Utah

Utah's 7 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2024

Published

2 years ago

March 13, 2024

Utah's 7 Most Underrated Towns To Visit In 2024

When one thinks of Utah, one may think of the surreal natural wonders that exist within the rugged backcountry, but visiting this unique landscape lies some of the most underrated towns in the country. Often overlooked are the relaxing shores of the Great Salt Lake or the hidden histories that lay within the museums of Tooele. Prepare your bags in 2024 and get out and discover the less explored regions of the Beehive State and be amazed at the attractions that can’t be found anywhere else.

Springdale

Springdale, Utah, the gateway to the Zion National Park. Editorial credit: f11photo / Shutterstock.com.

Located at the base of the majestic Zion Canyon, Springdale is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Utah. As you enter the town, it’s nearly impossible to miss the towering red cliffs that loom overhead, so be sure to have your camera ready, as each view is worthy of a picture.

Start your journey with a hike through Zion National Park, which has trails for hikers of all levels. The hike is rewarded with beautiful views ranging from cascading waterfalls to towering sandstone formations. For thrill-seekers, plan a canyoneering expedition or conquer the famed Angels Landing trail for unparalleled panoramic views. After an eventful day in the rugged outdoors, head back to town and get a beat in the local culture by visiting the Tribal Arts Gallery. The gallery showcases Native American artwork that pays homage to the ancestors who once thrived in the isolated town.

Riverton

Settled around the year 1850, this town has long been providing a sanctuary amidst the barren landscape of the Utah backcountry. The same rugged outdoors that once made life so difficult now is a haven for outdoor adventures.

Embrace the outdoors with a hike along the picturesque Jordan River Parkway or explore the nearby Oquirrh Mountains for breathtaking views. History enthusiasts can explore Riverton’s past at the Museum of Ancient Life, which features fascinating exhibits of prehistoric creatures and ancient artifacts discovered in the local area. Additionally, continue the exploration by visiting the nearby Wheeler Historic Farm, which shows firsthand how a traditional farm operated before technology evolved. Check local calendars and don’t miss the chance to experience the annual Riverton Town Days celebration, a lively event featuring concerts, parades, and fireworks.

American Fork

What was originally a Mormon settlement, the town sits at the base of the Wasatch Mountain range. The nearby mountains, particularly Mount Timpanogos, provide the perfect opportunity for exploring. Sprinkle in some adventure on your trip, and visit the American Fork Canyon, where you can hike or drive through breathtaking scenery and explore Timpanogos Cave National Monument.

On your return to town, stop by the grand Mount Timpanogos Temple and prepare to be amazed by this magnificent structure that stands out amidst the looming mountains in the background. To learn more about the unique history, book a tour of the American Fork Museum, which walks you through the town’s history from creation to the present day. Lastly, end your day by choosing from one of the delicious restaurants situated in the town’s historic district; the Wild Zucchini Grill comes highly recommended.

Cedar City

During your visit to Cedar City, it will almost be impossible not to have a full itinerary unless you choose to. Take your pick from the variety of options that accommodate any traveler. For the history enthusiasts, start your day with a stroll through the city’s well-preserved historic district, known for its Victorian-era architecture.

The town is also home to the renowned Utah Shakespeare Festival, which draws theater enthusiasts worldwide. But Cedar City’s appeal extends far beyond the stage. It’s also a perfect gateway to the great outdoors. Get outside and venture into the nearby Dixie National Forest, where miles of scenic trails await. For a truly unique experience, schedule a guided tour of the nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument and admire the natural beauty of the towering amphitheater.

Tooele

Located just North of Salt Lake City, this historic town provides the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Tooele’s history dates to the mid-19th century, when it served as a vital hub for early pioneers and prospectors seeking their fortunes in the American West.

Today, this storied past can be found scattered throughout the city. Attractions such as the Tooele Valley Railroad Museum explain the importance of the region’s railroad heritage. A must-see attraction is the Historic Wendover Airfield & Museum, which provides a fascinating look into America’s most secretive project.

The town was once a hotbed for those seeking to claim their fortune. Explore the town’s mining history, which dates to the early 1900s, during your visit to the Oquirrh Mountain Mining Museum. Lastly, step outside, get some fresh hair, and explore the nearby Oquirrh Mountains, which provide the perfect setting for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife viewing.

West Haven

If you’re searching for a town with a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, then consider the search being over. West Haven is situated along the banks of the Great Salt Lake and has a heritage that can still be explored today through its well-preserved historic sites and landmarks. Visit the West Haven Historical Society Museum, which offers an extensive collection that traces the town’s evolution.

West Haven is close to the Wasatch Mountains and Antelope Island State Park, which provides the perfect opportunity to get outside and take a hike on one of the many trails located within the park. During the warmer months, lather on some sunscreen and have a beach day at the West Haven beach to take full advantage of the waterfront access.

Vernal

Begin your adventure in Vernal by immersing yourself in its fascinating history. Founded in the late 19th century, you can explore the history of the town by planning a visit to the Uintah County Museum, which takes you back through the town’s native American heritage and early pioneer days. If you want more history, Visit the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum to learn about the region’s prehistoric past and view fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and Native American artifacts. The town is a gateway to some of Utah’s most spectacular outdoor destinations, including Dinosaur National Monument, where you can gaze in astonishment at the fossilized remains of the animals that once roamed the earth.

Utah is one of America’s last wild frontiers, hosting landscapes filled with natural wonders and historical treasures that await your exploration. From the majestic cliffs of Springdale to the serene shores of the Great Salt Lake in West Haven, each town offers the perfect blend of outdoor activities and historical experiences. Whether hiking through the rugged outdoors or learning the fascinating histories in a museum, Utah promises an unforgettable journey in the heart of the American West.

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Utah

Utah Jazz Learn Anthony Davis’ Official Status for Mavericks Game

Published

10 hours ago

December 15, 2025

Press Room

Utah Jazz Learn Anthony Davis’ Official Status for Mavericks Game

The Utah Jazz won’t be tasked with going up against Anthony Davis for their upcoming matchup vs. the Dallas Mavericks.

According to head coach Jason Kidd, Davis has been downgraded to out for the Mavericks’ game vs. the Jazz due to a calf injury.

Anthony Davis out tonight, Jason Kidd says.
— Andy Larsen (@andyblarsen) December 16, 2025
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Davis was previously questionable heading into the night with a left calf contusion, having played the last nine games for the Mavericks following another calf injury that forced him out earlier in the season.

And while, according to Mike Curtis of The Dallas Morning News, Davis was present for the Mavericks’ pre-game shootaround, the Dallas staff appears to be taking the safe approach with their star big man, and will keep him out of the action on the road in Salt Lake City.

Anthony Davis Ruled Out vs. Utah Jazz

In the 11 games that Davis has been on the floor for the Mavericks, he’s remained a strong impact player on both ends of the floor, averaging 20.3 points, 10.5 rebounds, and 3.2 assists on 51.7% shooting. His absence vs. the Jazz will mark his 15th missed game on the season, leaving him just three games shy of being ineligible for end-of-season awards.

Losing him, no doubt, is a big missing piece for the Mavericks’ frontcourt for however long he’s out, especially on the defensive side of the ball, where he’s been commanding Dallas to a top-six defense through nearly the first two months of the regular season.

Dec 12, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks forward Anthony Davis (3) walks back up the court during the second half against the Brooklyn Nets at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

The Jazz, though, won’t be without a depleted frontcourt on their own side as well. Starting big man Jusuf Nurkic has been ruled out due to rest for his second missed game of the season, while of course, Walker Kessler remains out with his season-ending shoulder surgery.

That means the Jazz will be set to start Kyle Filipowski as their starting center, surrounded by Ace Bailey and Lauri Markkanen in their frontcourt. Kevin Love and two-way signee Oscar Tshiebwe will remain their depth pieces at the five.

For the Mavericks, they’ll be rolling with a big man rotation consisting of Daniel Gafford on a minutes restriction, as well as veteran Dwight Powell.

Tip-off between the Jazz and Mavericks lands at 7 p.m. MT in the Delta Center, as Utah will attempt to fire off win number two in a row after their win vs. the Memphis Grizzlies, and continue their strong play in front of the home fans they’ve shown thus far this season.

Be sure to bookmark Utah Jazz On SI and follow @JazzOnSI on X to stay up-to-date on daily Utah Jazz news, interviews, breakdowns and more!

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Why didn’t University of Utah Athletics put its private equity deal out for bid?

Published

22 hours ago

December 15, 2025

Press Room

Why didn’t University of Utah Athletics put its private equity deal out for bid?

SALT LAKE CITY — Browse the list of what the University of Utah is seeking bids for these days, and you’ll find it wants to buy parts for power systems and that it’s seeking someone to redevelop the old Fort Douglas military installation.

What you won’t find is requests to bid on its sports teams. Yet, on Tuesday, the campus announced it was essentially selling a stake in Ute athletics to Otro Capital — a New York City-based private equity firm.

It’s a deal worth $400 million or $500 million, according to various news outlets. Normally, when the U of U wants goods or services for anything costing as little as $10,000, it seeks bids posted to a public website.

“All this seems to be backdoor discussions without the public,” said Katherine Biele, president of the League of Women Voters of Utah.

Biele said the league was not taking a position on whether private equity should be part of college sports. Its concern is transparency — how taxpayer money is used and how the deal could impact academics.

“Any kind of information helps,” Biele said. “When you keep everything private and behind closed doors, the public has no idea. And of course that’s where people get worried and confused.”

A U of U spokesperson on Friday said a public bid was not necessary because the new company will be owned by the University of Utah Foundation, an independent nonprofit. The foundation was acting on a directive issued by the university’s board of trustees earlier this year.

“The foundation reviewed many entities,” the foundation’s CEO, David Anderson, said in a statement, “including a large number of private capital firms that have experience in sports-related investments.”

Jerry McGinn, an expert on government and the director of the Center for the Industrial Base in Washington, DC, said it’s normal for government agencies to seek bids privately rather than publicly.

“And the word in that community was likely pretty well known that Utah was looking to do something,” McGinn said.

Ben Rosa, an assistant professor of business economics at the University of Michigan, said the U of U may have sought private bids because it had good information about what its athletics are worth.

“But if they don’t,” Rosa said, “then, by not running an auction, by not requesting proposals publicly, they may have been giving up some value.”

University of Utah Foundation President David Anderson issued the following statement:

As you know, the university has been wrestling with the issues confronting our athletics programs for some time. Several months ago, university leaders, including the Board of Trustees, designated the university’s foundation to explore alternatives, potential impacts and whether a partner made sense, and if so, which one.
In consultation with trustees and university leaders, the foundation reviewed many entities, including a large number of private capital firms that have experience in sports-related investments. The foundation will oversee the partnership between Utah Brands & Entertainment and any final partner, including Otro.

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Utah Jewish community ensures security for Hanukkah event after deadly attack in Sydney

Published

1 day ago

December 14, 2025

Press Room

Utah Jewish community ensures security for Hanukkah event after deadly attack in Sydney

SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Leaders in the Utah Jewish community have prepared security measures ahead of their Festival of Lights celebration, following a deadly attack at a similar holiday event in Australia.

At least 11 people were killed, and 29 were injured after two gunmen attacked a Hanukkah celebration on a beach in Sydney. Government officials called the shooting an act of antisemitism and terrorism.

Officials with the United Jewish Federation of Utah released a statement Sunday echoing this sentiment, saying they are “heartbroken and outraged by the antisemitic terrorist attack.”

“Once again, Jews were targeted simply for being Jewish and for celebrating our traditions and our right to religious freedom. We must not ignore efforts to normalize hatred or to cloak antisemitism in political rhetoric,” the statement read.

MORE | Australia Shooting:

The Jewish community in Utah plans to gather for a Hanukkah celebration at the Capitol Sunday evening, a similar event to the one attacked in Sydney.

Officials said they are working closely with law enforcement and security partners to protect the attendees of the Festival of Lights celebration.

“Chanukah marks the Jewish people’s fight to live openly as Jews – and to bring light into dark times. That message is painfully relevant today. Those who sought to extinguish that light will not succeed,” the statement read.

The statement closed by saying the Utah Jewish community will “stand in solidarity” with communities across the world as they mourn those killed in the attack.

“We mourn the victims, pray for the recovery of the injured, and recommit ourselves to ensuring that the lights of Chanukah continue to shine,” it said.

Read the full statement below:

United Jewish Federation of Utah is heartbroken and outraged by the antisemitic terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community in Sydney, Australia, during a first night-of-Chanukah gathering. According to reports, at least eleven people were killed, with many more injured, as families came together to celebrate the Festival of Lights. As details continue to emerge, we mourn every life lost and hold the victims, the injured, and their loved ones in our hearts.

This was a deliberate act of violence against Jews gathered openly to practice their faith. It must be named clearly: this was antisemitism. Once again, Jews were targeted simply for being Jewish and for celebrating our traditions and our right to religious freedom. We must not ignore efforts to normalize hatred or to cloak antisemitism in political rhetoric.

Chanukah marks the Jewish people’s fight to live openly as Jews – and to bring light into dark times. That message is painfully relevant today. Those who sought to extinguish that light will not succeed. The Jewish people will not retreat from Jewish life in the face of hatred.

As Jewish communities in Utah prepare to gather for Chanukah, we do so with vigilance and resolve. The United Jewish Federation of Utah is in close coordination with local law enforcement and community security partners to help ensure celebrations across our state are safe and secure.

We are grateful for the support of Utah’s elected officials and civic leaders and call on leaders everywhere to speak out clearly and forcefully. This attack must be condemned for what it is: a blatant act of antisemitic terror. Words matter – and so do actions. Strong public safety commitments and an unwavering refusal to normalize antisemitism are essential.

We stand in solidarity with the Jewish community of Sydney and with Jewish communities around the world. We mourn the victims, pray for the recovery of the injured, and recommit ourselves to ensuring that the lights of Chanukah continue to shine.

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