Summer may be winding down, but there's still plenty of time to make the most of the season before the school year begins. From exploring local trials and escaping to higher elevations to discovering local history and attending community events, Cedar City has something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are 10 fun activities to enjoy before the school bell rings.
1. Explore Cedar Breaks National Monument
Just a short drive up Highway 14, you'll stumble upon the stunning Cedar Breaks National Monument. Sitting at more than 10,000 feet in elevation, this must-see destination is an ideal escape from the summer heat and offers beautiful panoramic views unique red rock amphitheater and bristlecone pine trees. Spend the day exploring scenic overlooks, hiking nearby trails, spotting wildflowers and wildlife, or enjoy the night skies.
Learn more at nps.gov/cebr.
2. Hike or Mountain Bike Nearby Trails
There is no better time to get outside and explore area's trails than during the final weeks of summer. Whether you prefer hiking or mountain biking, there are plenty of opportunities to get some fresh air, enjoy the remaining summer days, and take in the beautiful landscapes surrounding Cedar City, Parowan, and Brian Head. Don't forget to recreate responsibly by packing plenty of water, applying sunscreen, and wearing appropriate clothing and shoes.
Browse local hiking trails here.
Browse local mountain biking trails here.
3. Visit Frontier Homestead State Park Museum
Before the school year begins, squeeze in a little educational adventure by visiting the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum. Explore historic artifacts, wagons, and special exhibits while learning about the community's pioneer history. Kids can learn to spell their names using the Deseret Alphabet, Utah's first alphabet, and try their hand at gold panning. Be sure to also check out the museum's seasonal events throughout the year, such as the Haunted Homestead and Holidays at the Homestead later this year, for more ways to experience local history in a fun way.
Learn more at stateparks.utah.gov/parks/frontier-homestead.
4. Attend a Summer Event or Festival
Summer in Cedar City is filled with community events, celebrations, and festivals in and around Historic Downtown all year long. Check our event calendar to see what's happening in and around Cedar City, Parowan, and Brian Head because chances are there will be something you can enjoy for a few hours. Attending these local events not only supports our local businesses and the community, but it also give you the opportunity to experience these events in trues "Festival City" fashion.
Catch a local event at visitcedarcity.com/events.
5. Celebrate Summer With a Sweet Treat
After spending the day hiking, attending the Utah Shakespeare Festival, or shopping in Cedar City's Historic Downtown, you deserve to treat yourself to a sweet dessert! Grab a gourmet brownie, slice of pie, scoop of ice cream, candy or another local favorite dessert and make it part of your family's summer tradition.
Find local dessert options here.
6. Take a Day Trip to Brian Head
Need a break from the summer heat? Head up to Brian Head for a day filled with cooler temperatures, beautiful mountain scenery, and family-friendly activities and adventures. Take advantage of the final weeks of summer by riding the chairlift for stunning views of Cedar Breaks National Monument and Brian Head Town or attend one the of town's end-of-summer events and festivals. No matter what you're looking, Brian Head is the perfect place to relax and enjoy one last summer getaway.
Find upcoming events at brianhead.com/events.
7. Cool Off at the Cedar City Aquatic Center
Summer and swimming go hand in hand, and what better way to cool off this summer than by heading to the Cedar City Aquatic Center? Spend a few hours swimming, trying the water slides, relaxing in the hot tub, or grabbing a quick bite at the concessions. Make it a full summer outing by heading to the Lake at the Hills, located just behind the aquatic center, to enjoy a gorgeous sunset. It's an easy way to cool off, have some family fun, and squeeze in one more summer adventure before school starts.
Find swimming classes and more at cedarcityut.gov/445/Aquatic-Center.
8. Attend the Utah Shakespeare Festival and Greenshow
No Cedar City summer bucket list would be complete without attending the Utah Shakespeare Festival. The Tony Award-winning Utah Shakespeare Festival is one the the area's best-known summer attraction and draws guests from all over the world to experience the season's lineup across three theaters. Make it a whole evening experience by first attending the Greenshow, a free public event, before heading into your play.
Purchase tickets at bard.org.
9. Find Petroglyphs and Dinosaur Tracks at Parowan Gap
Take a step back in time with visit to the Parowan Gap. Located about 15 miles north of Cedar City, you'll find Native American rock carvings, more commonly known as petroglyphs, including the well-known Zipper Glyph. While you are there, try to see if you can also spot a human profile on the south side of the Gap. According to the Paiute tribe, this is the Gap's "overseer". After you have explored and learned about the petroglyphs, head about two miles east of the Gap to discover dinosaur tracks!
Learn more about Parowan Gap here.
10. Find Inspiration at Southern Utah Museum of Art
Find inspiration from local and regional artists at the Southern Utah Museum of Art (SUMA), which is free and open to the public. Located on Southern Utah University's campus, the museum features rotating exhibitions, sculptures, and a variety of artistic works as well as events for kids and adults to attend. Don't forget to walk outside and wander through the Stillman Sculpture Court and Pederson Shakespeare Sculpture Garden.
For museum hours and information about current exhibits visit suu.edu/suma.
Take lots of pictures
and share your adventure with us @visitcedarcity!