Soak Up the Sun in St. George, Utah

Tara Walker Stowaway, “Getaway—for a weekend” Title: Soak Up the Sun in St. George, UT Word Count: 622 If you are looking for an affordable and rejuvenating getaway then St. George, Utah is the place. Located in southern Utah, the city offers tourists a myriad of activities from the arts to the outdoors, and even a mix of the two. Make sure to hit these prime spots for the ultimate “fun in the sun” vacation!

Zion National Park If you want to experience the beauty and majesty of the local scenery, then you won’t want to miss Zion National Park. Whether you are an experienced hiker or just love the outdoors, the park has something for you. A shuttle runs through the main canyon throughout the day. Ride it up and back for a relaxing tour of the park, or take it to the base of your intended hike. Zion is home to some of the most rigorous and spectacular hikes in the world. Ascending to 1,488 feet, Angels Landing is not for the faint of heart but boasts a spectacular view. The Narrows takes hikers through water-filled canyons. If you aren’t a hiker, Zion’s has bike-trails and horseback riding paths. After you finish, wander through the eclectic shops of Springdale or enjoy an affordable steak-dinner at Barista’s in Hurricane.

Tuacahn Located in a suburb of St. George, you will find the Tuacahn Amphitheatre nestled in Padre Canyon. The outdoor theatre’s backdrop is a wall of red rock cliffs that reach heights of 1,500 feet. Its canopy is a myriad of twinkling stars because shows don’t start until just after dusk. Designed to host the original musical UTAH!, the Tuacahn opened in 1995 with its debut.

Now, every summer the bill consists of two to three Broadway shows and several other concerts

and performances. The 2011 season includes Grease, Disney’s The Little Mermaid, and country singer LeAnn Rimes.

On Saturdays, the Tuacahn hosts an outdoor market and vendors come from all of the surrounding areas. You can make it a day trip and enjoy the theatre’s dinner before catching a show that evening. Summer isn’t the only time to enjoy a show. During October you can put yourself in the Halloween mood and see Odyssey Dance Theatre’s “Thriller.” Or if you are there during December, catch the Christmas Festival of Lights with its live nativity scene. No matter the season, make sure you visit the Tuacahn.

Sandhollow Reservoir State Park Only fifteen minutes off of I-15 this beautiful and quiet state park is easily accessed and provides fun for the whole family. The stark contrast of the red rock and the blue sky is breathtaking. Sandhollow’s sand dunes are perfect for riding four-wheelers, motorcycles, and even horses. Want to spend the night? Try camping out in the RV or tent park. If you are planning a day trip, the reservoir is perfect for boating or water-skiing and the surrounding beaches make for perfect picnics. Want to golf? Head to the nearby resort!

TwentyFive Main Named for its address, TwentyFive Main lies at the heart of downtown St. George.

Described as having a “modern vintage style,” the restaurant is most famous for its gourmet cupcakes. The menu includes a variety of flavors, from the traditional chocolate and strawberry to the more exotic orange blossom and banana breadcake. You won’t be able to resist taking some to go. If you’re hungry for something more substantial, TwentyFive Main serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re an early bird, try their frittatas or french toast. But, if you’re there a little later, you won’t be disappointed with the array of salads, pasta, pizza, and paninis. While

you wait, you can enjoy the displays of artwork from local artists. If you’re lucky, they may also have live music.