Located about 2 hours from Las Vegas, Interstate 15 is busy with day-trippers and weekend warriors ready to explore Zion National Park. With more than 2.5 million visitors each year, Zion National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the United States. Instead of zipping up the freeway, build an extra day or two into your vacation to explore St. George, the charming town about 30 miles south of the park’s entrance, or use the town as your home base for exploring nearby state parks before and after you’ve hit up Zion.
St. George is a popular “natural” getaway from Las Vegas, with beautiful resorts, incredible outdoor adventures, delicious food, and a downtown area easy for anyone to explore. Here are our tips for what to do with 48 Hours in St. George.
Where to stay:
Since we’re spending most of our time outdoors in St. George and the surrounding area, we think a resort is the way to relax when the sun goes down.
– Red Mountain Resort– Located down the road from Snow Canyon State Park, this is a great spot for luxury and adventure.
– Coral Springs Resort- Located closer to Zion National Park, this is an ideal location for visiting Zion during the day and still having easy access to the shops and downtown restaurants in St. George. We rented a three-bedroom villa and the whole family could spread out and relax, perfect for a trip with the grandparents.
– The Inn at Entrada– Inside the gates of this beautiful Country Club and Golf Course is your new home away from home. The private one-bedroom suites have a full kitchen and generous bathroom with huge tub for two. This is a great spot for a couple’s getaway.
Where to eat:
Downtown St. George has it all: sushi, American classics, a pub and even pizza. Located all within walking distance, the St. George corner will become your go-to spot for dining in St. George.
– The Painted Pony: Located upstairs with twinkling lights and a gorgeous outdoor patio perfect for summer nights, The Painted Pony offers casual fine dining option with seafood and steak on the menu. We loved the unique cocktails and beautiful local art throughout.
– George’s Corner: Great for breakfast or a late afternoon snack, George’s Corner is great to bring the kids and still order a beer to cool off in the summer heat.
– Benja’s Thai and Sushi: This spot is one of the highest rated on Yelp and after dining there, I know why. The food is delicious and super fresh, the service was great and the prices are really reasonable.
– Bear Paw Café: If you love breakfast, you can’t miss Bear Paw Café, as the crepes, waffles and unique French toast options will have you in sweet coma when you leave. Order all three—you won’t be disappointed.
What to do: Outdoor Adventures
– Zion National Park: This one is a no-brainer. With more than 100 miles of trails, you could spend days exploring this park. Try one of the lesser known hikes like Observation Point or Kohob Arch to really impress your friends.
– Snow Canyon State Park: Do you love biking and horseback riding? Then book an adventure to Snow Canyon State Park, a lesser visited area than Zion but with just as many places to explore.
– Pioneer Park: Located on the mountain right above the city, Pioneer Park is a great place to bring a picnic and let the kids run wild. With 52 acres to explore, this park is great for the rock climbers of your family. There are even slot canyons to wedge yourself through.
– Golf: There are 13 golf courses open year-round in St. George. If golf is your sport, try booking two rounds at courses in different areas of the city.
Quick Tip: In each park there is something for soft adventurers. Try horseback riding in Snow Canyon State Park or an ATV tour near Zion National Park.
What to do: City Adventures
LDS Temple: St. George has a large Mormon population and while you can only go inside the temple if you are Mormon, the grounds and outside are equally beautiful to look at. If you’d like a more detailed tour and account of the history of St. George, visit the St. George Tabernacle down the street.
St. George Art Museum: With pieces by local artists and of local landscapes, the Art Museum is a great way to see a different side of St. George and southern Utah.
See a live show or music festival: Check out Tuacahn’s performance schedule to see an outdoor show with red rocks as your backdrop.
Sponsored by St. George Tourism.