There are so many awe-inspiring things to do in Moab, Utah. The town serves as both a gateway to nature’s wonders and a great base for mountain bikers and off-roaders. With its signature red desert landscape, rock formations, sprawling canyons, and a tapestry of trails, Moab is a dreamland for adventurers.
It’s a place where mountain bikers challenge their prowess at the Slickrock Trail, where hikers find solace in the shadow of Delicate Arch, and where every sunset paints a masterpiece on the vast canvas of the sky. From the rumble of jeeps on off-the-beaten tracks to the tranquil ripples of the Colorado River, Moab is a symphony of experiences waiting to be savored. Dive into this guide and let the best of Moab unveil itself, one adventure at a time.
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Top Things To Do in Moab, Utah
Moab is deep in Utah’s Canyon country, and while the city is relatively quiet, its spectacular scenery speaks volumes on its behalf. We love the selection of geological, cultural, adventurous, and historical attractions Moab offers. Let’s check out the best Moab attractions to help you plan your trip.
Planning Your Trip To Moab Right Now?
Below are some of the top tours in Moab. Don’t forget to plan ahead when visiting Moab, Utah!
Top Activities and Tours in Moab:
- Canyonlands and Arches National Park Airplane Tour (Best Scenic Views)
- Hell’s Revenge Jeep Tour ( Highly Rated)
- Canyoneering Adventure – (Likely to Sell Out)
- Arches 4X4 Adventure (Most Popular)
1. Arches National Park
Arches National Park is the city’s closest, and visiting is one of the best things to do in Moab. There are many incredible hikes in the Arches, most of which incorporate impressive rock features.
Nestled just five miles north of Moab, Arches National Park stands as a testament to nature’s artistic prowess. With over 2,000 natural stone arches and myriad other geological wonders, the park offers an otherworldly experience. Millions of years of erosion have sculpted this stunning landscape.
Allow at least a day, if not two or three, to dedicate to exploring the Arches National Park. The park has lots of routes and attractions to visit – on a bike, on horseback, on foot, or by car.
Website: www.nps.gov / Phone: +1 435-719-2299 / Browse Popular Tours
2. Delicate Arch Hike
One hike not to miss is Delicate Arch. Delicate Arch is the most iconic arch of them all, and has become the unofficial symbol of Utah, gracing license plates and travel guides. The Delicate Arch hike is a three-mile round trip and of moderate difficulty.
The hike requires a reasonable fitness level and make sure to bring plenty of water and sturdy hiking boots. Aim to hike before or after the midday sun. We suggest going early in the morning to beat the rush and to get a parking space.
- Address: Delicate Arch Rd, Moab, UT Google Maps
3. Landscape Arch
Landscape Arch Trail, is part of the greater Devil’s Garden Trail system in Arches and is a relatively easy and family-friendly hiking experience. The 1.6-mile round-trip trail, with only a slight elevation gain, leads hikers to the Landscape Arch – a remarkable geological formation reputed as one of the longest natural rock arches in the world.
The trail meanders through a juniper-pinyon woodland, offering glimpses of sandstone fins, before revealing the majestic Landscape Arch. Spanning an impressive 306 feet, the arch is an exceptional testament to nature’s creative force, illustrating the power of erosion in shaping the environment.
The path to Landscape Arch is well-trodden and relatively flat, making it accessible to hikers of varying skill levels. But don’t let the easy trek fool you; the stunning view of the slender arch delicately balanced amidst a backdrop of rugged sandstone formations makes this hike one of the most popular in Arches National Park.
- Address: U.S. 191, Moab, UT 84532 / Website: www.nps.gov / Phone +1 435-719-2299 / Browse Popular Tours
4. Arches Scenic Drive
Arches Scenic Drive is the main thoroughfare that transports visitors deep into the heart of the iconic Arches National Park. The journey along this paved road unveils an ever-evolving tableau of some of the park’s most renowned landmarks.
Starting at the park’s entrance, the scenic drive stretches for 18 miles one-way, culminating at the Devils Garden area. As you embark on this journey, within minutes, you’ll be greeted with views of the Courthouse Towers.
5. Courthouse Towers
Courthouse Towers is only four miles from the Park Visitors Center You can view them from the road, but if you want to get a closer view, take the Park Avenue Trail that descends 1 mile into the canyon. These are another famed attraction of the Arches National Park nicknamed so because of the likeness of the canyon walls to city buildings.
Further ahead, the road takes you to viewpoints for the famous Balanced Rock, a geological wonder where a massive boulder precariously balances atop a slender pedestal.
Midway, you’ll find pull-offs for Windows Section, offering a closer look at a series of large arches set in a picturesque setting. North and South Windows, Turret Arch, and Double Arch are all easily accessible from the parking areas and are some of the most photographed spots in the park. Google Maps
6. Explore Canyonlands National Park
You may recognize Canyonlands National Park from the image of a snaking river canyon. The mighty Colorado River splits by the Confluence Overlook, with half the river continuing and half flowing into the Green River.
Encompassing a vast area filled with countless canyons, mesas, and buttes carved by the Colorado River and its tributaries, Canyonlands National Park is divided into four distinct districts: Island in the Sky District, The Needles, The Maze, and The Rivers themselves. Each offers a unique experience, from panoramic overlooks at Island in the Sky to the remote canyons of The Maze. Check out our guide to Canyonlands National Park!
Website: www.nps.gov / Phone +1 435-719-2313 / Browse Popular Tours
Canyonland NP Tours
The best way to see Canyonlands is on an airplane tour. This 1hr 20-minute scenic flight takes you over both Canyonlands and Arches National National Park to see Upheaval Dome, Island in the Sky, Green River Overlook, Landscape Arch, Devils Garden, and more. Details here!
If you’d prefer to drive download this self-drive scenic drive tour. You can also stop at the Island in the Sky Visitor Center to get information on a scenic drive. You can use the restrooms and pick up a free map or get route advice from the rangers. This self-drive tour is a great way to see the extraordinary rock formations, arches, and scenic views at your own pace.
7. Watch the Sunset From Grand View Point
Grand View Point is located at The Island in the Sky district and stands as one of the most expansive and breathtaking viewpoints in the American Southwest. Overlooking a sprawling vista of deep canyons, mesas, and distant mountain ranges, this vantage point offers an unparalleled display of nature’s grandeur.
Watching the sunset from Grand View Point is akin to witnessing a master painter at work. As the sun begins its descent, the deep reds and oranges of the rock formations become more pronounced, while the intricate labyrinth of canyons below gradually descends into deep shadows. The La Sal Mountains, visible in the distance, take on a deep blue hue, providing a striking contrast to the warm tones of the foreground.
8. Ancient Petroglyphs of Horseshoe Canyon
One of the best hikes in Canyonlands is Horseshoe Canyon. Horseshoe Canyon Trail is the most interesting hike in Canyonlands National Park. And, even better, the route is only moderately challenging. The trail’s endpoint is the Great Gallery, where you can admire ancient petroglyphs.
You should allow four hours to complete the entire hike. It is 11.3 km long with an elevation gain f 423 meters.
Address: Moab, UT 84532 / Website: www.nps.gov / Google Maps / Top Tours
9. Go mountain biking
Moab is a Mecca for Mountain bikers and they will find plenty of biking trails in Moab. You can head to the Canyonlands National Park, and Arches National Park, or stay close to Moab at the iconic Slickrock Trail. Klondike Bluffs trail is good for intermediate riders. If you don’t have experience, you can book a guided tour. And if you don’t have your own bike, you can rent one at one of the many bike rental shops in town.
This highly rated mountain bike tour takes you on a half-day trip through the gorgeous terrain of Arches National Park where you follow your guide on a 7-10 mile journey. It’s great for beginners and families.
10. Sand Flats Recreation Area
The Sand Flats Recreation Area is a diverse, multi-use area renowned for its unique combination of scenic beauty and recreational opportunities. Be prepared to stay awhile at the Sand Flats Recreation Area, the area covers 9,000 acres, with bike trails, hiking trails, 4WD tracks, and natural formations. Sand Flats Recreation Area is a haven for biking, off-roading, and stargazing. Let’s dive into some of the fun Moab activities you can do here.
11. Slickrock Mountain Bike Trail
Mountain biking enthusiasts regard Moab as a pilgrimage site, and the crown jewel in its offering is the Slick Rock Trail. As the name suggests, the trail meanders through vast expanses of “slick” Navajo Sandstone, a surface that, despite its name, offers incredible traction. Spanning 10.5 miles, the trail isn’t particularly long, but its undulating terrain, with steep inclines and declines, poses a delightful challenge even for seasoned bikers.
While the Slickrock Trail is celebrated for its biking experience, its views are equally beautiful. As bikers navigate its loops, they’re treated to panoramic vistas of the La Sal Mountains, and the sandstone domes of the region.
Address: Slickrock Trail Parking, Utah 84532 / View in Google Maps
12. Hell’s Revenge
Hell’s Revenge and Fins and Things are the most popular 4WD routes in Salt Flast Recreation Area. Jeep rentals are available or you can experience Hell’s Revenge as a passenger on an off-roading tour. Just don’t attempt it in a 2WD!
Combine sunset, with an adrenaline-pumping 4WD adventure. The desert is even more impressive at sunset when the natural glow emphasizes the existing redness of the rocks. Forget driving a scenic byway – hop in a jeep and get off the beaten path as you watch the desert sun go down. As far as outdoor adventures go, a hummer safari is an exhilarating way to blend entertainment and nature. Or drive your own ATV
Hell’s Revenge can be driven independently as well and if you don’t have your own 4WD, you can rent one. This 4WD safari takes you on a two or four-hour drive through the Hells Revenge Trail with gorgeous views of Arches National Park and the La Sal Mountains. This adrenaline-filled tour is led by a professional guide in fully equipped 4X4 vehicles. Details here.
Moab Scenic Drive
If a 4WD adrenaline safari isn’t quite your speed, you can book a scenic tour where you can choose between Long Canyon or Hurrah Pass in a private or shared experience. View ancient rock carveys, and admire views of the canyons from these open-air vehicles. More details and tour options here.
13. Night Sky Stargazing
Moab’s remote location in the Utah Desert is far away from the glaring lights of major cities, making it a haven for stargazers. The night skies here are among the darkest in the U.S., revealing a celestial tapestry of stars, planets, and the Milky Way. The clarity of the skies allows for perfect viewing of meteor showers, constellations, and distant planets.
Several local organizations offer guided astronomy tours. Equipped with high-powered telescopes and laser pointers, these guides unravel the mysteries of the cosmos, sharing tales of Greek mythology, scientific facts about distant galaxies, and tips on astrophotography.
Camping overnight in the desert, beneath this sprawling canvas of stars, is an ethereal experience, making one feel both infinitesimal and intricately connected to the cosmos.
14. Visit Dead Horse State Park
Perched 2,000 feet above a gooseneck in the Colorado River, Dead Horse Point State Park provides one of the most photographed scenic vistas in the world. Legend has it that the park’s name is derived from its use as a natural corral by cowboys in the 19th century, where, tragically, a band of horses was left to die from exposure. Today, Dead Horse State Park stands as a poignant reminder of the Old West, with its dramatic overlook providing a panoramic view of the winding river below.
Beyond its iconic viewpoint, Dead Horse Point State Park offers plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Its network of trails, both for hiking and mountain biking, offers varying degrees of difficulty. For those looking to immerse themselves in the park’s tranquility, camping under its star-studded sky is an experience like no other. The Intrepid Trail System, particularly, is a must-visit, offering 16.6 miles of non-motorized trails that cater to both hikers and bikers.
Dead Horse Point State Park is only a forty-minute drive from Moab and is located between Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.
15. the La Sal mountains
Spend a day in the La Sal mountains. Make the most of scenic hiking and mountain biking trails, then treat yourself to a meal at a café in La Sal afterward.
Bull Canyon Overlook has sweeping mountain views and hiking trails of varying lengths if you want to experience the area within a time limit. Alternatively, dare yourself to tackle one of the most physically challenging things to do in Moab and climb one of the mountains. Mt Waas, Mt Tomasaki, Mt Peale, Mt Tukuhnikivatz, and Manns Peak are all popular summits.
16. Castle Valley Towers
Castle Valley lies between the Colorado River to the southwest and the imposing La Sal Mountains to the east. It is essentially a high desert valley surrounded by stunning rock formations. Over millions of years, erosion by wind and water has sculpted the valley’s signature red rock features, creating a landscape that’s both stark and captivating.
Castleton Tower is arguably the most iconic feature of Castle Valley. This 400-foot Wingate Sandstone dominates the landscape. It’s a popular destination for rock climbers, offering a variety of routes of different difficulty levels.
The Rectory and The Priest: These are two other significant rock formations near Castleton Tower. From certain angles, The Priest appears to be in a praying posture, hence its name.
Parriott Mesa: Another prominent feature of Castle Valley, Parriott Mesa is a huge sandstone formation offering climbing opportunities and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
17. rock climbing
With mountains, canyons, and world-famous rock features, it is no wonder that rock climbing is one of the best things to do in Moab. You can visit the Moab Adventure Center to organize a rock climbing tour with a pick-up service or head out independently if you are an experienced climber. Forgot your climbing gear? No problem. Pagan Mountaineering is a climbing shop located on Moab main street and the ideal place to stock up on all your equipment and supplies.
Address: 225 S Main Street, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / Phone: +1 435-259-7019 / View in Google Maps
18. Fisher Towers
Fisher Towers is a series of stone pinnacles and buttresses, that stand as silent sentinels. These Iconic sandstone sentries were sculpted by eons of erosion creating a sight that is both surreal and magnificent. The main tower, known as the Titan, is one of the most recognized and climbed towers in the world. The rich red hue of the towers, contrasted with the deep blue sky, makes it a photographer’s dream, especially during the golden hours.
The 4.4-mile round trip Fisher Towers Trail takes hikers on a journey through some of Moab’s most dramatic landscapes. As the trail weaves its way around the base of these towering formations, it offers numerous vantage points to admire their grandeur. For rock climbers, Fisher Towers provides several technical routes, each promising a challenging ascent and rewarding summit views.
Address: Fisher Towers Rd, Moab, UT 84532 / View in Google Maps
19. Stop by Wilson Arch
Wilson Arch is a natural sandstone arch. The arch takes its name from a 19th-century pioneer named Joe Wilson. The natural feature is red-tinted, huge, and surrounded by desert – cutting a dramatic picture.
Unlike many attractions, the Wilson Arch is completely free to access. Visitors can pull straight off Route 191 and park at the Wilson Arch Scenic View Area – making the short hike up to the rock feature if they wish. Wilson Arch is only half an hour’s drive from Moab and located just after the turn-off for La Sal. If you visit the mountains, it is worth the detour.
20. Moab Giants Dinosaur Park
Jurrasic Park fans will love Moab Giant’s Dinosaur Park. Step back millions of years to an era when colossal creatures ruled the Earth at Moab Giants Dinosaur Park. This theme park and outdoor museum hybrid, spread across a vast desert landscape, captivates both young and old with life-sized replicas of over 100 dinosaurs.
These replicas, inspired by real fossil footprints found in the region, provide a tangible glimpse into prehistoric life. Interactive exhibits and a state-of-the-art 3D cinema augment the experience, blending education with entertainment.
Address: 112 UT-313, Moab, UT 84532 / Website
Engage and Explore
The Dinosaur Tracks Museum showcases actual footprints preserved in stone, complemented by engaging multimedia displays. Children, in particular, are enthralled by the Paleoaquarium, which offers a peek into ancient marine life.
Skip the Moab giants for real dinosaur tracks and skeletons if you are into history and archeology. The Mill Canyon Dinosaur Trail is a short two-mile return hike with fossilized dinosaur tracks to view up close and preserved skeletal remains! Get your tickets in advance here.
21. Go horseback riding
With so many National Parks surrounding Moab, horseback riding is a fun way to experience nature in Utah. Many horseback riding trips offer a pick-up service from Moab. However, you can also easily drive out to nearby ranches.
Experience Moab the way the early settlers and Native Americans did. Guided tours offer an authentic and serene way to traverse the varied landscapes in the Moab backcountry, from sweeping valleys to narrow canyons. The rhythmic pace of a horse allows riders to truly soak in their surroundings.
Hauer Ranch offers horseback riding and mule rides and is only half an hour from Moab. There are rides out to old movie sets and classic desert loops. Experienced horse riders can also book a private ride, where you can ride at faster paces and explore more technical terrain. You can get more details at their website.
22. Go river rafting
You can’t stay right next to the mighty Colorado River without experiencing its power for yourself! River rafting is one of the best things to do in Moab, and there are plenty of rafting trips that you can embark on.
If you are feeling really adventurous, choose from the multi-day rafting trips and venture even further along the winding Colorado River. The best option for rafting Moab is to book a whitewater rafting tour. This guided tour takes you through class II/III rapids at Fisher Towers on a 6-person paddle raft on the Colorado River.
Cataract Canyon is one of the most famous whitewater rafting spots. If you are experienced, this 14-mile section features challenging rapids of up to Class 5. Even if you can’t tackle them firsthand, watching others from the vantage point on the Colorado River Bridge is worthwhile!
23. Head to Hole ‘N’ The Rock
Hole ‘N’ The Rock is wacky. As far as eccentric things to do in Moab go, it rates very highly.
Visitors will soon spot the home carved into the boulder, signposted with emblazoned white letters painted onto the sandstone. There is a zoo, graffitied disused vehicles, mining equipment, vintage signs, sculptures, and guided tours of the boulder house. You can also purchase locally crafted Native American souvenirs on a visit to the tourist gift shop.
24. Visit Goblin Valley State Park
If the Arches and Canyonlands national parks seem dauntingly huge to visit for just one day, Goblin Valley is the perfect state park alternative.
The Three Sisters is an impressive sandstone rock formation to visit, which we recommend combining with a trip to Goblin Overlook. Goblin Overlook has a covered picnic area and free toilet facilities to use.
Goblin Valley is an hour and forty-minute drive from Moab, so it can be completed as a day trip. Alternatively, use the Goblin Valley Campground and plan an overnight stay.
25. Hike to Corona Arch
Tucked away a few miles from Moab is the splendid Corona Arch. It is often overshadowed by its counterparts in Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park but is equally magnificent.
The trail to the arch is about 3 miles round-trip and hikers navigate slick rock, sandy paths, and even a few ladders. Before reaching the pièce de résistance, the Corona Arch, hikers are treated to the sight of Bowtie Arch. With its keyhole-like appearance, it serves as a delightful precursor to the grandeur that awaits.
The Corona Arch itself stands as a testament to nature’s artistry—a monumental sandstone arch with an awe-inspiring opening that measures 140 feet by 105 feet. It’s a sight that has become emblematic of the Moab region’s unparalleled beauty.
26. Spend a day hiking Moab’s nearby trails
Moab Information Center is on Moab’s main street and a great place to enquire about the best seasonal hikes for your fitness and ability. Also, just five miles north of the city center, you can also visit the Arches National Park Visitor Center. Here, the rangers can provide you with trail maps and specialist guidance on seeing specific natural landmarks.
27. Slot Canyons
While Moab is more famously known for its vast red rock landscapes, arches, and mesa views, it also houses several slot canyons. These beautiful canyons make for incredible views. However, you should book a tour or have experience as slot canyons can be extremely dangerous during the rain. Even miles away. Some of the best Slot canyons near Moab are:
- Little Wild Horse Canyon & Bell Canyon: Though located about 90 minutes west of Moab near Goblin Valley State Park, these are two of the most popular slot canyons in Utah. They can be combined into an 8-mile loop hike, offering a diverse slot canyon experience.
- Entrajo Canyon: Located closer to the town of Moab, Entrajo is a tighter slot canyon and offers some technical challenges including some rappels.
- Culvert Canyon: This is a short, easy-to-access slot near Moab, which can be good for beginners or those wanting a brief experience without venturing too far from town.
28. Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway
Meandering alongside the Colorado River, the Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway (often referred to as “Potash Road”) offers an accessible scenic drive. Spanning 17 miles, this scenic route treats travelers to breathtaking views of sheer red rock cliffs, ancient petroglyph panels, and natural arches.
Interestingly, the byway culminates at the Potash Evaporation Ponds, where the vibrant blue color starkly contrasts the red surroundings. Used for potash mining, these ponds are both an industrial marvel and a vivid visual spectacle, especially from higher vantage points. Along the route, travelers also get glimpses of the famed Wall Street, a popular rock-climbing spot, and Jug Handle Arch, a testament to nature’s artistry.
29. Visit the Ancient Rock Art
Ancient rock art can be found in various sites around the city, with one of the most famous a fifteen-minute drive away on Kane Springs Road. This site is nicknamed the Birthing Scene Petroglyph and consists of ancient etchings on a huge sandstone boulder.
The best thing about this site is how close up you can get. To experience ancient art, standing face-to-face with etchings in the middle of the desert doesn’t get much more immersive.
30. Stop by the Moab Rock Shop
After experiencing so many archaeological and geographical wonders, you can stop by the Moab Rock Shop to bring some home. The Rock Shop sells fossils, rocks, and minerals that you can purchase and keep as a souvenir of Moab. Dinosaur enthusiasts can remember the Moab giants with a tooth or bone fossil.
31. Grab a bite to eat at the Food Truck Park
Forget fussy, pretentious dining, and head to Moab’s Food Truck Park to fill your stomach. The seating and serving process street-food style and the prices are too! If you want a budget-friendly meal in Moab, the Food Track Park is where to go.
The park offers international cuisines, with Chinese, Mexican, American, Hawaiian, and Italian serving food trucks. The Hokulia shaved ice is particularly appealing after arriving back from a long day hiking.
The Food Truck Park is open from 6:30 am until 20:00, so you can really choose from breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Address: 39 W 100 N, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / +1 435-319-0251
32. Have a quiet morning at Moab Museum
A morning wander around Moab Museum is one of the city’s most relaxing tourist attractions. The Moab Museum is small but covers a lot of historical topics! Recap what you’ve learned about Moab’s dinosaurs, learn about the Indigenous People’s history, and find out about the lives of the early pioneers. The museum has a lot of original artifacts and provides a unique, capsule-like, and slightly eclectic insight into Moab’s history.
Before tackling all that outdoor recreation we’ve mentioned, visit the Moab Museum in your first few days, as it will help you appreciate the rest of Moab’s tourist attractions.
Address: 118 E Center St, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / Phone +1 435-259-7985 / View in Google Maps
33. Try a local beer at the Moab Brewery
Where better to relax with a well-deserved beer than at a brewery? Moab Brewery is a microbrewery that has been producing ales and IPAs since 1996.
Visitors can dine at the restaurant and pair on-site brewed beverages with American cuisine. Sample a Moab Pilsner and tuck into some desert chicken drummies.
For those heading on overnight trips to experience camping in remote areas, you can also stop by Moab Brewery to purchase a crate of evening refreshments.
Address: 686 S Main Street, Moab, UT 84532 / Website / Phone +1 435-259-6333 / View in Google Maps
34. Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center
If you want some water sports in a more controlled environment, the Moab Recreation & Aquatic Center is worth checking out. The Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center (MRAC) offers both residents and visitors a break from the hot desert sun and intense outdoor adventures.
Moab’s desert climate can get incredibly hot, especially in the summer months. The aquatic center provides an excellent way to cool off and relax after a day of hiking, biking, or off-roading. Plus, compared to other recreational activities and entertainment venues in tourist destinations, a visit to an aquatic center can be relatively budget-friendly and you can interact with the Moab locals.
Important Information
So, we’ve covered all the best things to do in Moab, Utah. But there are a few extra things you should know before you visit.
How to get to Moab, Utah?
Moab does not have an airport, so you’ll have to fly into Canyonlands Field Airport or Walker Field Airport in Grand Junction in Colorado. A car is highly recommended and you can rent a car on-site after you land.
Canyonlands Field Airport is just a twenty-minute drive from Moab. The airport has daily flights between Denver and Salt Lake City but is tiny with no facilities – so don’t expect lots of entertainment while you wait for your flight.
Getting Around Moab
Moab has no public transport, so you’ll rely on expensive tours to explore without a car. You can compare car rental prices here for your Moab vacation.
You’ll be less limited and spend less money if you rent a car. The beauty of Moab is the freedom to drive along whichever scenic byway you wish and stop at whichever roadside attraction you want to. We suggest renting a car – especially if you want to visit the nearby National Parks.
When is the best time to visit Moab?
We suggest visiting in February, the shoulder month just before the busy Spring season.
In February, the weather is cooler for outdoor activities, and you’ll find more accommodation choices. Whereas, if you wait until the November shoulder month, it might get a little too chilly!
About Moab, Utah
So, let’s have a quick rundown on how Moab is laid out.
Downtown Moab
Downtown Moab is where hip meets hospitality. We suggest heading downtown for a night out, dining out, or souvenir hunting. You will find most of Moab’s cultural attractions here, too, including the city’s galleries and breweries.
If you want to stay somewhere full of attractions, hospitality, and a consistent buzz, Downtown Moab is for you. You can choose from many one to three-star accommodation options. Downtown Moab has hostels, inns, classic hotels, and a campground.
Uptown Moab
Uptown Moab is just North of the city center. This district is quiet, with fewer attractions than in Downtown Moab. Luckily, these attractions are mostly only a half-an-hour walk away. And instead, you’ll benefit from a more relaxed, residential atmosphere than you would downtown. Uptown Moab is also closer to the Arches National Park – often providing better views from your accommodation. Springhill Suites and Fairfield Inn & Suites are particularly renowned for their poolside views.
Surrounding Towns of Moab
Staying in Moab is great, but don’t rule out finding accommodation in its surrounding towns.
Spanish Valley is less than a fifteen-minute drive South and provides plenty of campgrounds and remote cabins. If you want an even quieter atmosphere than Uptown Moab, Spanish Valley is a good choice.
La Sal is a thirty-five-minute drive and is scenically situated at the foot of the La Sal mountains. La Sal’s accommodation choices are limited, mostly offering cabins and a retreat accommodation experience at Shaman on the Mountain. However, if you want proximity to the mountains, we’d recommend La Sal as an area choice.
Now that the city’s layout is covered let’s delve into the best things to do in Moab.
Where to Stay in Moab?
Budget
The best budget accommodation in Moab is at campgrounds and hostels, although we recommend RV camping if you have a suitable vehicle.
If you are renting a vehicle anyway, it might be worth renting an RV – you’ll save petrol by avoiding backward and forward trips to attractions and paying for accommodation and transport at once.
Mid-range
Red Cliffs Lodge is a fantastic mid-range hotel, with the bonus of many tours departing from its lobby. Thanks to the sandstone cliffs backing the property, the pool views are incredible. Guests can also visit the film museum, tennis courts, and restaurants on-site.
Luxury
Hoodoo Moab is a four-star luxury property and part of the Hilton’s Curio Collection. You can bathe in the outdoor pool, break a sweat in the fully-equipped fitness suite, relax in the spa, or enjoy a meal at the on-property steakhouse.
Final Thoughts
There are so many wonderful things to do in Moab. Whether you want State Parks or National Parks, canyon rafting, or dinosaur tracks, you’ll find plenty of attractions and places to remember.
This is my all time favourite place to go as there is so much to see and do. Plus it looks amazing!