Updated Oct 27, 2022

Here Are The 11 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In Utah

Discover the best Christmas towns in Utah, each offering unique holiday events and decorations.

Updated Oct 27, 2022

Written by

Catherine Armstrong

Trip Ideas|Small Towns

Published Oct 28, 2024

The Remote Town in Utah We Simply Can’t Get Enough Of

Loa, Utah is a small town town that's home to outdoor adventure, historic charm, and a close-knit community.

Published Oct 28, 2024

Written by

Melissa Mahoney

I grew up in a small, rural town on the East Coast but living in a major city in the Southwest has me longing for the simple life again, especially as I get older. Whenever I take a day trip or a weekend getaway these days, it's not to another city but rather to a small town that takes at least an hour to get to. One small town in Utah that I think you might like to visit is Loa.

Loa is the county seat of Wayne County and, therefore, the center of its shopping, banking, and education. As of 2024, the town's population is around 514, so it's a very small place!

As far as the Loa, Utah history goes, the town was settled by Mormon pioneers in 1876. It may be surprising, but Loa is named after a volcano in Hawaii, but there's an explanation for that — a Mormon missionary by the name of Franklin Young had spent some time serving there. Due to the town's high elevation like the volcano it's named after, the Hawaiian name "Loa" seemed fitting. The town was eventually incorporated in 1919.

So, you may be wondering, what are the best places to visit in Loa, Utah. Well, let's find out! First of all, Loa sits at an elevation of 7,045 feet, so you can imagine the mountains, hiking, and views you can experience here.

alt — Ric Sorgel / 500px via Getty Images

Loa is close to Fishlake National Forest, Boulder Mountain, Thousand Lakes Mountain, and Capitol Reef National Park, so it's a great home base for anyone who wants to explore the great outdoors. There are so many outdoor activities to partake in, like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, that you can spend an entire day out in the fresh air and scenery.

alt — Autumn at the Castle”nCapitol Reef National Park”nUtah”n10/20/2019

If you prefer to stay in town, you can visit one of the community parks like Harold Brown Park or Turner Park. There are some lovely historic buildings you can marvel at in town such as the 1897 Wayne Stake Tithing Office which is now a museum. For dining options, there's the Miriana Country Cafe for a homey, sit-down meal, and Soda Pipeline for something quick.

alt — Aaron Robison / 500px via Getty Images

Loa, Utah offers a slow pace of life with friendly locals and a community feel. If you need to escape for a day or a weekend, a visit to Loa will give you the peace and quiet you may be looking for.

Have you ever visited Loa, a small town in Utah? If not, I think you should take a day trip or a weekend getaway to explore this remote place. Wondering where to stay in Loa, Utah? Take a look at The 1898 Rock House, a charming historic home with four bedrooms and two bathrooms, and make a reservation on Airbnb. If you prefer to stay in a hotel, book a stay at The Snuggle Inn.

Trip Ideas|Small Towns

Updated Oct 8, 2024

At Christmastime, Park City, Utah Has the Most Enchanting Main Street in the Country

Park City's Historic Main Street transforms into a festive holiday destination with lights, local shopping, dining, and events.

Updated Oct 8, 2024

Written by

Catherine Armstrong

For many, the holiday season is one of the most wonderful times of the year. If you plan on escaping to Utah, we suggest heading to Park City. During December, you'll get to experience a Park City Main Street Christmas and enjoy this historic Utah town all decked out for the holidays. Read on to learn more about the magic awaiting when you visit this Utah Christmas town.

As you can see, Park City's Historic Main Street is quaint and charming year-round, but in the wintertime, we think it's particularly pretty.

alt — Park City main street in the evening.

During Christmas in Park City, Main Street is all dressed up in holiday splendor. Holiday lights are strung across the street and adorn individual businesses.

We suggest bundling up and taking a stroll along this festive street for some window shopping. Who knows? You might find the perfect gift for an upcoming party during your Park City Utah Christmas excursion.

Plus, one of the best things about Park City Main Street, Utah is that many of the shops are locally owned. This means your purchases are unique, and your money supports local business owners.

alt — Heavy snow falling looking down on Main street Park City Utah. Photograph taken 1/11/2020 in Park City Utah.

In addition to lots of great shopping, Main Street offers tons of dining options. Whether you're looking for a quick slice of pizza, or you're in the mood for a tasty steak, you'll have plenty of choices to choose from during your visit to Park City during the Christmas season.

Of course, you'll want to keep your eyes open because you might see Santa and Mrs. Claus during your time in this Utah Christmas town. Stop by and say hello. You certainly want to keep your standing on the Naughty or Nice list.

Part of enjoying the holidays in this popular Utah town includes taking part in events such as their annual electric light parade. Around town, there are also events such as the popular tree lighting ceremony at Canyons Village and the annual torchlight parades.

So, what are you waiting for? Make sure to add a trip to Park City's Historic Main Street to your holiday calendar this year!

alt — Park City Utah January 8, 2018. A family of ski and snowboard enthusiasts cross a festively lit and decorated Main Street Park City.

Are you planning to visit Park City's Main Street during the holidays? If so, let us know what you're looking forward to when you visit this Utah Christmas town. And, if you'd like to take more day trips throughout Utah during the holiday season, I recommend checking out these Utah Christmas towns. For longer stays, check out Vrbo for vacation rentals. There are some truly incredible places to stay near Park City.

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Here Are The 11 Most Enchanting, Magical Christmas Towns In Utah

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The Remote Town in Utah We Simply Can’t Get Enough Of

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At Christmastime, Park City, Utah Has the Most Enchanting Main Street in the Country

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