Happy TravellerWelcome to Washington, Utah, a fast-growing suburb of St. George and the second largest city in Washington County. Known as Utah’s Dixie, the area was settled by Mormon pioneers who came to raise cotton, which was milled at the cotton mill in Washington. The city was named after U.S. President George Washington and has a population of 27,993 as of 2020. With its beautiful geography and diverse demographics, Washington is a great destination for tourists looking for a unique experience.
Geography:
Washington has a total area of 32.5 square miles (85.2 km2), of which 32.5 square miles (85.1 km2) is land and 0.07 square mile (0.1 km2) (0.10%) is water.
Demographics:
As of the census of 2000, there were 8,186 people, 2,614 households, and 2,117 families residing in the city. The population density was 259.7 inhabitants per square mile (100.3/km2). The racial makeup of the city was 94.31% White, 0.37% African American, 1.71% Native American, 0.29% Asian, 0.10% Pacific Islander, 2.15% from other races, and 1.08% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 4.69% of the population.
Government:
The City of Washington has five city council members: Councilwoman Kim Casperson, Councilman Craig Coats, Councilman Bret Henderson, Councilman Kurt Ivie, and Benjamin L Martinsen. Mayor Kress Staheli was elected in 2021 and has been mayor since January 2022. Washington uses a city manager to run the day-to-day activities. As of 2021, the city manager is Jeremy Redd, who was appointed in 2020.
Attractions:
Washington is home to many attractions that are sure to please tourists of all ages. One of the most popular attractions is the Elephant Arch, a natural sandstone arch that resembles an elephant. Visitors can hike to the arch and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Another popular attraction is the Washington City Community Center, which features a pool, fitness center, and indoor track. The center also hosts many community events throughout the year.
For those interested in history, the Washington Cotton Factory is a must-see. Built in 1866, the factory was the first cotton mill in Utah and played a vital role in the development of the area. Visitors can take a tour of the factory and learn about the history of cotton production in Washington.
Food and Drink:
Washington is home to many great restaurants and bars that offer a wide variety of cuisine. For those looking for a taste of the local cuisine, the Painted Pony Restaurant is a must-visit. The restaurant features a menu that highlights the flavors of the Southwest and uses locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. Another great option is the River Rock Roasting Company, which offers a variety of coffee drinks and baked goods.
Conclusion:
Washington, Utah is a great destination for tourists looking for a unique experience. With its beautiful geography, diverse demographics, and many attractions, there is something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor activities, or great food and drink, Washington has it all. So why not plan your next vacation to Washington, Utah today?
