How about you take that fascination to the next level by going where dinosaurs once roamed? But these days libraries are humming with activity. 4.5 /5 (805 reviews) Lake Powell is part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. While winter weather in Southern Utah can be mild youll still need to deal with cooler and widely fluctuating temperatures as well as intermittent rain and snow. There are many events and tons of lights in Helper since it is know as Christmas Town Utah. Finally, businesses in many of Utahs smaller communities shutter for the season. Tickets are available atwww.starofwonder.comand the show runs Dec. 4-11. In a really good way. Live Nativity at the Orchard (Orem): December 10 from 6-8 pm. Experience Exciting Events Every Day of the Year! During the holiday season, Utahs Hogle Zoo lights up with over 200 lighted animal and holiday-themed displays in the evenings. If you're into thrills, and wondering what to do in Park City, Utah, try the Utah Olympic Park bobsled ride aptly called "The Comet" - one of the longest slides in the world, with over 3,000 feet of fast and furious gliding and sliding. 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. Sounds good!) Copyright 2023 Utah.com. There is a live nativity, indoor and outdoor nativity displays. Either choice is good, or even better, try out both. 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. This beautiful event brings the light and joy of the holiday season to the South Valley. 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 . Time slots are available every half hour, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday. It's one of the state's top snowmobiling destinations. Each year, the Mountain America Expo Center hosts the Festival of Trees, which is a major holiday convention where crafty people can meet decorators and vendors in the community. For more information, see our Privacy Policy. As you visit, be prepared to keep these special places Forever Mighty. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Red Hills, 2200 Cow Dung RoadHanksville, UT 84734(303) 984-9346. Plan a winter Southeastern Utah trip. Christmas on the Farm(Cedar City): November 26-27, Dec. 4, 8, 11, & 15, at 10-4. Tickets required. Use that energy to build a snow fort. Featuring extraordinary golf courses, outdoorsy Utah activities, Jurassic-era dinosaur tracks, a childrens museum, and more, St. George is a haven of fun for golfers, fearless teens, and active kids. Bring the kids and countdown to the New Year (well before midnight) with a special lighted countdown display. Southern Utahs wilds are wearing their winter splendor. Red Hills Desert Garden Lights(St. George): Nov. 26-Jan. 2 at 5-10 pm. This desert is dramatic. While Utah's Greater Zion offers a few hundred trails, weve highlighted seven of the best hikes in the state's southwestern corner, from deep canyons to high peaks. Definitely one of the must see tourist spots in Utah that you shouldnt miss! Utahs Wasatch Mountains are a popular destination. Admission is free to this annual Christmas market in Salt Lakes Foothill District. Admission Free after 5:00 PM for the light display. Located on the border between Colorado and Utah, where Green and Yampa Rivers meet, the Dinosaur National Monument is an outstanding area of over 800 paleontological sites. Showings run every 15 minutes from 4:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Ready? Utahs 800+ miles of groomed trails offer winter snowmobiling fun for all find out more! Lightwalk at Liberty Park: SLC Dec. 3-18 from 5-10 pm. 6 followers 6 connections. Stay up to date by subscribing to one of our Newsletters. Responsible Winter Recreation. Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? As you visit, do your part to keep Utah Forever Mighty. Imaginorium: Nov. 29-Dec. 23, M-Th 4-9 pm and F-Sat 4-10 pm. Moving from city to summit doesn't take long. Utah is a family-friendly place (highest birth rate in the nation, heh heh) so we have a kid-friendly infrastructure ready for long, dark winter days. Kids will have a swell time at the St. George Childrens Museum. A Christmas Story - CenterPoint Legacy Theater- Centerville - $19.50-25 Gingerbread House Competition - Bountiful ($5 admission for kids, includes Santa photo) Ice Bumper Cars - Farmington (outdoor) Santa at Layton Hills Mall - Layton Santa Breakfasts - Station Park- Farmington South Davis Rec Center Ice Skating - Bountiful (indoor rink) Utah heli skiing and snowboarding are perfect for those who want to ride some of the best backcountry in the world. Here are a few of the most popular places to go, from north to south: "City Slicker" trail at Soldier Hollow in Heber Valley, Another winter activity with seemingly endless boundaries, cross country skiing is one of the best ways to soak up Utahs wide open spaces. Over a million curious guests visit the aquarium every year for their interactive exhibits. Learn about the cool places to kite ski in Utah, grab your equipment and go! Explore snowshoeing. Sleigh Rides on the Farm at American West Heritage Center (Wellsville): Dec. 4, 11, 18, 20-23, 27-Jan. 1. Throughout the season, nights and shaded areas are quite chilly, while exploring in the sunshine can be delightful. Park City is one of the most popular destinations for cross country skiers, although Nordic centers can be found all over Northern Utah. Characterized by red rocks and natural amphitheaters carved by frost weathering and stream erosion, Bryce Canyon attracts almost three million visitors every year. Tucked into the country atmosphere of a town called Midway is a fun activity that appears each winter out of thin airor, we should say, out of thin ice. After an adventure packed vacation of skiing, sliding, exploring and marvelling, the only thing left to do is relax and recount your favorite moments. The classic, winter tradition of finding the perfect hill from which to launch a tube or sled is alive and well in Utah. Mon, Fri, and Sat from November 26December 22. Learn about the American Wests unique natural world through the museums 1.6 million objects on display. Hardcore hikers and climbers brave Zion National Park for its challenging terrains, while families come for outdoorsy trips and easy trails. Lights on at 6:30 pm. Each year, the Festival of Treesat Mountain America Expo Centershows off the talents of professional designers and decorators in the community who take on the task of decorating trees in just 24 hours. Pro tip:Pack your own lunch and a thermos of hot chocolate to keep spirits up and costs down. On the ArizonaUtah state line sits a unique landmark within the territory of the Navajo Tribal Nation. This colossal national monument makes a lovely endless playground for off-roaders, canyoneers, and hikers. FREE, Twas the Lights Before Christmas: Riverton Nov. 30-Dec. 31 FREE. Ride the glass elevator toward the rooftop for a panoramic view of the entire library and an arguably more beautiful sight of the whole citys mountains once you reach the sky deck. Instead of having yet another movie night, try a backyard bonfire with hot chocolate and smores. A Pioneer Christmas: Provo Pioneer Village on Dec. 17, 18, and 20 from 5-8 pm. With a little extra planning, good layers, and the right equipment, however, you can enjoy Utah's national parks in the solitude of winter. Saltwater is highly corrosive, and soft mud lies beneath the layer of salt crust. Channel your inner figure skater as you race and twirl around the rink. 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 Christmas In Dixie Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony (Washington): November 29 at 6-8 pm at Veterans Park. Imagine an old-fashioned theater experience, with costumed vendors all around selling snacks and drinks. Cant decide where to go in Utah with your other half? 801.534.4900 | 800.541.4955, National Parks, Monuments & Recreation Areas, Advertise in the Salt Lake Official Visitors Guide, Don't miss the Temple Lights this holiday season. Cocoa and cookies provided. Finding Helper at a time when she needed it the most, landscape artist Anne Kaferle has put down roots in Utah, thanks to plein-air painting and the healing power of time alone in the landscape. Thousands of people each day enjoy Utah's famous backcountry the areas outside of ski area boundaries. FREE, Ogden Christmas Village: OgdenNov 27-Jan 1 FREE, Fantasy at the Bay: Willard Bay Nov. 26-Dec. 30, Layton City Lights: LaytonNov. 21-Jan. 1 FREE, Frozen in Time: Ogden Dinosaur Park (tickets go on sale November 15), Lights on at the Gateway (SLC):November 20 @ 7-9 PMFREE, Draper Tree of Life Lighting: November 29 @ 6-8 PM FREE. Visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance. Theyve gone digital too. George, UT 84770(435) 673-3617. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Kanab, Related: Things to Do in Zion National Park, See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Activity. Browse through Lovelands educational exhibits and experience one-of-a-kind animal encounters with sharks, stingrays, and penguins! I will move on . The Uinta Mountains are about 100 miles east of Salt Lake City and just a few minutes from Vernal in Eastern Utah. Things to Do in Utah, United States: See Tripadvisor's 1,327,933 traveler reviews and photos of Utah tourist attractions. Try these indoor and outdoor winter activities for kids and parents alike. As you visit, do your part to keep Utah Forever Mighty. Use code AdventureFamily15 to save 15% off tickets. 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. Tremonton Lights (Tremeonton) Nov. 24-Jan 1 from 5:30-11:30 pm every night at the Tremonton City Office. Learn more and plan your visit! Outlets at Traverse Mountain Virtual Tree Lighting(Lehi): November 20 @ 5:30 pmFREE. When the Utah sun becomes unbearable, head over to one of Kanabs cool places, literally and figuratively. Built in 2011, this modern museum has a collection of exotic butterflies, minerals and indigenous masterpieces. More than 200 lighted animal and holiday-themed displays illuminate the holiday season. The gorgeous temple sits on a 15-acre landscape featuring outdoor stages, a large pavilion, a lake and waterfall, and a few animals. Then add color with snow paint. Visitors have to option to book a 1 hour, 2 hour, or half day dog sled tour from December (sometimes November) to March. Read these insights and tips gathered from a novices first-ever camping trip on BLM and public lands to gain the confidence you need to recreate happily and respectfully on Utahs public lands. Stay for the sunset; its heavenly here. And camping is an excellent option for those who want to explore the lake at a leisurely pace. Of Utah's 15 resorts, 10 are within an hour of the Salt Lake City International Airport. 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. Here are the details on local pros who can help get you the gear or guide your adventure. There are several trails to hike, thousands of geological wonders to photograph, sites to camp for the night and watch the stars, areas to ride horses, ranger-led programs to enjoy from spring through fall, and so much more to expect at Arches National Park. Young Living Family Farm Country Christmas (Mona): Wagon Rides and Light Display. Suggested Read: 10 Museums In Washington DC For An Insight Into The American History. Hiking, Non-ski Winter Activities, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Ski and Snowboard. You can explore by location, what's popular, our top picks, free stuff. 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. This review is the subjective opinion of a . Athletes still train here, and ski schools in Utah resorts might be the start of a future Olympians career. Exhibits around the building will also immerse you in the mystery of outer space. As youre mapping out your winter trip through southeastern Utah, consider adding the following parks and natural wonders to your itinerary. June to August is the season of spectacular activities like Bonneville Speed Week or stargazing . Written October 2, 2021. All rights reserved. Utah's metropolitan areas are situated right by our snow-packed mountains, offering visitors unparalleled access. The Salt Lake City Public Library is one of the most stunning works of modernist architecture, designed by internationally acclaimed architect Moshe Safdie. The Mars Desert Research Station (MDRS) is operated by a small crew of scientists from various disciplines who conduct scientific research on the station and simulate actual space missions to Mars. Thirteen snowboarding resorts are positioned perfectly for dumps of fluffy powder all winter long. It spans over a million acres, dates back to 200 million years in the distant past, and bears an incredible wealth of fossils and artifacts. All Rights Reserved, 11 Utah Christmas events you might want to check out this year, The 2023 Utah Legislature has wrapped. Theres a vegetarian buffet afterwards, a brief session of kirtan in the temple room, a visit to the gift store, and a tour around the grounds. While Utah's Greater Zion offers a few hundred trails, weve highlighted seven of the best hikes in the state's southwestern corner, from deep canyons to high peaks. But do know that theyre busy during this time, especially if you see them in space suits, so dont go about approaching the station without permission. November 26-Jan. 2. Whether you come to ski or snowboard, to mountain bike Slickrock in Moab Utah, to take a summer whitewater rafting splash down Cataract Canyon, or to visit the Old West with a tour of outlaw hideouts and stickups, Utah has adventure waiting. Home to an intricate six-spire temple, Temple Square has been a famous destination for both tourists and locals admiring its beauty as the heart of the worldwide Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-Day Saints. Lightwalk at Liberty Park: SLC Dec. 3-18 from 5-10 pm. You can also watch scientists as they prep new specimens and be a paleontologist for a day at the dinosaur dig! Dates beginning Nov. 26, 2021 on Fridays & Saturdays. Santas Arrival at Station Park(Farmington): November 26 @ 9-11 AM. Snowmobiling is one of the most popular winter sports in Northern Utah, thanks to an abundance of snow, trails, and easy access. Experience snowshoeing the greatest snow on Earth. To put it simply, the riding in Utah is epic. And you can visit Santa as part of your admission price to Zoo Lights. Imagine a desert of peach-pink sand surrounded by rust-colored cliffs and contrasted by pastel blue skies. 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. As the largest national park in Utah, Canyonlands provides a variety of winter adventures, including winter hiking and stargazing. Rileys Family Christmas(Genola): Monday, Friday, & Saturday starting November 29 from 5:30-8:30. Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? You sample collect hot chocolate and cookies on the tour as you embrace the true magic of the holiday season. A lot of the fun things to do in Utah are in Moab, such as off-roading, hiking, and even whitewater rafting. With 4,500 animals representing 550 different species and categorized into 74 major exhibits, the Loveland Living Planet Aquarium regularly makes it to lists of the top places to go in Utah. These special walking tours include hot chocolate and cookies for saleas guests and visitors to the hotel observe these displays. Then add some ice sculpture gargoyles to intimidate the enemy. Arches National Park has been frequented by humans since 10,000 years ago, as evidenced by petroglyphs and artifacts found in the area. Snowmobile vacations are popular outdoor adventures. Eagle Point is a Utah favorite location. Join to view profile . 10. Whether you're a local, new in town or just cruising through we've got loads of great tips and events. The water is comfortably warm and shallow enough for toddlers. Aside from having The Greatest Snow on Earth, what sets Utah apart from other skiing locations is the easy access. Learn everything you need to know for a cheap luxury ski trip. Timed perfectly for winter, this journey takes you to some of the finest mountain resorts in the world, then to the most spectacular vistas of the scarlet-hued desert. Wear the appropriate clothing for the season, and do not drive over the salt flats. And you can visit Santa as part of your admission price to Zoo Lights. Yep you read that right. You can save a whole lot of money on accommodations by pitching a tent and camping at one of Zions three campgrounds too. Needless to say kids love it! Learn more about Utah's Olympic legacyand best spots to relive the games. 90 South West Temple FREE, Spanish Fork Winter Lights Parade: November 27 @ 7:00 PM FREE, Luminaria: Thanksgiving Point in Lehi. Ski Southern Utah: High Alpine Trails + Red Rock Wonder. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Homewood Suites By Hilton SLC/Draper. In Provo it's a misdemeanor to have a snowball fight. The Red Butte Garden is a beautiful and picturesque destination located in the foothills of the Wasatch Range in Salt Lake City. Gingerbread House Display: University Place Mall in Orem. Explore snowmobiling. Time: 2-3 hours. Find the best ice skating rinks in Utah and plan the perfect skate night with your friends and family. And the fun doesn't stop on Christmas Day. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Quality Inn Payson I-15, 13218 S Herriman Rose BoulevardHerriman, UT 84096. No matter your level of adventure, you will find good reason to save some time for a day away from the resort. Winter visitors to Zion National Park will find plenty to do, including hiking, photography and gazing up at the wonders of the night sky. 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. Additional skating venues can be found throughout the valley and include the Olympic-level facilities that are open to the public. Another things you could add to your list of things to do in Utah in December, is to take the kids to see the animal themed lights at Hoogle Zoo, or celebrate with them for an early countdown to New Year's on New Years Eve! Heres how its spending your money, Parents know best: Rep. Burgess Owens wants to fund school choice at national level, Sterling Scholars: Here are Utahs 2023 semifinalists, 2023 Sterling Scholars semifinalists: Southwest Region. 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! Walk through time on a switchbacking boardwalk through the fossil record at the Natural History Museum of Utah. We were there in late December 2021 and it was chilly but not particularly cold during the day. Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. A lot of the fun things to do in Utah are in Moab, such as off-roading, hiking, and even whitewater rafting. We also highly suggest taking the three-hour Sound and Light Show tour along the Colorado River. 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). For tickets and reservation information, click HERE! Feeling cooped up? Dan Craner, Festival of Trees executive board member, puts signs on trees for the 51st annual Festival of Trees at the Mountain America Expo Center in Sandy on Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2021. Once upon a time, the library was a place of silence and stern librarians. Take a road trip from Capitol Reef to Bryce Canyon and enjoy the best of Utah landscapes during its quiet season. A Babe is Born (Lehi): Dec. 17-22. Live Nativity and Luminary Walk: Clark Historic Farm in Grantsville. Now you can start planning your holiday season. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ramada by Wyndham Cedar City. Whether youre looking for a break, vacation or quest for fun this winter, Utah is the place, as always, for adventure whatever you plan to do or wherever the trail takes you along the way. Finally! The dogs participate in a dog sledding operation to help find their purpose. Things to Do Discover Ogden's Attractions and Activities From the fun to the downright funky, Ogden, Utah is anything but your typical mountain town. Adventurous nature lovers will love the trails that lead to rocky and sandy state parks. Browse through the museums artifacts, and enter the teepee to check out the black-lit room that features glowing minerals and paintings. No matter your level of adventure, you will find good reason to save some time for a day away from the resort. West Jordan, Utah, United States. Located 25 minutes away from Park City, Bear Ridge Adventures also offers authentic dog sled tours on scenic private property. Kaylin Richardson, Olympic athlete, and a friend share their favorite Park City experiences to encourage you to add the city's culture-enriched valley, scenery, food, art and access to all-season adventure to your bucket list. 1 Zion Park BoulevardState Route 9Springdale, UT 84767(435) 772-3256. Tree will be lit at 6:00. Ride the Heber Valley Railroad with Santa. Yes, Temple Square in Salt Lake City is open for the Christmas season. Natural History Museum of Utah. 69 p.m.The week of Christmas, wagon rides on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, December 2022. This year there will be displays and limited lights (due to construction). This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. For most travelers, Southern Utah winters prevent comfortable camping, and occasional snowfall can make outdoor adventure a little more challenging. 4x4 Safari Excursion in Arches National Park. 1661 East Murray-Holladay Road (4800 South), Where: Various locations in Salt Lake City. All rights reserved. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Canyons Boutique Hotel A Canyons Collection Property, Interstate 80Wendover, UT 84083(801) 977-4300. Copyright 2023 Deseret News Publishing Company. North Pole Festival: Rio Tinto Stadium. The market is open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. for one weekend only in December as local and visitors alike get into the spirit of the holiday season. Explore all the different shelves offering some of the best books, stories, and novels. More details on entering here. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection By Hilton, US Highway 160 & US Highway 163Monument Valley, UT 84536(928) 871-6647. The real Up house was built in 2011 by Bangerter Homes with permission from Disney. Payson Community Creche: (Payson): Dec. 3 & 4 from 4-9 pm. Nativities Nativity in the Glen (SLC): Dec. 3 from 6-9 PM. Theres no better way to experience a bit of everything Utah offers. FREE hot chocolate and doughnuts and wagon rides. Enjoy winter hikes, scenic drives and some of the best stargazing in the world. Winter in the Ogden Valley showcases some of the best of Northern Utah, from backcountry trails to downtown eats and events. Capitol Reef National Park Get gazed and confused staring out at one of Utah's trippiest landscapes, a hodgepodge of rounded white domes, jutting spires and even a landlocked version of a tropical reef. From swimming to sledding, the whole family will enjoy (or at least appreciate) these fun winter activities. Lights, train rides, live Nativities, and Santa. In winter, families may try icy pursuits, such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Get into the holidays by walking through one of Salt Lakes most elegant hotels. Best of all, you wont need to worry about checking your snowshoeing gear at the airport (although it would be much easier now). Or hikeEnsign PeakTrail on a clear day and get a 100-mile view of Salt Lake Valley. In Utah, a Pueblo name that means people of the mountains, well show you how to take a break from whatever work, weather, the world or just about anything else throws at you. Things To Do Lodging Tours & Guides Deals Events Store Maps & Brochures Share Events So, you're looking for things to do in Utah . Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Tooele-Salt Lake City, 11625 E 1500 SJensen, UT 84035(435) 781-7700. Hiking in winter is perfect for getting the family out of the house and into the crisp fresh air. Now those visiting Park City can experience the snowy wilderness like never before as theyre pulled on a sled behind a team of 10 energetic pups. A staple of the holiday season in Utah, join the Utah Symphony as they performHandel's Messiah. Visitors and locals alike flock to this annual performance of William Christensens The Nutcracker, which highlights the incredible full-length choreography of this classic childrens story. The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium is home to many creatures both scaly and feathered. Take a cruise on the Provo River and Santa rows up in a row boat. Walk around downtown and vote on your favorite gingerbread creations. Maybe your teens can help you come up with the weirdest smore combination like starbursts and saltines. But Take an epicurean trip across the state to try all of Utahs capital is so much more than just We use cookies to improve your experience on Utah.com. The five-acre Red Hills Desert Garden is actually Utahs first-ever desert conservation garden. Experience more peace, quiet and solitude. West Salt Lake Valley Christmas Light Drive: We created this list with 8 awesome stops in the West area of Salt Lake valley.
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