Things to do / Travel Guide
Romance is no stranger to southern Utah and the Arizona strip. The scenery – the red Navajo sandstone to the west, the piercing canyons to the south and east – is not just the backdrop; it actually takes center stage. At least it is until you steal the show with your carefully constructed itinerary! There are romantic lodgings in such picturesque cities as Cedar City and Moab, in Utah, and in Page in Arizona. The whole region is magical; some places desolate, some places culture and history-rich. Whether you tend more towards Zion National Park or to the Northern Rim of the Grand Canyon, romantic hot spots abound.
Zion National Park, for instance, is replete with easily-accessible scenic views that will make your eyes water – and your hearts skip. Gaze up at the Great White Throne, or take a short but enjoyable hike through The Narrows for a spectacular show of colors and rock formations.
For many, perhaps the height of romance in this area is taking in the views of Zion National Park – or of Bryce Canyon, the Northern Rim of the Grand Canyon, or Canyonlands National Park, for that matter – by balloon. A ride in a hot air balloon can offer just the right mix of serenity and adventure you're looking for, while providing an experience of flight just the proper degree offbeat and different. The views are beautiful, and change gradually before your appreciative eyes. If you've never been in a balloon, taking your first in southern Utah or the Arizona strip is definitely something you don't want to miss.
There are a number of charming small cities and towns in southern Utah, and the Arizona Strip, which are scenic and down-home, each in its own way. On the southern shore of Lake Powell is the city of Page, a quintessential southwestern city, nestled in extravagant nature. Make Canyon Colors Bed and Breakfast your base for leisurely exploits. You'll get a full dose of Arizona sunshine, gracious hospitality, and a choice between two tastefully arranged rooms.
Many would argue that Cedar City is southern Utah's most romantic city. There is a lot of interesting history to be found here, with neighborhoods dating to the late-19th century. But what makes the place so special, are the festivals celebrated here throughout the year. The Utah Shakespearean Festival, the city's most prestigious, is widely hailed as one of the nation's best. There are six shows produced each summer, with an additional three on show in the fall. The play list isn't limited to the best of the Bard, as other period pieces, by the likes of Christopher Marlowe and other of Shakespeare's contemporaries, are often presented. Sometimes more contemporary shows will be put on as well, such as “Fiddler on the Roof.”
The Utah Shakespearean Festival takes place at Southern Utah University. Not far from the university is historic Main Street, where you can find most of Cedar City's restaurants and cafés. You're bound to find a cozy eatery, perhaps Grind Coffee House, or Grandee's Old Fashion Ice Cream and Bake Shoppe, that will suit your culinary tastes. At the latter they make all of their ice creams fresh on the premises, as well as their soups and sandwiches.
For your stay in Cedar City you won't have to compromise your standards if you're looking for a good place, as there are a number of excellent bed and breakfasts (B&Bs) to be found here. The Garden Cottage, for example, is a fine illustration of the high quality of accommodations available here. As the name suggests, this B&B is situated in the center of a lush and verdant garden. The four bedchambers are filled with antiques – even the linens seem to be of a design from a bygone era – and the breakfasts are tastefully presented with breads, quiches, coffee, juices, and more. The food, as befits the highest standards of dining, is all served on fine china.
Another nice local city, with shops and small restaurants, is Springdale. Springdale also has the advantage of lying conveniently just south of Zion National Park. One of the very best accommodations in the region, the Desert Pearl Inn, is located in Springdale. Watch and listen to the Virgin River as it rushes by, or swim in the pool. The rooms are immaculate, and most of the furniture, as well as the floors, are of hardwood.
Romantic doesn't have to mean just sitting by a fire or soaking in a hot tub. If you're looking for a romantic vacation involving sightseeing and high entertainment, then southern Utah and the Arizona strip should be your destination.
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