17 Best Things to Do in St. George for First-Time Visitors in 2024

Many travelers use St. George as a starting point to visit Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon, often overlooking the fantastic hiking opportunities nearby.

Since St. George is just under two hours from Las Vegas, we’ve taken several day trips to climb Moe’s Valley.

However, this was our first time fully exploring the city and discovering the hidden treasures the area has to offer.

If you’re heading to Zion but want to avoid the crowds, here are some breathtaking things to do in St. George, Utah that you won’t want to miss if you are a first-time visitor.

17. Little Black Mountain Petroglyphs

If you’re a history enthusiast, don’t miss this short 0.8-mile hike that leads you to over 500 fascinating rock art designs etched into the cliffs and boulders.

The petroglyphs represent the artistry of the Great Basin, Western Anasazi, and Lower Colorado River cultures.

Tip: The main access road is currently closed due to a state land lease for a gravel pit. The best alternative route is via the Glitter Mine, but be cautious—this path doesn’t fare well in the rain and can become impassable during heavy downpours.

16. Moe’s Valley Bouldering

For bouldering enthusiasts, Moe’s Valley is a must-visit in St. George. While some climbers say the grading is soft, we found the routes to be enjoyable no matter the difficulty. It’s also an ideal spot for gym climbers looking to transition to outdoor bouldering.

Our favorite area so far is Super Mario Land, but there are plenty of other exciting spots to explore in Moe’s Valley, and we’re sure to discover even more.

Tip: We grabbed the bouldering guide from The Desert Rat (shop local!). The guide covers the entire St. George area, and if you need any outdoor gear, it’s the perfect place to stock up.

15. Quail Creek State Park

Quail Creek State Park

Address: 472 5300 W, Hurricane, UT 84737
Fee: $20 per vehicle ($15 for Utah residents)

This reservoir is a favorite among boaters and anglers, offering some of the warmest waters and a mild winter climate.

Beyond fishing and boating, visitors can camp, hike, and take in the stunning landscapes surrounding the area.

With a maximum depth of 120 feet, the reservoir is stocked with rainbow trout, bullhead catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, and bluegill, making it a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts.

14. Red Hills Desert Garden

Address: 375 Red Hills Pkwy, St. George, UT 84770

At first, we weren’t sure what to expect from this free desert garden, as the entrance didn’t seem particularly impressive.

However, as we ventured further, we were pleasantly surprised by how enjoyable it was to explore. The garden boasts 5,000 water-efficient plants, real dinosaur tracks, and even a replica slot canyon.

If you’re planning a visit to Pioneer Park, Red Hills Desert Garden is conveniently located right next to it.

Tip: There’s a bridge overlooking the artificial slot canyon, which is an excellent vantage point for capturing photos of people below.

13. Pioneer Park

Pioneer Park, Utah

Address: 375 Red Hills Pkwy, St. George, UT 84770

As soon as we arrived at Pioneer Park, we were amazed by the stunning landscape right in the heart of the city. A favorite activity here is climbing up Dixie Rock (also known as Dixie Sugarloaf) to catch the sunset and take in panoramic views of St. George.

We also enjoyed exploring the slot canyons, known as the St. George Narrows, and noticed there’s rock climbing available in the park as well. Since it had rained the day before, we chose not to climb to avoid damaging the routes, but we’re planning a return visit.

Tip: There are two parking lots—one dedicated to Dixie Sugarloaf and another that provides access to the loop trail.

12. Sand Hollow State Park

Sand Hollow State Park in Utah

Address: 3351 Sand Hollow Rd, Hurricane, UT 84737
Fees: $20 per vehicle on weekdays / $25 on weekends ($15 / $20 for Utah residents)

The striking contrast between the red sandstone landscape and the clear blue waters makes Sand Hollow State Park a must-see.

As one of Utah’s newer and most popular state parks for water-based activities, it’s a hub for recreation.

Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and diving in the Sand Hollow Reservoir, explore the dunes of Sand Mountain on off-road vehicles, or camp either in a designated campground or right on the beach.

Tip: For the latest updates and conditions, check their social media pages.

11. Brigham Young Winter Home

Brigham Young Winter Home in Utah

Address: 67 W 200 N, St. George, UT 84770

Although the Brigham Young Winter Home was closed during our visit due to COVID-19, we still enjoyed seeing the exterior.

As the name suggests, this was where Brigham Young and his family resided during the winter months.

When the home is open, visitors can take a guided tour and learn about Young’s family life and his leadership in directing the settlement of the region.

10. St. George Utah Temple

St. George Utah Temple

Address: 250 E 400 S, St. George, UT 84770

The St. George Utah Temple is an iconic landmark, easily recognizable in the city.

It holds the distinction of being the longest-operating temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Once renovations are completed, there will be an open house where the public can tour the inside.

After this period, only church members will have access, but visitors can still admire the temple’s beauty from its exterior grounds.

Tip: Currently, the temple is covered in scaffolding due to ongoing renovations, so it’s not the best time to visit up close. However, you can still enjoy a distant view of the temple without noticing the construction of Dixie Sugarloaf.

9. Town Square Park

Town Square Park, St. George in Utah

Address: 50 S Main St, St. George, UT 84770

Town Square Park is a charming green space located in the heart of the downtown historic district, where we stayed.

It’s surrounded by some of the city’s most significant historic buildings and offers lovely features like water fountains, open areas to unwind, and a picturesque vintage carousel.

When we visited in mid-March, the park was filled with trees in full spring bloom, and we even spotted a few engagement photo sessions taking place.

Tip: The park hosts various events throughout the year, such as First Night celebrations, art festivals, and Summer Movies on the Square.

8. Snow Canyon State Park

Address: 1002 Snow Canyon Dr, Ivins, UT 84738
Fees: $15 per vehicle ($10 for Utah residents)

During our visit to Snow Canyon State Park, we only had a few afternoon hours, so we opted to hike to Scout Cave and Jenny’s Canyon.

While the hike to Scout Cave wasn’t the most scenic, the cave itself was impressive.

What’s remarkable is that this beautiful state park is just 10 minutes from St. George.

Many visitors overlook it, focusing on Zion instead, but after chatting with locals, we realized it’s a hidden gem.

Tip: Snow Canyon has numerous trails to explore, and if we had known, we would have set aside a full day just for the park.
Photo Tip: If you can’t catch the sunrise or sunset, aim to visit Scout Cave in the morning for the best lighting, as the afternoon light isn’t as flattering.

7. Kayenta Art Village

Kayenta Art Village in St. George, Utah

Address: 851 Coyote Gulch Ct, Ivins, UT 84738

For art lovers, Kayenta Art Village is a hidden gem filled with art galleries and studios. This small artistic community also features a theatre, hosts art festivals, and offers a variety of dining options.

Tip: If you’re planning to visit a specific gallery or shop, it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm their hours. We went based on the general village hours, only to find that several spots were still closed.

6. The Bowl (AKA the Vortex Hike)

The Bowl (AKA the Vortex Hike)

Coordinates: 37.280004,-113.7413139

The Vortex Hike is truly one-of-a-kind, and if you’re looking for a standout hike near St. George, this should be at the top of your list. The Vortex rock formation itself is incredible, but the entire hike offers captivating scenery.

While it’s a popular spot, especially on weekends, we only encountered one other group during our mid-week visit. The hike is moderately challenging, with a roundtrip distance of about 2.16 miles, taking approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, not including the time you’ll want to spend at the Vortex.

Tip: The last 5 miles of the drive are on unpaved roads. During our visit, recent snowfall made parts of the road muddy and a bit tricky. Although high clearance and 4-wheel drive are helpful, we did see a minivan parked there as well.
Photo Tip: Timing is key when photographing the Vortex. The sun’s position dramatically affects the lighting, so aim to be there at dawn, dusk, or midday when the sun is directly overhead to avoid harsh shadows. If it’s a cloudy day, anytime will work.
Hiking Tip: We highly recommend downloading an offline map, as some trail markers (cairns) can be difficult to spot. Using a map from AllTrails+ ensures you won’t get lost.

5. Red Cliffs Recreation Area

Address: 345 East Riverside Drive, St. George, UT 84790

If you’re seeking to explore the desert landscape, Red Cliffs Recreation Area is a fantastic option. The towering red sandstone cliffs will leave you feeling small in comparison, and you’ll be able to step back in time as you explore remnants of an ancient Virgin Anasazi habitation.

A popular, easy trail to check out is the Red Reef Trail. You can also visit the Orson Adams House for a peek into pioneer life and spot dinosaur tracks along the Silver Reef Trail.

Tip: Parking is limited, with only 52 general-use spaces, which can lead to congestion. Additionally, the road passes through tunnels that only accommodate vehicles under 12 feet in height or width, so plan accordingly.

4. Tuacahn Amphitheater

Tuacahn Amphitheater in Utah

Address: 1100 Tuacahn Dr, Ivins, UT 84738

Though no-shows were running during our visit due to COVID-19, the Tuacahn Amphitheater instantly reminded us of the Red Rocks Amphitheater near Denver.

Nestled within a canyon, this stunning outdoor venue offers music and theatrical performances against a breathtaking red rock backdrop.

After seeing it in person, we’re eager to return for a live show.

Since its opening in 1995, Tuacahn has staged over 60 major musical theater productions and hosted more than 200 concerts.

Tip: If you don’t have time to catch a show but still want to experience the amphitheater’s beauty, stop by their cafe, which offers a view overlooking the venue.

3. St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm

St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm

Address: 2180 E Riverside Dr, St. George, UT 84790
Fee: $10 for adults / $5 for children

Whether you had a dinosaur phase as a kid or are still fascinated by them, the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site is a must-visit.

I was surprised to learn just how many fossils have been found in the area. The museum allows you to get up close with fossils and features five life-sized dinosaur models.

You can also check out a real fossil prep lab and enjoy the adjacent park.

2. Zion Factory Stores

Zion Factory Stores

Address: 250 N Red Cliffs Dr, St. George, UT 84790

If you’re in the mood for some shopping, Zion Factory Stores is a great stop.

This outdoor shopping center offers a range of outlet stores, including name-brand clothing, accessories, and footwear.

It’s a great place to take a break from the outdoors and enjoy some retail therapy, with stores like Nike, Levi’s, and Eddie Bauer offering discounted prices.

Tip: Plan your visit for weekdays or earlier in the morning to avoid crowds, as the outlets can get busy during weekends and holidays.

1. Dixie Red Hills Golf Course

Dixie Red Hills Golf Course

Address: 645 W 1250 N, St. George, UT 84770

For golf enthusiasts, Dixie Red Hills Golf Course is a scenic 9-hole course nestled among the red rock formations.

Opened in 1965, it’s the oldest public golf course in St. George, and its unique landscape makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

The course is perfect for a relaxing round of golf, with well-maintained fairways and spectacular views of the surrounding cliffs.

Tip: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to play for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, especially during the summer months.

Additional Things to Do in St George UT

Museums in St George

Museums in St. George	Description
Brigham Young Winter House 67 W 200 N, St. George, UT	Offers insight into the life of early Mormon leader Brigham Young.
Daughters of Utah Pioneer Museum 145 N 100 E, St. George, UT	A museum focused on the pioneering history of St. George.
Jacob Hamblin Home 450 N 300 E, Santa Clara, UT	A significant site showcasing pioneer history and the life of Jacob Hamblin.
Mountain Meadow Massacre Memorial 37.4755096,-113.6457928	Memorial commemorating a tragic historical event in 1857.
Rosenbruch World Wildlife Museum 1835 S Convention Center Dr, St. George, UT	A museum dedicated to wildlife from around the world.
Sears Art Museum Gallery 155 S University Ave, St. George, UT	Exhibits local and regional art in various mediums.
St George City Art Museum 47 E 200 N, St. George, UT	Focuses on art from a wide range of cultures and eras.
St George Children’s Museum 86 S Main St, St. George, UT	An interactive museum designed for children to explore and learn.
Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm 2180 E Riverside Dr, St. George, UT	Features dinosaur fossils and life-sized models for prehistoric enthusiasts.
Western Sky Aviation Warbird Museum 4196 S Airport Pkwy, St. George, UT	A museum for aviation enthusiasts, showcasing warbirds and aviation history.

St George Hikes

St. George Hikes	Description
Scout Cave (Snow Canyon) 3.6 mi	A moderately challenging hike with stunning cave views.
Lava Tube Trail (Snow Canyon) 2.3 mi	An adventure through lava tubes, offering a unique geological experience.
Petrified Dunes Trail 1.2 mi	An easy hike with mesmerizing views of petrified dunes.
Butterfly Trail to Lava Flow Overlook 2.8 mi	A scenic, easy trail leading to spectacular lava flow views.
Pioneer Names Trail 0.4 mi	A short trail featuring historical names etched in the rocks by early settlers.
Jenny’s Canyon 0.3 mi	A quick, enjoyable walk through a narrow canyon.
Johnson Canyon Trail 1.7 mi (Closed from mid-March to mid-September)	A beautiful canyon trail, though seasonally closed for wildlife conservation.
Cinder Cone Trail 1.7 mi	A moderately challenging hike up a cinder cone with fantastic views.
Cove Wash Trails 7.8 mi	A moderate trail that winds through picturesque desert landscapes.
Yellow Knolls Trail 3.8 mi	A moderate hike through scenic Red Cliffs Desert Reserve with unique rock formations.
Red Reef Trail 2.2 mi	A fun, moderate hike that features waterfalls and beautiful red cliffs.
Water Canyon Hike (Hilldale) 5.8 mi	A challenging hike with steep climbs and rewarding canyon views.
The Narrows (Zion) 15.5 mi	A world-famous hike through the Virgin River, offering stunning canyon walls and an adventurous experience.
Angels Landing (Zion) 5 mi	An iconic and intense hike in Zion National Park, offering breathtaking panoramic views.

Best Restaurants in St George Utah

St. George features a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets. Angelica’s Mexican Grill offers delicious Mexican dishes at a budget-friendly price. For a more upscale New American experience, try Cliffside Restaurant or the refined Painted Pony.

If you’re traveling through Utah, Salt Lake City also offers numerous dining spots, such as Oquirrh.

If brunch is what you’re after, the sweet options at The Crepery are a local favorite. For something unique, Hawaiian Poke Bowl serves poke with distinct onion and ginger flavors, a pleasant find in this city. Pizza lovers will enjoy the wood-fired pies at Riggatti’s Pizza.

Satisfy your sushi cravings at Sakura Sushi and Japanese Steakhouse. Sloth Cookies is a must-visit bakery, especially for their sugar cookies. Viva Chicken offers Peruvian flavors, originating from a Charlotte-based company. Lastly, Zion Brewery is perfect for beer enthusiasts.

Restaurant	Cuisine	Price
Angelica’s Mexican Grill	Mexican	💰
Cliffside Restaurant	New American	💰💰
The Crepery	Brunch	💰
Hawaiian Poke Bowl	Poke	💰
Painted Pony	New American	💰💰💰
Riggatti’s Pizza	Pizza	💰💰
Sakura Sushi and Japanese Steakhouse	Japanese	💰💰
Sloth Cookies	Bakery	💰
Viva Chicken	Peruvian	💰
Zion Brewery	Beer	💰