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Cedar City, Utah, located in the heart of scenic southern Utah, is a charming destination continually brimming with culture and history. Known as the “Gateway to National Parks,” Cedar City provides easy access to several national treasures like Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon. The city thrives on its theatrical roots, hosting the renowned Utah Shakespeare Festival annually, which attracts visitors worldwide. With its conducive blend of outdoor activities, historical sites, and artistic offerings, Cedar City appeals to adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and historians alike.
Before visiting Cedar City, reserve tickets to the Utah Shakespeare Festival well in advance; popular performances tend to sell out quickly.
During your stay, ensure to explore the local dining scene that offers a delightful taste of regional cuisine complemented by a warm, rustic ambiance.
How to best experience Cedar City?
Search for Tickets, tours, and activities in Cedar City using direct search on the following providers:
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Cedar City: Gateway to Scenic Wonders
| Country | USA |
| Time in Cedar City | GMT-7 |
| Language spoken | English |
| Population | 34,764 (U.S. Census Bureau, 2020) |
| Currency | U.S. Dollar (USD $) |
| Airports |
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Located in the southwestern part of Utah, Cedar City is a charming and vibrant community covering an area of 36.1 square miles. Known as the ‘Festival City’, Cedar City holds a unique position both geographically and culturally within Utah. It lies along Interstate 15, approximately halfway between Las Vegas and Salt Lake City, making it a point of convergence for commerce, education, and the arts.
Historically, Cedar City was first inhabited by the Paiute tribe, and later settled by Mormon pioneers in 1851. It rapidly developed as a center for iron mining, which played a crucial role in the settlement’s growth. Over the years, Cedar City has transformed from a mining town into a hub for educational and cultural activities. It is home to Southern Utah University (SUU), which greatly influences the community with its events, academic resources, and economic impact.
The city is most famous for hosting the annual Utah Shakespeare Festival, attracting thousands of visitors from across the globe, which has been awarded the prestigious Tony Award for outstanding theatrical performances and educational outreach. Cedar City also acts as a gateway to several national parks, including Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon, making it a significant spot for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The combination of scenic beauty, historical richness, and cultural vibrancy makes Cedar City a notable destination in Utah.
Where is Cedar City?
Located in Iron County, Southern Utah, Cedar City is nestled in a high mountain valley at 5,800 feet elevation, offering scenic views and access to surrounding national forests and parks.
Distances:
| Route | Distance by car | Time by car |
|---|---|---|
| Salt Lake City to Cedar City | 250 miles | 3 hours 40 minutes |
| Las Vegas to Cedar City | 170 miles | 2 hours 40 minutes |
What is Cedar City famous for?
Cedar City is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, particularly the Utah Shakespeare Festival, and its proximity to spectacular natural landmarks like Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks.
History
The history of Cedar City in Utah traces back to its original inhabitants and unfolds through significant periods of development and transformation.
Pre-1850: Early Inhabitants and Exploration
Before its establishment, the area known today as Cedar City was inhabited by the Paiute Indians, who lived off the land. The region was later explored by Spanish missionaries and trappers during the 18th and early 19th century, who passed through the area without establishing permanent settlements.
1851-1900: Settlement and Growth
Cedar City was founded on November 11, 1851, by Mormon pioneers. They were initially sent by Brigham Young to mine iron, which they started at the nearby Iron Hills. The city was initially known as “Fort Cedar” because of the abundance of cedar trees, although these were actually junipers. Over the latter half of the 19th century, Cedar City developed as a center for iron mining and agriculture, which laid down the framework for future growth.
1901-1950: Economic Diversification
In the early 20th century, Cedar City continued to grow with the establishment of the Branch Normal School in 1897, which eventually evolved into Southern Utah University. The city diversified economically, moving away from its mining roots towards education and commerce. The creation of the Utah Parks Company in the 1920s facilitated the transformation of Cedar City into a gateway for national parks like Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon, bolstering tourism and related services.
1951-Present: Expansion and Modernization
Post World War II, Cedar City experienced rapid expansion and modernization. Its proximity to stunning natural landscapes encouraged the growth of the tourism industry. Today, Cedar City is widely recognized for its cultural events such as the Utah Shakespeare Festival, attracting visitors globally. The city has seen continual expansion in both its educational institutions and its economic base, transitioning into a regional hub for culture, art, and outdoor activities.
Visit Cedar City
What to see and do in Cedar City, Utah (USA).
Cedar City offers a blend of cultural richness and stunning natural beauty, making it an engaging destination for travelers.
- Explore the Utah Shakespeare Festival, an annual event that displays classic and contemporary theatre.
- Visit the Southern Utah Museum of Art for a taste of local and regional artistic talents.
- Take in the natural wonders and outdoor recreation at nearby national parks such as Zion and Bryce Canyon.
- Stroll through the historic downtown for unique shopping and dining experiences.
Events in Cedar City
Cedar City is host to several year-round events that capture its unique cultural and natural heritage. Notably, the Utah Shakespeare Festival, running from June to October, draws crowds with its exceptional theatrical performances. The Cedar City Livestock & Heritage Festival, every October, celebrates the region’s agricultural roots with parades, rodeos, and other activities.
Best time to visit Cedar City
The best times to visit Cedar City depend largely on your activities of interest. Summer provides warm weather perfect for exploring the nearby parks and partaking in the Shakespeare Festival. Conversely, fall offers cooler temperatures and vibrant autumn colors, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.
Is Cedar City worth visiting?
Cedar City is certainly worth a visit, especially for those who appreciate an amalgamation of cultural heritage and natural beauty. It serves not only as a cultural hub with festivals and museums but also as a gateway to some of the United States’ most spectacular national parks. However, visitors should be prepared for potentially crowded events and seasonal weather changes, which could impact travel plans. Nonetheless, the diverse offerings make it a worthy consideration for different types of travelers.