Historic downtown St. George is a shopper;s paradise. In the heart of the city you will find fine art, dining, shopping, live theater and more. The district has been up and coming since 1861 when pioneers called by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were called to grow cotton in a harsh desert. Monumental buildings left behind by original settlers make the perfect backdrop for an eclectic visitor experience.
Take an hour or a day, this entertaining district offers an intentional ambiance that whispers stories of the city’s past.
Church-sponsored settlers were not the first to inhabit the southern side of present-day Utah; but they were the first to establish a formal settlement. The cotton industry did not flourish the way settlers had hoped but the pioneers did. A beautiful town litteraly sprang from the desert floor. Residents combined resources to construct majestic buildings with bricks made from the plentiful red sand on the desert floor.
Many of those buildings are meticulously maintained such as Woodward School, the Tabernacle, and the Latter-day Saints Temple to name a few. Two buildings located on the corner of 100 East and St. George Boulevard are also integral pieces in the recounting of the city’s history: the Pioneer Courthouse and the McQuarrie Memorial Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Museum. Both buildings attract visitors to the area (and that is good for business)!
Turn back time at Ancestral Square
Ancestor Square, 2 W. St. George Blvd #22, Saint George, UT 84770, is a prime example of how the city has incorporated history in its overall plan to promote tourism, create atmosphere and bring a steady stream of income to downtown businesses.
The center is made up of 12 buildings. Six of those have historic registry designations. Some of the most popular among them are as follows:
- Sheriff Hardy’s house (1877)
- Sheriff’s office (Sandstone Bldg)
- Original jailhouse
- Historic Gardeners Club (one of the oldest buildings in St. George)
The buildings are renovated to preserve their original architectural flavor. In this unique business center visitors can meander through a world class art gallery, shop at unique eclectic shops and dine at any of five premier restaurants.
A seasonal farmers market takes place in the square about May 22 through Oct. 30 every Saturday, 9 a.m. - Noon.
Main Street a path of rare experiences
Across St. George Boulevard from Ancestor Square is a two-block stretch of Main Street (running north and south) that leads to the city’s charming Town Square Park (also the site of the St. George Tabernacle and Woodward School). Main Street is lined with enchanting businesses like Jewelry & Antiques, ART Provides, Bear Paw Cafe, Main Street Antiques, Forever Young, Annie’s Vintage Garden and the Gold Ore Store.
At the intersection of Main Street and Tabernacle is a roundabout boasting an Ironman M-Dot sculpture said to be a tribute to the spirit of sport, the optimism of art and the legacy of the Ironman triathlon competition in Southern Utah.
Tabernacle Street lined with fun shops
Tabernacle Street (named for the historic and iconic Latter-day Saints Tabernacle) between Main Street and 100 East offers fun consignment shops like Encore 'A Chic Boutique'. The store features a collection of gently-used women’s clothing and accessories.
Dine inside or outside at Cappalleti’s Restaurant. This family-owned and operated Italian bistro serves a traditional menu plus beer and wine in a beautiful brick-accented building in historic downtown.
St. George embraces the arts so it is fitting The Electric Theater Center brings artists together in a city-owned facility. The facility and program operated from it help anchor culture and the arts in the center of this Southern Utah community.
St. George’s historic downtown is extremely walkable and a great place to spend time relaxing with a friend or loved one.
Outdoor Adventures and Attractions
Downtown St. George Utah is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The area's natural beauty and well-maintained facilities offer numerous opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Dixie Rock
One of the standout attractions is Dixie Rock. This iconic landmark provides a unique vantage point to overlook Downtown St. George. It's a must-visit for both locals and tourists.
- Climb accessible paths
- Enjoy panoramic views
- Ideal for photography
Extensive Bike Trails
St. George boasts over 52 miles of paved bike trails, making it a cyclist's paradise. Downtown serves as the central hub for these trails, offering easy access to various routes.
- Scenic routes
- Family-friendly paths
- Perfect for all skill levels
Recreational Hubs and Community Spaces
Downtown St. George Utah is rich with recreational hubs and community spaces that cater to all age groups and interests. These areas foster a sense of community and provide ample opportunities for leisure and social activities.
Library with Maker Spaces
The local library is more than just a place to borrow books. It features innovative maker spaces equipped with 3D printers and other creative tools.
- Story time sessions
- 3D printing workshops
- Skill-building activities
Children's Museum
The Children's Museum in Downtown St. George is a delightful space filled with interactive exhibits and activities. Many local businesses have contributed to its unique areas.
- Dinosaur exhibits
- Imaginative play zones
- Educational displays
Parks and Open Spaces
Parks play a significant role in the community life of Downtown St. George. Town Square Park is particularly popular, featuring a splash pad, carousel, and large grassy areas.
- Town Square Park
- Worthen Park
- Rodeo grounds
These parks often host festivals, events, and serve as finish lines for major races like the Iron Man and St. George Marathon.
Diverse Dining Options
No visit to Downtown St. George Utah is complete without indulging in its diverse dining scene. From local grocery stores to eclectic restaurants, there's something to satisfy every palate.
Local Grocery Stores
For those who prefer to cook at home, Downtown St. George offers two excellent grocery stores: Harmon's and Smith's.
- Harmon's: Local flavors
- Smith's: Affordable prices
Eclectic Restaurants
The downtown area is dotted with a variety of restaurants that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for Thai, sushi, or classic American fare, you'll find it here.
- Benja's: Thai and sushi
- George's Corner: All-American
- Bear Paw: Breakfast and lunch
Bear Paw is especially popular, so it's wise to arrive early to avoid the long lines.
Downtown St. George Utah truly has something for everyone, making it a vibrant and inviting community for both residents and visitors.
A Taste of History: Judd's Store
Judd's Store is a historic gem in Downtown St. George Utah, offering a nostalgic experience for visitors and locals alike.
Old-Time Mercantile
Judd's Store has been a staple in the community for generations. It features old-time pop, candies, and classic treats.
- Old-time pop
- Penny candies
- Nickel candies
Delicious Offerings
Beyond its nostalgic charm, Judd's Store also serves delicious food items like soups, sandwiches, and ice cream.
- Hearty soups
- Fresh sandwiches
- Homemade ice cream
For many, Judd's is a must-stop destination, reminiscent of simpler times and offering great food.
Residential Living in Downtown St. George
Living in Downtown St. George Utah offers convenience and a variety of residential options to suit different lifestyles.
Walkability and Convenience
One of the biggest perks of living downtown is the ability to walk everywhere, saving money on transportation.
- Walkable streets
- Close to amenities
- Reduced transportation costs
Variety of Housing Options
Downtown St. George offers diverse housing options, from high-rise apartments to historical homes.
- High-rise apartments
- Student housing
- Town homes
- Historical homes
Whether you prefer modern living spaces or charming historical homes, there is something for everyone.
Embracing the Outdoors and Staying Cool
Despite the occasional hot months, Downtown St. George Utah offers plenty of ways to stay cool and enjoy the outdoors.
Outdoor Activities
The favorable weather for most of the year makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities and community events.
- Walking trails
- Community parks
- Outdoor festivals
Cooling Off
During the hotter months, residents can take advantage of local pools and other cooling options.
- St. George City Pool
- Community splash pads
- Shaded parks
These facilities ensure you can stay active and comfortable, even in the peak of summer.
Vibrant Shopping and Local Artistry
Downtown St. George Utah is a shopper's paradise, featuring a mix of charming boutiques and local art. It’s a perfect place to find unique gifts and support local artisans.
Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are a staple in Downtown St. George. They offer fresh produce, handcrafted items, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Tuicon market
- Worthen Park market
- Saturday mornings
Charming Boutiques
The downtown area is dotted with charming boutiques that offer a variety of unique items. These shops are perfect for finding one-of-a-kind gifts and supporting local businesses.
- MoPoCo
- GreenGate Village
- Various other boutiques
Local Artistry
MoPoCo stands out as a hub for local artistry. This boutique features handcrafted items from local artists, making it an ideal spot to find special gifts.
- Handcrafted items
- Local artists
- Unique gifts
Whether you're shopping for fresh produce or unique gifts, Downtown St. George Utah offers a vibrant shopping experience that highlights the creativity and talent of local artisans.
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