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20 Fun Things to do in St. George Utah
St. George Utah is a hidden gem in red rock country, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation and exploration. This city has something for everyone. Get ready to discover the top things to do in St. George, from its historic downtown to its breathtaking natural wonders.
St George, Utah is one of my favorite cities in Utah and I have been dozens of times. There is so much to do in St. George, Utah. I have been several times and never get bored and I am always finding new things to do and new adventures to go on. It’s the perfect place for foodies, thrill seekers, thrift store lovers, families and more. I decided to compile a list of the top 20 fun things to do in St. George!
Updated: February 2024
St George Utah Hotels- Where to Stay in St. George
The Advenire:
My friends, my husband and I headed down to St. George and decided to check out the brand new Advenire Hotel right in the heart of downtown. The Advenire Hotel is part of the Autograph Collection and is a Marriot property. I have always loved the Autograph Collection and their attention to detail and design. I was very happy with our stay at The Advenire and highly recommend it.
I would describe the Advenire hotel in St. George, Utah as Pioneer Chic. It is a cozy boutique hotel in the best location for shopping, dining and exploring downtown St. George Utah. This lobby is my favorite out of any hotel in St. George, Utah. Many of the rooms have views of the beautiful red rocks of St. George, Utah. Some even have their own private balconies. Click here to book your stay at The Advenire!
Hyatt Place St. George
My family and I recently stayed at The Hyatt Place in St. George and we really enjoyed our stay and it’s a great value. The rooms are new and it’s in a good location in St. George near lots of the attractions and restaurants to eat at. The rooms are new and a delicious breakfast is included. Not to mention there is a really nice pool as well. Click here to book your stay at The Hyatt Place!
St. George Getaway Vacation Home
If you are looking for something that feels more like home or that can fit a bigger family, check out this property. This property is close to dining and lots of parks, hiking, biking and golf courses. It’s perfect for a family getaway and has a really fun pool with 2 water slides, a playground, pickleball and tennis courts. Click here to book a stay at this property!
If you need a rental car for your St. George trip, check out this website I use to always get great rental car deals!
St. George Utah Weather
St. George, Utah is located in a desert so the weather is very dry and hot most of the year. The Summer months are extremely hot and can often hit over 100 degrees F. The Winter months are a lot more mild, but can be chilly and rainy so make sure to bring a jacket if visiting in the Winter. Every now and then it snows in St. George in the winter, but it is very rare.
Top 20 Things to do in St. George, Utah
1. Catch a Show at Tuacahn Amphitheater
St. George is an outdoor and adventurer’s paradise. Take it easy one night and relax in this outdoor amphitheater surrounded by the same red rock scenery you’ve been hiking around all day. The shows change each year, but each one I have seen has been incredible. I’ve seen Tarzan which was really fun. This year they are showing Frozen, Jersey Boys and Anastasia. Each show has many exciting special effects including zip-lining across the sky and pyrotechnics, often times there is a firework show at the end!
Tip: For even more fun, you can pay a little bit extra to get a behind the scenes tour which is well worth it!
2. Cool off at Red Cliffs Recreation Area
This is one of my favorite hiking areas in St. George and one of the best things to do. There are many family friendly hikes here including hiking through slot canyons, crawling up sandstone cliffs and wading through streams. There are also some cool dinosaur tracks here as well as Native American dwellings. My favorite trail here is called the Reef Trail. It is family friendly and you can walk through water so it is perfect for those hot St. George days.
Bonus: This area is dog friendly so your furry friends don’t have to miss out on the fun!
Things to do in St George, Utah
3. Adventures at Sand Hollow
I like to refer to Sand Hollow as the mini Lake Powell. Beautiful blue waters surrounded by orange cliffs and rocks is really a sight to behold. There are many fun water activities as well including boating and jet skiing. You can rent a jet ski here or a boat here. A lot of people like to come here to just have a fun day on the beach with the family or if you are up for the challenge, many people come here for the cliff jumping or something really adventurous- riding in dune buggies on sand dunes!
Tip: Bring water tubes to slide down one of the many natural waterslides!
St. George can be very hot so it is really important to bring sunscreen!
4. Test Your Limits at Zion National Park
One of my favorite National parks in the entire world has many notable hikes that people travel near and far to accomplish. My personal favorite is Angel’s Landing, but it is not for the faint of heart or those afraid of heights!
Click Here to Read More about the Angel’s Landing hike.
Two other popular hikes are the Narrows and the Subway which are both technical and involve canyoneering and swimming at some points.
Family Friendly Hikes: Upper and Lower Emerald pools are definitely a gorgeous and easy hike as well as the river walk which is actually the entrance to the Narrows so you can at least see the beginnings of this famous hike.
If traveling with your furry friend, there is only one hike that dogs are allowed on and it is more of a walk than anything, but the whole area of Zion’s is beautiful so it is still great. If you want to do one of the other famous hikes, there is a really great dog kennel nearby called Doggy Dude Ranch.
Tip: Make sure to check the National Park’s website because you will need permits for some of the more popular hikes like Angel’s Landing.
5. Catch Sunset at Pioneer Park
Pioneer Park is one of my very favorite places for things to do in St George. It is actually quite big and fun for a group of friends or even for the whole family or- you guessed it even for a solo traveler. Pioneer park is made of huge sandstone structures that you can climb on, crawl through and play all day in.
It is a really good spot for rappelling and rock climbing or for a romantic picnic at sunset overlooking the city of St. George. It definitely shouldn’t be missed!
Make sure to check out- 10 Best Parks in St. George, Utah
Bonus: There is a slot canyon here that is really fun, but it is very narrow so leave the claustrophobic people out of it!
This is another dog friendly area. Gotta love places that allow dogs!
6. Hike Babylon Arch Trail
This hike is truly a hidden gem while visiting St. George, Utah and you won’t find many others on the trail when you head here. This hike truly is all about the journey as well as the destination. There are so many beautiful and unique sandstone formations to see everywhere and at the end you come to Babylon Arch! You can also hike down near the Virgin River if you would like and this is a perfect setting for sunset!
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 1.5 miles
Directions: From St George, head north on I-15 for about 13 miles and take exit 22 to Leeds/Silver Reef. Head north on Hwy 228/Main Street for 2 miles and take a right onto 900 North (there is a sign indicating Red Cliffs National Conservation Area). Follow 900 North for about 3 miles and turn left after the sign indicating Sand Cove Trailhead.
Make sure to check out my post about top St. George hikes
7. Golf and Stay at The Inn at Entrada
I can’t think of a better setting for a place to golf or a resort to relax in. The red cliffs of Sand Hollow act as the backdrop with many waterfalls and desert ponds on the grounds, it will make for a very serene stay. If golfing is your thing, this is one of the best courses in southern Utah. I also love that they have their own kitchens so you don’t have to eat out every night. I love having a nice night in and having a BBQ! Book this hotel here.
Fun Fact: This is the resort where they filmed High School Musical 2
8. Hang out at Town Square Park
This is such a cute park right in downtown St. George. They have a splash pad, plenty of grassy areas to play in, art installations, a children’s museum and a really cute vintage looking carousel! This would also be a fun place to have a picnic or a perfect place to spend an afternoon if you have kids and you want to beat the St. George heat!
Town Square is so fun and right in the heart of downtown St. George, Utah. It is the perfect place to take kids as there is an amazing splash pad and tiny man-made creek running through the park that all of the little kids love to wade in. There is also an old-timey carousel and some amazing art pieces everywhere. This area is especially fun in the Summer because they have Movies in the Park on Friday nights.
9. Red Hills Garden
Red Hills Garden is a gorgeous desert botanical garden which is actually located right next to Pioneer Park. My favorite part is that it is free! There is nothing like seeing bright colorful flowers against the desert red rocks.
I have been to Red Hills Garden many times and more recently with a toddler and it’s still one of the best things to do in St. George Utah with kids. There is a little aquarium area and my toddler loved seeing all of the fish and exploring the garden park and seeing all of the different fish and cool structures every where.
10. Scenic Drive through Kolob Canyon
Kolob Canyon is technically a part of Zion National Park, but it is a completely different entrance just a few miles outside of Cedar City, Utah. It is the perfect place to go for a scenic drive and it is actually mind blowing! There are a few hikes to do here as well. I try to visit this area every time I visit the St. George area and you can’t miss it!
Read more about Kolob Canyon here
Hiking in St. George, Utah
There are some really incredible hikes in St. George, Utah and nearby. Check out my Top Hikes in St. George, Utah for a detailed 3-day itinerary with some perfect hikes to go on. For our weekend trip, we checked out two different hikes.
12. Water Canyon Hike:
The first hike we went on was in the backcountry of Zion. It was an off the beaten path hike and was really incredible with amazing vistas and views like Zion National Park with out all of the big crowds. It was called the Water Canyon trail and certain parts of it even feel like you are going through a slot canyon.
You get to hike through the water at certain points (if you want) so this is a great hike to do in the Summer or some of the warmer months of the year. Make sure to bring plenty of water and a nice hat because their is not a lot of coverage on the Water Canyon Hike.
13. The Vortex Hike:
The Vortex Hike is one of the top things to do in St. George Utah. It is a bit of a hidden gem so it’s a really peaceful hike with out too many other people around. This hike is 2.3 miles out and back and is moderately challenging. I went while I was pregnant and was getting pretty tired, but normally I think I would be fine.
This hike is so incredible because the entire hike is also the destination as in the views are absolutely incredible the whole time. At the end of the hike, there is a huge “bowl” known as the Vortex and my husband and his friends went down in it and were running around having the time of their lives.
14. Yant Flat:
Yant Flat, also known as Utah’s version of the Wave or Candy Cliffs is another truly hidden gem in Utah. This trail takes you through a mile of lower forest with beautiful cacti everywhere and then opens up to the most incredible views and swirled orange and white creamsicle sand formations. This area is especially cool because even just seeing the view from the top is incredible if you are not up for much hiking. But if you are up for hiking, there are miles and miles that you could explore!
If you don’t want to go at it alone, check out this private tour that will take you here.
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: 2-7 miles, depending how much you want to explore
Tip: You will be off roading for the majority of the time to drive to this trail.
An alternate to Yant Flat, would be going on this tour to Buckskin Gulch in Kanab. It is seriously like a cooler, less touristy Antelope Canyon!
15. Snow Canyon State Park
Snow Canyon State Park is one of the very top things to do in St. George Utah. There are so many different hiking trails and there is a lot of variety from family friendly hikes to more adventurous hikes.
One of the most popular trails at Snow Canyon State Park is Jenny’s Canyon because it is a great hike in St. George with kids. It’s a very short and popular hike through a little slot canyon. There are also some incredible lava tube trails to explore as well. Another popular hike is Scout Cave trail. This is a fairly easy hike with a great pay out at the end and very photogenic.
Activities in St. George, Utah
16. ATV Tour:
A really fun activity in St. George Utah is to go on an ATV tour. Roar through Utah’s desert landscapes on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) on this half-day adventure in Sand Hollow State Park near St. George, with instruction and equipment provided—you just show up and ride. Don the supplied helmet, drive your own ATV, and follow a guide through dunes, canyons, and up to 3,500 feet (1,066 meters) for panoramic lake-and-mountain views.
17. Glitter Mountain:
Glitter Mountain is one of the top things to do in St. George Utah. It is something of a hidden gem, but popular amongst locals. Get off road and see some of the little known archeology and geological sites near St. George.
The archeology site that the tour visits is said to contain petroglyphs from several cultures that span some 8,000 years. Glitter Mountain is special. Here you can find your own unique opaque stone and keep it as a souvenir.
18. Thunder Junction Park:
This is a must do activity in St. George, Utah if you have kids. It is a huge dinosaur themed park and splash pad and it’s so much fun! The best part is that it is free, but if you want to ride the train make sure to bring a $1 for each person in your group!
Read this article for more fun parks in St. George Utah
19. Judd’s:
Judd’s is just a walk away from Town Square and is located in Ancestor Square with many other shops and dining. It is an old fashioned candy and soda shop and it’s so cute. They also have really good icecream!
20. Gunlock Falls at Gunlock State Park
Gunlock Falls are a must visit if you are visiting St. George Utah in the Spring. They only flow every couple of years, but they are currently flowing right now. Check out this website for up to date information.
Gunlock Falls is a fairly easy trail, but be careful as you will have to walk over a lot of large rocks on your way down to see the waterfalls. Also, make sure to be careful with kids near the falls and water.
St. George Utah Restaurants- Where to Eat in St. George
There are plenty of delicious eateries and restaurants right in downtown St. George, Utah and/or nearby. When looking for things to do in St. George, eating some good food should always be on the list! Here are some of the very best restaurants in St. George, Utah:
Read Best places for Breakfast in St. George next!
Pizza Factory $
Located right in the heart of downtown St. George, Utah this pizzeria shouldn’t be missed. They are known for their made-from-scratch pizzas, salad bar, artisan sandwiches and of course- their huge spiral breadsticks. Come for lunch so you don’t miss out on their daily specials.
Nielsen’s- $
For some of the best frozen custard and concrete shakes you’ll ever have, make sure to stop at this kitschy diner. It’s really popular in St. George Utah and they also have delicious cheeseburgers and fries.
Riggati’s Wood Fired Pizza $$
For some of the best brick oven pizzas around, make sure to stop at Riggati’s. This locally owned and operated joint serves Neapolitan-style artisan pizza classics and many of the choices are very unique.
Larsen’s Frostop Drive In- $
Larsen’s Frostop is another must stop if you are craving some of the best icecream and shakes around, along with some delicious burgers and fries. This joint is iconic in St. George Utah.
Anasazi Steakhouse- $-$$
If you are looking for somewhere upscale to eat in St. George Utah, look no further. This steakhouse combines fine dining with local art. Photography and unique metalwork is displayed throughout the dining area. Anasazi is known for their steaks and they are exquisitely prepared on sizzling volcanic rocks! Feeling like splurging? Make sure to try some of their fondue!
Waffle Love- $
Waffle Love started out as a food truck and now is the most popular waffle joint in Utah.
Painted Pony Restaurant– $$
is located in Ancestor Square, a commercial complex made up of historically significant buildings. Expect dishes like sage-smoked quail. Painted Pony’s chic atmosphere, impeccable food and extensive wine list make this fine dining destination one of the best in the city.
Located in the heart of St. George, Utah, The Painted Pony is the place for Southwestern cuisine that is bound to please any pallet. The restaurant is filled with contemporary art that makes the overall vibe chic and inviting.
There is a wine list with many options that will pair nicely with the generous portions. You can choose from different chicken, pork, lamb, and beef options as well as tuna. The many side options compliment the main dish and add to its deliciousness. You can’t forget dessert when you are at The Painted Pony.
Whatever your sweet tooth is craving, there is something for you. Choose from Creme Brulee, cakes, pies, and puddings. The Painted Pony is a St. George classic that will make you happy you stopped by for a meal.
Bear Paw Cafe- $
Bear Paw Cafe is a must if you are looking for a breakfast brunch joint. They have the best breakfast in St. George Utah! Load up on peanut butter pancakes, huge Belgian waffles or their massive Bear Paw Club. This hearty breakfast is the perfect place to eat early in the morning before you head out on a day full of hikes or adventures.
Wood Ash Rye– $$-$$$
Wood Ash Rye is a newer restaurant in St. George Utah located right in the heart of downtown at The Advenire hotel. They are a locally sourced farm-to-table restaurant and the food is seriously to die for and definitely some of the very best I’ve had in St. George. Wood Ash Rye has some of the best biscuits I have ever had.
Cliffside Restaurant– $$
Cliffside Restaurant and Inn is perched atop a majestic sandstone cliff overlooking St. George. Panoramic windows offer diners sweeping vistas of the city below and the famous red rocks. The menu offers beautifully presented American fare.
Angelica’s Mexican Cafe– $
Angelica’s has some of the best Mexican food in St. George Utah. This family owned cafe is delicious and very family friendly. Make sure to try some of their authentic Mexico city style street tacos.
Mad Pita Express– $
The locale of a strip-mall seems unlikely to house really good food, but Mad Pita is a delightful exception to the rule. You’ll find impressively large portions of classic dishes like lamb gyro, falafel, and tabouleh. There’s also baklava and a very popular orange zest rice pudding.
Capelletti’s– $$
This family-owned Italian bistro is one of the best Italian restaurants in town. The restaurant is owned and operated by Andres & Lorena Cappeletti and their three children. The restaurant has a warm and welcoming atmosphere and makes you feel as if you are at home enjoying a home cooked meal.
The service is friendly and kind and makes you want to keep coming back time and time again. There are loads of menu items to choose from and one to suit any mood you are in. Some of the menu items have an Argentine flair to them and are scrumptious. The gnocchi is one of the best things on the menu and the chicken gorgonzola is another favorite.
Viva Chicken– $
This quick-service Peruvian joint in St. George Utah has recently become wildly popular. Their chicken and salads are delicious and don’t forget to try one of their fresh fruit juices.
There you have it! 20 Fun things to do in St. George Utah!
Planning a visit? Let me know!
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