Say hi to the toucans, then stare at the mesmerizing sharks. Walk through time on a switchbacking boardwalk through the fossil record at the Natural History Museum of Utah. Whether you are a participant or spectator, the calendar is bursting with celebrations, festivals and athletic events - providing plenty of things to do for everyone, no . You either drive through Monument Valley and soak up the sights or explore it fully by getting a tour guide from the visitor center. The top-rated Utah Shakespeare Festival has been offering widely acclaimed Shakespearean and contemporary theater shows to locals and tourists in Utah since 1961. If youre visiting Utah any time from June to early October, the festival hosts the summer-fall tradition of plays, Greenshows, seminars, camps, and classes at Cedar City. In the winter months, Utah's five national parks and their surrounding country are full of solitude and with an adventurous spirit to shrug off mild doses of moody weather you can count on having red rock country all to yourself. You can also have supper at one of the booths. Lightwalk at Liberty Park: SLC Dec. 3-18 from 5-10 pm. Such is the serendipitous landscape of Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, a huge sandy playground for outdoor adventurers. In winter, families may try icy pursuits, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. A new walk-thru light display. Find the best ice skating rinks in Utah and plan the perfect skate night with your friends and family. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites By Hilton SLC/Draper. Completed in 1998, the Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple was inspired by Rajasthani architecture from India and caters to the Hindu population of Utah. Bonus: you can ride the carousel and sometimes see a few animals. Lake Powell. For the holidays, This Is The Place Heritage Park transforms into a Christmas wonderland with sweet treats and arts-and-crafts events. Moab is the gateway to Utahs famous red rock formations and home to some of the best resorts and hotels in the state. But these days libraries are humming with activity. Experiencing the peace of canyon country in the winter is an attraction of its own. The Salt Lake Tabernacle will have a unique Peace on Earth Christmas Nativity. Utahs Wasatch Mountains are a popular destination. November 26-Jan. 2. Where: Various locations along the Wasatch FrontUtahs new and improved public swimming pools are basically playgrounds. Zoo Lights: SLC Dec. 3-23, 26-31 from 5:30-9:30 pm. Dinosaur National Monument Extreme Sports Events Fishing Golfing Hiking & Backpacking Horseback Riding Hunting Canoe & Kayak Mountain Biking Museums Old West Mormon River Rafting Rock Climbing Shopping Skiing Snowmobiling Spas Stand Up Paddle Boarding Utah Olympic Park Latest Articles & Itineraries Travel Guides and Brochures View Brochures The annual performance of William Christensens The Nutcracker returns for 2021. Use the search tool below to see what holiday events you can enjoy during your next winter visit and create new traditions for your family this year. More than 6,000 lights illuminate a milelong walk through the Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point. Forever Mighty. Four furry friends help the Solitude Ski Patrol do their duties. Sleigh Rides on the Farm at American West Heritage Center (Wellsville): Dec. 4, 11, 18, 20-23, 27-Jan. 1. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel, 210 E 400 SSalt Lake City, UT 84111(801) 524-8200. I'll be graduating with my associate's degree in December of 2021 after 2 years of school. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. Youre there. It's just a natural way to release that pent up winter energy. They have lazy rivers, slides and buckets that pour water in your eyeballs when you least expect it. Things to Do in Utah, United States: See Tripadvisor's 1,327,933 traveler reviews and photos of Utah tourist attractions. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Explore snowshoeing. Brilliant. A New Peace on Earth presentation projected on ceiling of Tabernacle. Visitors have to option to book a 1 hour, 2 hour, or half day dog sled tour from December (sometimes November) to March. Learn more about Utah's Olympic legacyand best spots to relive the games. Let it all go on a walk through the Ice Castles in Midway. See All 131 Things To Do in Utah Cool Places to Eat & Drink in Utah Huntsville, Utah Shooting Star Saloon Eat burgers beneath gargantuan taxidermy and thousands of dollar bills in Utah's. Yes, Temple Square in Salt Lake City is open for the Christmas season. Grand America Holiday Windows: Nov. 1-Dec. 31 M- TH: 4 PM 8 PMand FRI SUN: 10 AM-5PM. All rights reserved. Get discounts on lift tickets. North Pole Express(Heber) Nov. 22 Dec. 23. Lights and a Nativity, Larry H Miller Christmas Carole Sing-Along: December 13 at 7:00 pm (doors open at 6:00 pm) FREE, Candy Windows(South Jordan): FREE (no dates yet). Find your next ride here. Use that energy to build a snow fort. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Kanab, Related: Things to Do in Zion National Park, See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Activity. you got this. Popular things to do Winter Sports Rentals Half-day Tours Geologic Formations Cultural Tours 4WD Tours Canyons Nature and Wildlife Tours Hiking Tours Scenic Drives Climbing Self-guided Tours National Parks Bus Tours City Tours Bodies of Water Historical Tours Overnight Tours Mountains Sporting Events Transfers & Ground Transport Time slots are available every half hour, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Maybe your teens can help you come up with the weirdest smore combination like starbursts and saltines. Well, you should absolutely watch Utah Shakespeare Festivals world-class outdoor performances for an unforgettable time! Follow this itinerary for a week-long winter road trip across the snow-covered desert of Southeastern Utah. The ski lift may be closer, but the Provo River, one of the best fisheries in Utah and the country, is mere minutes down the road from Sundance Mountain Resort. In a really good way. Bring the kids and countdown to the New Year (well before midnight) with a special lighted countdown display. For more information, see our Privacy Policy. Nestled in the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert regions, Zion National Park has an abundance of unique landscapes and biodiversity. Come enjoy More Mountain Time, whether it is on a ski slope, a snowshoeing trail or in an alpine spa destination. And camping is an excellent option for those who want to explore the lake at a leisurely pace. Theres no better way to experience a bit of everything Utah offers. Sometimes an adrenaline pumping day on the slopes calls for an early morning hike along a peacefully quiet snowshoe track. Its a contender for ultimate winter family photo, and a winter wonderland the kids wont soon forget. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park is home to tons of great stuff to do in Utah, such as sandboarding, ATV riding, camping, hiking, star gazing, wildlife watching, horseback riding, and more. Once upon a time, the library was a place of silence and stern librarians. Landscaping and gardening workshops are also offered here, so if you dont know what to do in Utah this weekend, consider signing up. Tickets must be purchased in advance at the St. George Leisure Services Office, starting Nov. 22nd, 2021. (Read: "Fresh Tracks in Kamas Utah's Snowcountry"). 4x4 Half-Day Adventure at Canyonlands National Park. The house makes perfect photo ops inside and outside, but make sure you contact the current owners of the house first before you go beyond the white picket fence. How about you take that fascination to the next level by going where dinosaurs once roamed? Spring boasts active wildlife and blooming flowers. George, UT 84770(435) 673-3617. Thirteen snowboarding resorts are positioned perfectly for dumps of fluffy powder all winter long. Southern Utah is home to two high-elevation ski areas that contain generous helpings of what we call (with authority) The Greatest Snow on Earth. As you visit, do your part to keep Utah Forever Mighty. Winter rewards hikers with stunning sights of stalactites and snow covered mountains. Guests are invited to make smores, sip hot chocolate, and explore the 135-foot tunneled walkway. Plan a winter Southeastern Utah trip. Explore snowmobiling. With funding from NASA, the Mars Society has been preparing for the hypothetical future when human civilization will have to expand to Earths next-door neighbor. Tickets required, Christmas on the Farm Live Nativity(Cedar City): Dec. 6, & 13 at 6-8 PM. You can explore by location, what's popular, our top picks, free stuff. Exhibits around the building will also immerse you in the mystery of outer space. Head to Utah County and check out the beautiful Bridal Veil Falls in its icy glory. Young Living Family Farm Country Christmas (Mona): Wagon Rides and Light Display. Previous Group After an adventure packed vacation of skiing, sliding, exploring and marvelling, the only thing left to do is relax and recount your favorite moments. Our favorite Christmas adventure! Previously a prehistoric lake that once covered a large area of Utah millions of years ago, the Great Salt Lake is the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. By clicking "I Agree", you consent to the use of cookies. One can of food per person donation encouraged. Its our chance to sparkle as the streets light up with celebrations and joy. More details on their event post. Find the perfect spot to sit down, and enjoy all the different things in this library thatll keep you occupied for hours and hours. Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? Camping & Backpacking, Hiking, History and Heritage, Non-ski Winter Activities, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Stargazing. The holiday market is only open for one weekend in December and it's this weekend, from Dec. 1 to Dec. 4. There are trails that lead to slot canyons, arches, waterfalls, forest, and scrublands, all waiting for you to explore. Kite skiing (snow kiting) is attracting freestyle adventure seekers to Utah. 90 South West Temple Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Greenwell Inn, 12500 Sand Dune RoadKanab, UT 84741(435) 648-2800. The Bonneville Salt Flats are among the most interesting things to see in Utah, but the conditions here can be quite extreme, so come prepared. Best time of year to visit Utah. Box 750027 75 East 100 North Torrey, Utah 84775 Find out tips for riding and the best places to explore in Utah. How to Visit Southern Utah in Winter June to August is the season of spectacular activities like Bonneville Speed Week or stargazing . Lights on at 6:30 pm. Spanning over a massive area of 21 acres, Red Butte Garden is the largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West offering enchanting colors of blooms and the most romantic scenery for couples. Learn more and plan your visit! Tickets required. Hardcore hikers and climbers brave Zion National Park for its challenging terrains, while families come for outdoorsy trips and easy trails. How's that for a Utah family winter activity? This beautiful event brings the light and joy of the holiday season to the South Valley. Passes to ski and snowboard resorts are expensive, but dont give up yet, powder pauper. You can now visit the iconic house from the tear-jerking film Up at 13218 Herriman Rose Boulevard in Herriman, Utah. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ledgestone Hotel Vernal. Browse through Lovelands educational exhibits and experience one-of-a-kind animal encounters with sharks, stingrays, and penguins! To put it simply, the riding in Utah is epic. When the Utah sun becomes unbearable, head over to one of Kanabs cool places, literally and figuratively. Utahsstateandnational parkswill be thawed out before you know it! Saltwater is highly corrosive, and soft mud lies beneath the layer of salt crust. You might think the cold is unavoidable and the terrain impassable during the winter months, but if you can surpass these doubts you might just be rewarded with your best hike of the year. Hedgehog Electric Christmas Light Display Map: this map of St. George Christmas Lights isnt out yet, but we will update this link once it is readythe link currently goes to the 2020 list. Adventurous nature lovers will love the trails that lead to rocky and sandy state parks. Each year artists hand-place thousands of icicles to create magical castles, sculptures and playgrounds that shine bright in front of a rainbow of LED lights. Dont miss the cliff wall at Carnegie Quarry, where more than 1,500 dinosaur fossils are embedded, frozen in time even after millions of years. This children's museum is educational in a delightfully tactile way. Whether youre in northern or southern Utah, as long as there is snow there is very likely an outfitter that can rent the gear you need; or better yet, guide you to their favorite spots. The Park City Mountain Resort Alpine Coaster is an elevated track featuring toboggan-style cars that take you through more than . Characterized by red rocks and natural amphitheaters carved by frost weathering and stream erosion, Bryce Canyon attracts almost three million visitors every year. Lights on Wakefield: This event is currently not happening because of changes in city ordinances. 6 followers 6 connections. FREE. The Great Salt Lake may sometimes be called Americas very own Dead Sea, but unlike the actual Dead Sea, a treasure trove of life thrives in this lake. If you think about it, Utahs terrain kinda looks a bit like Mars. Fat tire biking has become the latest rage among cycling enthusiasts and newbies. No matter what kind of winter adventure youre looking for, youre sure to find it in Ogden. However, as more dogs joined the pack Team G Sled Dogs was born. It is free and easy to tour the grounds and see the lights any night of the season. Experience Exciting Events Every Day of the Year! Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cathedral Valley Inn, 375 Red Hills ParkwaySt. A staple of the holiday season in Utah, join the Utah Symphony as they performHandel's Messiah. 25 Best Things to Do in Utah Fun Activities & Stuff to Do! Recommended Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Salt Lake City Draper, 350 State StreetSalt Lake City, UT 84103(801) 538-1800. The Midway Ice Castles are sculpted entirely from ice and span several acres of space, enough to pack in tunnels, ice slides, and magical spaces that kids and adults alike are sure to love. Private Utah High Country Rafting Adventure from Provo. For more information, see our Privacy Policy. Just because the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games are in the past doesnt mean that the Utah Olympic spirit is has been snuffed out. Non-ski Winter Activities, Ski and Snowboard. . Tickets sell out quickly for this limited engagement event, so make sure to buy your tickets well in advance. See All Itineraries Previous Group Christmas in the Canyon(St. George): Nov. 26 Dec. 23 at 6-9 PM. Santas Grand Arrival at University Place: November 26 @ 9:30 am (Santa arrives via helicopter), Salem Pond Christmas Lighting(Salem): November 26 @ 6-9 PM. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Payson I-15, 13218 S Herriman Rose BoulevardHerriman, UT 84096. What if you and/or the kids are caught somewhere between feeling confident on the slopes and too energetic to go snowshoeing? Featuring fossils, dinosaur bones, minerals, insects, plants, and Native American artifacts all discovered from Utah and the American West, the Natural History Museum of Utah is a worthwhile escape into the ancient past. Live Nativity at Christmas Celebration: Dec. 15 at 6:00 and 7:30 pm FREE. When Maren and Racer Gibson started rescuing huskies and malamutes over 20 years ago their intention very likely wasnt to make a profit or start a business. Then add some ice sculpture gargoyles to intimidate the enemy. Dec. 11-24. Whether youre a geek or an adventurer, this national monument has so much in store for you. Ride the Heber Valley Railroad with Santa. Salt Lake City, UT 84101 The Natural History Museum of Utah is a grand museum found within the University of Utahs research park. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Wendover Inn. Tickets are $5/person. From delicate river-fed ecosystems to crimson-hued rock buttresses, this magical landscape is awash in history, dating back thousands of years to the original Native American settlers to whom these places were sacred. Take a contemplative walk around the grounds and catch the hourly docent-led tours inside the Utah State Capitol. Live Nativity and Luminary Walk: Clark Historic Farm in Grantsville. 1661 East Murray-Holladay Road (4800 South), Where: Various locations in Salt Lake City. Christkindlmarket at This is the Place: Dec. 1-4. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Greenwell Inn Related: Best Family Hotels in Utah Related: Things to Do in Moab 10. Stroll through the re-created Utahn terrain and fall in love with desert flora. Located 25 minutes away from Park City, Bear Ridge Adventures also offers authentic dog sled tours on scenic private property. Dinosaurs and Native Americans from millions to thousands of years ago once occupied this cave, leaving behind a trail of fossils, footprints, pottery, art, and more, all displayed at the natural history museum inside. Built in 2011, this modern museum has a collection of exotic butterflies, minerals and indigenous masterpieces. No matter your level of adventure, you will find good reason to save some time for a day away from the resort. 4:30-8:00 pm at Zootah with reindeer encounters. Needless to say kids love it! Breakfast With Santa December 5,12,19, 2021, Multiple Times Zermatt Mountain Resort, Midway Most of the famous sights in Salt Lake City are all within the area of this gorgeous square, such as world-class restaurants, parks, and breathtaking infrastructures. People can bid on trees, wreaths, quilts and more at FestivalofTreesUtah.org. From sliding down gentle slopes to racing down 1,200 foot lanes, there is tubing for everyone in Utah. FREE, Ogden Electric Light Parade: November 27 @ 5:30. Use code LEHIMOMs to save 20% off. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews. Or feel the "freedom" at The Gateway and City Creek Center, two local malls also known for providing free, fun events. Things To Do Lodging Tours & Guides Deals Events Store Maps & Brochures Share Events So, you're looking for things to do in Utah . Find popular Nordic trailheads in the north, high altitude serenity in central Utah and miles of regularly groomed trails in the south. North Pole Express at Thunder Junction (St. George): Every Friday, Saturday, and Monday for the first 3 weekends in December from 6-8 PM. Join to view profile . Moving from city to summit doesn't take long. The sweeping views from the visitor center are already spectacular; youll be blown away when you explore the park up close! For Sparta! By clicking "I Agree", you consent to the use of cookies. Just be sure there arent any cops watching. Thanks for @Stgeorge_Kids for giving us a few ideas for the St. George area. On the ArizonaUtah state line sits a unique landmark within the territory of the Navajo Tribal Nation. With more than 800 miles of groomed snowmobile trails from the red rock canyons of Southern Utah to the rugged mountains in the northern reaches of the state, Utah has plenty of options for snowmobile vacations, lodging and packages. The water is comfortably warm and shallow enough for toddlers. Miscellaneous Additional skating venues can be found throughout the valley and include the Olympic-level facilities that are open to the public. Mon, Fri, and Sat from November 26December 22. Southern Utahs wilds are wearing their winter splendor. BIG IRON TOUR CO. - Veteran & Locally Owned Off-Road Tour Company. Midway Tree Lighting Celebration: November 27 @6:15-9 pmFREE. Their boat launch is perfect for families who want to motor or sail atop the salty waters. A Sundance ski vacation is the perfect blend of Utah ski bliss and the year's most promising films. (And true enough, this isnt the only time Utah was chosen for Martian simulations.). Check out the retired engines and cabooses outside and head inside to watch some model trains doing their thing. Eagle Point is a Utah favorite location. Finally, businesses in many of Utahs smaller communities shutter for the season. The crew typically carries out their simulations during winter months, and youre welcome to take photos from a distance. Nov. 19-Jan 1. Santas Arrival at Station Park(Farmington): November 26 @ 9-11 AM. Time: 2-3 hours. Within this natural sandstone cave in southern Utah is a natural history museum boasting a bar and fluorescent minerals. Walk the Windows Grand America Hotel The Grand America hosts walking tours for the holiday season that show off new displays in windows for the holiday season. Nighttime is the right time for skiers and boarders seeking solitude on the piste. Theyve gone digital too. Pretty simple. Candlelight Christmas at This is the Place Heritage Park: Dec. 7-23 from 5-9 PM. Tour around the 19th-century temple and surrounding architectural wonders as you take a trip back in time to the historical events and the religion that shaped the city. Recommended Hotel Nearby: University Guest House & Conference Center, 12033 Lone Peak ParkwayDraper UT, 84020(801) 355-3474. FREE. If youre planning a family trip this year, consider Midways Ice Castles a must-see. This insider's guide video highlights their unparalleled access to both the outdoors and the city's "fun counterculture vibe" at the foot of the mighty Wasatch Mountains. Built in 2011, this modern museum has a collection of exotic butterflies, minerals and indigenous masterpieces. Red Hills Desert Garden is a cute introduction to Utahs grand, out-of-this-world terrain. A lot of the fun things to do in Utah are in Moab, such as off-roading, hiking, and even whitewater rafting. During the holiday season, Utahs Hogle Zoo lights up with over 200 lighted animal and holiday-themed displays in the evenings. More details on entering here. Whether youre a local, new in town or just passing through, drop in on our holiday event calendar. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. Athletes still train here, and ski schools in Utah resorts might be the start of a future Olympians career. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Abbey Inn, Related: Fun Things to Do inUtahwith Kids, Highway 63 Park Road #1Bryce Canyon City, UT 84764(435) 834-5322. Bonus: you can ride the carousel and sometimes see a few animals. The Gallivan Center, an outdoor skating rink, falls within the free-fare zone of Salt Lake's public transportation.This means on chilly nights families can opt for a short ride on the TRAX light rail from this . New location this year. The gorgeous temple sits on a 15-acre landscape featuring outdoor stages, a large pavilion, a lake and waterfall, and a few animals. Afterwards, try ice skating at the Midway Ice Rink. Families, on the other hand, have an endless array of cultural institutions to choose from. So if youre looking to warm up and slow down at the same time, be sure to pack your swimsuit on this winter trip. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection By Hilton, US Highway 160 & US Highway 163Monument Valley, UT 84536(928) 871-6647. Deer Valley. FREE, Cross E Ranch Christmas at the RanchNovember 26-Dec. 23. Wondering where to go snowshoeing? The Clark Planetarium opened way back in April 2003, replacing the historic Hansen Planetarium under a grant from the Clark Foundation. With over 7,300 acres intended just for fun, Park City offers endless winter opportunities such as sleigh rides, ski-in-ski-out access to historic Main Street, ski and snowboard lessons, snowmobile tours, cable cars, warm restaurants, cabins, special events, and more! Southern Utah comes alive in winter with unexpected experiences for those who are well-prepared and solitude for those who want to expand their view.