We always enjoy visiting This is the Place Heritage Park. We love going any time, and especially love the Candlelight Christmas event. This year we were able to visit during the weekend of the Baby Animal Celebration, which is happening on April 18, 2026. There were a lot of fun activities going on, but most of them are always happening at this amazing state park. So get ready for Summer Season at This is the Place Heritage Park.
Baby Animals
The fun part of the Baby Animal Celebration is obviously going to see the baby animals. The park says that this time of year usually lasts through the end of May. We saw baby goats, pigs, bunnies, ducks, and even a puppy. Our boys’ favorite part was the chance to pet and hold little chicks. We had to hold one of every color. There were also pony rides going on in the animal section of the park (we didn’t wait in line for one, but you definitely should).
The Village
We spent a lot of the day visiting the village. We love wandering through the different buildings and listening to the artisans teaching us about pioneer life. Most of the buildings were open with fun activities for the children. We loved going to school for a short lesson. Another favorite was learning how to do pioneer chores. Our boys even got to create patterns in the leather, but they didn’t want to live in the shop as apprentices and learn the trade.
Upper Area
Our boys really love going to the upper section at This is the Place Heritage Park. There is a model of the ship Brooklyn. Kids (and adults) can climb on the ship and enjoy the beautiful view. They can also climb in the ship and check out the sleeping conditions. There is even a small stream where you can pan for gold. Make sure to hold on to the gold you find because you can take it back to the bank and have it weighed!
This is next to a large house called the Treasure House. It has a little bit of information about mining and you can climb the spiral staircase to overlook the Salt Lake Valley. You can also purchase a few different rock activities such as breaking a geode open, or an activity to search for gems. The final activity here is a mini train ride. There is a small pond that the train circles that was filled with geese. We even saw a goose nesting, and a nest with an egg! We had a blast at this new part of the park.
Across the way from the ship and treasure house is a new Native American Village. Often there are performances or someone talking about their culture. You can also make bead bracelets and explore the different displays.
We love that you can hop on the train that circles the park at anytime and ride it back to a different part of the park. So make sure to ride the train when those little legs get tired. The train has stops by the Treasure House, near the entrance, and at the top of Heritage Village by the hotel.
Brigham’s Donuts
We also like to stop at Brigham’s shop with our tickets, and they definitely did not disappoint. I think we might have to stop and get a few dozen every time we visit now (I do have a donut problem, though).
This is the Place Heritage Park is a fun, hands-on adventure that helps families get a small glimpse into the life of a pioneer. We love visiting so we can teach our boys about their heritage. And any time of year is a great time to visit! The Baby Animal Celebration only happens one day, but you can enjoy baby animals all spring long. Our biggest tip (and secret) is visiting in March. There are usually baby animals already born, but it is still winter season pricing (summer pricing starts March 28, 2026). A few buildings might not be open yet, but there is always plenty of fun, and for half the price.
For more information about Baby Animal Celebration, visit This is the Place.
Great pics and fun times for your family. Appreciate your tips. Aloha!
This is the Place is one of our favorite spots! We are always happy when we visit!!