Best of all, you wont need to worry about checking your snowshoeing gear at the airport (although it would be much easier now). 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. Park City Mountain Resort is the largest ski resort in the US! Natural History Museum of Utah. Hiking, Non-ski Winter Activities, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Ski and Snowboard, Stargazing. 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 . Red Hills Desert Garden Lights(St. George): Nov. 26-Jan. 2 at 5-10 pm. We also highly suggest taking the three-hour Sound and Light Show tour along the Colorado River. Snowmobile vacations are popular outdoor adventures. Christmas at the Homestead(Cedar City): Frontier Homestead Museum has decorations, including the Twelve Trees of Christmas. The counties are listed generally from north to south in Utah. Things to Do in Utah, United States: See Tripadvisor's 1,327,933 traveler reviews and photos of Utah tourist attractions. Box 750027 75 East 100 North Torrey, Utah 84775 Here are just a few of our favorite annual holiday events to check out here in Salt Lake. The dogs participate in a dog sledding operation to help find their purpose. A local favorite for celebrating the season, families can enjoy breakfast with Santa and other holiday characters on select days in December at this annual holiday event in Salt Lake. Spending some time on the ice rink might bring that magical vibe of the holiday season. Youll find holiday markets, festivals, concerts, pop up bars, dance performances, musicals, and more to celebrate the holiday season in Salt Lake. Browse through the museums artifacts, and enter the teepee to check out the black-lit room that features glowing minerals and paintings. Exhibits around the building will also immerse you in the mystery of outer space. In downtown Salt Lake, the city lights the streets with holiday-themed displays. Kelli Gard - Executive Administrative Assistant - ARUP Laboratories I think theres live music as well. You can explore by location, what's popular, our top picks, free stuff. (And true enough, this isnt the only time Utah was chosen for Martian simulations.). Its our chance to sparkle as the streets light up with celebrations and joy. A Sundance ski vacation is the perfect blend of Utah ski bliss and the year's most promising films. found in the higher elevation regions of Southern Utah, Fresh Tracks in Kamas Utah's Snowcountry, Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity. 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. Afterwards, try ice skating at the Midway Ice Rink. Utah's metropolitan areas are situated right by our snow-packed mountains, offering visitors unparalleled access. Use that energy to build a snow fort. Characterized by red rocks and natural amphitheaters carved by frost weathering and stream erosion, Bryce Canyon attracts almost three million visitors every year. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Canyons Boutique Hotel A Canyons Collection Property, Interstate 80Wendover, UT 84083(801) 977-4300. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Salt Lake Marriott Downtown at City Creek, 110 400 WSalt Lake City, UT 84101(385) 468-7827. The museum is home to 5,000 desert plants, a replica slot canyon, a stream with native and endangered fish, and prehistoric dinosaur tracks from 200 million years ago. Free cookies and hot cocoa. Now you can start planning your holiday season. We look for fun, easy adventures throughout the state of Utah and beyond. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Utah - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor You either drive through Monument Valley and soak up the sights or explore it fully by getting a tour guide from the visitor center. Experience more peace, quiet and solitude. And you can visit Santa as part of your admission price to Zoo Lights. Utahsstateandnational parkswill be thawed out before you know it! Ogden, Utah Attractions & Activities - Visit Ogden Even the interior of the house from wallpaper to furniture is a complete replica from Carl and Ellies home in the film! Contact Info. Tickets required. 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. 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. And the 2021 holiday season offers a slew of new activities for you and your family. 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! Get More Mountain Time From swimming to sledding, the whole family will enjoy (or at least appreciate) these fun winter activities. Experience more peace, quiet and solitude. Deer Valley. Either choice is good, or even better, try out both. 4:30-8:00 pm at Zootah with reindeer encounters. If you dont feel like trudging up a hill 17 times (itisgood exercise though) head up to Woodward Park City to their state-of-the-art tubing lanes. 69 p.m.The week of Christmas, wagon rides on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, December 2022. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. However, the tough choices arent over yet. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Tooele-Salt Lake City, 11625 E 1500 SJensen, UT 84035(435) 781-7700. Catch a virtual workshop, join a book club or check out an audiobook. In warmer months, outdoor adventurers will have a blast exploring the natural beauties through horseback riding or hiking. Its a relatively easy and affordable way to get outside and the perfect way to watch the sun rise over the Wasatch range. Tickets include sleigh ride, cocoa, and sledding hill. Nowhere else in the world do individuals have the choices and proximity to ski and golf the same day as they have here in Utah. Park City is one of the most popular destinations for cross country skiers, although Nordic centers can be found all over Northern Utah. For the holidays, This Is The Place Heritage Park transforms into a Christmas wonderland with sweet treats and arts-and-crafts events. All rights reserved. The Galliavan Center offers ice skating opportunities, bringing you closer to the wintry season. Explore the solar system, black holes, alien landscapes, and distant galaxies through interactive and mind-churning exhibits and activities at the planetarium. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City, 195 W Center StreetCedar City, UT, 84720(800) 752-9849. Well, you should absolutely watch Utah Shakespeare Festivals world-class outdoor performances for an unforgettable time! (Salty and sweet? Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ramada by Wyndham Cedar City. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Theres a live nativity and display of small nativities in Payson. When the Utah sun becomes unbearable, head over to one of Kanabs cool places, literally and figuratively. Learn about the American Wests unique natural world through the museums 1.6 million objects on display. Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? Of Utah's 15 resorts, 10 are within an hour of the Salt Lake City International Airport. 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. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Utah - 2023 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor Temple Square Lights: SLCFREE Limited Lights due to construction. Admission is free to this annual Christmas market in Salt Lakes Foothill District. With a little extra planning, good layers, and the right equipment, however, you can enjoy Utah's national parks in the solitude of winter. 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. 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. For more information, see our Privacy Policy. Loveland Living Planet Aquarium brings together the critters from South America, Utah, the Antarctic, Asia, and all of the earths oceans. The holiday market is only open for one weekend in December and its this weekend, from Dec. 1 to Dec. 4. 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. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Suites St George University Area, 301 Wakara WaySalt Lake City, UT 84108(801) 581-6927. Walk through time on a switchbacking boardwalk through the fossil record at the Natural History Museum of Utah. In fact, its the only warm water scuba destination in the continental United States. More details on entering here. Tickets are $5/person. 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. Want to avoid the Utah national park crowds? Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cathedral Valley Inn, 375 Red Hills ParkwaySt. Each of these annual events are held in Salt Lake and Utah counties. If you cant make it to Christkindlmarkt, head for the Holiday Market at Rio Grande where local vendors offer up their wares. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Gouldings Lodge, 50 N TempleSalt Lake City, UT 84150(801) 531-1000, At the heart of Salt Lake City is the magnificent Temple Square, a 10-acre complex owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. I will move on . I'll be graduating with my associate's degree in December of 2021 after 2 years of school. Passes to ski and snowboard resorts are expensive, but dont give up yet, powder pauper. And camping is an excellent option for those who want to explore the lake at a leisurely pace. 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) Then add some ice sculpture gargoyles to intimidate the enemy. If youre curious about the extravagance of Hindu festivals, you can also join the temples grand celebrations of Holi and Diwali! Santas Arrival at Station Park(Farmington): November 26 @ 9-11 AM. Find your sense of adventure and awe in the vast yet intricate swaths of desert from Arches National Park to Monument Valley. Book ariver tripor reserve that popularcampsiteyour family loves. On Dec. 21 and Dec. 22, the Utah Symphony will perform the score to Home Alone, by John Williams. . Feeling cooped up? Gingerbread House Contest Display (Brigham City): Dec. 2-Jan 3. 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. This beautiful event brings the light and joy of the holiday season to the South Valley. Visitors have to option to book a 1 hour, 2 hour, or half day dog sled tour from December (sometimes November) to March. Their boat launch is perfect for families who want to motor or sail atop the salty waters. George, UT 84770(435) 673-3617. Visit Hogle Zoo in the Winter: Tips for Families, Christmas in Downtown Tree Lighting and Parade, West Salt Lake Valley Christmas Light Drive, East Salt Lake Valley Christmas Light Drive, Larry H Miller Christmas Carole Sing-Along, Benson Grist Mill Lighting and Live Nativity, Outlets at Traverse Mountain Virtual Tree Lighting, Santas Grand Arrival at University Place, Young Living Family Farm Country Christmas, Christmas In Dixie Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony, Hedgehog Electric Christmas Light Display Map, Picture This Utah: An Interactive Photo Experience, What to Expect When Visiting Historic Nauvoo, Joseph Knight Home and Josiah Stowell Home, FOLLOW ON INSTAGRAM FOR ADVENTURES ALL YEAR. Let your kids get soaked in the Waterworks section or break out of jail in Kidopolis. 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. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand America Hotel, Related: Best Things to Do in Salt Lake City, 1345 Lowell AvenuePark City, UT 84060(435) 649-8111. A Pioneer Christmas: Provo Pioneer Village on Dec. 17, 18, and 20 from 5-8 pm. Recreational opportunities and gorgeous scenery also await, and sunsets here turn skies into a kaleidoscope of colors. It is free and easy to tour the grounds and see the lights any night of the season. 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 . With its jaw-dropping architectural and interior design, the Salt Lake City Public Library offers amazing finds in every twist and turn. Southern Utahs wilds are wearing their winter splendor. 6 followers 6 connections. A museum where kids can touch and play with everything! Zootah Christmas Lights: (Logan): November 27-Dec.18 (Th, F, and Sat). 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. See All Itineraries Previous Group Suggested Read: 10 Museums In Washington DC For An Insight Into The American History. Star of Wonder opens this week at the West Valley Performing Arts Center. Sunsets and sunrises further enhance the colors of this surreal spectacle, so come early or stay for the night. For a more unforgettable experience, book a tour with a Navajo guide! Once upon a time, the library was a place of silence and stern librarians. 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. You can save a whole lot of money on accommodations by pitching a tent and camping at one of Zions three campgrounds too. When winter blasts its arctic forcefield, the Utah ice castles a frozen fairytale of ice and snow emerge on an acre of land at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center in Midway. Lay back and watch the scenery as you and your kids glide down the longest tubing hill in Utah then take the magic carpet back up. Winter rewards hikers with stunning sights of stalactites and snow covered mountains. Perhaps another activity you wouldnt expect to be available in Utah,sled dog toursare available in Park City. Copyright 2023 Utah Office of Tourism. . 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. Lights, train rides, live Nativities, and Santa. Hiking, rafting, and camping are some of the most popular activities at Dinosaur National Monument. If youre planning a family trip this year, consider Midways Ice Castles a must-see. There is a live nativity, indoor and outdoor nativity displays. Explore snowshoeing. 4x4 Safari Excursion in Arches National Park. Youre there. FREE, Ogden Electric Light Parade: November 27 @ 5:30. Winter rewards hikers with stunning sights of stalactites and snow covered mountains. Utah heli skiing and snowboarding are perfect for those who want to ride some of the best backcountry in the world. For tickets and reservation information, click HERE! This year there will be displays and limited lights (due to construction). Previous Group Home to more than 2,000 gigantic sandstone arches, this national park sees more than 1.6 million curious visitors every year. But these days libraries are humming with activity. It's just a natural way to release that pent up winter energy. Events | Visit Cedar City Spring boasts active wildlife and blooming flowers. Finally! Start making summer vacation plans today. 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. 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. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western PLUS Rubys Inn, 13312 West 1075 SouthMagna, UT 84044(801) 828-0787. It takes up part of Arizona and southern Utah. Time: 2-3 hours. Channel your inner figure skater as you race and twirl around the rink. 4x4 Half-Day Adventure at Canyonlands National Park. Winter visitors to Zion National Park will find plenty to do, including hiking, photography and gazing up at the wonders of the night sky. 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. . Things To Do In Utah 2023 - Activities & Attractions | Travelocity Cross-country skiing Utah is awesome! November 26-Jan. 2. During the holiday season, Utah's Hogle Zoo lights up with over 200 lighted animal and holiday-themed displays in the evenings. Thirteen snowboarding resorts are positioned perfectly for dumps of fluffy powder all winter long. Its a contender for ultimate winter family photo, and a winter wonderland the kids wont soon forget. Today the park is a natural marvel well loved by adventurers who want to witness the grandeur of its dramatic sandstone formations in person. For most travelers, Southern Utah winters prevent comfortable camping, and occasional snowfall can make outdoor adventure a little more challenging. Weve collected 11 iconic Christmas events for you and your family to embrace this holiday season. Experience Exciting Events Every Day of the Year! Christmas in the Canyon(St. George): Nov. 26 Dec. 23 at 6-9 PM. Beginning the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas comes to Temple Square with turning on the lights. The performances will happen throughout December. A new walk-thru light display. Thanks for @Stgeorge_Kids for giving us a few ideas for the St. George area. FREE, Spanish Fork Winter Lights Parade: November 27 @ 7:00 PM FREE, Luminaria: Thanksgiving Point in Lehi. Gingerbread House Scavenger Hunt (Logan): Dec. 6-25, 2021 FREE, Parade of Gingerbread Homes (Logan): Dec. 4-31. Built in 2011, this modern museum has a collection of exotic butterflies, minerals and indigenous masterpieces. The sweeping views from the visitor center are already spectacular; youll be blown away when you explore the park up close! BIG IRON TOUR CO. - Veteran & Locally Owned Off-Road Tour Company. Over a million curious guests visit the aquarium every year for their interactive exhibits. Tickets required, Christmas on the Farm Live Nativity(Cedar City): Dec. 6, & 13 at 6-8 PM. What if you and/or the kids are caught somewhere between feeling confident on the slopes and too energetic to go snowshoeing? The Grand America hosts walking tours for the holiday season that show off new displays in windows for the holiday season. A staple of the holiday season in Utah, join the Utah Symphony as they performHandel's Messiah. Camping & Backpacking, Hiking, History and Heritage, Non-ski Winter Activities, Scenic Drives/Road Trips, Stargazing. Ski its heavenly powder snow, then point your car southward to wind your way through the exquisite Bryce Canyon National Park, Zion National Park and a series of crimson-hued state park gems along the way. Rocky Mountain Outfitters Carriage Rides(Jordanelle State Park): Sleigh Rides through the lights all the way through winter. 15 Fun Things to Do in Utah in Winter - Freedom National Blog For maps and assistance, theres a visitor center. Nov. 19-Jan 1. Cant decide where to go in Utah with your other half? 10. For an extraordinary adventure, plan winter hikes in Utahs Zion National Park. Lace up and get skating! Run Run Reindeer 5K Race! Landscaping and gardening workshops are also offered here, so if you dont know what to do in Utah this weekend, consider signing up. Families, on the other hand, have an endless array of cultural institutions to choose from. Located 25 minutes away from Park City, Bear Ridge Adventures also offers authentic dog sled tours on scenic private property. Nov. 18-Jan. 1, Saratoga Springs Christmas Light Drive: 8 different houses in one nightFREE, Engh Family Christmas Lights: Saratoga SpringsFREE, A Very Merry Meridian: Saratoga SpringsFREE, Lehi Christmas Lights: Lehi (11 different houses pretty close to each other)FREE, Edwards Family Lights Show: Pleasant GroveFREE, Pleasant Grove Christmas Lights:9 Houses in one night. Discover deals on the best attractions, breweries, and locations in Salt Lake! As you visit, do your part to keep Utah Forever Mighty. As the largest national park in Utah, Canyonlands provides a variety of winter adventures, including winter hiking and stargazing. Wear the appropriate clothing for the season, and do not drive over the salt flats. 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! Less than an hour's drive from Salt Lake City, Heber Valley is the perfect Utah snowmobile base camp for newbies and experienced riders alike. To watch or not to watch that is the question. No matter what kind of winter adventure youre looking for, youre sure to find it in Ogden. Definitely one of the must see tourist spots in Utah that you shouldnt miss! Christmas on the Farm(Cedar City): November 26-27, Dec. 4, 8, 11, & 15, at 10-4. The Natural History Museum of Utah is a grand museum found within the University of Utahs research park.