Executive Insights
- Sky Brook Kitchen + Bar is the new signature dining concept, replacing Wakara Bar.
- The hotel is the only full-service Marriott located directly within University of Utah Research Park.
- A comprehensive renovation has modernized guest rooms, the lobby, and meeting spaces.
- The M Club Lounge offers premium amenities including a balcony with views of the Wasatch Mountains.
- Complimentary 2-mile radius shuttle connects guests to Huntsman Cancer Institute and campus landmarks.
A New Era for University of Utah Research Park Hospitality
The Salt Lake City Marriott University Park is currently finalizing a comprehensive, property-wide renovation designed to elevate the guest experience for the academic, medical, and biotech communities of University of Utah Research Park. Following its acquisition by Highline Hospitality Partners, the hotel has undergone a strategic modernization of its 217 guest rooms and communal spaces. The centerpiece of this transformation is the launch of Sky Brook Kitchen + Bar, a sophisticated new culinary concept tailored to the region’s growing innovation hub.
This renovation redefines the property as the premier lodging choice for visitors to the Huntsman Cancer Institute, Rice-Eccles Stadium, and the surrounding Research Park ecosystem. By blending modern aesthetics with functional business amenities, the hotel now aligns perfectly with the forward-thinking energy of Salt Lake City’s “Silicon Slopes” expansion.
Sky Brook Kitchen + Bar: A Culinary Hub for Innovators
Replacing the former Wakara Bar, Sky Brook Kitchen + Bar serves as the property’s new social anchor. Designed to function as both a dynamic business lounge and a relaxed evening venue, Sky Brook features a menu centered on eclectic American comfort food and local craft spirits.
- Concept: A “refind” gastropub atmosphere ideal for post-conference networking or pre-game gatherings.
- Menu Highlights: Artisanal small plates, locally sourced entrées, and a curated selection of Utah brewed beers and whiskeys.
- Atmosphere: The redesign opens up the space to offer views of the Wasatch Mountains, creating an inviting environment for faculty, researchers, and biotech executives to collaborate outside the lab.
Complementing Sky Brook, the on-site Thistle & Thyme restaurant continues to serve as the primary venue for breakfast, offering a hearty start for guests attending early morning symposiums or medical appointments.
Modernized Accommodations & The M Club Experience
The renovation has introduced a “warm and electric” design philosophy to the guest rooms, moving away from traditional hotel decor to a more residential, texture-rich aesthetic. The updates prioritize the needs of the modern business traveler, featuring ergonomic workstations, enhanced high-speed Wi-Fi, and plentiful power connectivity.
| Feature | Details | Target Audience |
|---|---|---|
| M Club Lounge | Exclusive 24/7 access, complimentary breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres, and a dedicated hospitality suite with a private balcony. | Marriott Bonvoy Elites & Executive Travelers |
| Guest Rooms | Refreshed decor with “warm” tones, luxury bedding, and mountain or city views. | Visiting Physicians, Faculty, & Families |
| Connectivity | Upgraded fiber-optic Wi-Fi and mobile key access. | Biotech Professionals & Researchers |
Strategic Location & Connectivity
Positioned at 480 Wakara Way, the hotel remains the only full-service Marriott property directly inside Research Park. Its location offers unmatched proximity to key institutional landmarks, supported by a complimentary shuttle service operating within a 2-mile radius.
- Huntsman Cancer Institute: ~1 mile (Accessible via hotel shuttle)
- Rice-Eccles Stadium: Adjacent (Walking distance for Pac-12 sports and major events)
- Natural History Museum of Utah & Red Butte Garden: < 1 mile ( scenic walk or short shuttle ride)
- Downtown Salt Lake City: ~3 miles (Accessible via nearby TRAX light rail connection)
Supporting the Academic Mission
The renovation comes at a pivotal time for the University of Utah. With the recent announcement of the J.W. Marriott, Jr. Institute—a new hospitality leadership center funded by a $25 million grant—the connection between the Marriott brand and the university ecosystem is stronger than ever. The refurbished Salt Lake City Marriott University Park serves as the physical embodiment of this partnership, providing high-caliber support for university events, medical conferences, and the influx of talent driven by the University of Utah Research Park Act.
In-Depth Q&A
Q: What serves as the new dining focus at the Salt Lake City Marriott University Park?
The newly established Sky Brook Kitchen + Bar is the property’s culinary centerpiece, offering eclectic American comfort food and local spirits in a redesigned, modern lounge setting.
Q: Does the hotel offer transportation to the Huntsman Cancer Institute?
Yes, the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle service within a 2-mile radius, which includes the Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah Hospital, and other Research Park locations.
Q: What amenities are available in the M Club at this location?
The M Club lounge offers 24/7 access to snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, a daily buffet breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres, high-speed Wi-Fi, and a dedicated space for work or relaxation, including a hospitality suite with a balcony.
Q: Is the hotel renovation complete?
The hotel has been undergoing a comprehensive multi-year renovation starting in 2022/2023. While major components like the Sky Brook Kitchen + Bar and guest room refreshes are largely in place, some final touches may be ongoing as of early 2026.
Q: How close is the hotel to Rice-Eccles Stadium?
The hotel is adjacent to Rice-Eccles Stadium, making it the closest full-service hotel for guests attending Utah Utes football games, stadium concerts, or university events.
