Last weekend I made my first trip to Utah to attend the wedding of my friend, Joe. I have to admit I was quite aprehensive about being in Utah because from what I’ve heard it’s one of the most conservative states in the US. I made sure I booked a room at a hotel that “looked” like a gay-friendly hotel and was in close proximity to a gay bar. After meeting up with Joe and his future wife on Friday afternoon, I returned to my hotel in downtown Salt Lake City and made my way to Club Try-Angles. The first thing I had to do was buy a temporary membership card for $4 (a very stupid puritanical Utah liquor law) before I could enter the bar. I met a couple of friendly people inside, but never hit it off with anyone.

On Saturday morning, I found myself in dire need of breakfast and coffee. I hopped on one of Salt Lake’s light rail trains and headed toward Temple Square. Much to my surprise, I found a Starbucks just a block from the world headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (a church which forbids its members from drinking coffee). I got my coffee and something to eat and walked over to Temple Square. With my coffee in hand, I toured Temple Square and walked into the Tabernacle. The pipe organ in that building is amazing! After a 25 minute concert, I walked across the street to the Family History Library. I spent about an hour researching my family history.

On Saturday evening, I went to the wedding. It was a very hot evening (almost 100 F), but a nice ceremony. It was also the only wedding I’ve ever been to where no alcohol was served. I really needed a drink that night, too.

On Sunday, I drove to the Olympic Park and Park City. Park City is the liberal oasis in the conservative desert. I met the friendly and helpful host at the visitor center who told me about the gay-friendly bars in Park City as well as where I could go while in Salt Lake. I will definitely return to Park City for ski season.

In summary, Utah’s conservative nature did make me uncomfortable and longing to be back in Seattle. In Utah’s defense, everyone I encountered on my trip was very friendly, and I do admit that I like Park City. Yes, I will return to Utah again, but will bring a travel companion next time.