Why Moab, Utah, the Gateway of Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, Is Worth a Visit in Its Own Right

With five incredible national parks in Utah, it's hard to focus on anything but exploring all we can in each one. They often become the focus of a great U.S. National Parks trip, and we may overlook the surrounding towns like Moab and Springdale. On a recent visit to Utah, I stayed in Springdale, which is considered a gateway to Zion National Park. When not exploring Zion, I was delighted by all I found to see and do within the town itself. Equally as impressive is Moab, another great gateway to our national parks in Utah. Sandwiched between two of the Big Five, Moab, Utah, is worth a visit in its own right. And here’s why I think it belongs on your list.

Why you should visit Moab, Utah

Moab, Utah, is between two national parks: Arches and Canyonlands. While Canyonlands is 30 miles away and Arches is 9 miles away, Moab isn't just a gateway to these parks — it's worth a visit all on its own. While you must visit both national parks, there are many other things to see and experience while staying in town. With the Colorado River, two state parks (yes, this is in addition to two national parks), dark skies, petroglyphs, and a downtown area with shops and restaurants, plenty of activities can certainly keep you busy during your stay.

Dining, attractions, and accommodations in Moab

When visiting Moab, you may be surprised at the selection of dining options. Along and around Main Street are several highly-rated eateries, like Cactus Jacks Moab, which serves breakfast and lunch comfort food, Dewey's Restaurant and Bar, which serves casual American and Mexican fare, The Trailhead Public House & Eatery, which serves sandwiches and fish and chips, and Birdy's Finer Diner, an upscale diner with elevated cuisine in a vintage-style space.

If you're looking for things to do in Moab, Utah, you won't get bored, even if you decide not to visit the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks (although I suggest you do!). If you're a lover of the great outdoors, you can visit one (or both) of Moab's state parks: Dead Horse Point State Park for its canyons and desert landscapes, and Utahraptor State Park to view one of the continent's largest beds of dinosaur bones. Horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, 4x4 tours, and rafting on the Colorado River are very popular activities in and around town.

Of course, the great outdoors draws people to Moab, but other attractions exist in town. Art is abundant; you can visit the Moab Museum to view its collection or stop by one of Moab's art galleries. Each month, the town hosts its Second Saturday ArtWalk showcasing the works of local and regional artists. If that interests you, you can plan your trip to Moab around it.

If you find ancient history fascinating, visit one of the town's many rock art sites to view petroglyphs. The Moab Giants Dinosaur Park is also an appealing attraction for families; it has a 3D cinema, interactive exhibits, and life-sized dinosaur replicas to delight visitors of all ages.

If you plan on spending the night, there are several accommodation options within Moab. You can always try camping within one of the surrounding national or state parks, or, for something more comfortable, glamping is another option, and you can book a luxury tent at Under Canvas Moab or ULUM Moab.

Of course, there are plenty of hotels like Red Cliffs Lodge Moab, if you prefer a comfortable home base for all your outdoor exploration. With its location overlooking the Colorado River and surrounded by towering cliffs, this hotel offers 80 comfortable and well-appointed rooms, including creekside and riverfront suites, exceptional service, and magnificent views that will surely inspire. Amenities include on-site dining, a fitness center, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a hot tub that's open year-round. It's also pet- and kid-friendly, so bring the whole family along! I have stayed at the Red Cliffs Lodge Zion in Springdale, just outside of Zion National Park, and had a wonderful experience.

Moab, Utah, is worth a visit

While the gateway to both Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, which are bucket-list destinations on their own, Moab, Utah, is worth a visit in its own right. Have you spent time in this small southwestern town before? If not, be sure to visit the Moab Tourism page to discover more things to do here. And if you want more underrated destinations to explore, check out our list of the most charming small towns in Utah that we can't get enough of. Or you may want to plan your own trip to one of America's national parks.