Manti Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to try, and where to stay in Manti with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Manti

Nestled in Central Utah, Manti is a city known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant culture. The city is famous for its annual Manti Pageant, a theatrical rendition of the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which draws thousands of visitors each year.

Apart from the pageant, Manti offers numerous attractions and experiences for visitors. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, cultural sites, or gastronomical delights, Manti has it all. This guide will take you through the best things to do, places to visit, and food to try in Manti.

List of Places to Visit in Manti

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Manti Utah Temple: The temple is one of the most iconic structures in Manti, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Visitors can take a guided tour of the temple and learn about its religious significance.

  • Daughters of the Utah Pioneers Museum: The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that depict the lives and struggles of the pioneers who settled in Utah.

  • Manti City Hall and Courthouse: The building serves as the administrative center of Manti City and is known for its beautiful architecture and historical significance.

Natural Attractions of Manti: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Manti-La Sal National Forest: The national forest covers over a million acres of land and offers some of the most scenic views in Utah. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities in the forest.

  • Palisade State Park: The state park is home to a beautiful reservoir and offers opportunities for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking.

  • Skyline Drive: The scenic drive takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Utah and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Manti

  • Temple Hill Trail: The trail takes you through the scenic mountains of Manti-La Sal National Forest and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas.

  • Palisade Trail: The trail is perfect for hiking and mountain biking and takes you through the beautiful Palisade State Park.

  • Skyline Drive Trail: The trail offers a challenging hike and takes you through some of the most scenic areas in Utah.

Best Things to Do in Manti: Activities and Tours

  • Manti Pageant: The annual pageant is a must-see event if you are visiting Manti in the summer. The pageant depicts the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is one of the largest outdoor theatrical productions in the world.

  • Manti Mountain ATV Tour: The tour takes you through the scenic mountains of Manti-La Sal National Forest and gives you an adrenaline-packed ATV adventure.

  • Manti Arts Festival: The festival takes place in August and features some of the best art, music, and food in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Manti

Day Activity
1 Manti Temple Tour, Museum and Historical Sites Tour
2 Hiking in Manti-La Sal National Forest
3 Palisade State Park Day Trip
4 ATV Adventure in Manti-La Sal National Forest
5 Skyline Drive Scenic Tour
6 Manti Arts Festival
7 Food and Drink Tour of Manti

Food and Drink Scene of Manti

Must-Try Dishes

  • Funeral Potatoes: A classic Utah dish made with cheesy potatoes, butter, and a crunchy topping.

  • Scones with Honey Butter: A delicious breakfast or snack option, scones in Manti are served with honey butter and jam.

  • Fry Sauce: A popular dipping sauce in Utah, fry sauce is a mix of mayo and ketchup.

Local Beverages

  • Crescent Moon Coffee: This local coffee shop is known for its delicious coffee blends and cozy ambiance.

  • Drinks at the Wasatch Academy Tavern: The tavern is a great place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city. Try their craft brews or sodas for a refreshing drink.

Where to Stay in Manti: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Temple Hill Bed & Breakfast: This cozy bed & breakfast offers comfortable rooms and excellent breakfast options.

  • Manti Mountain Inn: The inn offers spacious rooms with beautiful views of the mountains and a convenient location in the heart of Manti.

  • Manti Motel: The motel is a budget-friendly accommodation option that offers clean and comfortable rooms and a convenient location.

What to Buy in Manti: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Manti Pageant Merchandise: Buy souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, and key chains to commemorate your visit to the Manti Pageant.

  • Local Honey and Jam: Utah is known for its delicious honey and jam. Pick up some jars to take back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Manti

Manti is a small city with a vibrant culture and strong religious faith. Visitors are advised to be respectful of local customs and practices while exploring the city. The Manti Pageant is a significant cultural event in the city, and visitors are encouraged to attend and learn about the religious and historical significance of the pageant.

Best Time to Visit Manti

The best time to visit Manti is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is pleasant, and most attractions and outdoor activities are open for visitors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Manti

Do:

  • Try local food and drinks.

  • Attend the Manti Pageant in the summer.

  • Explore the natural attractions around Manti.

Don’t:

  • Speak disrespectfully about local customs and practices.

  • Litter or damage the natural attractions in the area.

  • Ignore safety guidelines and recommendations while exploring the city.

Safety and Health

Safety in Manti

Manti is a safe city for visitors. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions while exploring natural attractions and participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Manti

Medical facilities are available in Manti, and visitors are advised to carry their medical insurance cards and necessary medications while traveling.

Getting to Manti: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Manti

  • Salt Lake City International Airport: The airport is located approximately 2 hours away from Manti and offers excellent connectivity to major cities in North America.

  • Provo Municipal Airport: The airport is located approximately 1 hour away from Manti and offers limited connectivity to regional cities.

Bus Stations Near Manti

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Provo: The bus station is approximately 1 hour away from Manti and offers connectivity to major cities in North America.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from major rental companies in Salt Lake City and Provo to travel to Manti.

  • Private Shuttle Services: Private shuttle services are available in Salt Lake City and Provo for transportation to Manti.

How to Get Around in Manti

The best way to get around Manti is by car or bike. Manti is a small city, and most attractions are located within a short distance from each other. Visitors can also take public transportation or walk to explore the city.

Where to Go Next from Manti: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Bryce Canyon National Park: The national park is known for its unique rock formations and stunning vistas. It is approximately 3 hours away from Manti.

  • Zion National Park: The park is home to some of the most beautiful hikes and scenic drives in Utah. It is approximately 3.5 hours away from Manti.

Conclusion

Manti is a small city with a vibrant culture and rich history. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, cultural sites, or gastronomical delight, Manti offers something for everyone. Plan your trip to Manti, and enjoy your visit to this beautiful city.

Ariel view of Manti, Utah Ariel view of Manti, Utah Manti Temple Manti Temple