11 Best Family Vacations in Utah [for 2023]
Utah offers a delightful array of family-friendly activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for vacations with kids. From stunning natural wonders like national parks and scenic drives to interactive museums and cultural sites, Utah has plenty to entice every member of the family.
Whether you’re exploring the surreal landscapes of Zion National Park, going on thrilling outdoor adventures in Moab, or immersing yourself in the rich history and art at Salt Lake City’s museums, Utah promises unforgettable experiences.
With countless options to choose from, you’re sure to find the best family vacation in Utah that caters to everyone’s interests and creates lasting memories.
1. Sundance Mountain Resort
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Sundance Mountain Resort is a perfect place for the best family vacations in Utah. Its exceptional service and range of exciting activities make it a top choice for families seeking leisure and luxury. Rustic charm and luxurious accommodations create a unique and inviting atmosphere.
The resort offers a wide range of exciting year-round activities suitable for all ages, including children’s art courses, biking, horseback riding, skiing, and hiking. Families with young children or infants can take advantage of the resort’s childcare facilities, giving parents a chance to relax and enjoy the resort’s excellent facilities. And the resort maintains free cots for babies below the age of one year, ensuring a comfortable stay for the whole family.
2. Zion National Park
When it comes to the best family vacations in Utah, Zion National Park is a must-visit destination. This incredible national park is brimming with tons of family-friendly activities that are bound to make beautiful memories.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply appreciate natural wonders, Zion has something for everyone. While experienced hikers and climbers can tackle challenging terrain, there are also accessible trails suitable for families with young children.
And activities like horse riding, glamping, and scenic drives here provide alternative ways to explore the park. To make your vacation more affordable, consider camping at one of Zion’s three campgrounds, but remember to reserve ahead of time to secure a spot.
3. Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is one of the best options for families looking for an enjoyable and educational vacation. With an abundance of museums dedicated to wildlife and space exploration, kids can engage in interactive exhibits and learn about a variety of topics. The city is also home to a great zoo, where kids can see and learn about different animals, and an amusement park with thrilling roller coasters and thrilling water slides.
When it comes to dining, Salt Lake City has plenty of options for kids, including the famous pancakes at Over the Counter Cafe. For families looking to save money, one expert tip is to take the Utah Transit Take advantage of the free bus service provided by the authority.
The service covers a 6-block area of the city’s downtown, allowing families to explore a variety of attractions without worrying about transportation costs. Families can use the bus to allocate their budget towards other activities and experiences during their Salt Lake City vacation.
4. Mantua
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Mantua, located in northern Utah, is the perfect vacation spot for families seeking peace and quiet. Although it may be considered a sleepy town, its breathtaking views, especially during the spring and summer seasons, make it a hidden gem worth exploring.
Mantua Reservoir is a popular attraction, offering a range of activities such as sailing, swimming, water skiing, and fishing, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
For a truly memorable experience, be sure to visit the Mantua Poppy Field in June, where you’ll discover a captivating display of vibrant red poppies set amidst a picturesque backdrop. Don’t forget your camera, as this low-cost attraction offers plenty of Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
5. St. George
Especially for golfers, adventurous teenagers, and energetic children, St. George is a good choice for a family holiday. If you love playing golf, this place will be heaven for you, with excellent golf courses to practice your swing. But that’s not all St. George has. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures such as hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding.
For families with children, the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site is a must-see. Kids can explore and follow the Jurassic Period trails, sparking their curiosity about prehistoric life. St. George also offers convenient access to many other nearby family vacation destinations, including the world-famous Grand Canyon.
An expert tip for families visiting St. George is to visit the St. George Children’s Museum. The museum is home to a range of interactive exhibits, including a playground and a science lab. Kids will have tons of fun exploring and learning through hands-on activities. That’s why St. George is one of the best family vacation destinations in Utah.
6. Brigham City
Brigham City With its charming small-town atmosphere and welcoming residents, it captures the essence of a quintessential American city. The city’s proximity to various attractions makes it an ideal base for exploration. Families can easily visit Golden Spike National Monument, where they can learn about the historic closing of the Transcontinental Railroad.
Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is a wonderful opportunity to see various bird species in their natural habitat. In addition, you can look forward to the famous Peach Days festival in September, which includes exciting activities such as auto exhibitions, pageants, and movie screenings. Brigham City promises to create lasting memories for families looking for a special vacation.
7. Moab
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For the best family vacations in Utah, Moab is a beautiful place. Not only is it a gateway to two notable national parks, Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park, but the city also offers plenty of exciting activities for families. From hiking in breathtaking red rock landscapes to off-roading adventures in rugged terrain, there is plenty to do in Moab for every adventurer.
However, for a truly magical experience, I recommend a hot air balloon flight. Floating above the stunning landscapes of Utah, you’ll
be mesmerized by the beauty surrounding you. It’s an ideal alternative to skydiving, offering a slower pace that allows you to truly appreciate Moab’s natural wonders.
8. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah is a great option for a wide variety of people. It is especially popular among families and people who want to capture great Instagram photos. The park is known for its breathtaking views and magnificent works of art created by nature that will surely leave you in awe.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy exploring the park’s natural wonders during the warmer months on horseback or on foot, soaking in the surrounding beauty.
In the winter, families can partake in cool activities such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. To save money, camping is a great option, as the park offers two campgrounds, Sunset and North, where you can stay for low prices. And the park offers free shuttle service from mid-April to late October, making it convenient to navigate and explore the park’s attractions.
9. Provo
Provo, Utah is a top choice for families seeking an unforgettable vacation filled with adventure and fun. Provo is a playground for the adventurous with tons of kid-friendly activities. Not only does Provo offer easy access to Utah’s spectacular national parks, but it also boasts a wide array of exciting opportunities within its borders. Families can engage in exciting activities such as bicycling, hiking, and whitewater rafting, ensuring non-stop outdoor entertainment.
Provo also has family-friendly attractions like the Peaks Ice Area, art galleries, and museums that offer a mix of education and entertainment. For a break from the outdoors, a visit to Brigham Young University comes highly recommended. The university offers informative and engaging activities for the whole family, including a planetarium and captivating art exhibits. Regarding the best family vacations in Utah, Provo stands out as an exceptional choice.
10. Heber Valley
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Heber Valley is an ideal holiday destination that blends relaxation and adventure, making it perfect for families seeking a memorable holiday. Known as “Little Switzerland”, this picturesque place offers snow-capped slopes for thrilling winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing.
If winter sports aren’t your forte, you can still enjoy the area’s geothermal springs, which provide a soothing and invigorating experience. Heber Valley offers many exciting activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddleboarding yoga.
Families shouldn’t miss the Heber Valley Historic Railroad, an enjoyable 16-mile train tour that showcases stunning sights like Mount Timpanogos, the Provo River, and the Cascade Mountains. Along the way, you can also catch a glimpse of wildlife like moose, hawks, mountain lions, and turkeys, which will add an extra touch of adventure to your trip.
11. Park City
Park City is a perfect place for the best family vacations in Utah. With a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for people of all ages, Park City has the potential to offer something for everyone. Winter sports lovers will enjoy the world-class ski slopes and snowboarding facilities, providing ample opportunities to bite some powder.
Park City isn’t just a winter wonderland. During the summer, families can indulge in exciting activities such as zip lining and rafting, creating unforgettable memories. Film lovers should plan their trip in January and February to experience the prestigious Sundance Film Festival, where the city comes alive with vibrant street scenes.
And throughout the year, families can explore the city’s charming restaurants, galleries, and shops, ensuring there’s always something exciting to do. For convenient transportation, you can take advantage of Park City’s free bus and Main Street Trolley tour, providing easy access to popular city destinations and ski resorts.