Garden After Dark: Adventures in Neverland at Red Butte Garden

As the days shorten and the Wasatch foothills glow with autumn color, Salt Lake City families and visitors alike are looking for memorable ways to celebrate the season. Garden After Dark: Adventures in Neverland at Red Butte Garden delivers exactly that—an enchanting, after-hours escape into a reimagined Neverland right in our own backyard.

Whether you’re a longtime resident exploring the city’s green spaces or a visitor seeking unique experiences near downtown Salt Lake City and the University of Utah campus, this event transforms the beloved arboretum into a glowing, story-driven playground perfect for all ages.

One of the Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City This Weekend

Nestled against the foothills at 300 Wakara Way, Red Butte Garden and Arboretum offers a peaceful daytime retreat. After dark from October 15–30, 2026, it becomes something entirely different: a living storybook where Peter Pan needs your help.

What to Expect at Garden After Dark: Adventures in Neverland

Step into an immersive world where Captain Hook has captured and shrunk Peter Pan using stolen Pixie Dust. Tinker Bell enlists guests to search for hidden Pixie Dust beads, explore enchanted landscapes, outsmart the villain, and rescue Peter before Neverland’s Halloween celebration begins.

Expect glowing displays, interactive storytelling elements, botanical surprises, and family-friendly scenes throughout the garden paths. Local performers add live magic (schedule details to be announced), while games and contests keep the energy high.

Highlights, Costumes & Family Tips

The adventure is designed for all ages, with a special Hocus Crocus Hour on select weekends offering a calmer, sensory-friendly experience before the full lights and music begin.

• Costumes are encouraged but must be family-friendly—no masks, face paint, or weapons for guests 14 and older; sharp or obstructive elements are prohibited.
• Timed-entry tickets ensure a comfortable flow; weeknight, weekend, and flex options range $13–$23 depending on date and membership status.
• University of Utah students, staff, and faculty receive a $1 discount with promo code.

Plan Your Visit to Red Butte Garden

The main entrance for Garden After Dark is through the Visitor Center front doors. Additional parking is available in the Williams Building garage at 295 Chipeta Way. Driving directions and a parking map are available on the official site.

Arrive during your timed window for the best experience. The garden sits conveniently near the University of Utah and offers easy access from downtown Salt Lake City via major routes. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket for the evening mountain air, and your sense of adventure.

Tickets are on sale now at redbuttegarden.org—grab yours early and make Garden After Dark: Adventures in Neverland your family’s new Salt Lake City fall tradition.

Event Details At-A-Glance

• When: Thursday, October 15 – Friday, October 30, 2026
• Where: Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
• Address: 300 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, United States
• Admission: $13–$23
• Organizer: Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
• Phone: (801) 585-0556
• Tickets / info: Get details

Dates, times, and pricing can change. Confirm the latest details on the official event page before making plans.

Looking for more? Explore other things to do in Salt Lake City or browse the full Salt Lake City events calendar.