Menu
Destinations

Festival City

Cedar City

Cedar city, where Shakespeare is still alive.

Elevation:
37,206
Population:
5,846 Feet
Cedar City, Utah is a small city located in southwest Utah, nestled at the base of the majestic mountains of the Wasatch Range. It has long been known as “The Crossroads of the West” due to its ideal location on major transportation routes that connect Las Vegas, Salt Lake City and Los Angeles. The city has a rich history as an important stop along the Old Spanish Trail, where traders would peddle their wares from Mexico and California.

History

Cedar City, Utah is a small city located in the southwestern part of the state. It was founded in 1851 by Mormon pioneers and has been home to many generations of settlers since then. Throughout its history, Cedar City has had a variety of industries including coal mining and livestock production. The opening of Iron County Coal Mine in 1881 was the beginning of a period of rapid growth for Cedar City.

Thing to do

Southern Utah University

Located in the heart of Cedar City, Southern Utah University (SUU) offers a variety of educational opportunities with its undergraduate and graduate degrees. SUU also has a thriving arts program that includes theatrical productions, concerts, and art exhibitions throughout the year.

Utah Shakespeare Festival

The Utah Shakespeare Festival has been producing high-quality theatrical performances since its founding in 1961. In addition to plays, the festival also offers workshops and lectures throughout the year. This renowned theater has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theatre. The festival typically runs from June through October each year and is a great way to experience the best in Shakespearean performances.

Brian Head Ski Resort

Just 27 miles away, Brian Head Ski Resort is the perfect spot for winter recreation fun. With a ski area of 400 acres, there’s something for everyone, including skiing, snowboarding, tubing and more. The resort also offers summer activities such as mountain biking, hiking trails, fishing and horseback riding.

Zion National Park

Located just one hour away, Zion National Park is a stunningly beautiful place to explore. With its unique geologic formations, canyons and waterfalls, it’s no wonder why this park is the second-most visited national park in the United States. There are plenty of activities to enjoy here such as hiking, biking, and river rafting.

Planning your trip

When planning your trip, be sure to check Cedar City's event calendar to ensure that you don’t miss out on live theatrical performances, stargazing events, bike races, or festivals that may be taking place downtown.
hotel icon

lodging

Cedar City offers a wide range of accommodations, from camping to hotels. When visiting the area, be sure to book your lodging in advance as options can fill up quickly during peak times. Camping is available at nearby state and national parks, as well as RV sites with full hookups. For a more comfortable stay, check out the many hotels located in the downtown area or along I-15.

dining

The city is home to numerous restaurants that serve up local cuisine and other favorites like Mexican, Chinese and Italian food. Be sure to check out some of the local spots as they often offer delicious dishes that are hard to find elsewhere. For breakfast, try one of the city’s top-rated diners. For lunch and dinner, there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from, including some that serve up all-American comfort food. There are also several places offering fine dining for more special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or something more decadent, Cedar City offers plenty of delicious dining options.

Shopping

A trip to Cedar City could not be complete without visiting its historic downtown area. Travelers will find that it’s easy to make a day of exploring local arts and crafts stores and gift shops. If you’re looking to grab some last-minute outdoor gear, you can do so at the local mountain outfitters and ski shops.
Bus Icon

Transportation

Cedar City offers a thriving public transportation system. Fixed bus routes run all over town, helping travelers tackle all that the city has to offer with ease. If you don’t have a car, commercial taxi services are also available to take you where you need to go.
Season

Seasons

Cedar City is known for its four distinct seasons, each of which offers something unique to discover. In the springtime, bring your camera and capture the vibrant colors of wildflowers blooming throughout the area. Summer brings hot days and cool nights – perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting and camping. During fall, the nearby mountains are ablaze in red and yellow. Winter brings a perfect opportunity to enjoy some of Utah’s world-class skiing. No matter when you visit Cedar City, you can be sure that it will provide plenty of opportunities to explore and create lasting memories.

Nearby

Cedar Breaks
Zion National Park
Brianhead Ski Resort
magnifiercrossmenuchevron-downarrow-right