Cedar City is known for its Shakespearean Festival, western desert landscape and close location to three national parks, but few people know about its other must see attractions. Here are seven locations only locals know about.
1. Main Street Books and Grind Coffee House
A local favorite hub, the warm smells of coffee and old paper draw you off the street. Intimate stacks of books line the walls and shelves of Main Street Books. The owner loves to help you search for a specific book in the maze of piles, and will order it if they don’t have it in store. Connected to the bookstore is the colorful café the Grind. With soft music and quiet chatter, it’s a charming place to sit down, order a sandwich and read.
Kept secret even from many locals, the Crack Shack is a small decrepit building behind an apartment complex. Outside hangs twinkling Christmas lights beneath a canopy of trees. It takes only a couple dollars for admittance to the small, local rock concerts. Depending on the night, different local bands take turns playing covers or original hits from pensive emo rock to metal. Smelling of cigarette smoke, the building only allows a 10-15 people audience and is standing room only. The building is decorated in graffiti and mattresses in the rafters and offers a free spirited, wild night.3. All American Diner
Stepping into the All American Diner is like stepping into a time machine, where there is good food and great company. The staff makes you feel right at home with the waitresses charmingly call everyone dear and sugar. This small town restaurant reminds you of what made America great. You get a lot of food for your buck, and every meal looks like it jumped right off the menu.
4. The C
Take a quick drive up the canyon to the illuminated C overlooking Cedar to arrive at this romantic getaway. Only open in the summer, it has breath taking views of the small town on top of the secluded mountain side. The overlook is a favorite kissing spot for local young adults. Bring a blanket and watch one of Southern Utah’s gorgeous sunsets, and then go star gazing in Cedar’s beautiful clear skies.
5. Gypsy's Corner
Hidden on Historical Main Street, this little store is owned by a real Green Witch. They sell spell kits, exotic and handmade clothing, "Harry Potter" candy, jewelry and many other unique items. The downstairs space is family friendly with a mystical atmosphere. By appointment, you can get tarot card and medium readings. Every week, the owner offers starting witch classes and women spiritual healing in the only red tent in Southern Utah.
6. Veteran’s Memorials and East Canyon Park
This beautifully sculpted park follows a river that runs out of the mouth of the canyon. Fun for the whole family, charming trails lead to different locations in the Park. Along the path are Cedar City’s Veteran’s Memorials. Edged in stone are the names of locals who served our country in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. These reverent spots tell stories and give historical context to the men and women who sacrificed their lives for their country.
7. The Wizz
Walking in, the smell of incense and oils surround you. This distinctive store sells charms and mystical objects to costumes and jewelry. Unique objects of note are; Harry Potter paraphernalia, custom flasks, Shakespearean clothing, charm necklaces and much more. There is something for everyone in this edgy, but magical shop that you can’t get anywhere else.
