4 Must-Visit Destinations for a Utah Getaway

Explore the Best of Utah

There are plenty of places you could visit across the United States, but has Utah ever crossed your mind? If not, it should be at the top of your list. 

This outdoor paradise is family-friendly and is packed with adventure around every corner. The state also boasts the Mighty 5, five of the best national parks in the country. Don't wait. Plan your Utah vacation today.

Bear Lake

Bear Lake is a unique body of water that is split nearly in half by the border of Utah and Idaho. The lake itself is an outdoor paradise with boating, water skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming. There are also ATV, hiking and horse trails surrounding the lake to explore off the beaten path when you're not playing in Bear Lake's pristine waters.

When you're ready to refuel, The Bear Trapper is one of the highest-rated restaurants in the area. It has a classic American menu, but it's known for its steaks including prime rib, rib-eye, top sirloin, and an Oscar-style sirloin, a cut topped with snow crab and a cream sauce.

After a day on the water, Sun Outdoor Garden City is waiting. This resort welcomes all ages and is located on Bear Lake's shoreline just eight miles south of Idaho. Choose from RV sites or furnished cabin rentals and fit in a little rest and relaxation before you explore Bear Lake all over again the next day.

Salt Lake City

Everyone should visit Salt Lake City at least once in their lifetime. You can't put into words just how big the lake is until you get there, but there's plenty to do besides visiting the Great Salt Lake. There's a planetarium, shopping center called Gardner Village, an aquarium, Red Butte Botanical Garden and so much more.

Believe it or not, the Salt Lake City Public Library is a must-see destination during your stay for the architecture alone. This multi-floor library is a sprawling maze of books, as well as an outdoor area that overlooks the city and The University of Utah. Bring lunch and eat outside or check out the library and grab a bite at one of Salt Lake's many downtown restaurants.

When you're finished in the city, retreat to Sun Outdoors Salt Lake City, which is minutes away from downtown. Rent a bike and ride around the area, relax by the outdoor pool, or play life-size board games inside the resort. RV and tent sites are available along with cabin rentals. It's the perfect place to unwind after visiting Salt Lake City on your Utah getaway.

Arches

You've probably seen the wonders of Arches National Park in movies, TV, and photographs. Now, it's time to visit one of America's most beautiful national parks in person. This storied park gets its name from the thousands of natural arch formations found inside its borders.

Arches' geology is the star attraction, but there's plenty of other activities in and around this national park for the whole family. You can bike, hike, drive an 18-mile scenic pass and even go horseback riding. If you're up late, Arches National Park is also one of the best places in the world to stargaze and became an international dark sky park in 2019.

Nearby, you'll find Sun Outdoors Arches Gateway and Sun Outdoors Canyonlands Gateway where you can rest up after a long day of adventure. These family-friendly resorts also welcome pets and have amenities like a putting green, hot tub, and pool to enjoy. Bring your own RV or rent one of the new Airstream trailers for a night or two. Tent sites and cabin rentals are also available.

Moab

Moab is a short 20-minute drive from Arches and is home to Canyonlands National Park where the Green River and Colorado River pass through. You can book a scenic river cruise with dinner, drinks, and entertainment, or experience a full- or half-day on the whitewater if you're up for an adventure.

The area in and around Moab also has incredible off-roading adventures that include both guided and freeform. Rent a 4x4 buggy and try your hand at the Hell's Revenge trail with this 2.5 hour guided tour. One of the lesser-known things to do in the Moab area is exploring film locations. Nearly 50 movies have been filmed in the area with Utah's beauty as the backdrop. 

There are plenty of places to stay in the area, but Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown and Sun Outdoors North Moab are two of the top locations to call home during your visit. Both have amenities like pools, laundry, and on-site stores. They're also conveniently located next to Moab's downtown with Sun Outdoors Moab Downtown being close to city center and Sun Outdoors North Moab just a short walk or bike ride away.