St. George to Mesquite
The closest Nevada city to St. George, Mesquite is a favorite quick getaway for casino gaming, affordable buffet dining, golf, and weekend entertainment — all just 35 minutes from home.
I-15 South
37 miles
Distance
35 min
Drive Time
southwest
Direction
Year-round (avoid July-August extreme heat)
Best Time
Driving from St. George to Mesquite
Route: I-15 South
Head south on I-15 through the Arizona Strip. The road enters the Virgin River Gorge — a dramatic canyon where the interstate weaves between towering red rock walls — before crossing into Nevada. Mesquite appears shortly after exiting the gorge.
About Mesquite
Mesquite is the go-to quick escape for St. George residents who want a taste of Nevada entertainment without driving all the way to Las Vegas. At just 37 miles and 35 minutes down I-15, it is closer than Cedar City and offers a completely different experience. The small city of about 20,000 people punches well above its weight with resort casinos, championship golf courses, and a packed entertainment calendar.
The drive through the Virgin River Gorge is worth the trip alone. This stretch of I-15 through Arizona is considered one of the most spectacular interstate highways in America, with towering red rock walls rising on both sides as the road follows the Virgin River. Many people are surprised to learn that a small portion of I-15 between St. George and Mesquite passes through Arizona.
Mesquite's two main resorts — CasaBlanca and Eureka Casino — anchor the entertainment scene. CasaBlanca brings in nationally touring musical acts, comedy shows, and hosts the popular Mesquite Motor Mania classic car show. The Virgin Valley golf courses offer year-round play in a stunning desert canyon setting. For St. George residents, Mesquite is also popular for its Nevada sales-tax-free shopping on certain items and its relaxed gaming atmosphere compared to the overwhelming scale of Las Vegas.
Gas Stops Along the Way
- Direct drive — no stops needed between St. George and Mesquite
- Fill up in St. George for cheaper gas prices
Weather & Climate
Mesquite has a hot desert climate similar to Las Vegas. Summers are extremely hot (100-115°F), winters are mild (45-65°F), and spring/fall are ideal (65-90°F). Rain is rare with fewer than 5 inches annually.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round (avoid July-August extreme heat)
Fall through spring (October-May) offers the most pleasant weather for golf and outdoor activities. Summer temperatures can exceed 110°F but casino activities are climate-controlled. Motor Mania events in January, April, and September are highlights.
Things to Do in Mesquite
From outdoor adventures to dining, here is everything worth experiencing when you visit Mesquite, Nevada.
Casinos & Entertainment
CasaBlanca Resort & Casino
Free entry, shows $20-$75Mesquite's premier resort with full casino, concert venue, pool, spa, and multiple restaurants. Regular headliner entertainment including country stars, classic rock acts, and comedy shows.
Check CasaBlanca's entertainment calendar before your trip — shows sell out fast
Eureka Casino Resort
Free entryFull-service casino with slots, table games, sports betting, and the popular Eureka Buffet. More locals-oriented atmosphere with good promotions and player rewards.
Virgin River Hotel & Casino
Free entryCasual, affordable casino with a vintage feel. Popular with locals for their loose slots reputation and inexpensive dining options.
Mesquite Motor Mania
Free to viewMassive classic car show held three times per year (January, April, September) at CasaBlanca. Hundreds of custom cars, hot rods, and classic vehicles. Free to spectators.
Golf Courses
CasaBlanca Golf Club
$65-$130Championship 18-hole course set along the Virgin River with stunning red rock canyon views. Rated among the best public courses in Nevada.
Falcon Ridge Golf Course
$55-$110Scenic desert course carved into the hills above Mesquite with panoramic valley views. Challenging layout with dramatic elevation changes.
The Palms Golf Club
$50-$90Well-maintained 18-hole course with wide fairways and beautiful mountain backdrops. Great for golfers of all skill levels. Most affordable option in Mesquite.
Conestoga Golf Club
$70-$140Award-winning course designed by Gary Panks set in a natural desert wash. The red rock canyon setting makes this one of the most scenic rounds you will ever play.
Dining
Katherine's Steakhouse (CasaBlanca)
$$$Upscale steakhouse inside CasaBlanca with premium cuts, seafood, and an extensive wine list. White tablecloth dining at reasonable prices for the quality.
Eureka Buffet
$$Popular all-you-can-eat buffet at Eureka Casino with prime rib nights, seafood Fridays, and consistently good quality. St. George residents come specifically for this.
Roberto's Taco Shop
$Fast-casual Mexican food that Mesquite locals and visitors swear by. Open late, generous portions, and authentic flavors. Multiple locations.
Peggy Sue's Diner
$50s-themed American diner with classic burgers, milkshakes, and all-day breakfast. Fun retro atmosphere and solid comfort food.
Outdoor Activities
Virgin River Gorge
FreeThe dramatic canyon between St. George and Mesquite is an attraction in itself. Several pulloffs along I-15 and old Highway 91 offer access to hiking and photography spots.
Mesquite Flat Trail System
FreeNetwork of hiking and mountain biking trails through the desert hills above Mesquite. Moderate difficulty with great views of the Virgin Valley.
Beaver Dam State Park
$10 per vehicleRemote Nevada state park about 35 miles north of Mesquite with camping, fishing, and hiking in a pine-covered canyon. A hidden gem few tourists know about.
Travel Tips for the St. George to Mesquite Drive
Gas is usually cheaper in St. George than Mesquite — fill up before you go
Speed limit drops quickly entering Mesquite — watch for speed traps on I-15
CasaBlanca offers concert-and-hotel packages that are great value for overnight stays
The Virgin River Gorge between St. George and Mesquite has no gas stations or services
Mesquite has no Nevada state income tax, and certain purchases are tax-advantaged compared to Utah
Weekend evenings are the busiest at casinos — weekday visits are more relaxed
Check Mesquite Motor Mania dates if you are a classic car enthusiast — the show is free and spectacular
Frequently Asked Questions: St. George to Mesquite
How far is St. George from Mesquite Nevada?
Mesquite, Nevada is just 37 miles (35 minutes) from St. George via I-15 South. The drive passes through the spectacular Virgin River Gorge in Arizona.
Do you drive through Arizona to get to Mesquite from St. George?
Yes. A short stretch of I-15 between Utah and Nevada passes through the northwest corner of Arizona, specifically through the Virgin River Gorge. You briefly enter Arizona before crossing into Nevada.
Is Mesquite worth visiting?
Absolutely. Mesquite offers casino gaming, nationally touring entertainment at CasaBlanca, four championship golf courses, affordable dining, and the spectacular Motor Mania car show. At just 35 minutes from St. George, it is an easy and fun day trip or overnight getaway.
What is Mesquite Motor Mania?
Mesquite Motor Mania is a massive classic car show held three times per year at the CasaBlanca Resort. Hundreds of custom cars, hot rods, and classic vehicles are displayed. Admission for spectators is free.
Are there golf courses in Mesquite?
Yes, Mesquite has four championship golf courses: CasaBlanca Golf Club, Falcon Ridge, The Palms, and Conestoga. All offer year-round play with stunning desert canyon scenery and rates ranging from $50-$140.
Nearby Destinations from Mesquite
Las Vegas
The Entertainment Capital of the World is just under two hours from St. George. Whether you want world-class shows, celebrity chef restaurants, shopping, or a quick weekend getaway, Las Vegas delivers nonstop excitement.
Zion National Park
The crown jewel of Southern Utah and one of America's most visited national parks is just 45 minutes from St. George. Towering 2,000-foot sandstone cliffs, world-famous hikes, and the emerald Virgin River make Zion an absolute must-visit.
Grand Canyon (North Rim)
The quieter, cooler, and closer rim of the Grand Canyon is just under three hours from St. George. With one-tenth the visitors of the South Rim, the North Rim offers a more intimate and serene Grand Canyon experience.
Complete Guide: Driving from St. George to Mesquite
St. George to Mesquite — 37 miles, 35 min Drive
Mesquite is the go-to quick escape for St. George residents who want a taste of Nevada entertainment without driving all the way to Las Vegas. At just 37 miles and 35 minutes down I-15, it is closer than Cedar City and offers a completely different experience. The small city of about 20,000 people punches well above its weight with resort casinos, championship golf courses, and a packed entertainment calendar.
The route from St. George, Utah to Mesquite, Nevada covers 37 miles and takes approximately 35 min via I-15 South. Head south on I-15 through the Arizona Strip. The road enters the Virgin River Gorge — a dramatic canyon where the interstate weaves between towering red rock walls — before crossing into Nevada. Mesquite appears shortly after exiting the gorge.
Things to Do in Mesquite
Casinos & Entertainment: CasaBlanca Resort & Casino, Eureka Casino Resort, Virgin River Hotel & Casino. Golf Courses: CasaBlanca Golf Club, Falcon Ridge Golf Course, The Palms Golf Club. Dining: Katherine's Steakhouse (CasaBlanca), Eureka Buffet, Roberto's Taco Shop. Outdoor Activities: Virgin River Gorge, Mesquite Flat Trail System, Beaver Dam State Park.
Best Time to Visit Mesquite
Fall through spring (October-May) offers the most pleasant weather for golf and outdoor activities. Summer temperatures can exceed 110°F but casino activities are climate-controlled. Motor Mania events in January, April, and September are highlights.
Travel Tips
Gas is usually cheaper in St. George than Mesquite — fill up before you go. Speed limit drops quickly entering Mesquite — watch for speed traps on I-15. CasaBlanca offers concert-and-hotel packages that are great value for overnight stays. The Virgin River Gorge between St. George and Mesquite has no gas stations or services.
For more things to do near St. George, explore our Things to Do guide, browse the Events Calendar, or discover local businesses in the St. George Business Directory. Check out all road trip destinations from St. George including Las Vegas, Zion National Park, Grand Canyon (North Rim).