Cedar City

Cedar City is a small city in Dixie, Utah, and is a good place to stock up on supplies before heading into beautiful wilderness areas stretching out in all directions. The city is sandwiched between mountain ranges covered by Dixie National Forest, while further to the southwest lie the remotest areas of Zion National Park, and to the east Cedar Breaks National Monument and Bryce Canyon National Park.

With a population of about 35,000, Cedar City is the largest city in Iron County and serves as a regional hub for outdoor recreation and culture. The city is home to Southern Utah University and the renowned Utah Shakespeare Festival, which draws theater lovers from across the country each summer. Cedar City sits at an elevation of about 5,800 feet, giving it a four-season climate that is milder than Salt Lake City but cooler than St. George to the south.

Winters are cold, with daytime temperatures rarely getting above freezing and overnight lows frequently dropping below 0°F (-18°C). Summer is pleasant, with daytime temperatures generally ranging from 75°F (24°C) to 95°F (35°C). Cedar City receives more snow than the desert areas to the south, making it a good base for winter sports at nearby Brian Head Resort.

By Plane

Cedar City Regional Airport (CDC) has limited commercial service from Salt Lake City via SkyWest Airlines/Delta Connection. The closest major airports are Las Vegas (LAS), about 3.5 hours drive, and Salt Lake City (SLC), about 3.5 hours drive.

By Train

By Car / Road

Cedar City is located on Interstate 15, about 250 miles south of Salt Lake City and 170 miles north of Las Vegas. From Salt Lake City, take I-15 south. From Las Vegas, take I-15 north. The city is also accessible from the east via UT-14 from US-89.

Cedar City is a small, walkable city with most attractions and services concentrated along Main Street. The city has a public bus system with limited routes. A car is recommended for exploring the surrounding areas, including national parks and monuments.

• Utah Shakespeare Festival — One of the largest and most prestigious Shakespeare festivals in the world, held annually from June through October on the Southern Utah University campus.

• Cedar Breaks National Monument — A natural amphitheater at over 10,000 feet elevation, 23 miles east of Cedar City. Spectacular views, wildflower meadows, and hiking trails.

• Frontier Homestead State Park Museum — A living history museum depicting pioneer life in southern Utah. Features historic buildings, artifacts, and demonstrations.

• Iron Mission State Park Museum — Chronicles the history of iron mining in the area, from the pioneer era to the present.

• BBrian Head Resort — A ski resort about 20 miles east of Cedar City, offering downhill skiing in winter and mountain biking in summer.

• Hiking — The surrounding mountains and canyons offer excellent hiking opportunities, including trails in Cedar Breaks, Brian Head, and the Dixie National Forest.

• Skiing — Brian Head Resort offers downhill skiing and snowboarding with over 700 acres of terrain.

• Mountain biking — Numerous trails in the surrounding mountains provide world-class mountain biking.

• Utah Shakespeare Festival — Attend a performance at one of the nation's premier Shakespeare festivals.

• Canyoneering — The area has numerous slot canyons for technical canyoneering adventures.

Cedar City offers a diverse dining scene, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.

• Centro Pizzeria — Downtown Cedar City. Wood-fired pizzas and Italian cuisine in a lively atmosphere.
• Italian Village — Popular local Italian restaurant with generous portions.
• Grind Coffee House — Local favorite for coffee and light fare.
• JB's Restaurant — Family-friendly American restaurant with a wide menu.

Cedar City has several coffee shops and a few bars. The downtown area has a growing nightlife scene, particularly during the Utah Shakespeare Festival season.

• Grind Coffee House — Popular local coffee shop.
• Sagebrush Coffee — Local coffee roaster with quality espresso drinks.

• Budget: Quality Inn Cedar City. Basic but clean rooms near I-15.
• Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Cedar City. Comfortable rooms with modern amenities.
• Upscale / heritage: Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn Cedar City. Full-service hotel with restaurant and indoor pool.

Cedar City has a variety of shops and stores along Main Street and in the commercial districts. The historic downtown area has boutiques, galleries, and specialty shops. Outdoor gear can be purchased at several sporting goods stores.

• Zion National Park — About 65 miles east. Dramatic sandstone cliffs and the famous Narrows hike.
• Bryce Canyon National Park — About 80 miles northeast. Spectacular hoodoos and amphitheaters.
• Cedar Breaks National Monument — 23 miles east. A natural amphitheater with wildflower meadows.
• Brian Head — 20 miles east. Skiing in winter, mountain biking in summer.
• St. George — About 60 miles south. Warm weather, golf, and access to Snow Canyon State Park.
• Great Basin National Park — About 150 miles north. Caves, mountains, and dark skies.