Moab, Utah is located in southeastern Utah, roughly 50 miles from the Colorado state border. It’s a beautiful desert community along the Colorado River with towering red rocks standing sentinel. There is so much to see and do, especially if you’re visiting Moab with kids! Our family loved our recent trip there and can’t wait to go back and experience more! Keep reading for all our tips for the best places to say, eat, and explore.
visiting Moab, Utah with kids
Last fall our family visited Moab, Utah so we could cross off the last of the Utah Mighty Five. For those of you that don’t know, the Utah Mighty Five are the five national parks in Utah. They’re all located in southern Utah within a few hours of each other. Moab is the perfect homebase for two of these–Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. However, these are not the only attractions in the area. You’ll be impressed by all there is to do in Moab with kids!
family-friendly accommodations: where to stay in Moab
Moab and the surrounding areas offer a variety of accommodations that cater to families. Here are a few recommendations that your family will love.
comfortable campgrounds
For families seeking a touch of adventure, Moab’s campgrounds are a dream come true. Pack your camping gear, set up under the stars, and let the kids experience the joy of sleeping in the great outdoors. There is one primitive campground available within Arches National Park itself. However, there are several campgrounds in the town of Moab. These sites range from primitive BLM options, to campgrounds that offer all the bells and whistles. Check out options at discovermoab.com.
cozy vacation rentals
Have you ever stayed at a vacation rental? They can be a game-changer when traveling with little ones. Having a home away from home provides the convenience of a kitchen and extra space for the kiddos to spread out. Plus, the some of the extras like washers and dryers make traveling with kids so much less stressful. Be sure to pay attention to the extra person or cleaning fees that vacation rentals typically add–you might not be getting the great deal you think.
family-friendly hotels
Moab offers a range of family-friendly hotels, ensuring a stress-free stay for parents and endless excitement for the kids. Several great options are literally only minutes from the entrance to Arches National Park. A handful of the hotels really cater to families with extra, kid-friendly amenities, like pools and play areas.
| Read: Our Review of Springhill Suites in Moab |
adventure is out there: kid-friendly activities in Moab
Moab is the perfect vacation spot for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages, and the little ones are no exception. Here are just a few of the fun adventures your family can find in Moab.
Arches National Park
You can’t go to Moab without visiting Arches National Park–I think it’s a law. The great thing about this park, other than the proximity to Moab, is how kid-friendly itis! There are several easy hikes to choose from if your little adventurer isn’t quite ready for the iconic Delicate Arch hike yet. The visitor center is right at the park entrance and is a great stopping point to learn more about this awe-inspiring wonder.
dinosaur tracks and trails
If your little one likes dinosaurs, Moab will be a dream come true. There are actually several dinosaur track and bone sites near Moab you can explore. From a trail to a full museum, choose your level of dino fun! For a map and tips for visiting the various sites, check out this webpage.
Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park and the neighboring Dead Horse Point State Park are a little further drive, but still a great place to visit when visiting Moab with kids! Spend the day or just the morning checking out the differences in topography this park offers from the nearby Arches National Park.
other family-friendly outdoor adventures in Moab:
- paddling the Colorado River
- jet boat tours of the Colorado River
- High Ropes Challenge Course
- unpaved and paved biking trails
- Ken’s Lake Recreation Area
| Read: Tips for Visiting Canyonlands National Park with Kids |
fueling up: where to eat in Moab with kids
When we visited Moab we would spend half the day exploring national parks, and then be ready to fuel up! After a day of exploration no one wants to be in charge of finding a place to eat in a new town when they’re exhausted, right? Moab offers range of dining options so you’re sure to find something the whole family can agree on.
The Spoke on Center
This bicycle-themed restaurant is not only quirky but also family-friendly. The atmosphere is laid-back and even the pickiest eater will find something to enjoy on their menu. They are known for their ice cream so make sure you save room for dessert.
Moab Diner
If you missed breakfast before heading out for an early start, you’ll be happy know that Moab Diner serves breakfast all day and they have a kids menu. This place is casual dining personified and will give you serious feelings of nostalgia. They’re known for their dishes with green chiles so make sure you choose your meal accordingly!
Milt’s Stop and Eat
This was our favorite meal when we stayed in Moab! Milt’s opened in 1954 and is Moab’s oldest restaurant. They are known for their hamburgers and milkshakes and we loved everything we ordered. We also found their prices very affordable! This is the perfect place to enjoy some delicious food and relax after a day spent exploring the great outdoors.
| Read: What to do in Zion National Park with Kids |
Moab is a great family-friendly vacation spot no matter when you visit. Whether in winter or summer, exploring Moab with kids is a fun adventure! Which activity would you most be interested in?
Follow along with our family adventures on Instagram with #YoungFamilyJaunts.
