Explore the Historical Sites Near St. George, Utah

You’ll find plenty of historical sites when searching for things to do when staying in our rentals in St. George, Utah.

This area has a fascinating history that interests visitors of all ages so you can sneak a history lesson into your family vacation!

Here are a few of the most notable St. George, Utah, historical sites to consider for your next trip.

St. George Temple

This temple is enriched with St. George, Utah history. Started in early November of 1871, and finished in 1877, this temple is the oldest and largest standing LDS temple. Its original architect was Truman O. Agnell, and the building towers in full height at no less than 174 feet, with a volcanic rock foundation and sandstone walls that were brought in by the original members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints from quarries a few miles from the temple site. Wood for trusses and finishes came from the local Pine Valley Mountain.

The temple is currently undergoing renovations, and is considered sacred, and therefore the general public cannot enter. However, there is a very modern and informative visitor’s center for all who would like to learn more about this historic building and it’s origination. Admission and tours are free of charge, and they are open daily from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. It is especially beautiful at night and when elaborately decorated, at Christmastime.

*Because of renovations, for a limited time the public will be able to tour the temple, until the day that it is rededicated. This rare opportunity will only be available from September 15, 2023, through November 11, 2023. Reservations are encouraged, and can be made here.

Silver Reef Museum & Ghost Town 

Open to the public on Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., this unique museum is one you can’t miss! Built in the late 1870s, it was initially known as the Wells Fargo Express Office. Its arched doors covered by metal bifold latching doors offered extra protection from bank robbers.

The building shared its southernmost end with another, Woolley Lund & Judd Mercantile business, who eventually took it over entirely, along with Wells Fargo itself, and becoming the main business for a time. The economy later suffered, and countless companies shut down, including Woolley Lund & Judd Mercantile, and the building became a private residence; in the 1980s it was turned it into the museum it is today. 

However, perhaps the most intriguing place to visit is the mines and the infamous cemetery, with its ghost stories and folklore told by animated tour guides. They are truly dedicated to their characters at Silver Reef! It’s fun for the whole family!

St. George Tabernacle 

Visit Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., or Sunday from to 6 p.m., and you’ll see why people have gathered in groups to worship God here ever since its beginning, in1869. A few years later, in 1876, this church building officially came together, and news of its completion quickly spread throughout the city and surrounding areas. This 19th-century, sandstone brick exterior LDS church is visually stunning, and has recently been restored. Under the stairs and in the cornerstone a time capsule was discovered, surprising the restoration and construction crews. The contents of the time capsule are now displayed under glass and is part of the tour. Stop by and learn how this amazing building came to fruition against all odds at the time, both historically and geographically. 

Judd’s General Store

What started out as a general store 111 years ago is now a fun candy shop! Judd’s is not just a candy store…they sell vintage and rare candies you will recognize from your childhood, along with their specialty bottled sodas. Don’t think it’s only for kids either, because they serve delicious homemade soups and sandwiches, vintage sodas, and hand scooped ice cream. Judd’s is a must visit when you’re in town! Tourists and locals alike patronize this quaint downtown shop frequently. Judd’s is located in historic Ancestor Square, right across from the St. George Tabernacle.

Brigham Young Winter Home 

Open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday noon to 6 p.m., this classic-style brick and plaster home once housed the LDS prophet, President Brigham Young from 1870-77. You can visit it at 67 West 200 North, and you may want to give them a call in advance to confirm their availability for photos, tours, and other information: 435-680-2283. 

Brigham Young liked the home so much that, in 1872, he officially bought it. Over time, he remodeled it to accommodate the growing families he had with his multiple wives, until it eventually came to be twice the size of the original. It’s now a much more extensive, well-developed, firmly rooted home than initially envisioned, and today is one of the main downtown tourist spots. Schedule a virtual tour online, or stop by in person.

Jacob Hamblin Home 

Come visit the Jacob Hamblin Home during those same hours as the Brigham Young Home, and you’ll get to taste the rich history of Mr. Hamblin’s efforts among the Paiutes, a Native American tribe he sought to win over in the name of the Lord. Peace, life, love, and living well with one’s neighbors were the tenets his family lived by, and they made every effort to show it. The Hamblins were committed missionaries, starting in 1863, when they initially moved into the home and established residence, exemplifying the love of Jesus Christ. 

Washington City Museum 

Open to the public only Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays between 10 a.m. and noon. It was built by Mormon converts to be used as a schoolhouse for their children. They built it rather quickly, constructed primarily of adobe, in 1863. Then, in 1877, it was replaced with a sandstone edifice. The remodeled building was now two full stories high and towered above its original conception, to keep up with the growing LDS community.

Later, in 1922, designers added a gym to the back of the building, and eight years later, centralized heating was installed within its walls, an original coil-like radiant heating system. The museum was later named after our first president, George Washington, because of its educational purpose. It was used as a school until the early 2000s, when it was converted into a museum.

Ledges Vacation Rentals

Our St. George vacation rentals can offer views of the canyon and so much else. Our rented homes can strike a perfect chord with the needs of any adult single, couple, or group in need of a change of scenery. You’ll like what you see! Some of our homes are even planted close to top-rated luxury golf courses in the area. Please check them out when you have some time. You might find that you get everything you need, right in our homes and don’t have to wander out far for entertainment, dining, or anything else.

In addition to being near all the area’s most popular attractions, you’ll also have a great staff to help you make the most of your vacation. We can let you know about fun events going on in the area or answer any questions you have about your home or its amenities. Contact the Ledges team today to get started!