Visiting Southern Utah
Culture and Film
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Moab Museum of Film & Western Heritage
Located at Red Cliffs Lodge, this small museum celebrates Moab’s history as a filming location for classic Westerns and modern blockbusters. Exhibits include props, photos, and memorabilia from movies like Thelma & Louise and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Price Range: Free donations appreciated
Hours:
Open daily, 9AM – 7PM. -
Tuacahn Amphitheatre and Center for the Arts
A stunning outdoor amphitheater nestled in a red rock canyon near St. George. Tuacahn hosts Broadway-style shows, concerts, and family-friendly performances, often with a cultural or historical theme. The venue also has a small art gallery and gift shop.
Price Range: $$–$$$ Moderate to pricey, depending on the showHours:
Box office: Monday–Saturday, 10AM – 6PM; showtimes vary. -
Kanab Film Museum
A small but charming museum in Kanab, known as “Little Hollywood” for its history as a filming location for over 100 movies and TV shows. The museum features vintage posters, props, and photos from Western classics and other films shot in the area.
Price Range: $ Affordable, small entry fee
Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 10AM – 5PM
seasonal hours may vary.
Kanab Film Museum
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St. George Electric Theatre
Originally built in 1911 as a silent movie theater, the St. George Electric Theatre has been beautifully restored and now serves as a multi-purpose venue for live theater, concerts, film screenings, and private events. The intimate setting and historic charm make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike. The theater is also home to the St. George Musical Theater, which produces high-quality musical productions throughout the year.
Price Range: $$ Moderate, ticket prices vary by event.
Hours: Box office hours vary; typically open 1–2 hours before showtimes. Check the website for specific event schedules.
Food & Drink
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The Spotted Dog Café
Located near Zion National Park, this upscale yet cozy restaurant offers a seasonal menu with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Think dishes like elk tenderloin and wild mushroom ravioli, paired with an impressive wine list. Perfect for a fancy dinner after a day of hiking.
Hours:
Everyday: 5PM – 9PM
Seasonal variations may apply
Navigate The Spotted Dog Café
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Water Canyon Winery
Located in Hildale, Utah, Water Canyon Winery is a boutique winery that specializes in handcrafted wines made from locally sourced grapes. The winery is nestled at the base of the picturesque Water Canyon, providing a serene and scenic backdrop for wine tasting. The owners are passionate about creating small-batch wines that reflect the terroir of Southern Utah. Visitors can enjoy a relaxed, intimate tasting experience with a focus on quality and craftsmanship.
Hours:
Thursday - Saturday: 12PM – 6PM
hours may vary seasonally.
Navigate Water Canyon Winery
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Moab Brewery
A casual, lively spot in the heart of Moab, this brewery is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy hearty pub fare like burgers and fish tacos, paired with their craft beers. The outdoor patio is perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring Arches or Canyonlands.
Hours:
Everyday: 11:30AM – 10PM
Kitchen closes at 9PM
Navigate Moab Brewery
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Painted Pony Restaurant
An upscale dining option in St. George, Painted Pony offers a modern American menu with Southwestern flair. Dishes like seared scallops and duck confit are beautifully presented, and the chic atmosphere makes it ideal for a special night out.
Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday: 5PM – 9PM
Closed Sunday and Monday
Painted Pony Restaurant
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Zion Canyon Brew Pub
A laid-back, trendy spot with stunning views of Zion’s cliffs, this brew pub serves up solid pub grub (think bison burgers and fish and chips) alongside their own craft beers. It’s a great place to unwind with a cold drink and enjoy the scenery.
Hours:
Everyday: 11AM – 10PM
May vary seasonally
Navigate Zion Canyon Brew Pub
Location -
The Garage Co. Grill & Cantina
A fun, casual eatery with a retro vibe, The Garage Co. is known for its creative comfort food like loaded mac and cheese, street tacos, and craft cocktails. The outdoor seating and friendly atmosphere make it a hit with both locals and visitors.
Hours:
Everyday: 11AM – 9PM
May vary seasonally
The Great Outdoors
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Zion National Park
A year-round paradise for hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Explore iconic trails like Angels Landing (permit required) and The Narrows, or enjoy scenic drives and wildlife spotting. Winter brings quieter trails and stunning snow-dusted red rock views.
Navigate Zion National Park Site
Things to do -
Bryce Canyon National Park
Famous for its otherworldly hoodoos, Bryce Canyon is a hiker’s dream in any season. Trails like the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden offer breathtaking views, while winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Navigate Bryce Canyon Site
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Arches National Park
Home to over 2,000 natural stone arches, this park near Moab is a playground for hikers, photographers, and stargazers. Delicate Arch and the Windows Section are must-see spots, and cooler winter months make for comfortable exploration.
Navigate Arches National Park
Things to do -
Canyonlands National Park
Divided into four districts (Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers), Canyonlands offers endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and off-roading. The expansive vistas and rugged terrain are stunning in every season.
Navigate Canyonlands Site
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Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument
This vast, remote area is perfect for adventurers seeking solitude. Hike through slot canyons like Peek-a-Boo and Spooky Gulch, explore waterfalls in Calf Creek Falls, or embark on backcountry camping trips. Its diverse landscapes shine in all seasons.
Navigate Escalante Site
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Snow Canyon State Park
Often overlooked, this gem near St. George features red sandstone cliffs, lava tubes, and petrified dunes. Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding in cooler months, or explore the park’s unique geology during warmer days. It’s a quieter alternative to the national parks.
Book a Campsite
Things to do
Pet Friendly Spaces
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Red Hills Desert Garden
A free, pet-friendly garden in St. George showcasing native plants, a replica slot canyon, and a stream with fish. It’s a great spot for a leisurely stroll with your furry friend.
- Price Range: Free
- Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset.
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Doggy Dude Ranch
A luxury pet resort and daycare located in Virgin, Utah, offering overnight boarding, daycare, and grooming services. Perfect for pet owners who want their pets to enjoy a vacation too!
- Price Range: $$$ (Higher end, pricing varies by service)
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
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Milt’s Stage Stop
A casual, pet-friendly café in Moab offering hearty breakfast and lunch options. The outdoor seating area welcomes pets, making it a great spot to refuel after exploring the area.
- Price Range: $ (Affordable)
- Hours: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 2:00 PM.
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Snow Canyon State Park
A pet-friendly state park near St. George offering stunning red rock scenery, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Pets must be on a leash, but they’ll love exploring the park’s diverse landscapes.
- Price Range: $$ (Moderate, entry fee per vehicle)
- Hours: Open daily, 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM.
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The Spotted Dog Café
Located in Springdale near Zion National Park, this upscale yet cozy restaurant offers a seasonal menu with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The outdoor patio is pet-friendly, making it a great spot for a fancy dinner with your furry companion.
- Price Range: $$–$$$ (Moderate to pricey)
- Hours: Open daily, 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM, seasonal variations may apply.
Family ideas
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Museum of Moab
A small but fascinating museum showcasing the history, geology, and culture of the Moab area. Perfect for families interested in learning about dinosaurs, Native American artifacts, and local pioneers.
- Price Range: $ Affordable.
- Hours: Monday–Saturday: 10AM – 6PM, Seasonal hours may vary
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Sand Hollow State Park
A family-friendly destination for outdoor fun, including swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and off-roading. The red sand dunes and clear blue water make it a unique spot for adventure.
- Price Range: $$ Moderate, entry fee per vehicle.
- Hours: Everyday: 6AM – 10PM.
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Dinosaur Discovery Site at Johnson Farm
A hands-on museum in St. George featuring real dinosaur tracks and fossils. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and the chance to see prehistoric history up close.
- Price Range: $ Affordable
- Hours: Monday–Saturday 10AM – 6PM.
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Tuacahn Amphitheatre and Center for the Arts
A stunning outdoor amphitheater surrounded by red rock cliffs. Families can enjoy Broadway-style shows, concerts, and kid-friendly performances. The venue also has a small café and gift shop.
Price Range: $$–$$$ (Moderate to pricey, depending on the show)
Hours:
Box office Monday – Saturday: 10AM – 6PM
showtimes vary -
Fins N’ Things Family Fun Center
A casual, family-friendly spot in Kanab offering mini-golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and an arcade. Great for younger kids and a fun way to spend an afternoon.
Price Range: $ Affordable
Hours:
Everyday: 10AM – 8PM
seasonal hours may vary -
Red Hills Desert Garden
A free, educational garden in St. George showcasing native plants and a replica of a slot canyon. Kids will enjoy the stream with fish and the dinosaur tracks scattered throughout.
Price Range: Free
Hours:
Everyday: Sunrise to sunset