Fun Things To Do With Kids In Utah

Utah is a state that offers an abundance of outdoor activities for families with kids. From national parks and scenic drives to museums and amusement parks, Utah has something for everyone. Whether you're a local or a tourist, there's never a shortage of things to do in Utah with kids.

One of the most popular attractions in Utah is its national parks. The state is home to five of them, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Each park offers unique landscapes and activities that are perfect for families with kids of all ages. From hiking and camping to scenic drives and ranger-led programs, national parks in Utah provide endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.

In addition to national parks, Utah also has several family-friendly museums and attractions. The Clark Planetarium in Salt Lake City is a popular destination for families, offering interactive exhibits and shows about space and science. The Loveland Living Planet Aquarium in Draper is another great option for families, featuring exhibits on marine life and conservation. And for thrill-seekers, the Lagoon Amusement Park in Farmington has roller coasters, water rides, and other attractions that are sure to keep kids entertained.

National Parks

Utah is home to some of the most breathtaking national parks in the United States, and visiting them with kids can be an unforgettable experience. Here are some of the top national parks to consider visiting with your family.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a favorite among families with kids. The park offers a variety of hikes and trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that allow visitors to explore the park's stunning red rock formations, canyons, and waterfalls. Families can also take a scenic drive through the park or enjoy a ranger-led program to learn more about the park's history and wildlife.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its unique geological formations called hoodoos. Families can take a hike through the park's trails to see these formations up close and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park also offers stargazing programs and a junior ranger program for kids.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is home to over 2,000 natural sandstone arches, making it a must-visit destination for families. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy to strenuous, that allow visitors to explore the park's red rock formations and arches. Families can also take a scenic drive through the park or attend a ranger-led program to learn more about the park's history and geology.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is a vast park with stunning views of canyons, mesas, and buttes. Families can take a hike through the park's trails to see these formations up close and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The park also offers stargazing programs and a junior ranger program for kids.

In conclusion, Utah's national parks offer a variety of activities and experiences for families with kids. Whether you're looking for hiking, wildlife, or stunning views of nature, Utah's national parks have something for everyone.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City has a variety of attractions that are perfect for families with kids. From museums to zoos, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are a few of the top attractions to check out:

Clark Planetarium

The Clark Planetarium is a great place to visit if your kids are interested in space and astronomy. The planetarium offers a variety of exhibits and shows that are both educational and entertaining. Some of the highlights include:

• Hansen Dome Theater: This theater offers a variety of shows that are projected onto a 55-foot dome screen. Shows cover topics such as space exploration, the solar system, and more.
• Cosmic Light Shows: These shows are set to music and feature stunning visuals that are projected onto the planetarium's dome.
• Exhibits: The planetarium also has several exhibits that cover topics such as the sun, the moon, and the planets.

Hogle Zoo

The Hogle Zoo is one of the top attractions in Salt Lake City. The zoo is home to over 800 animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and more. Some of the highlights of the zoo include:

• African Savannah: This exhibit features animals such as giraffes, zebras, and ostriches.
• Rocky Shores: This exhibit features animals such as sea lions, seals, and polar bears.
• Primate Forest: This exhibit features a variety of primates, including gorillas, orangutans, and lemurs.

Natural History Museum of Utah

The Natural History Museum of Utah is a great place to visit if your kids are interested in science and nature. The museum has a variety of exhibits that cover topics such as dinosaurs, geology, and ecology. Some of the highlights of the museum include:

• Past Worlds: This exhibit features a variety of dinosaur fossils and models.
• Great Salt Lake: This exhibit covers the history and ecology of the Great Salt Lake.
• Native Voices: This exhibit covers the history and culture of Utah's Native American tribes.

Living Planet Aquarium

The Living Planet Aquarium is a great place to visit if your kids are interested in marine life. The aquarium has a variety of exhibits that cover topics such as coral reefs, sharks, and sea turtles. Some of the highlights of the aquarium include:

• Ocean Explorer: This exhibit features a variety of marine life, including octopuses, eels, and jellyfish.
• Penguin Encounter: This exhibit allows visitors to get up close and personal with penguins.
• Shark Encounter: This exhibit features several species of sharks, including sand tiger sharks and nurse sharks.

Overall, Salt Lake City has a variety of attractions that are perfect for families with kids. Whether you're interested in museums, zoos, or aquariums, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Moab

Moab is a small city located in eastern Utah, known for its stunning red rock formations and outdoor activities. It is a great destination for families with kids who love hiking, river rafting, and sightseeing. In this section, we will explore some of the best things to do in Moab with kids.

Emerald Pools

Emerald Pools is a great hiking trail suitable for families with kids of all ages. The trail is about 2.2 miles long and offers stunning views of the red rock formations and the surrounding landscape. The trail is relatively easy, but it can get steep in some places. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks for the kids.

Virgin River

The Virgin River is a popular destination for families who love river rafting. The river offers a variety of rapids suitable for all skill levels, from easy to challenging. You can rent a raft or a kayak from one of the local outfitters and enjoy a fun-filled day on the river with your kids.

Colorado River

The Colorado River is another popular destination for families who love river rafting. The river offers some of the best whitewater rapids in the country, suitable for experienced rafters. If you're new to river rafting, you can take a guided tour with one of the local outfitters.

Delicate Arch

Delicate Arch is one of the most iconic landmarks in Utah, located in Arches National Park, just a short drive from Moab. The arch is a popular destination for families who love hiking and sightseeing. The trail to the arch is about 3 miles long and can get steep in some places. Make sure to bring plenty of water and wear comfortable shoes.

Slot Canyons

Slot Canyons are narrow canyons that are perfect for families who love hiking and exploring. The canyons offer stunning views of the red rock formations and the surrounding landscape. Some of the most popular slot canyons in Moab include Little Wild Horse Canyon and Peek-a-Boo Canyon.

Moab is a great destination for families who love outdoor activities and sightseeing. Whether you're hiking, river rafting, or exploring the slot canyons, there's something for everyone in Moab.

Heber

Heber is a charming city located in the Wasatch Back region of Utah, and it is an excellent destination for families with kids. Here are a few of the top things to do in Heber with your little ones.

Heber Valley Railroad

One of the most popular attractions in Heber is the Heber Valley Railroad. This historic train takes visitors on a scenic ride through the beautiful countryside of Utah. The train offers several different rides, including a ride to the North Pole during the winter holidays. The train ride is a fun and unique experience that kids of all ages will love.

Hardware Ranch Wildlife Area

Another must-visit destination in Heber is the Hardware Ranch Wildlife Area. This beautiful park is home to a large herd of elk, and visitors can take a sleigh ride through the park to see the majestic animals up close. The sleigh ride is a unique and memorable experience that your kids will never forget.

In addition to these two attractions, there are plenty of other things to do in Heber with kids. Families can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, and more in the beautiful outdoors of the Wasatch Back. There are also several family-friendly restaurants and shops in the area, making Heber a great place to spend a day or an entire weekend with your family.

Overall, Heber is a wonderful destination for families with kids looking for a fun and unique experience in Utah.

Park City

Located in the Wasatch Mountains, Park City is a popular destination for families with kids. With its picturesque views and endless activities, it's no surprise that Park City has been named one of the best family-friendly vacation spots in the US. Here are some of the top things to do in Park City with kids.

Mountain Biking

Park City's mountain biking trails are known to be some of the best in the country. With over 400 miles of trails, there's something for every skill level. Families with kids can enjoy the beginner-friendly trails at Round Valley or the more challenging trails at Deer Valley Resort. If you're new to the sport, there are plenty of guided tours and bike rental shops in town to help you get started.

Ski Resort

Park City is home to two world-class ski resorts: Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. Both resorts offer a variety of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Families with kids can take advantage of the ski schools and childcare services offered at both resorts. Park City Mountain also has a snow tubing park and an alpine coaster for non-skiers.

Shopping

Park City's historic Main Street is home to over 70 shops and boutiques, making it the perfect place for a family shopping day. Kids will love browsing the toy stores and candy shops, while parents can check out the art galleries and clothing stores. Don't miss the Park City Farmers Market, held every Wednesday during the summer months.

Park City is a must-visit destination for families with kids. With its stunning natural beauty, endless activities, and family-friendly atmosphere, it's easy to see why it's one of the best vacation spots in the US. Whether you're hitting the trails, hitting the slopes, or hitting the shops, there's something for everyone in Park City.

Family-Friendly Activities

Utah is a great destination for families with children, as there are plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor adventures to indoor attractions, there's something for everyone. Here are some family-friendly activities to consider during your visit:

Great Salt Lake State Park

The Great Salt Lake State Park is a popular destination for families looking to enjoy a day outdoors. The park offers a variety of activities, including swimming, picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching. The lake itself is a unique attraction, as it is one of the largest saltwater lakes in the world. Visitors can float in the lake due to its high salt content, making it a fun and memorable experience for kids.

Cowabunga Bay Waterpark

Cowabunga Bay Waterpark is a great place to cool off during Utah's hot summer months. The park offers a variety of water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There are also plenty of options for younger children, including a kiddie pool and play area. The park is a popular destination for families, so be sure to arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Thanksgiving Point

Thanksgiving Point is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of activities. The venue includes a farm, gardens, museums, and a movie theater. Families can enjoy a picnic on the grounds, explore the gardens, or learn about Utah's history at the museums. There are also plenty of seasonal events and activities, making Thanksgiving Point a great destination year-round.

Utah is a fantastic destination for families with children. From outdoor adventures to indoor attractions, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking to swim, learn about sea creatures, or explore Utah's history, there's an activity for you.

Other Fun Things to Do

In addition to the previously mentioned attractions, Utah offers a variety of other fun activities for families with kids. Here are some additional options to consider:

IFLY Utah

IFLY Utah is an indoor skydiving experience that allows kids to experience the thrill of skydiving in a safe and controlled environment. The facility uses a vertical wind tunnel to simulate the feeling of freefalling, and trained instructors are on hand to guide participants through the process. It's a great way to experience the rush of skydiving without the risk.

Sunset UTV Tour

For families looking for a more adventurous way to explore Utah's natural beauty, the Sunset UTV Tour is a great option. This guided tour takes visitors on an off-road adventure through the stunning landscapes of Moab, Utah, with stops at scenic overlooks along the way. The tour ends with a beautiful sunset view over the desert.

Zipline Utah

Zipline Utah offers a thrilling zipline experience for families with kids. The course includes six ziplines, ranging in length from 300 to 1,500 feet, and takes visitors through the beautiful forests and canyons of northern Utah. The course is designed for all skill levels, so even beginners can enjoy the ride.

Rendezvous Beach

Rendezvous Beach, located on the shores of Bear Lake, is a great place for families to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The beach offers picnic tables, barbecue grills, and a playground for kids, as well as opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. It's a great place to spend a sunny day with the family.

Bear Lake State Park

Bear Lake State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities for families with kids. The park's beautiful lake is perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing, and there are also hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and campgrounds. It's a great place to spend a weekend exploring Utah's natural beauty.

Overall, Utah offers a wide range of fun activities for families with kids, from sightseeing tours to skydiving to picnicking by the lake. No matter what your family's interests are, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful state.

Restaurants

Utah offers a variety of dining options for families with kids. From casual to fine dining, there's something for everyone. Here are some restaurants that are worth checking out:

Red Iguana

Red Iguana is a popular Mexican restaurant in Salt Lake City that has been around for over 40 years. It's known for its delicious mole sauces, which are made from scratch using over 20 ingredients. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere and is family-friendly. They offer a kids' menu with options like quesadillas, tacos, and enchiladas.

Chuck-A-Rama

Chuck-A-Rama is a buffet-style restaurant that offers a variety of dishes, including soups, salads, entrees, and desserts. It's a great option for families with picky eaters or those who want to try a little bit of everything. They have several locations throughout Utah, including Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden.

The Roof Restaurant

The Roof Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant located on the 10th floor of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building in Salt Lake City. It offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains. The restaurant serves American cuisine with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. They offer a children's menu with options like mac and cheese, chicken tenders, and grilled cheese.

Training Table

Training Table is a casual restaurant that specializes in burgers, fries, and shakes. It's a great option for families who want a quick and affordable meal. They have several locations throughout Utah, including Salt Lake City, Orem, and St. George.

Cafe Rio

Cafe Rio is a fast-casual restaurant that serves Mexican-inspired dishes like burritos, tacos, and salads. They use fresh ingredients and make everything from scratch, including their famous sweet pork. They have several locations throughout Utah, including Salt Lake City, Provo, and Logan.

Overall, Utah offers a variety of dining options for families with kids. These are just a few of the many restaurants worth checking out.

Hotels

Utah offers a variety of family-friendly hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top hotels to consider for your family vacation in Utah:

Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley

Located in Park City, Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley is a luxurious resort that offers a range of amenities and activities for families. The rooms are spacious and well-appointed, and some even have private hot tubs. The resort has a ski-in/ski-out access to Deer Valley Resort, making it an ideal choice for winter sports enthusiasts. Other activities include a heated outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, and a game room for kids. The resort also offers a variety of dining options, including a gourmet restaurant, a casual bistro, and a lounge.

Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites Salt Lake City

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities for families. The hotel has an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. The rooms are equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers. The hotel also offers a complimentary hot breakfast, as well as a free shuttle service to the airport and nearby attractions.

Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn

Located near Bryce Canyon National Park, Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn is a budget-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a range of amenities for families. The hotel has an indoor pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. The rooms are equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers. The hotel also offers a complimentary hot breakfast, as well as a free shuttle service to the park.

Other Options

Other hotels to consider include the Grand America Hotel in Salt Lake City, the Hyatt Centric Park City, and the Red Mountain Resort in St. George. When choosing a hotel, consider factors such as location, amenities, and budget. You may also want to read reviews from other families to get a sense of their experiences.