Located at 11 West Merrimac Avenue in Salt Lake City’s Liberty Wells neighborhood, Gabbott’s Row places residents in a centrally connected area with access to a wide range of public schools, charter options, and higher education institutions. This part of Salt Lake City offers a balance of neighborhood-scale living and citywide educational access, making it appealing to households at many stages of life.
The neighborhood is served primarily by the Salt Lake City School District, one of Utah’s most established districts. Known for its focus on academic achievement, student support, and inclusive programming, the district consistently performs at or above state averages in core subjects. Combined with the proximity to downtown Salt Lake City and the University of Utah, Gabbott’s Row offers a rare blend of urban convenience and educational opportunity.

Elementary Schools Near Gabbott’s Row
Elementary education options near Gabbott’s Row include both traditional public schools and charter schools located within approximately one mile of the neighborhood. This close proximity supports walkability, biking, and short daily commutes, while still offering families multiple educational paths.
Whittier School
Whittier School is located approximately 0.6 miles from Gabbott’s Row and serves grades PK–6. As one of the closest traditional public elementary schools to the neighborhood, Whittier is a common option for families living in the Liberty Wells area.
The school emphasizes foundational academics, literacy development, and community engagement. Its proximity makes it especially appealing for families seeking a neighborhood-based elementary experience within Salt Lake City.
Middle Schools Close to Gabbott’s Row
As students transition into middle school, access to quality academic and extracurricular programs becomes even more important. Residents of Gabbott’s Row are well positioned near two respected middle schools.
Middle school availability near Gabbott’s Row includes both charter and district-operated schools. Because middle school boundaries can vary by year and enrollment, families are encouraged to confirm placement directly with the district.
Hillside Middle School
Hillside Middle School is located approximately 4 miles from Gabbott’s Row and serves grades 7–8. While not within the immediate neighborhood, it is a well-known Salt Lake City middle school offering a traditional academic structure, electives in music and the arts, and extracurricular opportunities.
High Schools Serving the Gabbott’s Row Area
High school students living at Gabbott’s Row have access to some of Salt Lake City’s most respected public high schools, each offering rigorous academics and extensive extracurricular opportunities.
Innovations High School
Innovations High School is located approximately 0.6 miles from Gabbott’s Row, making it one of the closest high school options to the neighborhood. The school focuses on personalized learning, flexible pacing, and college and career readiness.
This option is particularly appealing for students who benefit from smaller class sizes and individualized academic support.
Highland High School
Highland High School is located approximately 3.6 miles from Gabbott’s Row and is one of Salt Lake City’s long-established public high schools. The school offers Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors classes, athletics, and a wide range of extracurricular programs.
Highland serves a broad section of the city and is known for strong academic offerings alongside arts, athletics, and student leadership opportunities.
Higher Education Minutes from Gabbott’s Row
Salt Lake City is a major center for higher education, and Gabbott’s Row places residents within minutes of top institutions offering a wide range of academic and professional pathways.
University of Utah
The University of Utah campus is located roughly 3.8 miles from Gabbott’s Row. As a leading public research university, the U offers hundreds of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree programs. It is nationally recognized for research, healthcare education, engineering, and business programs.
The university’s close ties to Salt Lake City’s healthcare systems, technology firms, and research institutions provide students with strong internship and career placement opportunities.
Salt Lake Community College
Salt Lake Community College South City Campus is located about 0.6 miles from Gabbott’s Row, offering associate degrees, technical certifications, and continuing education programs. SLCC is especially popular with working professionals, adult learners, and students seeking flexible schedules or affordable pathways to four-year degrees.
Ensign College
Located in downtown Salt Lake City, Ensign College is just about 2.7 miles from Gabbott’s Row, making it a short drive or bike ride. Ensign College focuses on career-oriented education with degree programs in business, technology, communication, and service industries. Known for its hands-on learning approach, the college emphasizes real-world skills, professional development, and strong job placement outcomes, making it an appealing option for students seeking practical, workforce-ready education in the heart of the city.
Westminster University
Westminster University is a private liberal arts university located approximately 3.6 miles from Gabbott’s Row, near the Sugar House neighborhood. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as business, health sciences, education, technology, and the arts.
Known for small class sizes and a student-centered academic environment, Westminster provides a more intimate alternative to larger public universities. Its proximity makes it a convenient option for students, faculty, and staff seeking housing in centrally located Salt Lake City neighborhoods.
Living at Gabbott’s Row: Education Meets Urban Convenience
Living at Gabbott’s Row means being surrounded by educational opportunities at every level—many within walking distance and most just minutes away by car. This central location allows residents to enjoy short school commutes, access to top universities, and all the benefits of downtown Salt Lake City living.
From early childhood education through post-secondary studies, the neighborhood offers a rare combination of convenience, quality, and choice. For families, professionals, and students alike, Gabbott’s Row delivers an ideal environment for learning and growth.
Explore Our Neighborhood
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salt Lake City a good place for families looking for strong schools?
Yes. Salt Lake City is considered one of the best places in Utah for families who prioritize education. The city offers a wide range of high-performing public schools, charter and private options, and nationally recognized higher education institutions. Central neighborhoods like Gabbott’s Row are especially appealing because they provide access to strong schools within short walk or drive times, along with urban amenities and community resources.
What school district serves downtown Salt Lake City?
Downtown Salt Lake City is served by the Salt Lake City School District. The district oversees elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the city and is known for above-average academic performance, diverse programming, and strong college-preparation opportunities. Many of the district’s most established schools are located in or near downtown neighborhoods.
Are there walkable schools near downtown Salt Lake City?
Yes. Several downtown and central Salt Lake City neighborhoods offer walkable access to schools. Near Gabbott’s Row, students can walk to both elementary and high school campuses, which is a major benefit for families seeking convenience and reduced commute times. Walkability to schools is one of the features that makes downtown Salt Lake City attractive to families and professionals alike.
How do Salt Lake City high schools rank compared to the rest of Utah?
Salt Lake City high schools consistently perform well compared to schools across the state. Many offer Advanced Placement (AP) courses, honors programs, and concurrent enrollment options that allow students to earn college credit while still in high school. Graduation rates and college-readiness indicators in Salt Lake City schools often exceed state averages, particularly at well-established campuses near downtown.
What colleges and universities are located in Salt Lake City?
Salt Lake City is home to several major higher education institutions, including the University of Utah and Salt Lake Community College. These schools offer a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, professional, and continuing education programs. Their presence strengthens Salt Lake City’s reputation as an education and innovation hub and provides convenient options for students and working professionals living near the city center.