Looking for things to do in Moab, Utah? We have you covered in today’s post! We’re sharing where to eat, where to stay and what to do in this unforgettable Utah town!
The possibilities are endless for things to do in Moab, Utah. Moab is the perfect place to rest and restore. Pause and reserve a room in one of their many quaint hotels, away from the hustle of your busy world. Moab, Utah is the ideal place to relax, reconnect and revisit every season of the year. It’s no wonder Moab is a favorite location for Utah relaxing or adventure getaways.
If you follow us on Instagram, you know we recently planned a three-week west coast road trip. Our first stop from Chicago was Utah and we completely fell in love with this incredible town.
Whether you are looking to bike, hike, boat, float the Colorado River, golf, or indulge in endless breweries and eateries, there are countless things to do in Moab, UT. So, it is no surprise that Moab has become a favorite of travelers across the globe. We can certainly see why!
Depending on how much you’d like to see and do, Moab is easily a trip you could make from surrounding areas in as little as a day or as long as a week if preferred. Our first trip to Moab was only a two-night stay on our trip out west.
And, while we got a chance to enjoy a lot that Moab has to offer, we could certainly have used more time. However, we had an opportunity to spend an entire week in the area this Spring which allowed us to take advantage of all the fun and adventure this Utah town has to offer.
In this post, we will cover things to do in Moab, where to stay, how we felt about traveling during COVID-19, the endless outdoor adventure options, the best things to do with kids, the best tours in Moba, where to eat in Moab, and more.
THINGS TO CONSIDER BEFORE PLANNING YOUR TRIP
- Check the weather in advance. The weather can vary in Moab so be sure to check in advance of your trip so you know exactly what to pack.
- While much of downtown has wifi and internet access, many areas outside of town do not. If you’re traveling to rural areas or hiking trails, come prepared with print offs of directions, trailhead details, etc.
- Make reservations well in advance of your trip. Moab is becoming more and more of a popular tourist destination. If you are planning a trip to the area, be sure to make reservations for hotel, adventures, camping in advance of your arrival when possible. The best things to do in Moab fill up fast – especially in the Spring and Summer.
THINGS TO DO IN MOAB: OUTDOOR ADVENTURE & TOURS
There’s so much more to Moab than just the seeing, there’s also the doing: float the river, see the art galleries, enjoy off-road adventures, rock climbing, spas, horseback rides, ziplining, see rock art, whitewater rafting and so much more!
Whether you are looking to spend your time in Moab relaxing or getting rugged outdoors, you’re spoiled for a choice of things to do in Moab. The only question you need to answer is how much do you care to fit into your days.
Because Moab is becoming more and more of a popular vacation destination it’s recommended you plan ahead, when possible. Whether you are interested in reserving a multi-day whitewater rafting excursion or only are only planning for day adventures like a visit to Arches National Park, planning your trip to Moab in advance will help you get the most enjoyment out of your stay.
COLORADO RIVER TOURS
RIVER RAFTING IN MOAB
If you’re looking for a “must-do” outdoor activity, choose the unforgettable experience of river rafting in Moab. Options include half day rafting, full-day or overnight adventures through one of the many outfitters in the area. Here are just a few of the incredible options to choose from:
- Moab Adventure Center – nominated “Best Guided Moab Rafting Trips”, Moab Adventure Center offers 7 different rafting tour options for children and adults alike. Their most popular rafting tours include a full-day trip including an exclusive BBQ lunch.
- Red River Adventures – Discover parts of the Moab River that aren’t accessible by land on a whitewater rafting trip that’s suitable for first-time rafters. Gentle rapids are ideal for families and give you time to enjoy scenery that’s characterized by red-rock formations. Plus, the short duration of this tour makes it ideal for first-time visitors.
- Adrift Adventures – Adrift Adventures, located in Moab, Utah invites you for the whitewater rafting vacation of a lifetime on Utah’s Colorado and Green Rivers.
- NAVTEC Expeditions
MOAB PADDLE BOARDING
Prefer to get out onto the water in a slightly more relaxed setting? Choose one of the many paddleboard outfitters in Moab.
- Paddle Moab – Paddle Moab is a family owned and operated Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Whitewater Rafting, Canyoneering, and Adventure Company located in the town of Moab, Utah. Paddle Moab only guides trips through beautiful canyons and fun sections of river. They offer a number of different paddleboarding trip options varing in length of time and cost.
- Moab Adventure Center – Paddle, swim, and relax down a calm stretch of the river. Transportation, board rental, instruction, guide, snacks and water are included during a 3 hour paddleboarding trip.
- Moab Watersports & Gear Rental
MOAB DINNER CRUISE & TOUR
Experience one of the most unique sound and light shows in the world on this 3-hour excursion at Canyonlands National Park near Moab, UT.
Enjoy a cowboy-style Dutch oven dinner in a dining room overlooking the Colorado River. Then take a slow-moving evening boat ride as 40,000 watts of natural light illuminate the canyon’s walls.
Watch as the lights, music and narration make the stories of the canyon’s formation and history come to life. Enjoy a cowboy-style Dutch oven dinner Take a cruise on the Colorado River Watch a natural light show with music and narration Learn about the history of Canyonlands National Park Romantic date-night activity
OFF ROAD ADVENTURES IN MOAB
MOAB JEEP RENTALS
A Jeep Wrangler is the ultimate vehicle to get out and see what Southeastern Utah has to offer. Whether you’re a veteran off-road driver or a first-time novice, the below Jeep rental companies will help you find just the right trails to explore.
Moab Adventure Center partners with Canyonlands Jeep Adventures to make your Moab jeep rental experience simple and convenient by outfitting you with helpful area maps, a cooler stocked with water, and expert advice that will take you into the backcountry with confidence.
Check out their site for a number of different rental options.
MOAB ATV RENTALS
Looking for an epic way to see the rolling red rocks of Utah? Look no further than ATV or UTV rentals. Roam the remarkable red-rock scenery that gives the Moab region its distinguished appearance to the hundreds of off-roading trails, Moab offers an unparalleled return to nature.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Moab who wants a safe and fun way to see what all the fuss is about or you’re a more battle-hardened off-road junkie who wants an intense big-rock ride experience, the off-road outfitters below have you covered.
MOAB HUMMER TOURS
Traveling with a larger group? Or, prefer a Hummer tour over an ATV or UTV? High Point Hummer & ATV has you covered with exciting excursions to secluded canyons, hidden arches, prehistoric dinosaur tracks, and awe-inspiring panoramic overlooks of Arches National Park and the Colorado River.
Experience the thrill of traveling up and down rolling petrified sand dunes as you ascend to the top of the Slickrock surrounding Moab. Their professional guides will give you and everyone in the family the experience of a lifetime.
THE BEST NATIONAL PARK TOURS
ARCHES NATIONAL PARK TOURS
Arches National Park is one of five Utah National Parks. Each of these “Mighty Five” parks has its own way of showcasing the magnificent geologic diversity of the Colorado Plateau.
One of the many Arches National Park Tours showcases the more accessible of more than 2,000 arches – the highest concentration of arches on the planet.
Driving and hiking through this beautiful wonderland provide a look back in time. Guides will share secrets of how the fins of sandstone became delicate ribbons of stone suspended in mid-air is a mystery we will leave for the tour.
Whether you prefer to tour Arches National Park by water, horseback, air or foot there is an outdoor adventure option for everyone in your party. Here are just a few of our favorite tour options:
- Arches National Park Sunset Discovery – offered through Moab Adventure Center. See Arches National Park at its best- during sunset! Take this scenic bus tour and see all the best sights from the comfort of our tour bus. With easy walking paths as the primary focus of the sunset tour, it’s perfect trip for all ages. Approximately 4 hours in length.
- Arches National Park Air Tour – offered through Moab Adventure Center. Fly over formations including Courthouse Towers, North and South Window Arches, Delicate Arch, Devil’s Garden, the Colorado River, Fisher Towers, and Castle Valley. Youth 2 and under fly free on a parent’s lap. (2 person minimum per flight).
- Arches 1/2 Day Tour – offered through NAVTEC Expeditions. Discover iconic landforms of contrasting colors and textures unlike any other in the world. This red rock wonderland will amaze you with its formations, refresh you with its trails, and inspire you with its dynamics of erosion.
CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK TOURS
Canyonlands National Park is divided into four parts: Needles District, Maze District, Island in the Sky District, and Rivers District. This park is filled with beauty and allure. Similar to Arches National Park Tours, the options for seeing this stunning land are endless.
A few of our favorite park tours include:
- Canyonlands 1/2 Day Trip – offered through NAVTEC Expeditions. High atop the Mesa you will descend the canyonlands via the steep switchbacks of Shafer Trail. Then you’ll travel a portion of the White Rim and finish near the Colorado River corridor below.
- White Rim Tour – Let the guides from NAVTEC Expeditions guide you through the Canyonlands National Park that many miss. Guides will help you travel the famous White Rim 4X4 trail to wonderful hikes that reveal hidden passages, and secret canyons.
MOAB HOT AIR BALLOON RIDES
If you’re looking for a unique thing to do in Moab, look no further than a hot air balloon ride.
Imagine creating unforgettable memories and a new perspective as you float over the astounding red rock landscape of Moab, Utah. Welcome the sunrise as you drift among geologic wonders that were being created when dinosaurs roamed the earth. No location in the world offers such a unique experience.
You can book Moab hot air balloons through both Moab Adventure Center and Canyonlands Ballooning. Both have great reviews and are very similar in price.
MOAB AIR TOURS
Looking to take Moab in from the sky? Us, too! Pinnacle Helicopters, Moab’s only helicopter tour, and charter service offer a number of different package options. See backcountry arches, deep canyons, isolated buttes, and much more.
Pinnacle Helicopters offers photography flights including a doors-off option. Flight routes and lengths can be customized. Sunrise and sunset times were available. Reservations are recommended.
MOUNTAIN BIKING TOURS
Many would argue Moab is home to the greatest mountain biking on the planet. Offering a wide variety of biking trails for mountain bikers of all experience levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a scenic drive through beautiful canyons and mesa tops, to seasoned bikers looking for the ultimate challenge, Moab has you covered.
Need to rent a bike, or set up a guided bike tour? Moab has a huge variety of mountain biking guides & outfitters.
MOUNTAIN BIKE TOURS & BIKE RENTALS:
HORSEBACE RIDING IN MOAB
Text here for horseback riding.
ZIP LINE ADVENTURE IN MOAB
Calling all thrill-seekers! Ziplining in Moab is the ultimate activity in Moab for adults and kids alike. The Raven’s Rim Moab zip line tour begins with a spine-tingling 4×4 ride to the top of the cliff faces overlooking Moab. Who can resist 2.5 hours of adventure in the sky? Not us!
THINGS TO DO IN MOAB: HIKING & BIKING
ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
If you are looking to get the family outside for a few quick hikes with breathtaking viewpoints, you cannot miss a trip to Arches National Park.
Arches contain a variety of hiking trails for every level including children. Many of the trails are considered easy to moderate and provide access to outstanding viewpoints and arches not visible from the road. In some cases, trails travel under arches, offering quite a unique perspective on the park’s most beautiful features.
A few of our favorite Arches National Park Hikes include:
EASY HIKING TRAILS:
- Balanced Rock – 0.3 miles round trip
- The Windows – 1 mile round trip
- Double Arch – 0.5 miles round trip
- Nature Trail – 50 yards
- Broken Arch Look – 2 miles round trip
- Landscape Arch at Devils Garden – 1.9 miles round trip
MODERATE HIKING TRAILS:
- Park Avenue – 2 miles round trip
DIFFICULT HIKING TRAIL:
- Delicate Arch Trail- 3 miles round trip
- Double O Arch Trail – 4.1 miles round trip
- Primitive Trail at Devils Garden – 7.8 miles round trip
- Tower Arch Trail – 2.6 miles round trip
CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK
Canyonlands invites visitors to explore countless canyons and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries. Rivers divide the park into four districts: Island in the Sky, The Needles, The Maze, and the rivers themselves.
These areas share a primitive desert atmosphere, but each offers different opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. Get out and enjoy all of the best hiking trails this magic park has to offer. Whatever experience you’re seeking, Canyonlands has 100 miles of hiking trails for you to choose your pace and your adventure.
Below are our favorite hiking trails in Canyonlands National Park:
- Mesa Arch – 0.5 miles
- Whale Rock – 1 mile
- Cave Springs – 0.6 miles
- Pothole Point – 0.6 miles
- Chesler Park Look – 11 miles
- Great Gallery In Horseshoe Canyon – 7 miles
- Loop Hike – 1.3 miles
- White Rim Trail
DRIVE TO OVERLOOK DEAD HORSE POINT
If you have a little extra time to kill in the area, I recommend taking a trip to Dead Horse Point Overlook. A scenic 32 mile drive outside of Moab, Dead Horse Point State Park is one of Utah’s most spectacular state parks.
The breathtaking view from Dead Horse Point is one of the most photographed vistas in the world. Towering 2,000 feet above the Colorado River, the scenic overlook provides visitors with a breathtaking panorama of Canyonlands’ pinnacles and buttes. Millions of years of geologic activity created the spectacular views from Dead Horse Point State Park.
Open from 6:00AM to 10:00PM, visitors to the park pay a $20 per vehicle entrance fee. While the overlook is busy with tourists, people are typically very respectful of space and allow others to take photos when desired.
DRIVE SCENIC BYWAY 128
Looking for things to do in Moab everyone in the family will love? Choose to drive the scenic byway 128. This beautiful scenic drive along the Colorado River gorge begins at the Colorado River Bridge on the north end of Moab.
You will not regret spending a day exploring this section of the river gorge. The drive will provide you with jaw-dropping scenery including world-famous movie locations, idyllic picnic spots, the sixth-longest natural rock span in the US, a large variety of hiking trails and so much more.
The scenic byway 128 (Utah State Route or u-128) spans for 44+ miles running north of Moab. The length of the highway has been designated the Upper Colorado Scenic Byway.
This road also forms part of the Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway, a National Scenic Byway. Residents of Moab frequently refer to SR-128 as “the river road”, after the Colorado River, which the highway follows.
Interesting stops along the route include:
- Lions Park/Boulder Park
- Grandstaff Hiking Trail (mile 3.1)
- Big Bend Bouldering Area (mile 7.8)
- Castle Creek Winery at the Red Cliffs Lodge (mile 14.2)
- Moab Museum of Film and Western Heritage (mile 14.2)
- Lunch at Red Cliff Lodge (mile 14.2)
- JJ’s Merchantile (mile 17.3)
- Sylvester Trail (mile 18.3)
- Fishers Tower Trail (mile 21.8)
- Fisher Towers Viewpoint (mile 24.7)
- Cisco Ghost Town (mile 44.0)
BEST THINGS TO DO IN MOAB WITH KIDS
Traveling to Moab with your kids? Here are just a few of our favorite things to do in the area with kids. Whether you’re in the mood for outdoor adventures, rafting in Moab, looking for a tour in the area, or scenic drive – we have you covered below.
- Hike Arches National Park – Arches NP offers a ton of safe trails for kids of all ages. See above for our favorite easy hiing trails perfect for young adults and children.
- Visit Moab Giants Museum & Dinosaur Park – what kids doesn’t love dinosaurs? This museum offers the perfect combination of education and fun for the entire family. Moab Giants features a 3-D movie theater, museum, Dino playground, Giants Cafe, dig-it-out trails and more!
- Find Petroglyths and Dinosaur Tracks on Potash Road – Potash Road, also known as Lower Colorado Scenic Byway, offers a series of rock formations, petroglyphs, dinosaur tracks and more!
- Hunt for Dinosaur Tracks at Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail – North of town on 191 you and the family can search for more than 200 real dinosaur tracks.
- See a Magic Show at Moab Backyard Theater – If you love live music and theater then you will move Moab Backyard Theater. This outdoor theater is located in downtown Moab offering a variety of music, an outdoor theater and kid-friendly Comedy and Magic. Even better, they welcome outdoor food and beverages as well.
- Explore Canyonlands National Park
- Take a Sliding Rock Guided Tour Through Hells Revenge Trail
- Go river rafting on the Colorado River
- Swim the Beautiful Pools at Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center
- See Moab Via a Hummer Safari – Access Moab’s spectacular backcountry in style and comfort aboard the world’s most serious 4×4. Professional guides operate custom Hummers with raised seating in the rear for optimum passenger viewing. These Hummers can climb to the top of seldom-seen, awe-inspiring Moab overlooks.
- Hike Corona Arch Trail – a moderate 3 mile hike there and back with spectacular views the kids will love.
WHERE TO EAT & DRINK IN MOAB
After a long day of activities and adventure, enjoy a tasty meal and a refreshing drink at one of the many delicious restaurants and cafes Moab has to offer. Whatever the time of day, or whatever your mood, we have you covered with just a few of our favorite restaurants in Moab.
FOR BREAKFAST
JAILHOUSE CAFE – 101 N MAIN STREET
If you are looking for a delicious breakfast joint with a great atmosphere you cannot go wrong with Jailhouse Cafe. In the height of summer, Jailhouse can be one of the most popular restaurants in Moab. As such, I recommend getting there early or putting your name on the list in advance.
We have yet to have anything on the menu that wasn’t out-of-this-world yum!
SWEET CRAVINGS BAKERY & BISTRO – 397 N MAIN STREET
With nearly 600 5-star reviews on Yelp, Sweet Cravings Bakery & Bistro has become a must-eat restaurant in Moab.
Specializing in breakfast and lunch options to complement an active day in Moab. Start your day with their “Crave” breakfast burrito, breakfast panini’s, or select from warm cinnamon rolls, scones, and monkey bread.
Grab lunch or take it to go with a selection of sandwiches, wraps, paninis and more! And of course, don’t forget to indulge in their array of sweet treats including fresh-baked pies, large cookies, lemon squares, fresh-baked bread, brownies and cupcakes to end the day!
MOAB DINER – 198 S MAIN STREET
In the early 1960s, Moab Diner was opened under the name of Poor Boy Drive-Inn and was a popular burger joint for Moab residents for many years.
Poor Boy was a happening place with full-service car hops to meet the needs of those Friday and Saturday night cruisers on Main Street of Moab. To this day, many nostalgic stories are told by long-term residents who were once high school sweethearts gathering at the local hang out enjoying the fun times and great food of the Poor Boy Drive-Inn.
In the late 70s, the business changed hands and became Grand Ice Cream Parlor. The enclosure of the Drive-Inn turned the establishment into a full-service restaurant and the addition of a full-service Ice Cream counter which still stands today.
RED ROCK BAKERY AND CAFE – 74 S MAIN STREET
Homemade bagels, scones, and cinnamon rolls along with great coffee drinks make red rocks bakery a must-stop.
FOR LUNCH
ARCHES THAI – 60 N 100 W
Arches Thai is a vegetarian-friendly, vegan-friendly, and gluten-free restaurant in Moab. All meals are made with fresh ingredients and prepared daily. It’s no wonder Arches Thai is rated one of the best restaurants in Moab on Yelp and TripAdvisor. If you enjoy Thai food, don’t miss giving them a go!
MOAB GARAGE – 78 N MAIN STREET
Cafe and fast-casual restaurant located in the historic Moab Garage Co building on Main Street. Breakfast bites, lunch, and dinner are served daily using fresh ingredients. Diverse beer and wine menus, specialty coffee, and house-made ice cream.
QUESADILLA MOBILLA – 95 N MAIN STREET
Quesadilla Mobilla is the first gourmet food truck to enter this desert paradise offering the same quality, convenience and affordability as the food trucks in the big cities. Whether you’re visiting the area for the first time, are a regular weekender, or are local to the area, Quesadilla Mobilla’s goal is to satisfy your taste buds just like the desert satisfies your soul.
ANTICA FORMA – 267 N MAIN STREET
With nearly 900+ 5-star reviews, Antica Forma is one of Moab’s best restaurants in town. Order mouthwatering gluten-free pizza, mozzarella salads, Neapolitan pizza, pasta, desserts and so much more! There’s nothing not to love about this Italian hotspot!
MILT’S STOP & EAT – 356 Millcreek Drive
Love a good burger? Then Milt’s Stop & Eat will be a new out-of-town favorite. Featuring grass-fed hormone-free beef burgers, fresh ground and hand-crafted. Just wait until you see the mouthwatering options served at this classic Moab spot. I dare you to only try them once!
TACOS EL GORDO – 39 W 100 S
Found in Food Truck Park, you will love this spot for street tacos, a homemade burrito, spicy pork and more.
ZAX RESTAURANT – 96 S MAIN STREET
Zax Moab Located in the heart of downtown Moab, Zax Restaurant has been a mainstay and local favorite for over 15 years! Make sure to wash it all down with a locally-brewed beer from Utah in their Watering Hole boasting one of the largest selections of local brews around!
FOR DINNER
SABAKU SUSHI – 90 E CENTER STREET
By far one of the best sushi restaurants in Moab. Hamachi, unagi, hosomaki rolls, and specialty rolls, it’s hard to go wrong, everything is so well prepared.
MIGUEL’S BAJA GRILL – 51 N MAIN STREET
If you ask anyone local they’ll likely recommend Miguel’s Baja Grill as one of their favorite spots. Serving fresh seafood, traditional Mexican dishes, and margaritas from scratch.
THE MOAB BREWERY – 686 S MAIN STREET
The Moab Brewery was founded in 1996 by John Borkoski. Together with their partners, John and Dave have created an oasis in the desert. Moab Brewery is proud to be Moab’s only microbrewery. The beautiful and unique landscape in and around Moab provides inspiration for our fresh, hand-crafted ales.
PASTA JAY’S – 4 S MAIN STREET
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MOAB
GLAMPING IN MOAB
UNDER CANVAS MOAB – 13784 N HIGHWAY 191
If you are looking for a truly unique and special stay in Moab, look no further than Under Canvas.
Awarded one of the ‘Top 15 Resort Hotels in the West’ by Travel + Leisure, and ‘Top 25 Resorts in the US – Midwest & West’ by Condé Nast Traveler, Under Canvas Moab lies just 7 miles north of Moab near Utah’s famed Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.
Tucked between two world-class climbing, mountain biking and hiking destinations, Under Canvas’ desert glamping accommodations are a gateway to the towering plateaus, sandstone cliffs and naturally occurring geologic wonders of Utah’s Canyon Country.
Under Canvas typically closes for the season at the end of October so be sure to book in advance.
MOAB HOTELS ALONG THE COLORADO RIVER
RED CLIFFS LODGE – MILE POST 14 HIGHWAY 128
Red Cliffs Lodge is by far one of our favorite places to stay in Moab. This rustic hotel is located directly on the Colorado River with breathtaking sunset views, onsite restaurant, winery and more. While the rooms can look less than desirable, Red Cliffs Lodge is a charming stay with exceptional customer service.
Al 110 rooms feature kitchenettes with refrigerators and microwaves, plus free WiFi and balconies or patios.
SORRELL RIVER RANCH – MILE 17 HIGHWAY 128
Sorrel River Ranch is an exclusive 240-acre riverside oasis encompassed by the majestic landscape of Utah’s iconic arches, canyon-lands, and red rock mesas.
Sorrell Rive Ranch custom-built cabins are considered one of the most sought-after destinations in the American Southwest. Beautiful scenery along the Colorado River is perfect for intimate getaways or large gatherings, then fill every second with adventure & discovery or enjoy a quiet and tranquil experience at our resort and rejuvenating spa.
Sorrell River Ranch has a tendency to sell out fast so be sure to book well in advance.
HOTELS NEAR DOWNTOWN MOAB
THE GONZO INN – 100 W 200 S, MOAB
HOMEWOOD SUITES BY HILTON – 132 N MAIN STREET
Homewood Suites by Hilton is a three-minute walk from popular downtown restaurants such as Pasta Jay’s and Arches Thai. An affordable Moab hotel with average prices ranging from $150 – $200 per night.
This smoke-free hotel features an indoor pool, a fitness center, and a snack bar/deli. Free on-the-go breakfast, free WiFi in public areas, and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include a spa tub, a 24-hour business center, and coffee/tea in a common area. All 96 rooms feature kitchenettes with refrigerators, stovetops, microwaves, and dishwashers.
HOODOO MOAB, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON – 111 N 100W MOAB UTAH
Located in the heart of Moab, Hoodoo Moab, Curio Collection by Hilton is in a rural area and in a national park. Along with a full-service spa, this hotel has a restaurant and an outdoor pool. Free WiFi in public areas and free self-parking are also provided.
Additionally, a fitness center, a bar/lounge, and a poolside bar are onsite. The Hoodoo Moab does have a tendency to be one of the more costly stays in Moab, but also newly built.
BEST WESTERN CANYONLANDS INN – 16 S MAIN STREET
This smoke-free hotel features 2 restaurants, a 24-hour fitness center, and a coffee shop/café. Free WiFi in public areas and free self parking are also provided.
Additionally, a snack bar/deli, a spa tub, and a rooftop terrace are onsite. All 80 rooms feature comforts like pillowtop beds and premium bedding, while conveniences include refrigerators and microwaves. Free WiFi and coffee makers are standard, as are LCD TVs with satellite channels. Housekeeping is available on request.
HYATT PLACE MOAB – 890 N MAIN STREET
Located in Moab, Hyatt Place Moab is near the airport and in a national park. Balanced Rock is a notable landmark, and the area’s natural beauty can be seen at Lions Park and Rotary Park.
A restaurant, a 24-hour fitness center, and a bar/lounge are available at this smoke-free hotel. Free buffet breakfast, free WiFi in public areas, and free self parking are also provided.
ELEMENT MOAB – 1431 N MAIN STREET
Element Moab’s fully equipped in-room kitchen allows you to prepare meals and stay in your rhythm while you’re on the road. Start your morning off right with their healthful Rise breakfast, complimentary in all regions except Asia Pacific. Enjoy a hot item from our chef’s station, whole fruits, nourishing granola and more.
MY PLACE HOTEL MOAB – 1500 – 1522 N MAIN STREET
My Place Hotel is located just a few short minutes from downtown Moab. Newly built, this hotel is an affordable stay for families and singles alike.
HOTELS NEAR ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES BY MARRIOTT – 1863 N HIGHWAY 191
Located in Moab, Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Moab is near the airport and on a river. This smoke-free hotel features free water park access, a fitness center, and a 24-hour business center.
Free buffet breakfast, free WiFi in public areas, and free self parking are also provided. Additionally, coffee/tea in a common area, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a conference space are onsite.
SLEEP INN & SUITES – 356 S MAIN STREET
MAINSTAY SUITES – 356 S MAIN STREET
MainStay Suites Moab near Arches National Park is a short 5-minute walk from Zax Restaurant and Moab Dinner in downtown Moab.
This smoke-free hotel features a 24-hour fitness center, a snack bar/deli, and a spa tub. Free continental breakfast, free WiFi in public areas, and free self parking are also provided. Other amenities include a 24-hour business center, coffee/tea in a common area, and a seasonal outdoor pool.
CAMPING
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT (BLM) CAMPING ALONG THE COLORADO RIVER
The Bureau of Land Management offers approximately 26 campgrounds in the Moab area. All individual sites are on a first-come-first-served basis only. Sites are not reservable.
Sites can fill up quickly. Group sites can be reserved at Recreation.gov. All campgrounds are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, trash removal and vault toilets. A $20 fee per night is collected at each campground, payments can be made by check or cash only.
Our favorite BLM campsites located along the Colorado River and Scenic Byways 128 include:
- Goose Island Campground
- Drinks Canyon Campground
- Big Bend Campground
- Grandstaff Campground
- Hal Canyon Campground
- Upper Big Bend Campground
CAMPING IN ARCHES NATIONAL PARK
Camping in the red rock desert is something everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime, if not often. We recommend often. There is something truly special and unique about going to bed under an awning of black night and a million stars. The experience is more than memorable, it’s significant.
Deep in the Park, nestled among sandstone arches and fins is the Devil’s Garden Campground. It is the only place to camp in Arches National Park. Not only is it an amazing place to call home for a night or two, but it is truly THE ONLY place to camp inside Arches National Park. Devils Garden offers 51 campsites, which you can reserve in advance through recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK CAMPING
Canyonlands National Park offers some of the most memorable, unique, and magnificent camping opportunities available in the US. If you and your family are fans of camping, don’t overlook spending a night to two in Canyonlands National Park under some of the starriest skies you’ll ever see.
Camping in Canyonlands has become more and more popular over the years. As a result, campsites book incredibly fast. I recommend getting there early to secure a spot.
Canyonlands camping options include:
- Willow Flat Campground – Willow Flat is open all year round with site available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Located near the Green River overlook, this site offers 12 sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Fee is $15 per night.
- The Needles Campground – This 30-site campground is best suited for tents and small RV’s or campers.
We hope you love your visit to Moab just as much as we did! If there’s anything you would add to this list of things to do in Moab feel free to let us know! We’d love to hear about your trip!
