A Summer to Remember in Downtown Daybreak

This summer, Downtown Daybreak came alive with unforgettable moments, community celebrations, and plenty of reasons to gather. The excitement kicked off on April 8 with the opening of the brand-new Salt Lake Bees Ballpark at America First Square. From cheering on games all season long to enjoying special nights like “Movies in the Park”—where families watched Moana and Star Wars on the jumbo screen—baseball nights quickly became the heart of summer fun.

Entertainment in Downtown Daybreak reached a whole new level with the grand opening of the Megaplex cinema entertainment center. Guests were wowed by movies, bowling, games, and dining all under one roof. The celebration spilled into the square, featuring stilt walkers, live cartoon artists, food trucks, balloon animals, and even appearances by Lightning McQueen and Jurassic Park dinosaurs. True to its motto, it was a place to “Live Life Larger.” 

But the fun didn’t stop there. Families experienced one-of-a-kind animal encounters, from barnyard favorites and mini cows to reptiles, foxes, a sloth, and even an albino Burmese python thanks to Corbin Maxey’s wild, interactive show. Fitness enthusiasts gathered weekly for yoga and Fly Dance Fitness classes, while kids stretched their imaginations during storytelling sessions led by local authors and professional storytellers. Add in pregame parties before Bees games and a full lineup of concerts—featuring performers from American Idol alumni to the Utah Symphony—and there was truly something for everyone. 

Summer also marked exciting growth for Downtown Daybreak’s food scene. Moena Café, a Hawaiian favorite, opened its very first mainland location with a festive “Brunch with Moana.” A few weeks later Utah classic Hires Big H brought nostalgia and burgers to its third location with an old-fashioned diner-style celebration. Together with soon-to-open Nomad Eatery, Rockwell Ice Cream, Naraya by Sawadee Thai, and Jolley’s Corner—Downtown Daybreak is quickly becoming a go-to destination to dine, play, shop, live, and work all year round.