Tucked away in southern Utah, Cedar City presents a charming façade, but scratch the surface, and you’ll uncover a hotbed of adventure waiting to be unearthed. Look no further than this hidden gem for an adventure tailored to your whims — Cedar City, a haven of memories waiting to be forged.
One of the best parts of staying here is its proximity to nearby attractions and resorts. Just a short drive away, Brian Head Resort offers year-round activities, making it the perfect place for both thrill-seekers and those looking to relax in the fresh mountain air. But that’s just the beginning of what Cedar City has to offer.
1. Three Peaks Recreation Area
For thrill enthusiasts, Three Peaks Recreation Area represents the Holy Grail of outdoor escapes. This area offers everything from mountain biking and hiking to off-roading on the unique volcanic rock formations. You can spend the day hiking through diverse landscapes or trying your hand at one of the mountain bike trails. Whether your ideal day involves pushing adrenaline limits or basking in the stillness of nature, this gem of a place delivers.
2. Explore Historic Downtown
Take a stroll through Cedar City’s charming historic downtown. You’ll stumble upon a delightful mashup of eccentric local boutiques, inviting restaurants, and explosion-of-color murals that’ll keep you lingering long after you are meant to leave. These charming streets are dotted with offbeat stores, each bursting with character and filled with gifts that will make you go “wow!”
3. Utah Shakespeare Festival
Cedar City’s Utah Shakespeare Festival is a world-renowned event that draws visitors from all over. Catch performances in beautifully crafted outdoor theaters from summer to fall. Picture yourself surrounded by friends, fascinated by the dialogue, and captivated by the performances — all set against the romantic backdrop of a summer evening spent under the stars.
4. Brian Head Resort
Even though Brian Head Resort is outside of town, it deserves its own spot on this list. If rushing down snowy slopes or flying down mountain trails is your thing, you’re in luck. This spot has something going on every month of the year.
If you love the rush of downhill skiing, you’ll love winter on these slopes. Warm weather arrives with exhilarating possibilities, such as sailing up the mountain on a chairlift, casting a disc into the perfect fairway, or strapping on hiking boots to tackle breathtaking trails. Find your freedom in this outdoor playground, where the wilderness beckons and the cool mountain air awaits.
5. Cedar Breaks National Monument
Located a short drive from town, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Summer brings a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers to this iconic amphitheater, while winter coats the landscape in a soft layer of white. Either way, the resulting scenery is nothing short of spectacular, beckoning outdoor enthusiasts and photographers alike. The night skies here are some of the clearest in the country, making for excellent stargazing.
6. Parowan Gap
Right in the heart of the region lies the Parowan Gap, a veritable wellspring of archaeological treasures. Long-forgotten lives stare back at us from ancient rock carvings, speaking silently of hunters, farmers, and tale-tellers. With over 1,500 figures carved into the rocks, the site has been called an outdoor museum of ancient art. Be sure to bring a camera; you’ll want to capture these incredible pieces of history.
7. Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
Let the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum transport you back in time to an era of cowboys and settlers, rustlers, and robber barons — an authentic journey through the American West’s yesteryears.
Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities let you experience the daily grind of pioneer life. Unleash your inner pioneer and get your hands dirty: pan for gold, peek inside centuries-old cabins, or witness the power of a blacksmith’s flames.
8. Scenic Drives
If you prefer to take things slow, Cedar City is surrounded by scenic drives that offer spectacular views. One favorite is the drive to Kolob Canyons, the less-crowded part of Zion National Park. Southern Utah’s rugged beauty unfolds like a secret: scarlet cliffs tower above, hiking paths wind through the wilderness, and the sweetness of solitude. These drives let you roll at your own leisure, taking your time to absorb the scenic views.
9. Lodging Choices for Every Traveler
From snug, family-run inns to glossy, high-rise hotels, Cedar City has a wonderful selection of places to rest your head. Whether you want to stay in a charming historic inn or prefer a chain hotel with all the amenities, you’ll find a place to rest your head after a day of exploration. Sometimes, you want it all: relaxation, adventure, and some pampering thrown in. Find a resort that delivers comfy rooms and an array of outdoor activities to get your heart racing.
10. Dine Around Cedar City
No trip is complete without great food, and Cedar City has plenty to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual bite or a more upscale dining experience, there’s a spot for you. At Centro Woodfired Pizzeria, pizza connoisseurs get their high-quality fix. If you’re in the mood for hearty comfort food, Chef Alfredo’s Italian Cuisine will not disappoint.
Utah’s heartland isn’t the first place you’d think to find a seafood haven, but Lighthouse Seafood and Grill bucks the trend, luring diners in with its ocean-to-table offerings. Small town, big appetite: the restaurant options here will exceed your expectations.
Wrapping Up Your Cedar City Adventure
From lodging to restaurants, Cedar City has something for everyone. Wander the charming streets of this historic town, trading footsteps for ski tracks, or cruise along the scenic byways where every turn yields a new story to tell, a memory to forge, or a smile to spark. Trip planning just got a whole lot more exciting. There’s no better time to start than now. Get your bags packed and your itinerary ready for an unforgettable adventure in Cedar City!
