Located in southern Utah, the city of St. George is a popular tourist destination for people in the US and around the world. In addition, it is the starting place for travellers visiting Utah’s surrounding canyons and deserts. You need to focus on three things when planning a trip anywhere. Where you are going to stay, places you are going to visit, and things you are going to do. Given that this town has so much to offer, you will have plenty of options. So here is a guide for first-time visitors to make the most of your stay in this stunning city.
Where To Stay In St. George?
Whether you are visiting for the first time or are a frequent visitor, you don’t want to get caught up in the peak season rush in St. George. If you’ve made an itinerary for your trip, consider all the places you want to visit on your journey. So when looking for vacation rentals in St George Utah, find a location near all the popular attractions and parks you want to see.
Places To Visit In St. George
The metropolis enjoys milder winters than the rest of the state, thanks to its favourable latitude and elevation. So, staying in St. George will be one of the highlights of your trip because of the town’s comfortable hotels, excellent dining options, and charming small-town atmosphere!
#1. St. George Utah Temple
This magnificent structure, which takes up an entire city block, is a St. George must-see. The temple’s construction started in 1872 and was completed five years later. Although only practicing Mormons are allowed inside the temple, non-Mormons are welcome to stop by the visitor centre.
The open temple grounds are especially lovely in the spring because of the abundance of mature trees and flowering plants. The temple is spectacularly white, reflective, and easy to spot from anywhere in the city.
#2. Red Cliffs National Conservation Area
Red Cliffs National Conservation Area covers a total area of 45,000 acres and is truly a sight to behold. Dixie National Forest and the Pine Valley Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for this park. It is a refuge for the Mojave Desert Tortoise and other threatened species. The park also features the spectacular Red Cliffs, a popular destination for rock climbers and photographers. Moreover, there are nearly 150 miles of trails in the park to explore, providing an opportunity for some truly unforgettable nature watching.
#3. Red Hills Desert Garden
When it comes to local flora, look no further than Red Hills Desert Garden. More than five thousand plants thrive in the garden, some so vividly hued that they practically radiate against the reddish soil and rocks.
As you stroll through the garden, you will see metal stakes with written descriptions of the plants. A replica slot canyon and dinosaur tracks dating back 200 million years are also on display. The garden is not far from Pioneer Park. If planned properly, it is not difficult to combine a trip to this location while visiting the nearby Pioneer Park.
#4. Judd’s Store
Stop by Judd’s Store in the heart of St. George for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience. The atmosphere inside this classic general store is like something out of a bygone era of the American West. Perhaps the only things missing are Jim Hardie and the horses tied outside. This retail establishment first opened its doors 110 years ago. Its weathered wood front and antique gas pump are dead giveaways you cannot miss. You can find a large selection of sodas, ice cream, snack foods, etc., in the store. Judd also serves light lunches, such as nachos, sandwiches, and homemade soups; you can eat them at a table inside or out on the patio front.
#5. Western Sky Aviation Warbird Museum
The beginning of flight up to the present day is a fascinating thing in our history. And there is no better way to learn about this phase than by going to the Western Sky Aviation Warbird Museum. This museum displays, restores and maintains aircraft to educate visitors. It costs nothing to enter the museum.
It houses aircraft from the British Royal Air Force, World War II, and the Korean War, all built in the 20th century. At this museum, you can discover the history of the warbirds and the brave pilots who flew them.
#6. Grafton Ghost Town
Grafton is the most photographed western ghost town for a good reason. Its spooky buildings and old-timey ambiance continue to draw visitors. Several films, including Sundance Kid and Butch Cassidy, have helped to popularise this abandoned settlement. Grafton gives viewers, even those who are not usually into westerns, a look at what it was like to live in the Wild West. Also, do not forget to visit the cemetery.
Things To Do In St. George
#1. Go Golfing!
St. George, Utah, is a great place to play golf since, on average, the city has 300 sunny days per year. You may play a round of golf at any of the more than ten public courses in the area. In St. George, you can play golf at any course with breathtaking views of the city’s red granite and white sandstone cliffs.
#2. Attend the Art and Wine Festival!
St. George hosts an art and wine festival on the last Saturday of August. It was originally conceived as a platform for showcasing domestic wines and providing social and networking opportunities for the local artistic community in St. George. However, the event has expanded over time and now features a broader range of local products. You can go there to relax in the shade or learn about the area’s history and natural ecology. Either way, it is worth your time.
Wrap Up: Vacation Guide to St George And Utah
St. George is a flourishing metropolis that serves as an excellent launchpad for exploring the surrounding area. Even better, you can reach the city from Las Vegas in a few hours. So next time you are around the city, follow this little guide to make your first trip to this beautiful town.
What about you, have you been to Utah or St George? Feel free to share any advice & tips below!
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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