With its beautiful red rock formations, Utah attracts visitors all year long. The climate in St. George experiences extreme temperature fluctuations throughout the year. Not only does this affect the types of activities you can enjoy, but also the crowd levels. St. George has a busy event schedule, and it’s important to know when the best time to visit is to avoid the chaos.
Spring (March through May)
The wild flowers add color to the already picturesque St. George. Temperatures rise through the spring. The wildly popular St. George Art Festival is the first weekend in April. Be sure to make reservations at a restaurant in St. George if you want to enjoy a meal during the weekend art festival. Plan ahead and make reservations if you want to visit in April, as it is one of the busiest months for attractions and hotels.
Summer (June through August)
With temperatures in the 100’s in July and August, the desert heat kicks into high gear and, without proper precautions, can be dangerous. Residents make the best of it by going out early in the morning or late in the evening, when temperatures are cooler. Many people spend the mid-day hours at work, inside, or in air-conditioned restaurants in St. George. Sand Hollow and Quail Creek Reservoirs are the most popular places in Washington County. The Washington County Fair is also very popular in early August. Because of the extreme heat, most hotels in the area offer lower rates during the summer months, making it the best time to find a hotel bargain.
Fall (September through November)
September is one of the more pleasant months to visit. October is also pleasant, but many of the hotels in St. George are booked in advance for the World Senior Games and the St. George Marathon. After the games and marathon, hotel prices decrease, and most of the trails around St. George become less crowded. In the evenings, temperatures in St. George drop into the 40s and 50s, making it a great time to visit restaurants with outdoor seating. In St. George, the fall colors make for a beautiful sight along the Virgin River.
Winter (December through February)
Winter in St. George brings more moderate temperatures than other parts of Utah. You might see lows in the 20s. The holiday season brings lights to Town Square, and January is a calm, quiet month with short lines at restaurants and empty hiking trails. February brings a slight increase in visitors for the Parade of Homes. Typically, the off-season is best for finding low hotel rates, but expect it to be cooler and a little more uncomfortable in the morning.
Best Times to Visit, by Priority
Weather and Crowds: The best month to see St. George is in October. October offers comfortable, cool evenings, beautiful sunsets and sunrises, and plenty of local activities.
Events: March through April provide beautiful wildflower blooms and the Art Festival. Prices tend to be higher during this time.
Other Activities: The best time for swimming is in the summer. Other activities tend to be the same with the heat and low crowds.
Budget: November and December provide the lowest hotel and restaurant rates. Trails are also empty.
Regardless of what time of year you come to St. George, you should make reservations for restaurants, especially during the Art Festival, marathon, or senior games.
Plan Your St. George Getaway
No matter what month you choose to visit St. George, there are always plenty of activities to enjoy! For the best temperatures and smallest crowds, try to schedule your trip in the fall. The spring brings great festivals and a show of wildflowers. If you don’t mind higher temperatures, the summer brings cheaper rates and better activities at the lake. During the winter, you’ll enjoy cooler temperatures and fewer people. No matter what time of year you go, be sure to get a reservation at your favorite restaurant in St. George!
