Can You Drink Alcohol in St. George, Utah? A Visitor’s Guide
St. George, Utah, nestled in the southwestern corner of the state, is known for its stunning red rock landscapes and outdoor adventures. But if you’re planning a visit and wondering about the alcohol situation, you’re not alone. Utah’s liquor laws have a reputation for being strict, but the reality might surprise you. Let’s dive into what you need to know about drinking alcohol in St. George and the surrounding area.
The Short Answer: Yes, You Can!
Contrary to popular belief, you can indeed drink alcohol in St. George, Utah. While the state’s liquor laws are more regulated than in some other parts of the country, visitors can still enjoy a variety of alcoholic beverages during their stay.
Understanding Utah’s Liquor Laws
Before we get into the specifics of drinking in St. George, it’s helpful to understand the broader context of Utah’s liquor laws.
State Control and the DABS
Utah is one of several “control states” in the U.S., which means the state government plays a significant role in regulating alcohol sales. The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Services (DABS) oversees the distribution and sale of alcohol throughout Utah.
Recent Changes
In recent years, Utah has relaxed some of its stricter alcohol regulations. For example, in 2019, the state increased the alcohol content allowed in beer sold in grocery stores and on tap from 3.2% to 4% alcohol by weight (or 5% alcohol by volume).
Where to Buy Alcohol in St. George
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s look at where you can purchase alcohol in St. George.
State Liquor Stores
For spirits, wine, and higher-alcohol content beer, your main option is the state-run liquor stores. St. George has two locations:
- Store #39: 161 North 900 East, St. George, Utah 84770
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11am-10pm
- Store #32: 929 West Sunset Blvd, St. George, Utah 84770
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 11am-7pm
These stores offer a wide selection of alcoholic beverages, including local Utah-made products. Prices are set by the state and are consistent across all locations.
Grocery and Convenience Stores
You can buy beer with up to 5% alcohol by volume (ABV) at grocery stores and convenience stores throughout St. George. This includes popular national brands as well as craft beers from Utah breweries.
Breweries and Wineries
St. George is home to several local breweries and wineries where you can purchase their products directly. These establishments can sell their own beer, wine, or spirits for off-premise consumption every day of the week, including Sundays.
Drinking at Restaurants and Bars
Enjoying a drink with your meal or at a local bar is certainly possible in St. George. Here’s what you need to know:
Restaurants
Many restaurants in St. George serve alcohol, but there are a few rules to be aware of:
- Restaurants with full-service liquor licenses can serve liquor, wine, and beer from 11:30 am to midnight.
- Beer-only restaurants can serve beer from 11:30 am to 1:00 am.
- You must order food to be served alcohol in a restaurant.
Bars and Clubs
St. George has several bars where you can enjoy a drink without ordering food. Here are the key points:
- Bars can serve alcohol from 10:00 am to 1:00 am.
- You must be 21 or older to enter a bar.
- Bars are required to serve food, but you’re not required to order it.
The “Zion Curtain”
You might hear locals mention the “Zion Curtain.” This refers to a now-defunct law that required restaurants to prepare alcoholic drinks behind a partition, out of view of customers. While this law has been repealed, you may still see some restaurants with these partitions in place.
Drinking Responsibly in St. George
While St. George welcomes responsible alcohol consumption, it’s important to be aware of a few key points:
Strict DUI Laws
Utah has the strictest DUI limit in the country at 0.05% blood alcohol concentration. This applies to both driving cars and riding bicycles. Always plan for a safe ride home if you’re drinking.
Open Container Laws
It’s illegal to have an open container of alcohol in a vehicle or in public spaces. Keep your drinks in their original, sealed containers when transporting them.
Bringing Alcohol into Utah
It’s generally illegal to bring alcohol into Utah from out of state. With the availability of alcohol in St. George, there’s no need to risk breaking this law.
Local Alcohol Scene in St. George
St. George’s alcohol scene has been growing in recent years, offering visitors more options than ever before.
Local Breweries
The craft beer movement has reached St. George, with several local breweries offering unique, locally-made beers. These breweries often have taprooms where you can sample their products and purchase beer to go.
Wine Tasting
While not as well-known as some other wine regions, Southern Utah does have a burgeoning wine scene. Some local wineries offer tasting rooms where you can sample their products and learn about winemaking in the high desert climate.
Cocktail Bars
For those who prefer cocktails, St. George has several bars that specialize in craft cocktails. These establishments often use local spirits and ingredients to create unique drinks that reflect the flavors of the region.
Tips for Visitors
If you’re planning to enjoy alcohol during your visit to St. George, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan ahead: State liquor stores are closed on Sundays and holidays, so stock up in advance if needed.
- Be patient: Bartenders in Utah are required to use precise measuring devices when pouring spirits, which can make drink service a bit slower than you might be used to.
- Try local products: Utah has a growing craft alcohol scene, with local breweries, distilleries, and wineries producing high-quality products.
- Respect local customs: While drinking is legal and accepted, St. George has a large Mormon population that abstains from alcohol. Be respectful of different cultural practices.
- Stay hydrated: St. George’s desert climate can be dehydrating, especially when combined with alcohol consumption. Drink plenty of water.
Alcohol and Outdoor Recreation
Many visitors come to St. George for its outdoor recreation opportunities. If you’re planning to combine alcohol with outdoor activities, keep these points in mind:
- National Parks: Alcohol regulations can vary in national parks. Check the specific rules for places like Zion National Park before bringing alcohol.
- Hiking and Biking: Remember that alcohol can impair your judgment and physical abilities, which can be dangerous when hiking or biking in rugged terrain.
- Water Activities: Alcohol and water activities don’t mix. Many local reservoirs and rivers prohibit alcohol use.
Embracing St. George’s Unique Drinking Culture
While St. George’s alcohol laws and customs might seem unusual to visitors from other parts of the country, they’re an integral part of the city’s unique culture. By understanding and respecting these laws and customs, you can safely and enjoyably participate in St. George’s growing alcohol scene.
Whether you’re sipping a locally brewed beer while watching the sunset paint the red rocks, enjoying a glass of Utah wine with dinner, or trying a craft cocktail made with locally distilled spirits, you’ll find that St. George offers plenty of opportunities to responsibly enjoy alcohol in a stunning setting.
So, can you drink alcohol in St. George, Utah? Absolutely! With a little knowledge and planning, you can safely and legally enjoy a variety of alcoholic beverages during your visit to this beautiful corner of Utah.
