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St. George

St. George, Utah, United States

Escape to St. George: Where Adventure Meets Oasis in Southern Utah Nestled amidst towering red rock canyons and verdant valleys, St. George, Utah, is an adventurer's paradise and a haven for those seeking stunning natura…

#Desert landscape#Outdoor recreation#National parks#Historic sites#Mild climate
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into St. George.

Top Hotels in St. George

Top Flights to St. George

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in St. George.

Tours

St. George Temple

Visit the iconic St. George Temple, a historic site for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

Tuacahn Center for the Arts

Experience live performances and cultural events in a stunning outdoor amphitheater setting.

St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site

Visit the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site to explore real dinosaur tracks and fossils.

St. George Art Museum

Discover local and international art exhibits at the St. George Art Museum.

Shopping

Red Cliffs Mall

Shop at Red Cliffs Mall with a wide range of stores and dining options.

Outdoor

Explore Zion National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and hiking trails at Zion National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States.

Dixie Red Hills Golf Course

Play a round of golf on this historic 9-hole golf course nestled against stunning red cliffs.

Red Cliffs Desert Reserve

Explore the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve, a sanctuary for desert wildlife with beautiful scenery and hiking trails.

Pioneer Park

Enjoy a day at Pioneer Park with panoramic views, hiking trails, and rock climbing opportunities.

Canyoneering Adventure

Go on a guided canyoneering adventure, exploring narrow canyons and rappelling down rock faces.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in St. George.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
As of the latest estimates, the population of St. George, Utah is approximately 100,000.
Languages
English, English
Average weather
St. George
Jan
clear
12°1°
Feb
clear
15°3°
Mar
clear
19°6°
Apr
sun
24°10°
May
sun
30°15°
Jun
hot
36°20°
Jul
hot
40°24°
Aug
hot
39°23°
Sep
sun
34°18°
Oct
sun
26°11°
Nov
clear
18°5°
Dec
clear
12°1°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on St. George.

What people love

St. George, located in Utah, United States, offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a popular travel destination. Here are some pros of traveling to St. George:

  1. Scenic beauty: St. George is surrounded by stunning red rock landscapes, canyons, and desert scenery, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and photography.

  2. Outdoor activities: The area is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, and golfing. Nearby attractions such as Zion National Park and Snow Canyon State Park provide even more options for outdoor enthusiasts.

  3. Mild climate: St. George enjoys a mild climate with plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape colder weather or enjoy outdoor activities year-round.

  4. Cultural attractions: St. George has a rich history and offers a variety of cultural attractions, including museums, art galleries, and historic sites.

  5. Dining and shopping: The city has a vibrant dining scene with a variety of restaurants offering diverse cuisines. Visitors can also enjoy shopping at unique boutiques, art galleries, and local markets.

  6. Family-friendly activities: St. George is a great destination for families, with attractions such as water parks, family-friendly hikes, and recreational areas for children.

Overall, St. George, Utah, offers a blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and a welcoming community, making it a fantastic destination for travelers looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to St. George, Utah, may include:

  1. Hot Summers: St. George is known for its hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be uncomfortable for those not accustomed to extreme heat.

  2. Limited Public Transportation: St. George does not have an extensive public transportation system, so visitors may find it challenging to get around without a car.

  3. Tourist Crowds: St. George is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons. This can lead to crowded attractions, restaurants, and accommodations.

  4. Limited Nightlife: St. George is a smaller city with a more laid-back atmosphere, so those looking for a vibrant nightlife scene may be disappointed.

  5. Outdoor Activities Only: While St. George is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and offers a variety of outdoor activities, those looking for cultural attractions or indoor entertainment options may find the city lacking in that regard.

  6. Limited Dining Options: While St. George has a decent selection of restaurants, the dining scene may not be as diverse or extensive as in larger cities.

Overall, while St. George offers stunning scenery and outdoor recreational opportunities, visitors should be prepared for the challenges that come with a smaller, more remote destination.

St. George, Utah, is a city with a rich history dating back to the mid-19th century. Located in the southwestern part of the state, it serves as the county seat of Washington County and is known for its proximity to beautiful natural landscapes and its warm climate.

Founding and Early History

St. George was founded in 1861 as part of an effort by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) to establish settlements in the southern part of Utah Territory. The city was named after George A. Smith, an apostle of the LDS Church and an early leader in settling the area. Brigham Young, the president of the LDS Church at the time, selected the area for its potential to produce cotton, and the region became known as Utah’s “Dixie.”

Significant Events

  • The Cotton Mission (1861): The settlement of St. George was part of the LDS Church's "Cotton Mission," an initiative to produce cotton in the region. Although large-scale cotton production was not ultimately successful, the mission laid the foundation for the community.

  • St. George Temple (1877): One of the most significant landmarks, the St. George Utah Temple, was completed in 1877. It was the first temple completed by the LDS Church in Utah and remains an important spiritual and historical site.

  • The 1870s and 1880s: The area was developed with the construction of irrigation canals, which were crucial for agriculture and sustaining the growing community.

Historical Figures

  • George A. Smith: As the city’s namesake, his leadership and vision were instrumental in the initial settlement and development of the area.

  • Erastus Snow: A prominent LDS Church leader, he played a crucial role in the colonization and establishment of St. George and the broader southern Utah region.

Important Landmarks

  • St. George Utah Temple: As mentioned, it is a significant religious and historical landmark, being the first temple completed in Utah and the longest continually operating temple of the LDS Church.

  • Brigham Young Winter Home: This historic house served as the winter residence of Brigham Young, the second president of the LDS Church, and is now a museum open to the public.

  • Daughters of Utah Pioneer Museum: This museum showcases artifacts and stories from the early settlers of St. George and the surrounding area.

  • St. George Tabernacle: Built between 1863 and 1876, this historic building served as a religious and community meeting place and is still used for cultural events today.

Modern Development

In recent decades, St. George has experienced significant growth, driven by its appeal as a retirement destination and its proximity to national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon. The city has expanded its infrastructure and amenities to support a growing population, which has transformed it into a vibrant community with a mix of historical charm and modern conveniences.

St. George continues to celebrate its pioneer heritage while embracing its role as a gateway to the natural beauty of southern Utah.