What To Do In Snow Canyon State Park

Posted by Salt Lake Express on July 20, 2018

Home to some of the most breathtaking vistas and diverse life in the west, Snow Canyon State Park has much to offer its visitors. The appeal of this state park is reflected in its average attendance of a quarter million visitors annually. Why do so many people visit Snow Canyon? What is there to do in all 7,400 acres of this state park? You’re about to learn.

Hiking

There are over thirty-eight miles of hiking trails in Snow Canyon State Park. These many trails range from easy to moderate, making it a very family-friendly hiking destination. There is also a three-mile paved trail for walking and biking as well as fifteen miles of equestrian trails. Nevertheless, hikers of all skill levels will enjoy the beautiful canyons and dunes of Snow Canyon.

Some of our top picks are White Rocks Trail/Lava Overlook, Whiptail Trail, Petrified Sand Dunes Trail, and Johnson Canyon. Find a more comprehensive list here.

Camping

One of the good things about Snow Canyon’s location — besides the amazing landscape for which people visit — is the fact that it rarely receives snow. Low precipitation and mild climate allow for their campground to be open year-round.

The campsites feature a large number of amenities and accommodate motorhomes, RVs, and tents. Water hookups, bathrooms, electricity, and more are available to campers, and pets are allowed. Anything you need for your basic camping or extravagant glamping is available.

Reserve your campsite at Snow Canyon State Park here.

Wildlife Viewing

Snow Canyon’s location not only creates a welcoming climate for camping, but its geography lends to fascinating wildlife. Situated at the crossroads of the Mojave Desert, Great Basin, and Colorado Plateau, its dryness attracts a unique fauna. In fact, wildlife enthusiasts can discover thirteen state or federally-protected sensitive species, such as the peregrine falcon, desert tortoise, and Gila monster.

You can, of course, see many, many other types of wildlife in the park. The Utah Department of Natural Resources has identified coyotes, kit foxes, quail, roadrunners, and more. If you have an eye for wildlife you’re sure to see much more!

Always remember to exercise caution around wildlife; look, do not touch.

Photography

Whether you’re into wildlife, beautiful views, or different species of plants, Snow Canyon State Park is a haven for photographers. The red Navajo sandstone and black lava rock make for colorful, stark, and striking backdrops. Wildflowers are beautiful in the spring and fall, and everything from narrow leaf yucca to blackbrush dot the landscape. Time and climate have carefully carved out this beautiful state park for us, and a picture is worth more than a thousand words — its beauty is inspiring.

Taking photographs is highly recommended; removal of plants, rocks, or wildlife is not.

Junior Ranger

Snow Canyon State Park is also a proud participant in the Junior Ranger Program, which is a national program to educate children on state parks. Their mission is best expressed in their motto: “Explore, Learn, Protect!”

Kids between the ages of 5-13 can participate in this program by following a few simple steps. You don’t have to go to Snow Canyon to earn some of the badges, but it sure makes it a lot more fun! As you and your child explore Snow Canyon State Park, you’ll both love what you see and learn.

At over 7,000 acres, Snow Canyon State Park has everything to offer: gorgeous vistas, hiking, camping, wildlife, and activities for visitors of all ages. Plan your trip, remember to take pictures, and take in the wonder of one of Utah’s amazing state parks.

St George Express is helping you elevate your bus travel experience

How to Elevate Your Bus Travel Experience

Posted by Salt Lake Express on July 6, 2018

Unfortunately, trying to survive the ride to school and back is the only sort of bus travel many people are familiar with. Fortunately, 1985 is long behind us, and whether or not you have a lunchbox no longer determines how many times you’ll get hit in the back of the head by a bully who just discovered spitballs.

Even though we’ve all grown up a little, there are still some quick to-dos to ensure you avoid any unnecessary discomfort when riding the bus. Check out our list of ways to elevate your bus travel experience.

Hand sanitizer

Let’s be honest, other people can be disgusting. Most long-distance bus travel companies provide travelers with multiple opportunities to use the restroom, but may you want to clean up sooner than later. If you accidentally touch some “ABC” bubblegum under the seat, a travel size bottle of hand sanitizer can be a lifesaver in an otherwise sticky situation.

Snacks

We all get the munchies from time to time. Remembering to bring a bag of chips or a chocolate bar can help soothe that sweet tooth or put off the tummy-grumbles until you reach your final destination.

Tablet (Laptop)

Sometimes looking out the window is all the entertainment you need, but it helps to have other options on long bus rides. Prepping a tablet or laptop with your favorite eBooks, podcasts, TV shows or movies can help you pass the time when you grow tired of looking at corn fields.

Neck pillow

Despite the efforts of everyone at St. George Express, bus travel isn’t always the most comfortable experience. Bringing a travel size pillow can give you just enough cushion to sleep through the entire trip or take a quick power nap.

Battery charger

Most bus travel companies like St. George Express have individual charging outlets on each bus, but bringing a personal battery charger is a smart backup plan. If you’re expecting an important phone call or need to make sure you’re fully charged for your entire trip, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Sweatshirt (blanket)

You never really know if the temperature on the bus will be too hot or too cold. Speaking to the driver of the bus can be a solution but packing a lightweight blanket or a sweatshirt you can quickly throw on will help keep you comfortable if it’s a little chilly on board.

Travel Bag

Last but certainly not least, the one thing that will let you bring all the other things with you. A backpack or travel bag is the perfect way to pack your snacks, tablet, blanket and hand sanitizer, while still keeping your hands free.

You want your trip to go smoothly, and so do we. St. George Express does everything we can to make your experience as positive as possible, but remembering some small personal items can make all the difference.

How Las Vegas Shuttles are Changing Travel

Posted by Salt Lake Express on June 26, 2018 with 1 Comment

Chances are when you think of a shuttle company, you probably think about hitching a ride to the airport. Airport buses are definitely a large part of a shuttle company’s business. There is a high demand for convenient and cheap travel to and from the airport. But many Las Vegas shuttles are more than just buses to and from the airport, offering many different benefits to travelers. That is why we believe that Las Vegas Shuttles are changing and improving the local travel industry for the better.

St. George Express has helped customers reach their destinations for over eight years now. In that time we have learned a lot about travel and how to get it right for our customers. As we have merged with other companies, we have seen our fleet grow and routes increase. We are pleased to be serving customers in Las Vegas and many other areas along I-15.

The benefits of using Las Vegas Shuttles

We all know the benefits of catching a shuttle to the airport. You can skip the hassle and cost of parking and the risk of leaving your vehicle unattended in a lot. Not only that, but a shuttle will conveniently deliver you right where you need to be at the airport. But that is only the beginning of the value we can offer our customers. There are a lot of reasons why you might want to charter a bus, whether it is to make a day trip to a nearby city, to visit family or friends, or to get your kid to college. We understand that travel can be a stressful time, and that is why we do everything we can to improve the experience. We get you to where you need to be so that you can relax and just enjoy your trip.

What we are doing to better serve your travel needs

Customer Support

St George Express is dedicated to better serve you. That is why our office is open 24/7. We want to hear from you and help you out in any way we can. If your plane is late and you miss a shuttle, just give us a call and we will transfer your ticket to the next available shuttle that works for you. And the same goes for any change in plan. Just call us up to a day in advance and we can transfer your ticket to a better departure time. Our office is always open (except Christmas and Thanksgiving, because we aren’t The Grinch) to answer your questions, address your concerns, help coordinate your shuttle times, and do what we can to make your trip the best experience Las Vegas shuttles can provide.

Onboard Services

We are also committed to making sure that our customers have a pleasant and enjoyable trip. That is why we have embraced the modern luxuries technology provides. We offer free Wi-Fi and USB ports so that you can stay connected and charged during your trip, no matter how short or long.

St. George Express is also committed to your comfort. All of our shuttles have individual, partially reclining seats (not benches!), high ceilings, and generous foot room. We also have free cold water available for every passenger so you can stay refreshed during your trip.

Door-to-door pickup in St. George

As we expand our routes, shuttles, and services, we are now offering door-to-door pickup and drop-off anywhere in St George. Because we have merged with Salt Lake Express, we offer more routes than most Las Vegas shuttles, and are the perfect choice for travelers heading from Las Vegas toward Utah, or even farther north into Idaho and Montana.

We are proud to be a Las Vegas Shuttle

We are proud to be among the Las Vegas shuttles serving customers day and night. And we are here to stay! We truly believe that Las Vegas shuttles are continuing to improve the local travel industry for the better, and we are proud to be leading the charge with friendly service and comfortable luxury. So next time you could use a lift, let us be your choice! Charter your ride here.

How to Pull Off a Weekend Getaway to St. George

Posted by Salt Lake Express on April 27, 2018

If you are looking for a weekend getaway, then St. George should be at the top of your list. Trust us, St. George has you covered, from great weather to delicious food and amazing sights. Not convinced? Check out 5 things to do in St. George Utah.

Whether it’s a romantic getaway with your special someone or just a relaxing weekend adventure with friends, whatever the reason, don’t let fear, uncertainty, or your wallet stop you. So, for all those spur-of-the-moment trips and weekend getaways you always wanted to take but never knew how to pull off, this one is for you.

How to get there

Traveling to St. George has never been easier. St. George Express offers stops from Las Vegas to Helena, Montana, and just about everything in between. Don’t let gas prices, plane tickets, car rentals, or other worries hold you back. Riding with St. George Express has never been easier, more affordable, and more comfortable. Taking a shuttle to St. George is the perfect stress-free way to make your dreams of a weekend getaway a reality. Plug in your device, hook up to the complimentary Wi-Fi, and kick bag and enjoy the extra legroom in all of St. George Express’ shuttles. Catch an early ride so you can maximize your weekend getaway and even make it home in time for work or school when Monday rolls back around.

Where to stay

St. George offers a wide variety of places to stay. From well-known franchises like Best Western and La Quinta Inn and Suites to trendier stays like Inn on the Cliff, which offers a great view of St. George, the options are endless and surprisingly affordable. As you pick a place to stay, remember that even if your chosen hotel advertises a check-in time later in the day, don’t let that stop you from coming into town as early as you can. Most hotels will provide early check-in if you ask. Worst case scenario, they will provide a place to store your bags before your room becomes available. Getting into town sooner than later will be crucial to making the best of your quick weekend getaway.

Feeling extra daring? Skip the hotel and check out nearby camping spots or even just stay for the day and catch a ride home that night. Just remember, deciding where to stay may prove to be the most important decision you make for your weekend getaway. Great views, stunning pools, and delicious restaurants can make all the difference during your quick weekend stay.

What to eat

For the extra-budget trip, pack some basic nonperishable items ahead of time, or plan to pick something up when you arrive in town that you could prepare at your hotel. If you are looking to treat yourself a little, check out our earlier post for some great dining options you won’t want to miss.

Make St. George your next weekend getaway destination.

There you have it. Now that you know how to do it, what else is stopping you? Make St. George your weekend getaway destination. We can help get you here!

Guide on What To Pack for Spring Break

Posted by Salt Lake Express on March 12, 2018

Are you heading somewhere warm and sunny for spring break? Or are you going to head up to the mountains and take advantage of the late winter? Either way, we have a spring break packing list for you!

Spring break is a much-needed vacation in the middle of your busy semester. Typically it’s full of fun and adventure with your college friends so that you can make memories and take a much-needed break from school! If you are still looking for somewhere to go check out our blog post about taking a trip from Cedar City to Vegas.

Accessories (No matter where you go)

Snacks – You shouldn’t go anywhere without some snacks packed. These would be great for while you travel and when you get there.

Camera – Spring break is all about making memories so be sure to have a way to document them. This could be your phone or if you have a camera, bring it!

Phone charger – I’ll admit that I have forgotten this more than once. Don’t forget to pack your phone charger because nothing is worse than having to borrow someone else’s the whole time.

Sunscreen – We know that you are going lay out and tan. Be smart and pack some sunscreen so you don’t burn. Even if you are going somewhere in the mountains you can burn easily. If there is snow it reflects the UV rays and you will burn. The higher altitude also makes it easier to burn so if you are going out be sure to put some on.

Passport – If you are lucky you will need this. Be sure to remember it and have it somewhere safe when you get there!

Cash – We know that you don’t carry cash anymore with Apple Pay and your cards but you should bring some cash. These make it easy to tip, pay for small items, and are especially helpful when traveling out of the country.

Book – Bring a good book to keep you entertained in those not-so-entertaining moments of the trip. It’s so nice when you’re at the beach or pool or sitting in a cabin.

Headphones – Even though spring break is all about hanging out with your friends be sure to pack some headphones so you can listen to music.

Warm Weather

Swimsuit – This is a MUST! Most likely if you are headed somewhere warm there will be pools, hot tubs and if you are lucky, the ocean.

Hat – Don’t let your head burn. Too many times this item of clothing is forgotten and trust me, you’ll want it. Bring a hat.

Sunglasses – Everyone needs a pair of sunglasses. Not only are these useful for the warm weather but you can use them as an accessory too.

Shorts – You’re gone for a week so be sure to bring at least 2-3 pairs of shorts. Try to mix it up a little so you have some for every outfit. I would suggest one pair of jean shorts, one pair of black or white shorts and another of your choice.

T-shirt – Bring some t-shirts! You can make these casual shirts look cute with shorts and if you like you could tie a knot on the bottom to add something extra to your t-shirt.

Pants – It’s a good idea to have AT LEAST one pair of pants in case it gets cold in the evening or you are going somewhere nice.

Dresses (for the ladies out there) – Spring break wouldn’t be complete without some cute dresses. Try finding one that’s versatile for both a day out and a night out on the town with your friends. Maxi dresses look especially cute if you are headed somewhere near the beach.

Nice shirt – Bring one or two nice shirts for events or dinner. I would recommend a short-sleeved button-up for the guys or polo and a blouse for the girls.

Sandals – Let’s face it, flip flops can be comfy but there’s something about sandals. Bring both! Don’t forget that spring break usually involves some sort of walking.

Toiletries – Of course bring all necessary toiletries! Try to go through your morning routine to make sure you remember everything. If you are heading somewhere sandy I would also recommend some baby powder. After sitting in the sand throw some baby powder on and rub the sand off. It takes it off super easily and makes it hurt less.

Work out clothes – Bring a pair of work out clothes so you can get your sweat on for a while. It could also be fun to take a class with your friends.

Cold Weather

Scarf – No matter who you are, a scarf is a good idea. Stay warm and enjoy your break!

Sweats – Bring your favorite pair of sweats.

Pants – You’re going to want a few pairs of pants! Try bringing one nice pair in case you go out or have an event. The other pants can be jeans and if you are going in the snow, bring snow pants.

Long-sleeved shirts – It’s cold so be sure to pack some warm clothes! I would recommend bringing clothes that you can layer if needed. For example, you could have a white long-sleeved shirt and layer with a flannel if needed. Thermals are also a great option to stay warm!

Slippers – If you are going to be around the cabin or hotel and it’s cold outside, it’s so nice to have some slippers.

Jacket – Bring a good jacket with you! Check the weather before you go. If there is snow be sure to bring a winter snow coat. Remember that the higher the altitude the colder it will be and feel. 70 degrees with clouds feels colder than 70 degrees with the sun out.

Games – Bring some card games or your other favorite games for the nights or days where you are just hanging out.

Beanie – This is so important! Having a comfy warm beanie will change the trip for you!

Sunglasses – If you are planning on going outside at all during your trip bring some sunglasses. They are especially helpful in the snow so your eyes don’t get burned.

Boots – Bring a good pair of boots. Not fashion boots, but real boots. Trekking in the snow is so much better with some winter snow boots.

Socks – If you are heading somewhere in the mountains that has snow or is just cold I would recommend some wool socks. If those aren’t your thing at least bring some tall socks or thick socks that will keep you warm.

Toiletries – Of course bring all your needed toiletries! Try to go through your morning routine to make sure you remember everything.

Have fun and enjoy your break from school!

Take a Trip From Cedar City to Vegas

Posted by Salt Lake Express on February 23, 2018

If you live in Cedar City you need to take a trip to Vegas! This place has so much to offer and with ticket prices so low you can’t afford to miss out. Of course, we wouldn’t recommend this trip unless we had some good reasons, and we do. Check out why you need to take a trip from Cedar City to Vegas.

It’s close

It’s only a 2 1/2 hour drive from Cedar City to Vegas! Vegas is somewhere people from all over the country, and sometimes the world, come for entertainment. You are so close and you don’t want to miss out while it’s so accessible to you. It’s an easy Saturday trip, or grab a hotel and make it a weekend getaway.

It’s affordable

We know that college and life, in general, is expensive. We also know that you still want travel down to Vegas and enjoy your weekend which is why we offer tickets for just $19! Seriously, $19! Hotels in Vegas can also be cheap if you want to stay for a few nights. Go with a group and split up the room cost. Or check out Groupon to see hotels deals in Vegas. Some are as low as $15 a night on there. In fact with prices this low for travel you could go multiple times so you don’t have to worry about fitting everything in at once.

There is tons of entertainment

Vegas is known for its entertainment. These include shows, gambling, drinking, clubs, food (so much good food…), museums and more! If you want to learn more about Vegas check out our recent blog post about what Vegas has to offer.

All the shopping

Are you in the mood for some good shopping? Vegas has lots of it! Grab your friends and hit the town. No matter what you are looking for they will have a store for it. If you want a more standard shopping experience try the malls or outlets located in Vegas. The best part about shopping in Vegas is the variety of price ranges in stores.

It is warmer

Let’s be honest. One of the biggest incentives for your trip from Cedar City to Vegas is to go is for the warm weather, especially in winter! You can enjoy the pools, hot tubes and if you enjoy the outdoors there are some great hikes nearby. Be sure to also go on a little trip outside of the city to see the seven magic mountains. This place is Instagram worthy, promise.

There are tons of other reasons to go to Vegas! If you are looking to have some fun or just escape from your typical routine, Vegas is the place to go. Check online and see if there are tickets for upcoming concerts or shows. Plan out your weekend and make it a relaxing getaway. With our shuttle prices so low you won’t regret your trip!

7 Reasons to Take a Bus to Las Vegas Right Now

Posted by Salt Lake Express on February 2, 2018

True story: While penning this article, the writer has a weekend trip planned that may or may not be canceled due to weather conditions. It’s times like these that he asks himself, “Why not just catch a bus to Las Vegas?”

Winter is a good time to go to Las Vegas. Not only is the weather probably better than wherever you are, but the food, entertainment, and education options don’t slow down during this time of year. There is always a good show to catch. The food is always superb. And the visual impact of seeing the lights of Las Vegas, whether for the first or fortieth time, never ceases to take your breath away.

If you’re looking for an excuse to take a bus to Las Vegas and enjoy a weekend or week getaway, you don’t have to look far. And today, for your benefit, we hope to capture the essence and wonder of the entertainment capital of the world.

1. You’ve never been.

First and foremost, a word for those who perhaps have never been to fabulous Las Vegas: go. At least once in your life, you should make the trip and see this famous city for yourself. Visually, it is a spectacle. When approaching southbound on I-15 by night, the lights illuminate the whole desert. As for dining and entertainment options, well, you just keep reading. There’s so much more to do in Las Vegas than look at it.

When you catch a St. George Express bus to Las Vegas for the first time, you are preparing yourself for a trip full of spectacle, wonder, and nearly endless entertainment. Take a look at what there is to do.

2. The slots.

The beep, boop, and (if you’re lucky) kaching! of slot machines has become synonymous with the Las Vegas experience. And though St. George Express does not condone gambling, if you’re hopping a bus to Las Vegas, you’re more than likely going to wander near the slots.

So while you’re at it, there’s comparatively little harm in bringing along a roll of quarters, dimes, nickels, or even pennies to try out the respective slots. Rusty Griswold won four sports cars in four tries, and though we can with absolute certainty guarantee that won’t happen to you, a feeble hope for a similar outcome is part of the Vegas experience.

But remember, there is a ton more to do in Vegas than just sit expectantly at the penny slots. What, exactly, is there else to do in Vegas besides gamble? Scroll on, friend.

3. The shows.

Besides hitting up the casino, besides patrolling the Strip, one of the most iconic things about Las Vegas is its shows. There’s never a shortage of fantastic shows and spectacles at any time of the year. And it’s only a short trip on a bus to Las Vegas away.

Vegas! The Show

If you want to get the Vegas experience all in one night, you definitely don’t want to miss “Vegas! The Show.” This world-famous Saxe Theater show portrays all the glitter and glam in a highly-praised Broadway-style production every night of the week. With showings at 7:00 p.m. (and even sometimes at 9:00), this is the perfect Strip pit stop. Get your tickets here.

Le Rêve

Las Vegas is all about the spectacle. There is so much to see, seemingly all at once, that it can seem overwhelming at times. And chances are after beholding Le Rêve at the Wynn Theater, you’ll feel more thrust into a fantasy world than ever before.

French for “The Dream,” Le Rêve is a fantastic combination of acrobats, fire, water, dance, and stunning visual effects. This show has been voted “Best Production Show” in Vegas for seven consecutive years, so you know it’s the real deal. Plus, the show proudly boasts that no seat is further than 42 feet from the stage. There’s no heavy ticket price for using binoculars. You get up-close and personal with Le Rêve, magnifying the experience and proving this to be one Vegas’ most thrilling offerings.

Purple Reign

This award-winning tribute show to the Purple One himself is a must-see for Prince fans die-hard and casual alike. Long recognized as the world’s number one Prince tribute, “Purple Reign” was the first impersonator/tribute musical act to appear on David Letterman (in 2008) and has been making waves ever since.

Not familiar with the late artist’s music or legacy? Let your in-the-know friends take you and introduce you to the purple corner of the pop music world. What’s the deal with the purple, you say? You have so much to learn. Start by getting more info on this incredible show.

Must be 16 years or older to attend this event.

Blue Man Group

Though not specific to the entertainment capital of the world, the Blue Man Group show encapsulates Las Vegas perfectly. Spectacle, music, and laughter abound at this electrifying performance, which entertains like baldness, body paint, and lots of BLUE never have before. And look closely, you might see Tobias Fünke trying to sneak in a live audition.

The blue trio may not be exclusive to Vegas, but they do have their own theater: the state-of-the-art Blue Man Theater at Luxor Hotel and Casino. This is definitely one to keep at the top of the list as you plan your trip to stroll The Strip.

4. The food.

Face it, we all need to eat on our big day out in Las Vegas. Do us but especially yourself a favor: avoid fast food. You can get it anywhere. While you’re in Las Vegas, don’t you want your once-in-a-lifetime experience to extend to gastronomy? Yeah, you do.

The problem is, there are so many restaurants to eat at. It all depends on your taste, or what you’re in the mood for, or what your wife is in the mood for. We’ve got you covered. Be sure to check out our list of the top places to eat in Las Vegas for an authoritative reference — “authoritative” because of our huge love of food.

Other top-rated restaurants we may not have mentioned for the sake of brevity: Yardbird, Gangnam Asian BBQ, Tacos El Gordo, and Joe’s. But seriously, there are a ton. Or check out one of a large number of buffets to get a little more bang for your buck.

5. The climate.

As your guide sits here blogging from the cold of Idaho, the current (11:03 a.m. MST) temperature in Las Vegas is 63°F. This weekend, it will be sunny in the mid-70’s. Summer may be a different story, but perhaps there’s no better reason to hop a bus to Las Vegas right now than for its climate.

Close your eyes. Let every movie, retro photo, and stereotype dictate your vision of Las Vegas. You’re probably seeing lots of pink, neon, flamingos, slot machines, red carpet, Wayne Newton, and, oh yeah, palm trees. Palm trees, blue skies, short sleeves, and sun. This is probably a good time to drop the link to purchase your ticket.

6. The museums.

When Las Vegas comes up, casinos, glamorous shows, and a slew of heist movies come to mind. But don’t get too busy on The Strip for the educational offerings of this luminescent city. Spanning over a century of history, they basically have a museum, exhibit, or hall of fame for everybody.

The Mob Museum

The Mob Museum is marketed as an educational program (see: field trip). But that in no way diminishes the awesomeness of this tribute to the struggle between organized crime and law enforcement. In fact, this 501(c)3 non-profit takes the matter seriously, and visitors are rewarded with “high-tech videos, one-of-a-kind artifacts and interactive exhibits.”

The mission of The Mob Museum is “to advance the public understanding of organized crime’s history and impact on American society.” And in the process, you get a highly entertaining and captivating experience that will sate the appetite of history buffs and casual tourists alike.

National Atomic Testing Museum

Las Vegas is probably the brightest, most explosive thing to hit the state of Nevada…and Nevada has seen its share of nuclear tests. You can learn all about them at one of Las Vegas’ most dynamic museums: the National Atomic Testing Museum (NATM).

The only Congressionally-mandated museum in the state, NATM is a preeminent private national museum regarding our country’s history in atomic testing. It covers over 70 years of atomic history, has rare artifacts and a nuclear reactor on display, and educates visitors on the historic Nevada Test Site.

Learn more about NATM here.

Pinball Hall of Fame

After the Atom Testing Museum, you’ll see me falling backward into a black wave of bumpers, wormholes, and nostalgia at the Pinball Hall of Fame. Here, you have access to 150+ pinball machines dating back as far as 1947. And guess what? You and your whole family are welcome to play any one of them! Older models are set at twenty-five cents and newer models at fifty.

The Pinball Hall of Fame, a 501c3 non-profit, is a 10,000-square foot facility designed to give people of all ages an afternoon of sweet, classic arcade bliss, all while helping a good cause. Maybe this alone is reason enough to get you on a bus to Las Vegas today, maybe not. But be sure to stop by when you do go.

7. The ecosystem.

What? Nature in and around Las Vegas? You bet. The bite of “Sin City” loses some of its edge when you take a short trip out of town to see what lies beyond. Sure, this metropolis is planted right in the middle of the desert. And certainly, you must still have some reservations about the legitimacy of this section. Hopefully, we can change your mind.

Valley of Fire State Park

The desert reputation of Las Vegas’ geography becomes its strength in the Valley of Fire State Park. Forty thousand acres of bright red sandstone complement the tan and gray limestone in this ancient and breathtaking park. This park is open year-round, twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and only costs $10 for admission. There is also plenty of opportunity for camping, hiking, biking, and more.

Having gone through all our suggestions of what to do in Vegas, you’ll love stopping in at this affordable, family-friendly park. With so much history, breathtaking views, and things to do, the Valley of Fire State Park carries on the Vegas tradition of spectacle. Learn more about the park here.

Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center

“Purple Reign” has the purple. The Blue Man Group bring the blue. What’s the missing color in the scheme? Your art teacher will remind you it’s red, and we’re here to direct you toward Red Rock Canyon, one of Las Vegas’ proudest state parks.

Red Rock Canyon boasts “something for everyone.” Sitting at nearly 200 acres within the Mojave Desert, just west of Las Vegas, this conservation area is a stunning landscape to behold. Explore the shimmering red canyons, peaks, gullies, and explore the flora and fauna via a winding labyrinth of hiking and biking trails. Learn all about Red Rock at the visitor center, and overall, just take in the quiet beauty of this area.

Check out all the many different things there are to do at Red Rock Canyon.

Desert National Wildlife Refuge

Just north of town (you’ll pass through it as you take a St. George bus to Las Vegas) lies the massive Desert National Wildlife Refuge (Desert NWR). The largest refuge outside of Alaska, Desert NWR sits at 1.6 million acres. There is plenty to see and lots to do when you pop out of town for a day at this refuge.

The refuge, first established for desert bighorn sheep, is now home to 400+ species of animal and over 500 plant species. Due to the harsh desert nature of the refuge, most mammals and reptiles are nocturnal and active at night. But there is still plenty to do: hunting, camping, hiking, photography, and more.

It’s not easy to encapsulate all the myriad activities and sights Las Vegas has to offer in a single sitting, but here we are. When you take a bus to Las Vegas, make sure you have your trip planned out. You’ll need food, a good climate, plenty of things to do, and moments of quiet reflection amongst the glamour, and Las Vegas provides all that and more.

St. George Express makes it easy to start planning your trip. With daily trips to the Las Vegas airport, we take you to the gateway to the most exciting city in the world. A wide array of shuttles can take you to anywhere in the city, from The Strip to your hotel, to museums, and more. But it all starts with a simple bus to Las Vegas. And we’re pleased to take you there.

Take a Shuttle to St George for the Holidays

Posted by Salt Lake Express on December 18, 2017

We would love to highlight the many great things to do in St. George all in one place. How nice would it be to have a one-stop blog for everything St. George? Of course, anyone who has been here knows that there is simply way too much to do in St. George to cover everything in one blog or even one trip. Even around the holidays, this city comes to life. And even though many of the holiday events have passed, there is still plenty to do to justifying taking a shuttle to St George for the holidays.

Here are a few of the things you still have yet to do in St. George this holiday season.

Fairy Tale Christmas

Head on over to Tuacahn Canyon for a new holiday musical, written by M. Scott and Michael Mclean. “Fairy Tale Christmas” is a humorous, enjoyable play for the whole family and involves familiar fairy tale villains kidnapping Santa Claus. Why? You’ll have to go check it out at the Indoor Hafen Theater to know their nefarious purposes. This play runs Mondays through Saturdays at 7:30 pm with matinee shows at 4 pm on Friday and Saturday, through December 23rd. Be sure to head over soon! Once Christmas ends, so will this new and fun fairy tale. You can purchase tickets here.

Christmas in the Canyon

When you’re not enjoying the thrill of a fairy tale on stage, you’ll feel like you’re in one anyway as you walk through Tuacahn. Every year, St. George puts on their Christmas in the Canyon every Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. This free event includes a holiday train ride and music, a live Nativity at 7 and 8 pm, visits with Santa Claus from 6:30 to 9 pm, and, of course, tons of holiday lights. Truly, you haven’t seen the canyon at its most beautiful until you see it all lit up with twinkling holiday lights. This is definitely something to check out while in town.

Plaid Tidings

This special holiday edition of Forever Plaid comes to Brigham’s Playhouse and like the appearance of Santa Claus is a treat to the region of St George. Enjoy classic holiday tunes in four-part harmony, the group’s hilarious backstory, and, of course, their impeccable taste in plaid. Swing by Washington City for to catch a performance, which will happen Thursdays through Saturdays (7 pm each night with a 2 pm Saturday matinee) through December 30th.

Visit Family & Friends

Holidays are about loved ones, and perhaps there is no better reason to take a shuttle to St George than to spend time with yours. If they’re locals, they’ll know all the fun things to do, including what we have already listed. But no matter what you do, we are happy to have brought you this far. These are the holiday memories that you will cherish forever, and we are honored to be part of that.

Jump on a shuttle to St George with St George Express, and have a very Merry Christmas and happy holidays!

7 Utah Ghost Towns Close to I-15

Posted by Salt Lake Express on October 27, 2017

A mournful whistle. Boarded up windows. Tumbleweed. Wind. Ghost towns follow a fairly standard formula in the movies. But have you ever actually been to one to confirm that these tropes are true? In Utah, you have multiple options to choose from.

With such an extensive history of pilgrimage coupled with its huge, expansive area, the Beehive State is a perfect landscape for abandoned settlements.

There are nearly 150 Utah ghost towns for you to visit. However, as may be expected, some of them aren’t as accessible as others. Some, on the other hand, you can basically see from the I-15. Perhaps you’ve even caught a glimpse of the fringes of one while taking the St. George Express. If you are looking for a good ghost town time (try saying that five times fast), these will be less out of your way.

Here are seven Utah ghost towns that are right off the I-15.

Old Iron Town

Resting in Iron County 15-20 miles west of Cedar City, Old Iron Town is not much of one anymore. With a few furnaces and a kiln remaining from its heyday as an iron operation, the town was settled by Mormon pioneers in 1868 and was abandoned by 1877. Why? The nationwide financial panic of 1874 plus a lack of viable northbound transportation sucked out its utility. Access is fairly easy in any size car, and you should be good going at any time of the year.

37°36′00″N 113°27′01″W

Cove Fort

Twenty-four miles north of Beaver, and just northeast of where I-15 and I-70 intersect, lies historic Cove Fort. One of the few forts from this time period still standing, this owes much to its construction. The fort is built of volcanic rock and limestone and acted as a way station for settlers, as well as a pickup/delivery for the Pony Express. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints leased the fort out in 1890, eventually selling it. In 1989, the Hinckley family bought it back and donated it to the Church. It is now a historic site with free guided tours.

38°60’06”N 112°58’21”W

Mills

You’ll want to visit this one before the snow comes! Mills, also known as Wellington while active, was a railroad town in Juab County. After being abandoned at some point in the mid-1800’s, there are reportedly a few homes there currently, as well as being semi-active for Union Pacific trains.

39°28′58″N 112°01′41″W

Rockwell Station

Located at the Point of the Mountain in Bluffdale, these days there isn’t much left of this brewery-turned-waystation. Orrin Porter Rockwell, a colorful character in Mormon history, took over the property and it became a station for the Overland Stage and the Pony Express.

40°29’09.7″N 111°54’01.6″W

Corinne

While Mormon settlers were busy populating both future ghost towns and booming metropoles like Salt Lake and St. George, there were a few dissidents. The settlers of Corinne built the town on the Bear River in 1868 as a pointed escape from Mormon influence; members of the Church were not allowed to settle there. Founder Mark Gilmore and those that settled with him also wanted to create a railroad and steamboat center. Though the town flourished for many years, by 1903 the main road was rerouted around Corinne and the town began to dissipate. Today, there is still a lot to see in this once great ghost town.

41°33’05.5″N 112°06’43.7″W

Silver Reef

This town in Washington County, like Corinne, enjoyed a fairly long and celebrated duration. Formerly established as a town in 1876, it grew to be home to over 2,000 citizens, two newspapers, and several stores, hotels, saloons, restaurants, and dance halls. While the ore mines sustained the town, the people there enjoyed moderate success. However, the last mine closed down in 1891, and over the next several years the ore was shipped out of the area and with it, the people and life of the town. Now, there are gift shops and some historic restoration for the curious tourist.

37°15’10.9″N 113°22’04.8″W

Fort Harmony

This Utah ghost town at one time showed much promise. Constructed a short jog up from the village of Harmony, Fort Harmony was founded in 1854 by settler John D. Lee. As the only white settlement for miles, it was named county seat and headquarters for the Indian Mission, to provide benefits to neighboring Native Americans. It was even lauded by Mormon leader Brigham Young as “the best fort in the territory.” Its fame could not last, however, when a storm of historic and Biblical proportions tore through the area for 44 days in 1861-62. It brought rain, snow, more rain, and finally a hard wind that destroyed part of the fort and took some lives. Instead of rebuilding the fort, the settlers moved on to establish New Harmony, leaving Fort Harmony a ghost town. You can read more about its history here.

37°28’50.0″N 113°14’36.0″W

We Are Proud to Sponsor the St. George Marathon

Posted by Salt Lake Express on September 19, 2017

The fastest Fall marathon. Top 20 marathons in the U.S. One of four “marathons to build your vacation around.” Top 10 Most Scenic and Fastest Marathons. These are just a few of the things that Runner’s World said about the St. George Marathon.

For those who have run it, it is a truly unforgettable experience. The drive to run a marathon aside, the path and vistas the marathon traverses are incomparable. This October race not only showcases the amazing landscape around St. George, it is also the region’s most beautiful month. In addition to incredible fall colors, the temperatures will be very agreeable. The temperature at the start line ranges between 38 to 44 degrees Fahrenheit. At the finish line, you’ll experience temperatures between 65 and 85 degrees.

The St. George Marathon itself is always on the first Saturday of October, falling on October 7 this year. But the fun doesn’t begin there. All weekend long, there are events and entertainment for guests of all ages.

Marathon Expo

An expo with vendors is a big part of race weekend. This year, the Altra Zero Drop Health & Fitness Expo will be held. This is an all-day event that will last from 9 am to 9 pm on Friday, October 6. This is the time that runners may come and pick up their packet. Among multiple businesses, vendors, and their booths, there will be clinics and a keynote address.

Keynote Address

This year’s keynote address will be given by 1968 Boston Marathon winner Amby Burfoot. In addition to winning the Marathon, Burfoot has run the race 20 times. He has participated in many other races around the world, including having run in the Manchester Thanksgiving Day race every day since 1963.

Burfoot will speak on two occasions on October 6, at 11 am and 2 pm.

Pre-Race & Other Clinics

The day before the race there will be several clinic options for runners. This includes the First-Timer’s Clinic at 1 pm and 3 pm and the Clif Bar Pace Team Q&A at 5 pm. Both these events will occur at the Dixie Center Garden Room.

Intermountain Sports Medicine will also present Pre-Race Clinics, which comprise of St. George Marathon Pre-Race Lectures. These lectures will take place at the Dixie Regional Health & Performance Center.

Pasta Dinner

Load up on carbs the night before with an all-you-can-eat pasta dinner at the Dixie Convention Center. The dinner will run from 4 pm to 8 pm. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children. This will be a great opportunity to mingle with other runners and enjoy some delicious pasta!

I Am Able

I Am Able is a “run, walk, or roll event for persons with disabilities of all ages.” It will take place Friday evening at 6 pm at Vernon Worthen Park. This inclusive event has two available distances: 1-mile and 200-meter. For the safety of the participants, each one must have a person without disabilities assisting them.

Wheelchairs are acceptable for this event.

Move It! Kids’ Run

This all-kids racing event takes place directly after the I Am Able event. Parents aren’t allowed, but there will be mentors available to help any children that need it. This event will also take place at Vernon Worthen Park, and also includes 1-mile and 200-meter distance options.

Following the Move It! Kids’ Run and I Am Able events, all are invited to the Party in the Park. This family-friendly event will include a live DJ, prizes, bounce houses, and much more. It will begin at 6:30 pm and run until 8 pm.

Mayor’s Walk

Starting off race day is the Mayor’s Walk, hosted by the St. George Exchange Club and sponsored by State Bank of Southern Utah and Planet 94.1. This walk will begin at 6:45 am at Sand Town Park, and walkers must finish by 8:00 am in time for the Wheelchair Division.

St. George Marathon

Then, of course, is the actual marathon itself. Runners must be ready at 6:45 am at the intersection of Snow Canyon Parkway and State Road 18. They will receive free transportation to the starting line, 5,243 feet up the mountain.

The race will begin promptly at 1 pm. Race officials and public safety personnel will monitor the race. They have the right to remove any runners that run the risk of serious or fatal injury.

After the race will be an awards ceremony at the Vernon Worthen Park Gazebo. All who completed the marathon will receive a unique finisher’s medallion.

The top male and female runners will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to run in the Ibigawa Marathon/Half Marathon. This will take place Ibigawa, Japan in November 2017.

St. George is proud to host the 41st St. George Marathon this year. Whether you are preparing for big races in the future, or just checking something off your bucket list, this is an incredible opportunity. And be sure, if you need some transportation, to ride with us at St. George Express, a proud sponsor of the marathon. Happy running!