Salt Lake Magazine Sponsored Post

Homegrown Excellence

Greatness isn’t just found elsewhere—it’s built right here. From trailblazing startups to beloved local staples, these businesses shape Utah’s economy, community and future.

Millcreek Common

Millcreek Common stands out as one of Utah’s premier destinations, offering a unique blend of versatile event spaces, outdoor recreation, and community-driven experiences, all in the heart of Millcreek. Perched on the sixth floor of Millcreek’s City Hall, this private event space offers breathtaking views and a seamless experience for everything from weddings to corporate events and milestone celebrations.

With a state-of-the-art sound system, interactive lighting and all-inclusive tables and chairs, The Grandview ensures your event has the perfect ambiance. The expert event team can assist with catering, decor and entertainment, providing flexibility and customization that guarantees a memorable occasion.

But The Grandview is only one part of the story. Millcreek Common features outdoor amenities like the Skate Loop, Climbing Wall, and Splash Pad, offering guests fun activities between events. You can even rent the entire plaza for group roller skating, ice skating, or climbing sessions, creating an unforgettable experience for your guests.

From quinceañera and bar mitzvah receptions to weddings, team-building events, and corporate holiday parties, the team is ready to transform every occasion into an unforgettable experience. With its dynamic mix of private and public spaces, Millcreek Common offers the ideal setting to gather, play and create lasting memories.

For private event bookings, visit millcreekcommon.org/private-events. Follow
@millcreekcommon on Instagram for updates on public events and markets.

1330 E. Chambers Ave., Millcreek
801-214-2613
Millcreekcommon.org | @millcreekcommon

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Homegrown Excellence

Greatness isn’t just found elsewhere—it’s built right here. From trailblazing startups to beloved local staples, these businesses shape Utah’s economy, community and future.

Wittwer Hospitality

When St. George was settled in 1861, it was little more than an arid desert. Early pioneers, sent to cultivate cotton, endured harsh conditions as they laid the groundwork for what would become a thriving community. A symbol of their dedication, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ St. George Temple was completed in 1877 and remains a landmark following its 2023 renovation.

The city remained quiet until the early 20th century, when the opening of Zion National Park in 1919 and Bryce Canyon in 1928 began attracting visitors. With newly paved roads like the Arrowhead Highway (later U.S. Highway 91), travel became easier, and so did the promise of hospitality.

Lester Wittwer recognized that promise. A Santa Clara farmer-turned-entrepreneur, he transported produce across state lines before stepping into the hospitality industry. After briefly owning a motel in Las Vegas, Lester returned home and opened the Wittwer Motor Lodge on St. George Boulevard in 1955. Ahead of his time, he introduced Utah’s first hotel with refrigerated air conditioning and one of the first with a swimming pool.

As motels sprouted along the highway in the 1950s and ’60s, St. George began to emerge as a destination. The opening of Dixie Red Hills Golf Course in 1965 marked a new chapter, helping define the area as a recreational retreat.

Lester and Vanola Wittwer raised six children in the business, passing on a legacy of hard work and genuine care. In 1968, their sons Royden, Tony, Mel and Sheldon opened Best Western Coral Hills, just two blocks from the original lodge. By the 1990s, tourism in St. George was booming, thanks in part to the opening of Tuacahn Amphitheatre and other area destinations. The Wittwers’ third hotel, Best Western Plus Abbey Inn, opened in 1996 and was St. George’s first to offer a full, complimentary hot breakfast.

Today, Wittwer Hospitality carries that tradition forward with its guiding purpose of Heartfelt Hospitality™. The company recently broke ground on the LivSmart Studios by Hilton in West Valley City, its second hotel in Northern Utah, alongside the Candlewood Suites in Layton. The move marks a thoughtful expansion into new communities, guided by long-term vision rather than short-term gain.

With three new hotels planned in St. George, Wittwer Hospitality remains committed to investing in people, places and experiences that endure—continuing a legacy not just in Southern Utah, but throughout the state and beyond.

60 N. 300 East, St. George
435-215-1024
wittwerhospitality.com

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Homegrown Excellence

Greatness isn’t just found elsewhere—it’s built right here. From trailblazing startups to beloved local staples, these businesses shape Utah’s economy, community and future.

Gateway to Flavor: Scout Bar & Grill Rises as a Southern Utah Standout

Stationed within the rugged beauty of Zion National Park’s gateway, Scout Bar & Grill offers a fresh take on camp-inspired comfort food. Located at Red Cliffs Lodge Zion, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel and ‘Best of Utah’ destination, the restaurant brings bold flavors and a laid-back approach to this Springdale, Utah newcomer.

Executive Chef Jacqueline Siao leads the culinary vision, crafting a menu designed with hikers, campers and travelers in mind: those craving something hearty and satisfying after a day in the wild. The menu leans into smoked meats, open-fire cooking and dishes that reflect the spirit of the Mountain West. Signature offerings include fried chicken that’s lightly smoked to infuse just the right touch of campfire flavor, as well as a smoked brisket recipe borrowed from a favorite barbecue joint in Austin, TX.

Everything is designed to be honest and uncomplicated, with global comfort food influences and high-quality ingredients. Scout’s Bar & Grill atmosphere matches the food: relaxed, welcoming and perfect for unwinding. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails, play board games, challenge friends to shuffleboard or relax by the fire pit.

Bringing people together with its private dining room and thoughtful staff, Scout Bar & Grill has become a go-to spot for wedding dinners, birthday celebrations or other group gatherings.

Scout Bar & Grill offers a dining experience that captures the flavors, warmth and sense of adventure that define the region with a menu rooted in campfire cooking and comfort food classics.

792 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale
435-627-5280
scoutzion.com | @scoutbargrill

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Find more businesses shaping Utah’s community and future. And while you’re here, subscribe to Salt Lake magazine to receive six beautiful print issues a year!

Homegrown Excellence

Greatness isn’t just found elsewhere—it’s built right here. From trailblazing startups to beloved local staples, these businesses shape Utah’s economy, community and future.

This is the Place Heritage Park

Whether visiting to enjoy its daily calendar of activities, to learn about the settlement of the West or
to attend an event in one of its 11 historic venues, This Is The Place Heritage Park offers a unique and inspiring experience for everyone.

“The unique mission of This Is The Place has a deeply personal place in my heart,” says recently appointed Executive Director and Chairman, Case Lawrence. “Over the next several years, there will be significant opportunities to showcase Utah’s amazing story for the world.”

Suppose you haven’t visited the Park since a fourth-grade field trip. In that case, it’s time to rediscover the updated exhibits and iconic historical buildings that connect us with our roots and celebrate Utah’s history. 

The journey begins at the Pioneer Center. With its strong wooden beams, artwork, sculptures and multimedia presentations, it stands near the point where thousands of pioneer immigrants emerged from Emigration Canyon and glimpsed their new home. 

From there, visit the Pioneers of 1847 Monument honoring early African American pioneers, the Pioneer Children’s Memorial and the newly completed fort. Take in the Native American Village, which pays tribute to native tribes and allows visitors a glimpse into their way of life.

Then, enjoy activities designed to disconnect from the modern world and make history fun. Trains with guided tours, pony rides, a petting corral, panning for gold, handcart pulls, pioneer games, arts and crafts projects and interactive presentations by artisans will entertain and inspire. Or try your hand at pioneer chores, leather crafting and more throughout the Village and in a variety of historical homes.

Finish your day at the Heritage Park Gift Shop, a local and national destination, near the beautiful new plaza. Open seven days a week and featuring locally sourced gifts, it offers a variety of ‘something for everyone’ collections. A visit to the Park isn’t complete without a stop at Brigham’s Donut Shop, where you’ll get a taste of a unique recipe with a secret ingredient harkening back to the pioneer era. Whoever you are, wherever you’re from, if you have an hour or a day, This Is The Place is well worth the visit.

2601 E. Sunnyside Ave., SLC
801-582-1847
thisistheplace.org | @thisistheplaceheritagepark @heritageparkgiftshop @thisistheplaceweddings

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Visit Pixar Putt at Mountain View Valley in Riverton! The interactive, 18-hole course is inspired by your favorite characters from some of Disney and Pixar’s most beloved films, including Toy Story, The Incredibles, Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, and Inside Out. Following a sell-out Washington D.C season and last year’s D23 Expo, Pixar Putt is taking Riverton to infinity and beyond! Get your tickets today at www.pixarputt.com.

When you choose a premier hotel like Red Cliffs Lodge Zion, your stay begins before you even enter the front doors. It starts the moment the road narrows against the rising cliffs and daily stresses fade into memory.

The drive into Springdale isn’t just a route—it’s an invitation to explore. The towering red rock formations reflect in the Virgin River as it winds alongside the road, setting the tone for an unforgettable stay. Steps from Zion National Park’s entrance, Red Cliffs Lodge Zion draws design inspiration from the land itself—its beauty, people and timeless allure. Newly opened in fall 2024, this will be its first spring and summer welcoming guests. As part of the Marriott Bonvoy family, visitors can earn or redeem points during their stay.

Whether lounging by the pool, dining at Scout Bar & Grill (scoutzion.com) or unwinding in your private retreat, Zion’s sweeping vistas are always within view. Guestrooms feature walking stick mirrors and backpack-style benches for a refined yet adventurous feel. For those looking to explore, Zion Guru (zionguru.com) offers guided hikes, canyoneering and more.

The lobby serves as a modern campsite—warm, welcoming and filled with cozy gathering spaces. The bar is a lively hub where guests and locals recharge or grab a handcrafted cocktail before their next adventure. At Scout Bar & Grill, the menu highlights elevated comfort food, including the signature smoked fried chicken—a must-try for guests looking to fuel up after a day on the trails.

For private events, Red Cliffs Lodge Zion offers dining and meeting space for corporate meetings, birthdays and special occasions. Seating from eight to 60, these spaces include custom-ordered catering.

Whether you are hiking in Zion or unwinding in comfort, Red Cliffs Lodge Zion delivers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.

Red Cliffs Lodge Zion
792 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale
435-627-5280

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Imagine waking up to the picturesque views of Zion National Park as you step out of your modern Airstream or cabin with your favorite morning beverage in hand. At AutoCamp Zion, nature meets luxury in an outdoor escape like no other.

The Clubhouse is the epicenter of the AutoCamp experience, offering a vibrant space where you can shop for local provisions at the General Store, enjoy freshly prepared meals at The Kitchen and plan your ideal outdoor adventure next to the communal fire pits. Whether you’re fueling up with a warm grain bowl, savoring a cauliflower crust pizza or perfecting the ultimate s’mores, the on-property offerings add an elevated touch to your getaway. You can also browse signature AutoCamp merchandise or sip on a curated selection of beer and wine, all conveniently located in the midcentury modern-designed space.

Beyond accommodations and dining, AutoCamp Zion offers an array of amenities, including a 1,200-square-foot meeting room—perfect for corporate groups, kids’ birthdays or family reunions—a 30,000-square-foot lawn and an all-season pool. Guests can also enjoy direct river access and extensive indoor and outdoor spaces for gatherings, making it an ideal venue for any event.

“AutoCamp is redefining the outdoor hospitality experience by blending wellness with the beauty of outdoor travel, creating spaces where nature enthusiasts and travelers alike can relax, recharge and reconnect with their friends, their loved ones, their dogs or themselves,” said Chief Marketing Officer Bryan Terzi.

Utah residents receive 20% off Autocamp’s best available rate. Visit autocamp.com/utah-locals/ for more information.

Autocamp Zion
1322 UT-9, Virgin

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Once part of the Bay City Mine in the late 19th century, it served as headquarters and home to superintendent George Stillwell. The building operated as a general store for the surrounding mines until 1929 before becoming the premier mountain retreat it is today—Snowpine Lodge.

In 2011, Brent and Meg Pratt purchased the lodge with a vision to create a luxurious retreat for their ski-loving family. After years of skiing at Alta, they felt a deep connection to the mountain and its community. By 2017, the lodge underwent a $60 million renovation, blending European elegance with historic charm. During the transformation, Brent discovered that his great-grandfather, Swen Neilson, had worked in the building at age 15, adding a personal touch to its storied past.

Designed with families in mind, each floor features a gathering area that fosters community and togetherness. A standout attraction is The Nest, Snowpine’s game room, where guests of all ages can unwind after a day on the slopes. It features a movie theater, arcade games, a pool table and cozy seating, creating the perfect space for relaxation and fun.

Snowpine’s commitment to hospitality ensures each guest feels welcome and many book their next stay before even checking out. “Come for the skiing, stay for the Snowpine,” Brent Pratt exclaims.

Recognized for excellence, Snowpine Lodge won the 2024 Best of Beehive Staycation Award, reflecting its status as a premier destination for locals and travelers. Amenities such as the world-class Stillwell Spa—named in honor of George Stillwell, an oxygen bar, and a heated outdoor pool and hot tubs enhance the experience.

At Snowpine Lodge, history, family, and hospitality converge, inviting guests to create lasting memories in a truly unique setting.

Snowpine Lodge
10420 Little Cottonwood Rd., Alta
801-742-2000

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Tucked within the exclusive Canyons Village, Pendry Park City is an elevated mountain escape where adventure and sophistication intertwine every season. Just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport, this ski-in, ski-out retreat delivers seamless access to world-class slopes in winter and an endless playground of outdoor experiences year-round.

At Compass Sports, every itinerary is designed for curious explorers and thrill-seekers alike, regardless of season. In the summer months, enjoy guided mountain biking or hiking excursions, cast a line for fly fishing in pristine alpine waters, or soar above the valley on a private hot air balloon ride. When the snow blankets the Wasatch, experience legendary skiing, guided snowshoe adventures, dog sledding, or even heli-skiing for the ultimate high-altitude thrill. For those craving something truly personal, Pendry curates one-of-a-kind experiences—turning moments into unforgettable memories.

After a day of discovery, unwind with Pendry’s world-class amenities and elevated après culture. Indulge in expertly crafted Japanese cuisine at KITA, Pendry’s signature sushi and steakhouse, where modern techniques meet traditional flavors in a refined setting. Sip handcrafted cocktails and enjoy shareable bites at Après Pendry, a lively, sophisticated lobby lounge that embodies the spirit of après-ski. For unparalleled mountain views, The Pool House Bar & Grille serves elevated American fare in a chic rooftop setting that transitions effortlessly from day to night.

For those seeking restoration and relaxation, Spa Pendry provides a tranquil retreat with an extensive menu of customized massages, revitalizing facials and full-body therapies designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. Whether you need a deep-tissue recovery session after a day on the slopes or are looking to unwind in a steam room or relaxation lounge, every treatment is crafted for total renewal.

With impeccable service and effortless luxury, Pendry Park City redefines the art of escape. Whether you’re chasing winter adrenaline or summer serenity, this destination is designed for those who crave adventure, indulgence, and inspiration—all year long.

Stay More, Do More — Enjoy Up to a 25% Savings

Visit pendry.com/park-city/offers/ to extend your stay and explore all that Park City has to offer. Reserve a minimum of 2 nights and receive a 15% savings on our best available rat, a minimum of 4 nights and enjoy a 20% savings or stay 6 or more nights and receive a 25% savings.

Pendry Park City
2417 W. High Mountain Rd., Park City
435-800-1990

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Leave the city’s noise behind and immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountains at St. Regis Deer Valley. Right outside your room, the landscape unfolds into nature’s majesty, offering grand views, fresher air and an atmosphere that invites you to elevate with your surroundings.

At the St. Regis, tranquility reigns. Relax by one of the beautiful fire pits or immerse yourself in the surrounding wilderness, where every moment is designed to restore and rejuvenate. With direct access to the stunning mountain landscape, it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature and yourself.

The resort’s renowned restaurant, RIME, led by head chef Matthew Fradera, embraces terroir cuisine, which centers on the idea that a dish should reflect the land from which its ingredients come. Fradera designs menus that evolve with the seasons, highlighting local, sustainable ingredients that capture the essence of the surrounding landscape.

Relax at the St. Regis Spa and immerse yourself in world-class treatments in a serene mountain setting. Enjoy a variety of therapies designed to restore both body and mind during your stay.

Whether you’re savoring exceptional cuisine, unwinding in peaceful surroundings, or letting go of everyday stress, The St. Regis Deer Valley invites all guests—hotel visitors and non-hotel guests alike—to indulge in an unforgettable getaway. With its exceptional dining and spa experiences available year-round, the resort offers rejuvenation and adventure to all. Its perfect blend of nature, luxury, and tranquility makes this destination a true escape.

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