Utah's Best Small Towns For A Weekend Escape
Utah is an incredible state characterized by red rocks and rugged landscapes. It is also a sought-after holiday destination. This state is home to many charming towns that make for the best weekend retreats. If you love park-hopping, visit Brigham City. For incredible art collections, book a flight to Ephraim. If temples are your groove, then you should go to Panguitch. There is more in this state, with laid-back terrain and scenic parks. In this article, you will find some of the best quiet towns to enjoy a weekend away from the noise of everyday life.
Brigham City
Brigham City, named for Brigham Young is known for the beautiful peaches that grow in the town and the Brigham City Peach Days Festival, which is held every September. Beginning at the Brigham City Historic District, you can relish the beauty of the town's preserved past. You may like to go park-hopping at Rees Pioneer Park, John Adams Park Splash Pad, and Memorial Park. You can also take a hike at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge to delight in the scenic view or gain some learning at the Brigham City Museum of Art & History. Brigham Historic Inn and Suites and the Galaxie Motel are great accommodation options.
Eden
Eden is a census-designated place in Weber County, Utah. The town's quaint and relaxed atmosphere makes it a beautiful place for a weekend escape. Explore the outdoors by visiting Pineview Reservoir or hiking at the Ogden Valley Trails. Beer lovers will love the New World Distillery. Wolf Creek Resort has it all: a golf course, panoramic views, hiking trails—an outdoor lover’s world. During Winter, Nordic Valley Ski Resort, Powder Mountain, and Wasatch Parc Snow Tubing are open to visitors.
Moab
Moab has a population of over 5,200 people. It is well known for its stunning natural scenery, off-roading opportunities, and nearby Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. The unique blend of adventure and relaxation and the surrounding desert landscape sets this town apart. Moab Information Center and Moab Adventure Center are great places to start your adventure.
Replete with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure, you may like to hike at Dead Horse Point State Park. Tour red rock formations, go rock climbing, and hike at the foremost epicenter of adventure in the United States. Comfortably relish your holiday by lodging at Hotel Moab in the Downtown district.
Fillmore
Fillmore is a charming town with a rich history and natural beauty! Founded in 1850, Fillmore was once the capital of Utah Territory and is now a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Interestingly, Fillmore is home to the oldest surviving Mormon tabernacle and the historic Utah Territorial Statehouse. It has periodically been referred to as a Mormon town.
What sets Fillmore apart is its unique blend of history and adventure. Burrow the Fillmore Historic District and get a glimpse at the town's past. Fillmore City Park is not only serene and great for a stroll, but it is also great for parties and get-togethers with friends. You may also like to explore nearby Meadow Lava Tubes. At The Fillmore Motel, Spinning Wheel Motel, and Capitol Motel, you can enjoy comfort, food, and interaction with the locals.
Ephraim
Ephraim is a picturesque town in the heart of Sanpete County with a strong Scandinavian heritage and a passion for the arts. Founded in 1854, it is home to Snow College and a thriving community of artists and musicians. To celebrate its Nordic roots, Ephraim hosts the annual Scandinavian Festival in May. Explore incredible art collections at the Snow College Art Gallery, breathe in the cool country air, and take a hike at the nearby Manti-La Sal National Forest. The Ephraim Summer Concert Series, held between June and August, is a popular celebration in town. During this time, you can appreciate the vibrant entertainment scene. Relax at the Willow Creek Inn and Mantis Motel.
Heber City
Heber City is a charming alpine town in the Wasatch Mountains, perfect for families alike! Founded in 1859, Heber City is home to the historic Heber Valley Railroad and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Heber City equally hosts the annual Swiss Days festival celebrating its Swiss heritage.
What sets Heber City apart is its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere. Its attractions include the Heber City Historic District, which houses idyllic houses and shops. The Uinta National Forest is a famous holiday spot for tourists. Other outdoor spots include Main Street Park and Inspiration Haven Art Studio. Experience a comfortable stay in Heber City by checking out the Heber City Inn and Swiss Alps Inn.
Helper
Helper was founded in 1881 and is famous for once being a major railroad hub. It is now a popular tourist destination. Helper is home to the Western Mining and Railroad Museum and the historic Helper Train Depot, which add to the town's charm. Enjoy the outdoor experience by taking a hike at the nearby Book Cliffs or some quality time at the Carbon Country Club Golf Course, where you can plan fun activities for friends and family. The Helper Arts Festival, held in August every year, features incredible collections. The Riverside Motel is a comfortable spot.
Kanab
Kanab, Utah, is a lovely town with a rich Hollywood history and natural charm. It was once a popular filming location for Western movies and is now a popular destination for movie lovers. Kanab is also home to the Little Hollywood Museum and the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, which are major tourist attractions. The Kanab Visitor Center and Heritage House Museum are among the most visited spots in town, which means you are sure to meet a crowd of people with like minds and network while on holiday.
As a popular filming location, Kanab hosts its Western Legends Heritage & Music Festival in August every year and pays hosts to thousands of movie enthusiasts. Kanab Suites and the Best Western Red Hills are some of the best accommodation spots in town.
Midway
Home to the historic Midway Town Hall and settled in the Wasatch Mountains, Midway is a town with a rich heritage and scenic views. Its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere set it apart from other holiday destinations. The Homestead Crater is a beautiful spot where you can explore the delightful nature of the town. Wasatch Mountain State Park is a fun place to hike and bask in the breathtaking view of the mountain, go biking, and play with your loved ones. Apart from the blissful atmosphere, the suites in the town are a must-visit. Homestead Resort and WorldMark Midway have impressive reputations that precede them.
Panguitch
Panguitch is a pleasing town with a rich pioneer history and a blissful natural environment. Panguitch is home to the historic Panguitch Temple and the illustrious Bryce Canyon National Park. The town's proximity to national parks and recreational centers makes it the ideal place for a weekend retreat.
The Panguitch Creek is a sight to behold, and you can admire its alluring aesthetic while taking pictures to fill your travel gallery. Panguitch also hosts the annual Panguitch Valley Balloon Festival in June, where you can watch a hot-air balloon show and listen to live music from the locals. The Marianna Inn and Color Country Inn are great home-like spots to experience the comfort and luxury of the town's hospitality.
From Panguitch to Eden and down to Heber City, Utah is gushing with goodness for a weekend retreat. Featuring outdoor adventures and historic sites, these towns are the best places to escape and reflect on life.
