There is a reason that Southern Utah is fast becoming one of the most popular and well-loved vacation destinations. The unique landscape, made up of sculpted sandstone, leaves a strong first impression and will keep you coming back for more. Some of the best ways to spend your time in Southern Utah include cheering on the sunrise over the hoodoos and enjoying a meal in a restaurant in St. George to unwind after a long day of adventure.
When is the Best Time to Go?
The climate in Southern Utah tends to be extreme. The temperature can skyrocket into the hundreds and tens. The best times to go are in the transitional seasons of spring and fall. Winter can bring fewer visitors, but snow and low temperatures can close recreational areas and roads. The closest major airport to Southern Utah is Las Vegas, Nevada. From there, Zion National Park is only a 2.5-hour drive.
Where Should I Go Once I Get There?
Some of the most scenic drives and hikes in the country are found in Zion National Park. Getting to the scenic overlooks before the crowds is achievable if you time it right. Bryce Canyon National Park is also home to unique and otherworldly rock formations. For different and more colorful sandstone formations, Snow Canyon State Park is nearby, as is Valley of Fire State Park in Nevada.
Food and Local Activities
Great food can be hard to find in St. George. Luckily, the city’s restaurant scene has a lot to offer beyond basic, ordinary meals. One of the more recent additions to the St. George restaurant scene is TheKitchenTable. This restaurant, along with Angelica’s Mexican Grill and Red Fort Cuisine of India, should be on your list of places to try. For a family-friendly meal, look no further than Viva Chicken. After your meal, consider grabbing dessert at the local Bonrue Bakery. As you can tell, the St. George area has a lot to offer.
Where to Stay
Kanab provides a centrally located base for all the parks, and though there aren’t as many options in LaVerkin and Hurricane, they’re all within 30 minutes of Zion and offer budget-friendly stays. Of course, St. George always has something for everyone. Whether you want to stop for a meal on your way to the parks or pick up something to eat for the hike, St. George is your place!
Resources for New Visitors
Daytime and nighttime temperatures can be drastically different in the desert. Dress in layers. Make sure your hiking boots have good ankle support. Don’t forget to put on sunscreen and bring plenty of water. Certain canyons can experience flash floods. Check the weather before heading out, especially during the monsoon season.
Customize Your Southern Utah Itinerary
Southern Utah is perfect for the traveler who knows how to rest. After a long day of hiking and exploring, visitors can rest and eat at some of the best and most satisfying restaurants in St. George. With so many things to do in Southern Utah, you can easily plan multiple trips and feel motivated to come back for more.









