Bluffdale, named for its geography of bluffs and dales, was first settled in 1848–1849, when the area was originally part of West Jordan.

On July 29, 1858, Orrin Porter Rockwell paid five- hundred dollars to Evan M. Green for sixteen acres of land near the Crystal Hot Lakes (adjacent to the present Utah State Prison).

On August 1, 1886, the Bluffdale Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was organized with Lewis H. Mousley as Bishop.

Seven irrigation canals originate at the Jordan Narrows in the Bluffdale area and serve the Salt Lake Valley.

Some of the early buildings included an adobe church, built in 1887–1888, a tithing house, and a three-room schoolhouse constructed in 1893.

Bluffdale shares city borders with Herriman to the west, Riverton to the north, Draper to the east, and Lehi to the south.

Bluffdale is surrounded by wide open spaces with dramatic views of the Wasatch and Oquirrh Mountain Ranges.

At 40 acres, the park caters to the recreational needs of the region by providing a splash pad, a 25-foot tall watchtower, pickleball and basketball courts, bouldering walls, zip lines, and other amenities.

Bluffdale is part of the Salt Lake City, Utah Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Salt Lake City International Airport is approximately 28 miles (45 km) north of Bluffdale.