Park City ranked one of the friendliest towns in Utah

Park City, where the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City scenes are shot. Photo: Park City

UTAH — Sure, our home state of Utah is known for its stunning natural beauty, including Arches and Zion National Parks, as well as having the greatest snow on earth, but did you know it is also home to seven of the friendliest towns in the country?

According to World Atlas, with a thriving economy and charming small towns, Utah provides some of the friendliest locales

Park City

Your ultimate winter sports destination! Whether you’re an avid skier or simply seeking a lively urban getaway, this town has it all. Park City boasts 2,000 acres of skiable area and over 100 runs catering to all Deer Valley Resort skill levels.

But, Park City isn’t just about skiing. While the snow-covered slopes are a major highlight, the town itself has a vibrant urban vibe that begs to be explored. Take a leisurely stroll along Main Street Historic District, the charming locality that showcases more than 40 beautifully preserved buildings from different eras. You’ll marvel at the Victorian and Spanish Revival architecture that now houses an array of stores, cafes, shops, and bars. The lively atmosphere is infectious, with locals and tourists alike immersing themselves in the charm and excitement.

Moab

The county seat of Grand County in Utah, Moab is known as one of the state’s most famous tourist destinations. The charming town is surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, including canyons, hills, and mesas.

There is no shortage of exciting experiences for nature lovers in Moab. Your adventure can begin with a visit to the Arches National Park, spanning 76,000 acres. Here, you’ll encounter over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, providing a captivating backdrop for hiking, cycling, and even camping. While climbing on the arches is prohibited, the opportunities to immerse yourself in the park’s extraordinary geological formations are endless. And if Arches isn’t quite what you’re looking for,  the incredible Canyonlands National Park is conveniently located nearby, offering more to explore.

Midway

A short distance from both Heber City and Salt Lake City, Midway is an enticing retreat in Utah’s Wasatch Back region. Its mountains and captivating aura lures people seeking respite from nearby cities.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of company as they explore the wilderness. Begin your adventure at the nearby Wasatch Mountain State Park, offering an array of trails for hiking, biking, snowmobiling, and horseback riding. Notably, this very park also hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics, earning international acclaim.

Torrey

I recently visited Torrey and enjoyed the small-town vibes it is known for. The Capitol Burger food truck is a must-stop for any visitor; it is one of the best burgers I’ve eaten.

Experience the charm of the Torrey Trading Post shopping area, where you’ll discover a variety of unique stores offering clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and more. In addition, immerse

yourself in the captivating world of local art at the quaint Gallery 24. Take in the views, as Capital Reef National Park is nearby; the preserved landscapes are truly breathtaking.

Spring City

This city is a picturesque farming town in Sanpete County, where rich culture and history abound. Originally settled in the 1850s by the Allred Family, the town was known as “Allred Settlement.” Although conflicts with the local Ute people temporarily disrupted the settlement, it was soon re-established and thrived with the arrival of Danish settlers.

Even today, Spring City boasts a remarkable collection of historical establishments lovingly preserved by the industrious locals. When exploring Spring City, don’t miss the Spring City Historic District, a vibrant commercial hub listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Notable highlights include the Spring City Old City Hall and Old Jail, both well worth a visit.

Brigham City

Some might say, It’s a Peach! Bustling with 20,000 residents, its urban amenities, small-town charm, and intriguing past draw in tourists and offer lively activities.

Renowned for some of the country’s best peaches, Brigham City hosts an annual Peach Days celebration that attracts over 50,000 visitors. The town comes alive as streets are closed off, showcasing parades, cool cars, and tempting peach tasting.

Kanab

Kanab is located within the “Grand Circle” area, where abundant natural attractions await. From Zion National Park to the Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park, renowned for its unique pink-hued sand dunes in a vast 3,700 acre area.

Amidst these breathtaking formations, you can camp, hike, and even embark on thrilling off-road drives, creating unforgettable memories in this remarkable environment.