Things To Do
in Cedar City

Cedar City, located in southern Utah, is a charming city known for its rich history and vibrant arts scene. It serves as a gateway to several national parks, including Zion and Bryce Canyon, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. The city is also home to the renowned Utah Shakespeare Festival, attracting visitors from all over.

With its beautiful landscapes and friendly community, Cedar City offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cedar City
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at The Pastry Pub, known for its hearty breakfasts and fresh pastries. After that, visit the Southern Utah Museum of Art to immerse yourself in local art and culture.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the local favorite, Centro Woodfired Pizzeria, then take a leisurely stroll through Main Street to explore local shops and boutiques. In the afternoon, hike the Cedar Canyon Trail to enjoy stunning views.

evening
:

Dine at The Garden House for a delightful dinner, followed by attending a performance at the Utah Shakespeare Festival, where you can enjoy world-class theatre.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Begin your day with a breakfast burrito from The Coffee Shop and then head to the Cedar City Aquatic Center for a morning swim or relax by the pool.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at Iron Gate Pizzeria, then embark on a scenic drive to the Kolob Canyons section of Zion National Park for breathtaking views and mild hikes.

evening
:

Return to Cedar City for dinner at The Red Cliffs Lodge, then enjoy a nightcap at the local brewery, Big Bad Brewing Co., to unwind after a day of adventure.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🚕Taxi Fare (short distance)$10-$15
🏨Hotel Night$80-$150
🎟️Theatre Ticket$20-$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and proximity to national parks.
  • Rich cultural scene, especially with the Utah Shakespeare Festival.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation is not very extensive.
  • Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some visitors.

Places to Visit in Cedar City

Visit one of these nice places.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Famous for its stunning vistas and colorful rock formations, perfect for sunset photography.

Main Street

Capture the charm of Cedar City's historic downtown with its unique architecture and vibrant storefronts.

Zion National Park

Just a short drive away, this park offers iconic landscapes and breathtaking natural features.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cedar City

Cedar City offers a delightful culinary experience with a range of local dishes, unique restaurants, and vibrant food markets.

Cedar City Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pastrami Sandwich

A local favorite, featuring tender pastrami piled high on freshly baked bread.

Must-Try!

Fry Sauce

A Utah specialty, this tangy sauce is perfect for dipping fries and burgers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cedar City Farmers Market

Held weekly, this market features fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cedar City experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with average high temperatures reaching the upper 80s to low 90s °F, while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to the 20s °F. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is minimal throughout the year, concentrated mainly in the spring and summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly smile and 'hello' go a long way in Cedar City, as locals are known for their hospitality.

Respect for Nature

When visiting parks and natural areas, be sure to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Dress Modestly

While the city is generally casual, it’s good practice to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cedar City is generally a safe place for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to practice standard safety precautions: keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit areas. When hiking in the nearby national parks, ensure you are well-prepared with appropriate gear and inform someone of your plans.

Tipping in Cedar City

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip service staff around 15-20% in restaurants. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it perfect for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many visitors, ideal for exploring national parks, but be prepared for higher temperatures.

Fall

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking and photography.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snowfall; great for winter sports and enjoying the serene landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Cedar City at Night

Cedar City has a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring a mix of bars, live music venues, and cultural performances. The downtown area comes alive after dark, with local breweries like Big Bad Brewing Co. offering craft beers and casual atmospheres. The Utah Shakespeare Festival also hosts evening performances, providing a unique cultural experience. While the nightlife is not as bustling as larger cities, there are plenty of options for a fun and relaxed evening out.

Hiking in Cedar City

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Zion National Park

Just a short drive away, this park offers a variety of trails catering to all skill levels, from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Known for its unique rock formations called hoodoos, this park provides stunning trails and breathtaking views.

Airports

How to reach Cedar City by plane.

Cedar City Regional Airport

Located just a few miles from downtown, this small airport offers limited flights but is the most convenient option for reaching Cedar City.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cedar City is quite walkable, especially in the downtown area where many shops, restaurants, and attractions are located within close proximity. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian crossings at major intersections. However, for attractions outside the downtown area, a car may be necessary.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Cedar City has a growing population of young families attracted by its community feel and outdoor activities.

Students

With Southern Utah University located in the city, a significant number of students contribute to the local culture and economy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

College Football

Southern Utah University has a competitive football team, drawing local fans to games throughout the season.

Mountain Biking

With numerous trails in the surrounding areas, mountain biking is a popular sport among residents and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cedar City is generally light, with most roads easily navigable. During peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer and during the Shakespeare Festival, expect some increase in congestion near popular attractions. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car or using rideshare services is recommended for visitors.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cedar City.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's always good to ask.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, especially in pizzerias and cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Cedar City has adequate healthcare facilities, including the Cedar City Hospital, which provides emergency services and various medical treatments. For specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities nearby, like St. George. It is advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

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