When you head out on vacation and want something different from the typical multistory, off-the-rack hotel experience, consider the many options for bed & breakfast getaways right here in Utah. Each option offers its own slice of Utah history.
The Iron Gate Inn (100 N. 200 West, Cedar City, 435-867-0603, TheIronGateInn.com): Just sitting on the back patio of this mansion on a beautiful morning is worth the trip, but the experience gets even better when dining on a homemade breakfast strata, baked French toast or shredded-potato quiche.
What's particularly notable about Iron Gate is the winery on the property. Opt for the "Wine and Unwind" package, and your hosts will have a glass waiting for you when upon arrival. You'll also get to do a tour of the winery production area, taste some handcrafted wines and take home a souvenir bottle. Choose one of the mansion's nine rooms, or stay in the private carriage house across the street.
The property is also within easy walking distance of Utah Shakespeare Festival venues. Iron Gate can book your tickets, or even get you a discount.
Seven Wives Inn (217 N. 100 West, St. George, 800-600-3737, SevenWivesInn.com): This property consists of a cottage and two neighboring homes dating back to the 19th century—you may not be surprised to hear one of the original owners really did have seven wives.
Even with all that history, Seven Wives is very 21st century, with Wi-Fi, cable and a pool—and en suite bathrooms for all rooms. For breakfast, try the baked herb soufflé made with eggs fresh from the backyard chickens. If you're headed out to one of the nearby national parks, they'll even pack a to-go lunch for you.
Alaskan Inn (435 Ogden Canyon, Ogden, 801-621-8600, AlaskanInn.com): Enjoy peace and quiet at this adults-only location along the banks of the Ogden River. All guests enjoy freshly baked chocolate-chunk cookies at check-in, and rooms are stocked with signature Mrs. Cavanaugh's mints, a chilled bottle of sparkling cider and a Jacuzzi tub. Ask for the "Lovebird" romantic package, which includes tea-light candles, a rose-petal path and chocolate-dipped strawberries.
Once you and your lovebird do manage to emerge from the room, you'll find yourselves in a beautiful mountain canyon surrounded by hiking and biking trails and three local ski resorts. A hot breakfast is served right to your door every morning.
Old Rock Church (10 S. Main, Providence, 435-752-3432, OldRockChurch.com): No matter your religious affiliation, you'll want to attend this church. A former LDS meeting house built in 1869 just outside Logan, it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each room has its own unique style of décor, ranging from Victorian to Pioneer to Colonial. After enjoying a night in a room with a jetted tub built for two, arise to worship the cream-cheese-stuffed French toast topped with raspberries and whipped cream.
Harvest House (29 Canyon View Drive, Springdale, 435-772-3880, HarvestHouse.net): Visiting Zion National Park could hardly be any easier when you stay at a spot located just half a mile from the entrance. You'll also enjoy views of the park from a private deck adjoining your room. Fortify yourself before you set out to hike Angel's Landing with a breakfast of ham & egg croissants or chili-cheese eggs all while taking in views of Watchman Peak.
Torchlight Inn (255 Deer Valley Drive, Park City, 508-989-0459, TorchlightInn.com): The deck of your room is the perfect place to sit idly watching skiers come down the mountain—or grab your own skis from a private, in-room ski locker and be on the slopes in minutes. All of the rooms are named after Olympic host cities—and yes, there is a Salt Lake room that features a king-size bed, pullout couch, fireplace and private deck. Breakfast, the most important meal of the day, is the highlight: The inn features a menu that includes the traditional (housemade corned-beef hash or biscuits & gravy) alongside the novel (crabmeat-scallion quiche or four-mushroom frittata with herbed goat cheese).
Hines Mansion (383 W. 100 South, Provo, 800-428-5636, HinesMansion.com): You can find Victorian elegance without having to drive—just take FrontRunner down from Salt Lake City, and the mansion staff will be happy to pick you up from the terminal. Once at Hines, you'll find nine suites combining turn-of-the-century décor with modern conveniences like Wi-Fi, as well as a two-person jetted tub in each room. For breakfast, enjoy strawberry-stuffed French toast or whole-wheat pancakes topped with chopped pecans.
When it comes to a great in-state getaway, get your rest, get a good breakfast, and you're well on your way to adventure.