Take advantage of Memorial Day with recreation and fun in Cedar City
Five activities to enjoy in Cedar City during the holiday weekend
By Brendan Gwynn
Memorial Day is just around the corner, which means that now is the time to start planning for the holiday. According to AAA, “Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer, and Americans will kick off the season by traveling in near-record numbers. More than 41.5 million Americans will travel this Memorial Day weekend, nearly 5 percent more than last year and the most in more than a dozen years.”
With so many Americans traveling for Memorial Day, popular attractions and destinations are sure to be busy. To avoid large holiday crowds, explorers should consider visiting Cedar City in southern Utah, which has many great lesser-known recreational and relaxing destinations to choose from. For those curious as to why they should spend the holiday in the area, here are five family-friendly options in Cedar City to enjoy this Memorial Day weekend.
Utah UFO Festival
The Utah UFO Festival, held in Cedar City’s Main Street Park May 26 from 9 a.m. to 11:45 p.m., celebrates the state’s unexplained mysteries of the sky. The free event features a caravan to Area 51, a costume contest, notable speakers, big-name researchers and more. To learn more about the festival, call (801) 896-8366.
Cedar Breaks National Monument
Called the “Circle of Painted Cliffs” by the early Paiute Indians, Cedar Breaks National Monument is a unique naturally-carved amphitheater boasting multicolored stone ridges. The attraction is a perfect destination for anyone seeking an adventure, as the monument offers great sightseeing, stargazing, hiking, camping, biking, and more. The popular Alpine Pond Trail offers great views of wildflower meadows and other stunning sights.
World Off Road Championship Series Round 6
The sixth round of the World Off Road Championship Series is being held at Iron Mine Race Park in Cedar City May 25–27. Visitors are invited to bring dirt bikes and off-road vehicles to race in celebration of those who have served in the country’s armed services. Tickets are $10 per person per day or $20 for a weekend pass. All proceeds from raffles, auctions, and t-shirt sales will be donated to support local veteran groups. More information and a full race event schedule can be found at worcsracing.com.
Frontier Homestead State Park
Frontier Homestead State Park is a museum that is perfect for all ages. This park brings the early history of southern Utah to life with preserved structures, interesting exhibits, and great hands-on activities. Some of the notable must-do activities include candle dipping and brick making.
Mountain biking
With fun mountain biking experiences from beginner to advanced, the Iron Hills Trail System is a great option for all types of riders. Those looking for downhill riding can use two shuttle options available through the system. Popular trails include Lava Flow (easy) and Lichen It (intermediate), which are new trails in the Cedar City area. The Three Peaks Loop (advanced) in the Three Peaks System is also a newer trail worth noting. Each of these trails will offer riders unique views and memorable experiences.
While vacationing and enjoying the long weekend in Cedar City, visitors can also honor the holiday and those who represent it by attending the Memorial Day Recognition and Veteran’s Memorial Service. This event is taking place May 28 at 10 a.m. in the Cedar City cemetery and will include piper drums and bagpipes, a military salute, a flag raising and lowering, and a short talk by an honored war veteran.
In addition to memorable Memorial Day weekend activities, Cedar City has delicious dining and great lodging options to help guests have an enjoyable visit. With dozens of restaurants from quick bites to elegant dining to everything in between, everyone who visits Cedar City will find something to satisfy their hunger. Lodging options also ensure that visitors not only sleep soundly but also have quick and easy access to numerous adventure destinations. These lodging options include full-service lodges, campsites, hotels, and vacation homes as well as bed and breakfasts.
For more information about Cedar City including activities, dining, and lodging, visit visitcedarcity.com.
Articles related to “Take advantage of Memorial Day with recreation and fun in Cedar City”
Petition to reinstate terminated Dixie State University professors circulating online
Dixie State University is firing people, again — a suggestion on how to respond
Dear Dixie State University and Legend Solar: Show me the money
