Saltair (Utah)
Saltair refers primarily to a series of three pavilions built on the southern shore of the Great Salt Lake in Utah, United States. These structures served as amusement parks and recreational resorts, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name "Saltair" is a portmanteau of "salt" and "air," reflecting the unique environment of the lake.
The first Saltair, built in 1893, was designed by prominent Utah architect Richard K.A. Kletting and was intended to be "Coney Island of the West." It was known for its Moorish architecture, a distinctive domed pavilion, and a pier extending into the Great Salt Lake, allowing visitors to bathe in the buoyant, salty water.
The original Saltair was immensely popular, attracting large crowds via a dedicated railroad line. The buoyant nature of the Great Salt Lake made swimming relatively easy, and the resort offered various attractions, including rides, dance halls, and other forms of entertainment.
Fire destroyed the first Saltair in 1925. A second Saltair was built nearby in 1926. Constructed on a steel frame, this iteration was similarly popular but also suffered damage from fire in 1931, although it was subsequently repaired. However, declining lake levels, competition from other amusement parks, and damage from storms led to its eventual closure in the 1950s. It stood abandoned for many years.
A third Saltair was built further west on the Great Salt Lake in 1993, closer to Interstate 80. This modern structure is significantly different in appearance from its predecessors, resembling a large aircraft hangar. It primarily functions as a concert venue and event space. Due to the lake's fluctuating water levels, it sometimes appears isolated in a vast expanse of salt flats.
The Saltair pavilions, particularly the first and second iterations, hold a significant place in Utah's history and popular culture, representing a time of recreational enthusiasm and a unique natural attraction. The name continues to be associated with the Great Salt Lake and entertainment.