When your friends and relatives come to Utah, they probably want to go to all the most popular spots: the national parks, Park City, perhaps the Salt Lake Temple or other Mormon historical sites. All of those places are worthy of a visit, but if you just stick to the most popular spots, your guests won’t get a true picture of Utah’s diverse and beautiful offerings. These 16 places in Utah are often overlooked and shouldn’t be missed.
More than 250 bird species move through the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge every year. Depending on the season, your guests might see bald eagles, hawks, pelicans, swans and more. You can take the 12 mile auto tour and drive through the refuge, or get some exercise on the 1.5 miles of trails running through. Grab some lunch or dinner in Brigham City, too!
Out-of-towners always want to see the Great Salt Lake, but you might consider adding Utah Lake to your list, too. It’s easy to reach if you live along the Wasatch Front, and you can take your guests sailing, fishing or boating.
If you really want to show your guests a unique spot in Utah, take them to Goblin Valley. It’s funny little hoodoos and formations make it seem like you’re standing on the surface of Mars.
During your tour of Salt Lake City, take your out-of-towners to Gilgal Sculpture Garden. It’s free, it’s strange, and it will definitely give you all something to talk about over lunch!
Sure, every city and town has a library...but I’m willing to bet that the Salt Lake City Main Branch is unlike anything your guests have ever seen. The building was designed by Moshe Safdie, a world-famous architect. While you’re there, you can browse through the shops, grab a quick bite to eat, check out readings or film viewings and of course, wander through the stacks.
Did you know that Dinosaur National Monument has more than 1,500 fossils to see at the Carnegie Dinosaur Quarry? You and your guests can even touch several of the fossils, which are 149 million years old! While you’re there, take a hike or enjoy a river rafting trip on the Green River.
If you’re visiting the national parks, you’re probably planning a stop in St. George, but don’t miss nearby Cedar City. This cute little college town has plenty to offer, including the famous Utah Shakespeare Festival in the summer and fall.
This beautiful forest includes the world’s heaviest organism on the planet: Pando. The quaking aspen grove weighs 6,600 short tons and is 80,000 years old, making it also one of the world’s oldest living organisms.
is often overlooked by out-of-towners, but that’s a real shame. The vertical drops (stairs) are truly stunning with their various colors of pink, white, grey and brown. Visit Paria Canyon, Coyote Gulch (pictured here) and Calf Creek Falls for starters...you could spend weeks exploring the entire 1.9 million acres.
Give your guests a little insight about the people who first inhabited Utah at Hovenweep National Monument. The area was home to more than 2,500 around A.D. 1200, and you can explore many of the structures they built.
Grab lunch in Kamas, then head up the byway where your guest will be treated to some beautiful alpine scenery. Mirror Lake is just one of several lakes along this byway. All are great spots for camping, hiking or picnics.
25th Street got a major overhaul a few years ago; now it’s a charming street filled with shops, pubs and restaurants. While you’re in Ogden, visit Kiesel Avenue to surf at Flowrider or fly in the wind tunnel at iFly. Check out the Ogden Raptors at Lindquist Field.
After you visit downtown Ogden, head up Ogden Canyon to show your guests this lush little valley. Play on Pineview Reservoir, ski at Snowbasin and Powder Mountain and visit Utah’s oldest continually operating bar: Shooting Star Saloon.
Park City gets all the attention most of the year, but Sundance has a lot to offer. Of course you can ski during the winter, but in warmer months, there’s plenty of hiking trails, a zipline tour, river rafting, golfing and more.
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This list includes just 16 of Utah’s underrated spots; there's many, many more. Where do you like to take out-of-town guests when they come to visit?
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
At the beginning of every summer, my husband sits down with my three children and asks them to create their own summer bucket list. They can list any place they want to visit from hiking trails and fishing spots to water parks and campgrounds. And, I even create one myself. The following are 11 things that you’ll find at the top of my summer bucket list in Utah and I recommend placing on yours as well.
I love searching for summer wildflowers and one of my favorite places to go is Tony Grove Lake in Cache County. Located up Logan Canyon, this area is typically in full bloom from mid-July to mid-August. There are several ways you can view the wildflowers including at the Tony Grove Day Use Area, on one of the several hiking trails, or even at the Tony Grove Lake Campground. It’s mesmerizing here and absolutely beautiful – don’t forget your camera!
2. Watch The Greenshow at the Utah Shakespeare Festival
Attending the Utah Shakespeare Festival in Cedar City deserves a spot on every summer bucket list. While you can always watch a full play, my favorite activity is The Greenshow. For 30 minutes, the entire family can enjoy outdoor entertainment with singing, dancing, and storytelling. Plus, The Greenshow is free. Throughout the 2024 season, there are three different versions of The Greenshow, and if you have time, we recommend viewing each one.
As a child, my summers were spent at Cherry Hill and I still become giddy each time I take my children. This destination is home to a campground, a delicious bakery, and a water park with attractions for the entire family. However, I particularly love the 18-hole miniature golf course. Each hole boasts its own theme from windmills to ski mountains. Do you have a favorite hole here? I do.
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4. Dive into some ice cream at The Creamery in Beaver
If you find yourself near Beaver, you must stop at The Creamery. This is not only a fabulous road trip stop, but it's also where you can purchase delicious cheese and ice cream. While I love the ice cream year-round, there's something special about the hand-dipped ice cream in the summer months that will excite your sweet tooth.
Did you know that Utah is home to the highest concentration of dark sky parks in the world? While there are places all over the state that are perfect for summer stargazing, I recommend planning a camping trip at East Canyon State Park in Morgan. Just a short drive from SLC, this is a certified dark sky park, home to much history, a popular location for boating and swimming, and offers a variety of accommodations ranging from covered wagons to yurts. Plus, it is home to one of the only hammock campsites in Utah.
There are bucket-list-worthy farmers’ markets in Utah, particularly in the Salt Lake area. These markets are where you can purchase fresh, locally grown produce, handmade products, delicious food, crafts, and so much more. While there are markets all around the state to visit, there are more than half a dozen markets in SLC alone with one of our favorites being the Downtown Salt Lake City Farmers Market at Pioneer Park.
7. Explore the slot canyon at Pioneer Park in St. George
Pioneer Park is a 52-acre park in St. George with all types of activities including multiple hiking trails and rock climbing. However, one of our favorite areas is the St. George Narrows. This is a slot canyon that is perfect for those who want a little adventure. At first, the canyon is quite wide but it narrows as you walk along. In fact, it becomes so narrow that many adults can not fully slide through yet most children are able.
Capitol Reef National Park is one of the most underrated national parks in Utah and is one of the best parks for escaping the crowds. It is also home to Fruita, a historic small town that is known for its incredible fruit orchards. During the summer months, you can come and pick fresh fruit in the orchard, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Just make sure you give yourself time to visit Gifford Homestead, where you can find unique goods, fruit jellies, and delicious fruit pies. All money collected from the you-pick fruit is used to preserve these Utah orchards.
There are dozens of waterfall hikes you could add to your Utah summer bucket list but I love Stewart Falls. To reach these falls, you must tackle a 3.4-mile out-and-back trail that is considered moderately challenging. However, the large falls at the end will certainly leave you impressed. Spring is when these falls really roar but we love the entire journey during the summer months.
This summer, you’ll likely find me lazily floating along the Cowabunga River at Cowabunga Bay WaterPark in Draper. This unique lazy river features a 1960s theme complete with a 1967 Volkswagen surf bug, spraying surfboards, and tiki torches. It’s a destination the entire family will love and the perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
When you want to spend some time outdoors, yet escape Utah's dry summer heat, Tibble Fork Reservoir is the place to go. This reservoir is located in American Fork Canyon and is surrounded by mountains and forests. This is a great place to fish or even splash in the water. Just beware…this water is cold!
What items are on your summer bucket list? What do you love most about the summer in Utah? Let us know in the comments.
