From red rock deserts to snowy mountains, Utah’s stunning and varied landscape offers endless opportunities for family fun. This guide covers top vacation ideas to help families make the most of their Utah trip.
Keep reading for the best family-friendly activities, attractions, cities, and parks for an unforgettable Utah family getaway.
Explore Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks
Utah is home to the “Mighty 5” – five breathtaking national parks perfect for families. Marvel at hoodoos in Bryce Canyon, discover arches and hike in Arches National Park, gaze at endless canyons in Canyonlands National Park, stand beneath towering cliffs in Capitol Reef National Park, and explore wildlife and geologic wonders in Zion National Park.
Stay at in-park lodges or campgrounds and enjoy ranger programs, hiking trails, and awe-inspiring views. These parks offer countless ways to experience Utah’s natural beauty as a family.
Make a Splash at Waterparks & Hot Springs
To beat the Utah heat, play at thrilling water parks and mineral hot springs. Make waves at Seven Peaks in Provo, race down slides at the Crater in Midway, or soak in over 15 pools at Homestead Crater in Midway.
More water fun awaits at Lava Hot Springs in Idaho, just over the Utah border. Strap on life jackets and laugh together on waterslides, in wave pools, down speed slides, or while floating Utah’s lazy rivers.
Hit the Slopes in Salt Lake City
In winter, introduce kids to the slopes just 30 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City. Snowbird, Alta, Brighton, Solitude, Park City, and Deer Valley offer fantastic skiing and snowboarding for all levels. Many resorts have lessons, kids’ programs, and child care for little ones.
Off the slopes, Salt Lake City offers museums, shows, indoor skydiving, and winter carnivals for families. End each day cozying up by the fire together.
Explore Dinosaurs & Canyons in Moab
The Moab area balances dinosaur discoveries with canyoneering adventures. Search for bones and tracks at the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry or explore life-size replica dinosaurs at Moab Giants.
Nearby, gaze up at unusual rock formations while hiking through Dead Horse Point State Park or Corona Arch. With kid-friendly hikes, ancient history, and stunning red rock vistas, Moab is a winner for families.
Ride a Historic Train
All aboard! Utah is home to historic train rides that transport families back in time. Ride a steam train along the Heber Valley Historic Railroad or through the Union Pacific Rail Trail State Park.
Climb aboard an old stagecoach for a ride with Wild West entertainers at Outlaw Trail Theater Adventures. Little engineers will love learning about locomotives and distant travels.
See Big City Attractions in Salt Lake City
Utah’s capital Salt Lake City offers plenty of diversions for visiting families. See exotic animals up-close at Hogle Zoo or marine life at the new Loveland Living Planet Aquarium. Explore hands-on science at the Leonardo Museum or walk through immersive exhibits at the Natural History Museum of Utah.
Don’t miss the indoor skydiving, planetarium, and restaurants at The Gateway downtown. Salt Lake City keeps families entertained for days.
Camp Under the Stars
From backcountry to RV sites, Utah offers countless camping adventures. Pitch a tent beneath red rock cliffs in Snow Canyon or Arches National Parks. Stay in a covered wagon in Capitol Reef or yurt in Bryce Canyon.
Star gaze into the Milky Way from Dead Horse Point or Fishlake National Forest camps. Cook s’mores by the campfire and bond with nature as a family.
Embark on Road Trips
Utah’s scenic byways and routes wow families with otherworldly geology, mountain panoramas, and Old West history. Cruise scenic Highway 12 between Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon, gaze at Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, and stop for photo ops on the **Trail of the Ancients.
More beautiful drives include the Dinosaur Diamond Byway and Flaming Gorge-Uintas Scenic Byway. Enjoy road trip bonding and nonstop views.
Conclusion
With incredible natural wonders, exciting outdoor adventures, and family-friendly culture, Utah makes an epic family vacation destination. National parks, scenic drives, skiing, water play, museums, trains, camping, and vibrant Salt Lake City all promise memorable trips for adventure-loving families.
Use this Utah family vacation guide to start planning an unforgettable getaway in one of America’s most spectacular states. From red rocks to ski slopes, lakes to canyons, Utah offers natural beauty and endless discoveries at every stop.
