8 Most Historic Small Towns to Visit in Utah
Utah harbors a wealth of prehistory; for eons, it has been a major source of archeological knowledge, with numerous dinosaur and plant fossils discovered in its territory. The Beehive State is also home to interesting human history, preserved in hidden small towns awaiting exploration. Strolling through their quiet streets reveals historic buildings with rustic architectural aesthetics from bygone eras. Planning a trip to Utah's most historic small towns is an opportunity to immerse yourself in its colorful culture and experience the undying spirit of its pioneers. So, set the stage for a riveting rendezvous through the state's formative years with a tour of the following exciting destinations.
Bountiful
This lovely community in Davis County is steeped in Mormon heritage. The majority of Bountiful’s 46,000 residents are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and visitors can get a sense of this from the grandiose Bountiful Utah Temple. With this, Bountiful is a historical town, tracing its settlement to 1847, making it the second settlement in Utah. Visitors can learn more about the town's heritage at the Bountiful Historical Museum, which houses an impressive collection of historical exhibits despite its small size.
The local community expresses its appreciation for the arts at the Bountiful Davis Art Center on Main Street. This quaint facility exhibits different art forms by local creatives and hosts various programs for enthusiasts, including exhibitions and classes. Bountiful encourages tourists to experience its lush outdoors at North Canyon Park, a cozy nature spot with peaceful trails, picnic areas, and a playground.
Farmington
Sandwiched between Salt Lake City and Ogden, Farmington was settled in 1847 and harbors a lovely historic district as evidence of its storied legacy. The Clark Lane Historic District preserves several gems listed in the National Register of Historic Places. For example, a tour of the Hector C. Haight House takes you back to the Victorian era inside the historic home of the "father of Farmington." Farmington balances its rich history with delightful urban experiences, including remarkable shopping opportunities at Station Park.
Meanwhile, Lagoon Amusement Park is an excellent stop if you are visiting with kids. The fun center promises nonstop fun for all ages, featuring thrilling coaster rides, water slides, and live shows. Beyond the urban center, Farmington beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore a stunning wilderness area at the Farmington Bay Waterfowl Management Area. Straddling 18,000 acres, it is a sanctuary for different migratory bird species, offering opportunities for birding and hunting.
Kaysville
Located just 10 minutes north of Farmington, Kaysville was first settled in the 1840s when Hector C. Haight established a grazing area. However, the once-modest settlement has evolved into a bustling small town with diverse attractions to delight all visitors. This small town is home to Cherry Hill, a popular amusement center where families gather to enjoy fun amenities like water slides and swimming pools. Silver Screen enthusiasts will fancy catching the latest Hollywood releases at Kaysville Theater. This family-friendly venue impresses with a budget-friendly yet fun movie experience.
The local art community is well represented in downtown Kaysville, as evidenced by the area's multiple art centers. If you enjoy stage performances, you can catch a moving play or musical in the family-friendly setting of Hopebox Theater. However, visual art lovers will gravitate towards Canyon Gallery.
Brigham City
The first settlers came to Brigham City in 1850, opening the door to a barrage of newcomers who helped transform it into the vibrant town it is today. Visitors can explore local heritage at the Brigham City Museum of Art & History. Inside, a diverse collection of permanent historical artifacts and rotating art exhibits showcase the town's past and culture.
Outdoor lovers can also expect exciting opportunities in Brigham City, given its various nature spaces. A trip to Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge allows you to spot different bird species in a tranquil natural setting, with more opportunities for hunters and anglers. Elsewhere, the Eagle Mountain Golf Course provides an excellent way to complement a cozy setting with an easygoing golf session with peers. The course is relatively easy and accommodating to all skill levels.
Mount Pleasant
This small community in Sanpete County was incorporated in 1868 and is less than two hours from Salt Lake City. Besides its small-town charm, Mount Pleasant harbors beautiful Mormon-style structures reflective of its Mormon pioneers. Strolling along the main drag in downtown Mount Pleasant, you'll come across the Wasatch Academy Museum, which offers a glimpse of local history and culture—some of the artifacts displayed inside date back to the Civil War era. The Watkins-Tholman-Larsen Farmstead is another notable landmark worth checking out. Built in 1870, it offers a window into the pioneer ages in the modest workshop of the town's first blacksmith.
Visiting families can spend quality time with loved ones at the Mt. Pleasant City Aquatic Center. This recreational hub invites residents and visitors to have fun in the water in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Cedar City
Home to Southern Utah University, Cedar City charms newcomers with a vibrant art scene and interesting history. The town traces its founding to the mid-19th century and has a colorful legacy guests can discover at the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum. This living history museum complex exhibits old buildings, carriages, and wagons used by pioneers in the 1800s. Cedar City is regionally recognized as an art hub, a credit to its mix of world-class art centers.
The Southern Utah Museum of Art draws art enthusiasts from across the region with its impressive collection and stands out for its stunning architectural details. The same is true for the Utah Shakespeare Festival, reputed for staging entertaining classic plays by the celebrated playwright.
Fillmore
Fillmore was founded in 1851, making it one of the most historic small towns to visit in Utah. The town was even the state capitol for five years until it ended up being changed to Salt Lake City. However, it retains the partly built "statehouse," one of Utah's oldest standing government buildings. A tour of the Territorial Statehouse State Park museum allows residents to explore rare artifacts and memorabilia inside the building and admire the impressive craftsmanship employed. Similarly, the Jeep Guy Museum promises to intrigue car enthusiasts in Fillmore. This magnificent facility exhibits a fine collection of over 50 jeeps, with the oldest model dating back to the 1940s. Those craving an escape to the open spaces can head to Paradise Golf Course for a relaxed session with peers while soaking up the beautiful natural scenery.
Beaver
Beaver's historic downtown looks like something straight out of an Old Western Movie, punctuated by limestone buildings that evoke memories of past eras. The town hosts Cove Fort, a historic Mormon fortress from the 1860s constructed using volcanic rock. Surrounding the structures is a lovely garden with picnic tables under ample shade.
Beyond its curious past, Beaver provides multiple opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Those who prefer to take it slow will like a game of golf at Canyon Breeze Golf Course. Tourists who don't mind breaking a sweat under the scorching Utah sun can hit the trail and explore the wilderness along the Mammoth Crossing Trailhead. The 4.5-mile looping trail also accommodates biking exploration.
The Takeaway
By experiencing the quaint livability and cultural richness preserved within Utah's historic small towns, visitors gain a thoughtful perspective into the pioneer spirit and heritage integral to the state's identity. A trip to any of the above historic small towns in Utah delivers a nostalgic experience, offering a window to the state's formative years. But history is not the only thing you will be experiencing. They are also cultural hubs surrounded by beautiful wilderness areas, full of opportunities for outdoor-centric travelers to experience in this state of the United States.
