Utah is one of the best places to live when you’re looking for weekend romance or adventure. There are so many options throughout the state for fantastic weekend getaways. We’ve listed some of our favorite places in Utah you can see on a weekend, but don’t hesitate to stay longer if you have the time. There’s no end to all you can experience in Utah, no matter your interests. Go on your own, with your partner, or with friends, and indulge in all the fun and excitement you can find in Utah any time of year.
ZION NATIONAL PARK
As The National Park Foundation describes it, Zion National Park is “an oasis amidst the desert.” It’s beautiful and green with incredible views, red rock, cacti, and a breathtaking canyon. Camping, hiking, and backpacking are all great ways to experience the park. Open year-round, it’s important to check the weather to be prepared for whatever the season will bring, but visitors can still hike during winter, take a scenic drive, or cross-country ski or snowshoe to Observation Point. Don’t hesitate to see one of the most beautiful national parks in Utah and visit Zion National Park this weekend.
Things to do:
- Check out Kolob and Crawford Arches.
- Hike along the Virgin River and explore The Narrows.
- Go birding! Zion is home to 291 bird species.
- Try horseback riding, canyoneering, or river trips.
- Camp or stay at Zion Lodge.
- Hike Grotto Trail, Middle Emerald Pools Trail, or the famous Angels Landing via West Rim Trail. Click here for trail descriptions to find the right hikes for you!
OGDEN
It may be a surprise to some that Ogden makes this list, but those in the know will tell you that Odgen places you in close proximity to a world of adventure in any season. If you live or stay in Ogden, you’re just a short drive from a variety of trails and several amazing ski resorts, including Powder Mountain, “America’s Largest Ski Resort.” Plus, staying at resort lodges is always a great option if you want to walk out your door and out onto the slopes. Hike in the summer, ski in the winter, and explore downtown Ogden any time of year.
Things to do:
- Stay at Alaskan Inn and Spa, where you and your partner can have a romantic weekend of pampering in a private cabin or at the Mountain Lodge, while taking advantage of its close proximity to trails and ski resorts.
- Hit up Nordic Valley Ski Resort to learn to ski or snowboard or take advantage of biking and hiking trails in warmer months.
- Check out Snowbasin Resort for winter sports, fun events, live music each weekend in the Cinnabar, and dinner at Needles Lodge.
- Ski or snowboard at Powder Mountain, which has a huge ski area with 154 trails and 9 lifts, as well as rentable lodges if you’re looking to stay on the mountain.
- Eat at Timbermine Steakhouse or Pig & A Jelly Jar.
- Go fishing or participate in water sports at Pineview Reservoir.
- Visit the 152-acre nature preserve, Ogden Nature Center.
- Check out Ogden’s George S. Eccles Dinosaur Park.
- Hike! There are SO MANY TRAILS around Ogden. Check out Sardine Peak, Wheeler Creek, Ogden River Parkway Trail, Ben Lomond Trailhead, and many more!
- Camp at Middle Fork Wildlife Management Area.
SALT LAKE CITY
There is no shortage of things to do in Salt Lake City. Explore downtown, see concerts and shows, stay at famous hotels or bed and breakfasts, and find your favorite brew at one of the local roasteries or breweries. With quaint neighborhoods to walk in, parks to picnic in, exceptional restaurants, and a stunning mountain backdrop, Salt Lake City has something for everyone to enjoy.
Things to do:
- Stay at the luxurious Grand America Hotel where you can indulge in spa services, delightful afternoon tea, or participate in Sunday Brunch.
- Enjoy one of the top hotels in Salt Lake City at Hotel Monaco. Kimpton Hotel Monaco is pet-friendly, has an on-site fitness center, and in-room spa services.
- Looking for a unique bed and breakfast experience? At The Ellerbeck, you can “wake up in 1892.” It’s a historic bed and breakfast in a pioneer-era mansion near downtown with unique rooms and a cozy vibe.
- See a show at Eccles Theater, Capitol Theatre, Abravanel Hall, Pioneer Theatre Company, or Salt Lake Acting Company.
- Get coffee or a bite to eat at Publik, Blue Copper, Salt Lake Roasting Co, Kahve Cafe, or Three Pines.
- Visit Liberty Park or Sugarhouse Park
- Dine at some of the best restaurants in the city, like Caffe Molise, Settebello, Red Rock Brewing, Eva, Takashi, Current Fish and Oyster, Valter’s, Pago, or HSL.
- Check out Templin Family Brewing, Wasatch Brewery, Whiskey Street, or Squatters.
- Shop City Creek Mall and walk historic Main Street.
- Visit Tracy Aviary, Hogle Zoo, Red Butte Garden (for beautiful grounds and outdoor concerts), or The Leonardo.
- Get out of the city and hike in the nearby canyons!
MOAB
Explore some of the most famous places in the Utah desert while staying in or around Moab. With close access to two national parks, a state park, and miles of trails, you can surround yourself with stunning views of red rock, the Colorado River, and the La Sal Mountains any time of year.
Things to do:
- Explore Arches or Canyonlands National Parks and the incredible geology of the desert.
- Visit Moab Museum and learn about the history of the area!
- Try river rafting! Cataract Canyon in the Colorado river has the biggest whitewater section in North America and is great for experts. Beginners can check out The Moab Daily and Green River Daily for a day of rafting fun.
- Backcountry ski in the La Sals.
- Discover Dead Horse Point State Park, miles of trails, and stunning views.
- Attend the Moab Folk Festival or other yearly festivals, art shows, and concerts
- Stay at a variety of hotels and bed and breakfasts or camp and extend your outdoor adventure into the nighttime.
BRYCE CANYON
There’s nothing quite like the site of the pink cliffs and hoodoos of Bryce Canyon National Park. Just over 4 hours from Salt Lake City, even those of us living in city apartments can get away for the weekend and explore some of the most magical terrains in Utah. Bryce Canyon is something you absolutely can’t miss.
Things to do:
- Stay in an adorable, cozy, personal cabin in Bryce, Tropic, or Cannonville.
- Take in the views of The Bryce Amphitheater any time of year by walking along the Rim Trail.
- Hike! There are trails for every hiking level with names like “Fairyland Loop” and “Queen’s Garden,” that sound like they’re out of a storybook.
- Camp or go horseback riding.
- Attend the Bryce Canyon Geology Festival!
MIDWAY
Midway, in Heber Valley, is home to The Homestead Crater, Ice Castles, Soldier Hollow, and Wasatch Mountain State Park. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’ve got a free day to explore and want to get out of the city.
Things to do:
- Go soaking, snorkeling, or scuba diving in the Homestead Crater or even try paddle board yoga. Enjoy the geothermal hot spring that stays 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit all year-round.
- Stay at Homestead Resort.
- Visit Ice Castles in winter and take the whole family.
- Check out the Heber Creeper and the Heber Valley Railroad.
- Reserve an Alpenglobe at Cafe Galleria in Midway and enjoy some of the best food and one of the uniquest dining experiences the city has to offer.
SUNDANCE RESORT
There are seemingly endless things to do at the famous Sundance Resort. Year-round, it is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Utah. Spend the day hiking or skiing and end it dining at the Tree Room or the Owl Bar and then getting cozy in one of the lodges.
Things to do:
- Take advantage of the lodging they have right at the resort.
- Checkout the Nordic Center for snowshoeing and night owling.
- Visit The Owl Bar (a restored 1890’s bar) for drinks, amazing food, and live music.
- Dine at the Tree Room.
- Take a class at the art center!
- Ski and snowboard in winter, hike the surrounding area in summer, and take a lift ride in the fall to see all the colors.
PARK CITY
A list of places to go for a weekend getaway in Utah would not be complete without mentioning Park City. From the picturesque city itself to the ski resorts and mountain views, there is something for everyone to do and enjoy in Park City.
Things to do:
- Ski or Snowboard at Park City Mountain Resort, Deer Valley Resort, Utah Olympic Park, or nearby Brighton.
- Hike or mountain bike along miles of trails.
- Stay at Stein Eriksen Lodge or Hotel Park City.
- Grab a coffee at Atticus Tea and Coffee.
- Shop the Park City Outlets
- Explore Historic Main Street!
No matter what you’re looking for in your weekend getaway – adventure, relaxation, or entertainment – you can have the experience you’ve dreamed of in Utah. Take a little trip to one of the places on our list or try them all! Let us know in the comments what you love most about some of these places, what you do for weekend trips in Utah, and any other can’t miss attractions that didn’t make our list.