St. George Utah: A Dry City or Not?
Introduction: Debunking the Myth
St. George, Utah, often conjures images of red rock landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a conservative culture. Many visitors assume this picturesque city in southwestern Utah is a “dry” town, where alcohol is scarce or even prohibited. But is this reputation accurate? Let’s dive into the reality of St. George’s relationship with alcohol and explore how the city’s liquor laws have evolved over time.
The Historical Context
Mormon Roots and Early Restrictions
St. George was founded by Mormon pioneers in the 1860s, and their religious beliefs significantly influenced the city’s early stance on alcohol. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) teaches abstinence from alcohol, which led to strict regulations on its sale and consumption in St. George and throughout Utah.
Changing Times and Loosening Laws
Over the decades, Utah’s liquor laws have gradually relaxed, particularly in response to:
- Growing tourism industry
- Changing demographics
- Pressure from businesses and residents
The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City marked a turning point, prompting significant changes to make Utah more welcoming to visitors.
Current Alcohol Availability in St. George
Restaurants and Bars
Contrary to popular belief, you can indeed enjoy alcoholic beverages in St. George. Here’s what you need to know:
- Restaurants can serve alcohol with food
- Bars and clubs welcome patrons 21 and older
- Last call is typically at 1 AM, with establishments closing by 2 AM
- Draft beer up to 5% ABV is available, with higher ABV options in cans or bottles
Purchasing Alcohol
St. George offers several options for buying alcohol:
- Grocery and convenience stores: Beer up to 5% ABV
- State liquor stores: Higher ABV beer, wine, and spirits
- Package stores: Selection of beer, wine, and spirits
- Breweries, wineries, and distilleries: Can sell their products daily, including Sundays
Notable Changes
In 2019, St. George welcomed its first stand-alone bar, Zion Brewery Station II. This milestone demonstrates the city’s evolving attitude towards alcohol and its desire to cater to a diverse population and tourist base.
Understanding Utah’s Unique Liquor Laws
While St. George isn’t dry, it does operate under Utah’s distinctive liquor laws. Here are some key points to remember:
- The “Berg” device: Bars use this to measure precise 1.5-ounce shots of primary liquor in mixed drinks
- No pitchers: Beer and cocktails are served one drink at a time
- Wine can be purchased by the glass or bottle
- Strict DUI laws: Utah has the lowest blood alcohol limit in the US at 0.05%
The Craft Beverage Scene in St. George
Local Breweries
St. George’s craft beer scene is growing. Notable establishments include:
- Silver Reef Brewing Co. – The city’s first microbrewery
- Zion Brewery – Offers a taproom and restaurant
Wineries and Distilleries
The region is also developing its wine and spirits industry:
- Chanela Farms – A local winery set to open soon
- Several distilleries within driving distance
Tips for Visitors
If you’re planning a trip to St. George and want to enjoy alcoholic beverages, keep these tips in mind:
- Plan ahead: State liquor stores are closed on Sundays
- Respect local customs: While alcohol is available, many residents abstain
- Don’t bring your own: It’s illegal to bring alcohol into Utah from out of state
- Use rideshare services: With strict DUI laws, it’s best to avoid driving after drinking
- Explore local options: Try Utah-made craft beers, wines, and spirits for a unique experience
The Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
The availability of alcohol in St. George has positively impacted the city’s tourism industry and local economy:
- Attracting diverse visitors: Relaxed laws appeal to a broader range of tourists
- Supporting local businesses: Bars, restaurants, and craft beverage producers contribute to the economy
- Enhancing the dining scene: The ability to serve alcohol has elevated St. George’s culinary offerings
Balancing Tradition and Progress
St. George faces the ongoing challenge of balancing its conservative roots with the demands of a growing, diverse population and tourism industry. The city’s approach to alcohol reflects this delicate balance:
- Respecting religious values: Many establishments maintain a family-friendly atmosphere
- Embracing change: New businesses like stand-alone bars show a willingness to evolve
- Educating visitors: Clear communication about local laws helps set expectations
Common Misconceptions
Let’s address some persistent myths about alcohol in St. George:
- “You can’t get a drink in St. George”: False – numerous options exist
- “All restaurants are dry”: Incorrect – many serve alcohol with meals
- “Mormons will judge you for drinking”: Most residents are respectful of personal choices
- “The liquor is watered down”: Utah’s liquor laws ensure standard alcohol content
- “You can’t buy alcohol on Sundays”: While state stores are closed, other options remain open
The Future of Alcohol in St. George
As St. George continues to grow and attract new residents and visitors, its relationship with alcohol is likely to evolve further. Potential changes could include:
- More stand-alone bars and nightlife options
- Expanded craft beverage industry
- Further relaxation of liquor laws to align with other states
Responsible Enjoyment: A Final Toast
While St. George may not be the “driest” city in America, it’s certainly not the “wettest” either. The key is to approach alcohol consumption responsibly and respectfully. By understanding and following local laws and customs, visitors can enjoy St. George’s natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and yes, even a cold beer or cocktail at the end of the day.
Remember, St. George’s unique approach to alcohol is just one facet of its rich culture and history. Whether you choose to indulge or abstain, the city offers a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler. So raise a glass (or a hiking boot) to St. George – a city that proves you can’t judge a book by its cover, or a town by its liquor laws.
