Brand X Burger
Springville

Brand X Burger is a "small hamburger stand" with a "rich and idiosyncratic history." Named "Brand X" because the owner/creator believed that "his hamburgers were so good, they didn't need a catchy name." Obviously many locals agree that Brand X Burger joint serves the "most satisfying burgers" around. The burgers are "large and flavored with a secret blend of spices that are so, so good."

Canoe Bear River with Muddy Road Outfitters
Benson

The Little Bear River Trail takes you south through scrubby islands and offers access to the marsh. With 24-hours advanced notice and about $20, you can rent a canoe from Muddy Road Outfitters, who are "exceptional." They provide all the necessary gear, and transport you upstream to your starting point. All you have to do is "lazily paddle downstream to the take-out. Along the way there are tons of birds and other marsh wildlife, most likely you won't see another person during the whole trip." Birders will spot eagles, pelicans, blue heron, and egrets, and sportsmen will enjoy the paddling. The scenery "will put you alongside Huck Finn to relive those childhood fantasies."

Town of Kanab
Kane County

Find yourself in "the center of the most beautiful national parks and landscapes in the U.S." Hollywood often "selected this location to shoot many famous Westerns," in fact, you can still "visit the remains of old movie sets." Paradise for nature enthusiasts, it's "described as one of the healthiest places in the nation." Plus, animal lovers will enjoy the renowned "Best Friends Animal Sanctuary." The winters are mild, and the "glorious summers" show off "gorgeous, colorful vermillion cliffs." Read more.

Shirley's Homemades
Provo

If you love rolls that "simply melt in your mouth," a trip to Shirley's Homemades bakery will be worth it--you can even take rolls back home with you! Some people rate it as "the best bakery in the world for light, fluffy, buttery dinner rolls." Order white or wheat, but Shirley "also makes great orange and cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting or vanilla icing." This place remains an authentic local secret and is "perfect for any morning to sit and relax and enjoy the pastries." Visit early in the day, because the rolls "sell out fast!"

Shooting Star Saloon
Huntsville

Shooting Star Saloon is the place to go for burgers and beer. As the "oldest continuously-operating bar" in Utah, the ambience "cannot be beat." The decor is quirky to say the least--inside is a St. Bernard's head "stuffed and mounted over one of the booths." And the ceiling "is covered with paper money--$1,000 bills from visitors with their thoughts inscribed." Weekends and evenings are the best time to go. Don't miss out on the Star Burger, it is "the menu item to try." Read more.

Alpine Loop
American Fork Canyon

The Alpine Loop is an "unbelievably scenic drive" in American Fork Canyon. It's "wonderful for an early morning drive," or during the fall when the leaves are changing. The mountainous landscape scenery is "breathtaking." The drive is about 24 miles and takes 45-minutes to an hour. Drive up Mount Timpanogos and down the American Fork Canyon. The journey ends at Sundance Resort in Provo Canyon, where you can "stop off at one of the great restaurants." Read more.

Scera Shell Outdoor Theatre
Sundance

Take advantage of summer under the stars, and we don't mean only the stars in the sky. Many "well-known movie stars and famous singers/groups have performed here over the years." See theater or concerts "under the stars and below the majestic Wasatch Mountains." The "performances are on an outdoor stage" with festival seating--"either in chairs or on the sloping, grassy hillside." It makes for a "beautiful night." Read more.

Cowboy Poetry Gathering
Midway

With the intent of promoting the cowboy way of life through music, art, and poetry, the Cowboy Poetry Gathering is "great entertainment." There is "hilarious cowboy poetry and old-time cowboy music." Even "nationally-acclaimed and award-winning performers" make appearances here. Held in Midway every November, it usually lasts for six days. Read more.

Native American Celebration Powwow
Salt Lake City

The people of Utah celebrate Pioneer Day each July, commemorating the day Mormons first settled in Salt Lake Valley and to show appreciation for "the indigenous people of Utah." Also during this time, the Native American Celebration powwow and festival honors its "native cultures through song and dance." At this annual powwow, several Native American tribes gather to dance, sell food and display art as a tribute to life and heritage. The championship powwow dancers wear colorful outfits, called regalias, that are a "must-see" according to supporters of the event. Read more.

Hatch Family Chocolates
Salt Lake City

As the name implies, Hatch Family Chocolates is "family-owned." Grandma Hatch was a chocolatier during the Depression who passed her recipes down through her family. Owners, Jerry, Steve and Katie are the "kindest, most hospitable folks," and they offer "great service." The Dad (Jerry) makes "the best caramel." They offer hand-dipped chocolates, homemade fudge, ice cream, pastries, and other desserts, as well as espresso drinks. It's a "great place to have an afternoon coffee or an after-dinner dessert."