St. George, Utah, is a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts, history lovers, and those seeking a scenic escape. Nestled in the southwest corner of Utah, this vibrant city offers stunning red rock landscapes, world-class hiking, and easy access to Zion National Park. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, St. George has something for everyone.
This guide covers the best things to do in St. George, including top attractions, outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and the best places to eat.
Things to Do in St. George
1. Explore Zion National Park
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Distance from St. George: About 45 minutes
Zion National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the U.S., and it’s a must-visit for anyone traveling to St. George. Known for its towering cliffs, deep canyons, and breathtaking trails, Zion offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Top Hikes in Zion National Park:
- Angels Landing – One of the most thrilling hikes in the U.S. (permit required)
- The Narrows – A unique hike through a river canyon
- Emerald Pools Trail – A scenic hike leading to beautiful waterfalls and pools
- Observation Point – A stunning overlook with fewer crowds than Angels Landing
- Canyon Overlook Trail – A short but rewarding hike with panoramic views
Tip: Start early in the morning to avoid crowds, and take the free shuttle in peak season.
2. Visit Snow Canyon State Park
Located just minutes from St. George, Snow Canyon State Park is like a mini-Zion but with far fewer visitors. This underrated park features red and white sandstone cliffs, lava tubes, and scenic trails.
Things to Do in Snow Canyon State Park:
- Hike the Petrified Dunes Trail for incredible rock formations
- Explore the Lava Tube Caves formed by ancient volcanic activity
- Walk Jenny’s Canyon, a short and easy slot canyon hike
- Go horseback riding or mountain biking on designated trails
- Catch the sunset at Snow Canyon Overlook
Tip: Entrance is only $10 per vehicle, making it an affordable alternative to Zion.
3. Explore Pioneer Park and the St. George Narrows
Pioneer Park is a free outdoor playground filled with red rock formations, slot canyons, and stunning city views.
Things to Do at Pioneer Park:
- Squeeze through the St. George Narrows, a tight slot canyon adventure
- Climb to Dixie Rock (Sugarloaf) for panoramic views of St. George
- Enjoy a picnic in the scenic desert landscape
- Hike to the Pioneer Park Arch, a small but picturesque rock arch
Tip: Wear good shoes, as the rocks can be slippery.
4. Discover the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site
If you love dinosaurs, this museum is a must-visit. The St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm features thousands of well-preserved dinosaur footprints, fossils, and interactive exhibits.
Highlights:
- Walk along 200-million-year-old dinosaur tracks
- See fossilized fish, plants, and dinosaur bones
- Enjoy hands-on exhibits for kids and families
Tip: It’s a great indoor activity for hot summer days.
5. Visit the Historic Downtown St. George
St. George has a charming historic downtown filled with local shops, cafes, and historic buildings.
Things to Do in Downtown St. George:
- Visit the Brigham Young Winter Home
- Explore the St. George Tabernacle, a beautiful 19th-century church
- Shop for souvenirs and gifts at local boutiques and art galleries
- Grab a coffee at Affogato West or Judd’s Store, an old-fashioned soda fountain
6. Hike to Kanarra Falls
Distance from St. George: About 50 minutes
For those looking for a less crowded version of The Narrows, Kanarra Falls is the perfect alternative. This slot canyon hike features a scenic creek, waterfalls, and wooden ladders.
What to Expect:
- A moderate 4-mile round-trip hike
- Walking through water (wear water shoes)
- Stunning waterfalls and canyon views
Tip: A permit is required, so book in advance.
7. Take a Day Trip to Sand Hollow State Park
Distance from St. George: About 20 minutes
Sand Hollow State Park is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering boating, ATV riding, and beautiful red sand beaches.
Things to Do at Sand Hollow:
- Swim, kayak, or paddleboard in the crystal-clear lake
- Rent an ATV and ride the Sand Mountain Dunes
- Go fishing for bass in the reservoir
- Cliff jump from the red rocks into the lake
Tip: Bring sunscreen and plenty of water, especially in summer.
8. Explore Quail Creek State Park
Another great outdoor spot, Quail Creek State Park, is known for its boating, fishing, and kayaking opportunities. It’s a quieter alternative to Sand Hollow and offers a peaceful escape.
Activities:
- Rent a kayak or paddleboard
- Fish for bass and trout
- Hike around the reservoir for scenic views
9. See Petroglyphs at Little Black Mountain
For a fascinating look into Native American history, visit Little Black Mountain Petroglyph Site, where you’ll find ancient rock carvings dating back thousands of years.
What to Expect:
- Short and easy hike to the petroglyphs
- Hundreds of ancient rock carvings
- Beautiful desert scenery
Tip: Visit in the morning or evening for cooler temperatures.
10. Go Golfing at One of St. George’s Beautiful Courses
St. George is home to some of the best golf courses in Utah, with stunning red rock backdrops.
Top Golf Courses in St. George:
- Sand Hollow Golf Resort – One of the top-rated courses in the U.S.
- Coral Canyon Golf Course – Beautiful views and challenging holes
- Sunbrook Golf Course – A great mix of scenery and fun layouts
Tip: Book tee times in advance, especially during peak seasons.
11. Enjoy Local Dining in St. George
St. George has a growing food scene with delicious restaurants for every taste.
Best Restaurants in St. George:
- Cliffside Restaurant – Incredible views and upscale dining
- Black Bear Diner – Classic American comfort food
- Painted Pony – Fine dining with a Southwestern twist
- Wood Ash Rye – Farm-to-table dining with fresh ingredients
- George’s Corner Restaurant – A local favorite for breakfast and lunch
Tip: Try the local Utah scones—they’re more like fried dough and absolutely delicious.
12. Experience Tuacahn Amphitheatre
Located in Snow Canyon, Tuacahn Amphitheatre is a must-visit for live entertainment. This outdoor theater hosts Broadway-style shows with red rock cliffs as a natural backdrop.
What to See:
- Broadway musicals
- Concerts and special performances
- Seasonal holiday events
Tip: Check the schedule in advance and book tickets early.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in St. George
1. What is St. George, Utah, best known for?
The City is known for:
- Proximity to Zion National Park (45 minutes away)
- Red rock landscapes and outdoor recreation
- Snow Canyon State Park, a lesser-known but stunning park
- Tuacahn Amphitheatre, an outdoor theater surrounded by cliffs
- Dinosaur tracks and prehistoric sites
- Golf courses with breathtaking desert views
2. What are the best outdoor activities in The City?
- Hike in Zion National Park (Angels Landing, The Narrows, Emerald Pools)
- Explore Snow Canyon State Park (Petrified Dunes, Lava Tubes, Jenny’s Canyon)
- Go rock climbing in the stunning red rock formations
- Mountain bike in the Bearclaw Poppy Trail or Gooseberry Mesa
- Visit Sand Hollow State Park for ATV rides and water sports
- Go golfing at one its top-rated courses
- Explore Pioneer Park and the St. George Narrows
3. What are the best hikes near the City?
- Angels Landing (Zion National Park) – A bucket-list hike (permit required)
- The Narrows (Zion National Park) – A hike through a river canyon
- Petrified Dunes Trail (Snow Canyon) – A scenic walk over rolling rock formations
- Red Cliffs Desert Reserve – Offers beautiful views and unique rock formations
- Kanarra Falls – A slot canyon hike with waterfalls (permit required)
- Canyon Overlook Trail (Zion) – A short but rewarding hike with epic views
4. What are the best free things to do in St. George?
- Explore Pioneer Park – Climb red rocks and squeeze through slot canyons
- Visit the Narrows – A fun and free slot canyon adventure
- Check out the Little Black Mountain Petroglyphs
- Walk through Historic Downtown St. George
- See the Temple and Visitor Center
- Hike in Snow Canyon State Park (small entrance fee, but worth it)
5. Is The City a good place for families?
Yes! St. George has plenty of family-friendly activities, including:
- St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site – See real dinosaur tracks
- Sand Hollow State Park – Perfect for swimming, boating, and playing in the sand
- Pioneer Park – Fun rock formations for kids to climb
- Red Hills Desert Garden – A free botanical garden with desert plants and fossils
- Children’s Museum of St. George – Interactive exhibits for young kids
Final Thoughts
The City is an adventure-packed destination filled with red rock landscapes, thrilling hikes, historic sites, and scenic state parks. Whether you’re hiking in Zion, exploring Pioneer Park, or enjoying a relaxing day at Sand Hollow, there’s something for everyone in this Utah gem.
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