, good light
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Draper City Park is one of the most beloved recreational spaces in the city of Draper, Utah. Located with a privileged view of the Wasatch Mountain Range, this park combines nature, recreation and family coexistence in one place 📍12500 S 1300 E, Draper, UT 84020 #park #christmastree #christmaslights #lights #christmasdecor
@redrockolayo
693 likes • 14.3K views

🎯 Arrive early for lights

Beat the crowds for the dazzling Christmas lights; parking can be tough. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear comfy shoes

The park is large, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. TikTok

🌳 The entire park is decked out for the holidays, but the star of the show is the massive willow tree. It takes 1,640 hours to light the park each year! 💡 Lights on: Dec 1 - Jan 1 ⏰ 5–10 PM & 5–8 AM For even more Christmas light displays across Utah, check out the link in our profile #utahchristmaslights #utahchristmas #draperutah
@thingstodoinutah
1.3K likes • 30.7K views
Built for every child 💙 Draper City Park’s Unity Playground is 90% wheelchair accessible and packed with inclusive fun—zip lines, sensory play, ramps, swings, and Utah’s tallest playground slide (30 ft)! 🛝 It’s a space where ALL kids can play side by side—no barriers. 📍 12500 S 1300 E, Draper, UT 🕰️ Open Mon–Fri, 8 AM–5 PM ✅ Shaded pavilions, restrooms, walking trails & a historic log cabin too! #...
@nadianebeker
39 likes • 1.4K views

💧 Bring water bottles

Stay hydrated with water bottle filling stations available. Reddit

📸 Capture the magic

Don't forget your camera for the stunning holiday lights and playground fun. TikTok

The Draper city Christmas lights at Draper park are my favorite! Or as locals like to call it- the tree of life- iykyk. The lighting ceremony is December 1st at 6pm. Lighting ceremony Santa visit Hot chocolate and cookies Pony rides Marshmallow roasting All FREE! The lights stay on until Jan 1st. Go visit, it’s my favorite! #utahchristmas #draper #christmaslights #christmasactivities #utah
@theutahfamily
875 likes • 35.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive early for lights

Beat the crowds for the dazzling Christmas lights; parking can be tough. TikTokReddit

👟 Wear comfy shoes

The park is large, so comfortable footwear is a must for exploring. TikTok

💧 Bring water bottles

Stay hydrated with water bottle filling stations available. Reddit

📸 Capture the magic

Don't forget your camera for the stunning holiday lights and playground fun. TikTok

👍 Check event schedules

Look out for special events like Santa visits and aerobatics shows. TikTokReddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Draper City Park is overwhelmingly praised for its expansive and inclusive Unity Playground, making it a top destination for families. Visitors also rave about the stunning holiday light display, particularly the 'Tree of Life,' and the park's clean, well-maintained facilities. Some minor drawbacks include challenging parking during peak events and occasional comments about the park's vast size.

"What in the bureaucratic nonsense would they do this to our favorite tree! Ps they are alive too and enjoy contact. I've never seen a public park do this. We know you light up the tree for a few months in the winter but this is quite the joke. Poor sad tortured tree! Silly humans!"

Rachel

"Fantastic park. So many different playground aspects to enjoy. Safe swings and adaptive swings. Close parking. Clean restrooms plenty of old trees to provide ample shade. Connects to big fields for baseball and soccer and the older draper park.

A great place for a picnic. Also has water bottle filling stations. Covered pavilion available to rent and reserve. Huge playground for all ages and abilities.

Sand volleyball court to play. Benches and tables for sitting. Super soft playground base with a bit of a bounce to it. Some of the funnest playground equipment I’ve ever encountered."

Emily Henderson

"A quick cold visit to see the beautiful lights and share the view with family. It's difficult to find parking near or in the park but we lucked out the vendors were already packing up, but there were plenty of families and children still playing due to the light from the trees.
We came to share the Tree of Life with it's million lights. It could very well be! The surrounding trees decorated in blues, reds, greens and other colors don't stand out as brightly lit as they are. It's utterly amazing!
What could be added to improve the ambience? If an event organizer added holiday music and have local bands a single stage and let them audition for some time to offer their talent throughout the event. Perhaps add a cultural aspect as well with some displays about the holiday around the world.
As it stands, you'll be drawn to go see the lights, find some vendors selling wares and even hot cocoa and some heaters. The Tree of Life (Lights) remain the most spectacular of all"

Tess Obenauf

What People Like

Inclusive Unity Playground
Spectacular holiday lights
Clean and well-maintained

What People Dislike

Difficult parking during events
Park is very large

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Draper City Park is located at 12500 S 1300 E, Draper, UT 84020. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available, though it can fill up quickly during popular events like the Christmas light display. TikTok+1

While direct public transportation to the park might be limited, you can check UTA (Utah Transit Authority) for bus routes that service the Draper area. It's often best to combine public transport with a short ride-share or walk. TikTok

The park offers several parking lots, but they can become very crowded, especially during the holiday light season. Arriving early or during off-peak hours is recommended. TikTokReddit

For scenic city views, Traverse Ridge Road in Draper offers a great drive with pull-off points like Potato Trail Head. While not directly in the park, it's a nearby option for panoramic vistas. Reddit

Absolutely! Draper City Park is a fantastic day trip destination from Salt Lake City, offering diverse activities for all ages. The drive is relatively short, making it an easy escape. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Draper City Park is free to enter and enjoy. There are no admission fees for general park access, including the playground and open spaces. TikTok

No, the spectacular Christmas lights display at Draper City Park is completely free to view. The lighting ceremony on December 1st is also a free event. TikTok+1

The park itself is generally open from dawn until dusk. However, the Christmas lights are typically illuminated from 5 PM to 10 PM (or 8 AM for early risers) from December 1st to January 1st. TikTok

Yes, Draper City Park has covered pavilions available for rent, which are ideal for picnics and gatherings. It's recommended to reserve these in advance, especially for weekend use. Reddit

The Unity Playground is designed for children of all ages and abilities, with specific areas catering to younger children and more adventurous features for older kids. There are no strict age restrictions. TikTok+1

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Draper City Park offers a wide range of activities, including a large inclusive playground, a splash pad for summer fun, sand volleyball courts, open fields for sports, and access to bike trails. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, the Unity Playground is a major highlight, boasting 90% wheelchair accessibility with ramps, sensory play elements, and adaptive swings. TikTok+1

The 'Tree of Life' is the centerpiece of the park's holiday light display, a massive tree adorned with millions of twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere during winter. TikTok+2

The park is well-equipped with clean restrooms and numerous mature trees providing ample shade, making it comfortable for extended visits. TikTokReddit

The park features athletic fields, including areas for baseball and soccer, as well as sand volleyball courts, catering to various sports enthusiasts. TikTokReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

During the Christmas light season, you can often find vendors selling hot cocoa and other treats. It's a good idea to bring your own snacks and drinks as well. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Draper City Park is a perfect spot for picnics, with benches, tables, and covered pavilions available. Many visitors enjoy bringing their own food to enjoy the park's ambiance. Reddit

Yes, the area surrounding Draper City Park has various dining options, from casual eateries to family-friendly restaurants. The Draper City Library is also a short walk away. TikTok

The park is equipped with water bottle filling stations, which is convenient for staying hydrated, especially during warmer months or after physical activity. Reddit

Typically, public parks have regulations regarding alcohol consumption. It's advisable to check the official Draper City Parks and Recreation guidelines for specific rules. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The 'Tree of Life' during the holiday light display is a must-photograph spot. The Unity Playground also offers vibrant and unique photo opportunities, especially with its inclusive design. TikTok+2

Yes, with its beautiful scenery, expansive playground, and the magical holiday lights, Draper City Park provides a wonderful backdrop for family photos year-round. TikTok+1

For general park photography, the 'golden hours' (early morning or late afternoon) offer beautiful lighting. For the Christmas lights, evening is obviously the time to capture their full splendor. TikTok

Drone usage in public parks is often restricted. It's best to check with Draper City Parks and Recreation for their specific drone policy before flying. TikTok

Beyond the 'Tree of Life,' the surrounding trees are also decorated, and the overall ambiance of the park during the holiday season is highly photogenic. TikTok+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Draper City Park is a dream destination for families. The Unity Playground is a major draw, offering unparalleled inclusive play for children of all abilities. TikTok+2 During summer, the splash pad provides endless water fun. TikTok The park's vast open spaces are perfect for running around, and the picnic areas with pavilions are ideal for family meals. Reddit Don't miss the spectacular Christmas lights in winter, a magical experience for all ages, often featuring free activities like Santa visits. TikTok+1 Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, and comfortable shoes for exploring the large park. TikTokReddit

Budget Travelers

Draper City Park is incredibly budget-friendly, as most of its attractions are free to access. TikTok The playground, splash pad (seasonal), and the entire park grounds are open to the public without charge. The highlight of the holiday lights display is also completely free, making it a fantastic low-cost entertainment option during the festive season. TikTok+1 While there are food vendors during special events, packing your own picnic is a great way to save money. Reddit The park offers water bottle filling stations, so bringing a reusable bottle is a smart move. Reddit

Couples & Friends

Enjoy a romantic stroll or a fun outing with friends at Draper City Park. The holiday lights create a magical ambiance perfect for couples. TikTok During warmer months, the splash pad can be a fun spot to cool off, or you can enjoy a leisurely picnic. TikTok The park's scenic views of the Wasatch Mountains offer a beautiful backdrop for relaxation and conversation. TikTok Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more serene experience, or check for any special events like the Sunday evening aerobatics shows for some unique entertainment. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Draper City Park's Holiday Lights

During the winter months, Draper City Park undergoes a spectacular transformation, becoming a beacon of holiday cheer. The main attraction is the 'Tree of Life,' a colossal tree illuminated with millions of dazzling lights, creating a truly magical spectacle. This display typically runs from December 1st to January 1st, with viewing hours often from 5 PM to 10 PM, though some sources mention early morning hours as well. TikTok+1 The lighting ceremony on December 1st is a popular free event, often featuring Santa Claus, hot chocolate, and cookies, drawing large crowds. TikTok+1 While the lights are free, parking can be a significant challenge during peak times, leading some visitors to suggest arriving early or after the initial rush to avoid frustration. TikTokReddit The surrounding trees are also adorned with colorful lights, enhancing the festive atmosphere. Reddit

Visitors have suggested enhancements to the holiday experience, such as incorporating live holiday music or cultural displays to further enrich the ambiance. Reddit Despite these suggestions, the 'Tree of Life' remains the undisputed star, captivating visitors with its sheer brilliance. TikTok The park's transformation into a winter wonderland makes it a must-visit destination for families and anyone looking to embrace the holiday spirit. TikTok

Unity Playground: An Inclusive Play Haven

Draper City Park is renowned for its Unity Playground, a thoughtfully designed space that prioritizes inclusivity for children of all abilities. This playground is a testament to accessible design, with approximately 90% of its features being wheelchair accessible. TikTok+1 Visitors rave about the variety of play elements, including ramps, sensory play stations, zip lines, adaptive swings, and Utah's tallest playground slide (a thrilling 30-foot drop!). TikTok+1 The playground's design ensures that children with and without disabilities can play side-by-side, fostering a sense of community and shared fun. TikTok The park's size is considerable, with one reviewer noting it's a 21-acre park, which means there's plenty of space to explore. TikTok

The playground is well-maintained, with a super soft, bouncy surface that adds to the safety and enjoyment. Reddit Ample shade from mature trees makes it a comfortable spot for families, even on warmer days. TikTok Adjacent to the playground, you'll find amenities like restrooms and shaded pavilions, making it convenient for longer visits. TikTok The park's proximity to the Draper City Library also makes it easy to combine a playground visit with a trip to the library. TikTok The Unity Playground is consistently praised as one of the best in the area, offering a unique and enriching play experience for every child. TikTok

Summer Fun and Year-Round Activities

Beyond its famous holiday lights and inclusive playground, Draper City Park offers a wealth of activities throughout the year. During the summer months, the splash pad becomes a popular attraction, providing a refreshing escape from the heat for children and families. TikTok The park also features sand volleyball courts and large athletic fields suitable for soccer and baseball, catering to sports enthusiasts. Reddit For those who enjoy a more leisurely pace, the park offers picnic areas with tables and benches, including rentable covered pavilions, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings and events. Reddit

The park's extensive grounds also provide access to bike trails, encouraging outdoor exploration and exercise. TikTok Reviewers consistently highlight the park's cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, including restrooms, which contribute to a pleasant visitor experience. Reddit Even outside of major events, the park's open spaces and natural beauty, coupled with its stunning views of the Wasatch Mountain Range, make it a delightful place to spend time. TikTok+1 Some visitors have even noted spontaneous aerobatics shows on Sunday evenings, adding an unexpected element of entertainment. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2