After living in Salt Lake for over three years, I have never visited Ogden. I’ve driven past for a visit to Pineview Reservoir in Ogden Canyon, but never have I stopped and explored downtown Ogden. It’s home to Weber State University. Originally, in 1869 the Golden Spike caused Ogden to become a boom town. Historic 25th Street used to be a place of political scandals, brothels, and gang rivalries. Now, it’s a beautiful downtown area that brings locals and tourists alike.
While I have been meaning to explore Ogden a little more, I also needed to location scout for a couple of my upcoming photo sessions. My friend, Rachel, and I decided to take a mini day trip to see the area.
When we arrived, we were surprised to find the ending of the Ogden Marathon where the racers finished on 25th Street. The runners run down Ogden Canyon and finish in downtown. Add that to a list of possible races for the future!
The Bickering Sisters
2487 Grant Ave
Ogden, UT 84401
Any good adventures starts with two things: food and coffee. After a quick Yelp search, we came across The Bickering Sisters, a brunch joint with a great view of all the marathon hustle and bustle. I had the burrito in a scramble form (#ketoproblems), and she had a bacon, egg & cheese sandwich, which was equally as delicious. It was a perfect quick bite to start our day.
Historic 25th Street
Historic 25th Street was the main spot I wanted to see when in Ogden. I really became aware of this place when I was binge-watching an old WB (CW) show, Everwood, which was shot almost entirely in Ogden (and a few scenes in SLC). There are a variety of unique shops such as clothing boutiques, book stores, gift shops, coffee shops, bars, and restaurants.
We visited Olive & Dahlia based on a recommendation of a business owner along the street. The Queen Bee was a cute book/gift/art shop with a cafe attached that I liked.
Grounds for Coffee
111 25th St
Ogden, UT 84401
Along 25th Street, we sat and enjoyed the people watching from our window seat at Grounds for Coffee near Union Station. There seemed to be an ASL gathering at the top of the coffee shop which I enjoyed. I took ASL in college for fun and absolutely loved their unique culture and language. I had heard that Ogden has a very different more “rebellious” vibe from Salt Lake (perhaps from its history or the college?), and I felt that while we were there. There was an old man with a dog with beads/dreads in it’s shaggy hair. Everyone that passed by wanted to pet his dog!
Ogden Botanical Gardens
1750 Monroe Blvd
Ogden, UT 84401
Based on the request of my photo client, I explored Ogden Botanical Gardens which is about a 5 minute drive from downtown. It’s a free botanical gardens which is managed and maintained by USU. We saw several photographers doing sessions there with families. I can see why it was a popular spot since it has nice trails and a variety of little gardens.
Pineview Reservoir & Ogden Canyon
Ogden Canyon is a beautiful canyon located about 15-20 minutes from downtown Ogden. While we didn’t stop for any trails, we enjoyed the scenic drive. I’ve been to Pineview Reservoir last July for Somer’s birthday where we did some paddleboarding.
Next time, I’d like to come back and camp on the beach or go paddle boarding in Causey Reservoir (12 miles east of Pineview). The views in the canyon of green fields/farmland and snow-capped mountains reminded me of something I’d seen in New Zealand or the Alps! Looks like I have some exploring to do this summer. Rachel and I added these to our summer bucket list!
Zeppe’s Italian Water Ice
883 N Washington Blvd
Ogden, UT 84404
This seemed to be Ogden’s favorite dessert spot! After our drive down the canyon, we stopped at Zeppe’s for some Italian Ice based on her friend’s recommendation. It reminded me of Rita’s Italian Ice which we have in Salt Lake and back home. There was a constant stream of families, soccer teams, and marathon finishers. We both got the Mango Gelata, which was satisfying for a hot May afternoon.
Have you ever been to Ogden, Utah? Are you a local? Do you have any cool places to check out next time?