Moab trips and vacations
Located at the doorstep of Arches National Park, this tiny city in the heart of Utah’s rocky desert landscapes lures thrill-seekers with its crimson cliffs and alpine peaks. The best trips to Moab are all about hiking, biking and road-tripping through a wonderland of ancient sandstone formations. In town you’ll find everything you need to recharge, from ‘down-home’ diners and luxury lodges to Wild West–style saloons.
Moab vacation highlights
Arches of wonder
No trip to Moab is complete without a visit to Arches National Park. This extraordinary world of soaring pinnacles, rock stacks and arches was carved over 65 million years. And the landscape is still changing today. Take a ranger-led tour or get a permit to tick off the legendary Fiery Furnace — a short yet challenging hike through narrow passages and vibrant desert terrain.
Stellar stargazing
It’s worth staying up past bedtime to see the stars. This part of Utah is home to three International Dark Sky Parks. Plan your visit around the new moon, then join a group tour to learn about our galaxy with astronomy experts and powerful telescopes. Or go solo — Balanced Rock picnic area, Garden of Eden viewpoint and Panorama Point are the best stargazing spots nearby.
Where to stay
The epicenter of Moab’s historic downtown is Main Street and its charming mix of 19th-century buildings. You’ll find mom-and-pop cafes, international restaurants and old-school diners offering a place to refuel after a busy day in the desert. You’ll also find a mix of lodging options, from rustic ranches and historic inns to luxury hotels.
Things to do in Moab
Places to eat
Whether you’re craving Thai food, sushi or authentic Neapolitan pizza, there’s something to suit everyone’s tastes in Moab. For street eats, head to Moab Food Truck Park, where you’ll find everything from tacos to pizza and hot dogs. There are several popular diners around town that serve hearty burgers, milkshakes and grilled sandwiches in retro surroundings.
Nightlife
Start your night with a local beer at a microbrewery, or head to nearby Spanish Valley to sip single-estate wine while gazing across the vineyards. Be sure to catch some live music, which is the beating heart of Moab’s after-dark entertainment. There’s everything from bluegrass and country to rock n’ roll at venues ranging from open-air theaters to Wild West–style saloons.
Shopping
On the hunt for souvenirs? Main Street, with its treasure trove of independent boutiques, is the place to indulge in some retail therapy. Stop by Moab Made for artisan gifts and locally made artwork, or indulge your inner geology geek by sifting through the local fossils and gems at historic rock shops.
