Utah is a western state of monumental landscapes, home to five of America's most dramatic national parks — Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef. Red rock canyons, ancient hoodoos, towering sandstone arches, and the vast Bonneville Salt Flats define a state unlike anywhere else on Earth. Salt Lake City, the capital, anchors the north with world-class skiing, a growing food scene, and a gateway to the Wasatch Range.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Junior Ranger Program (all national parks)
Free activity booklets for kids at all 5 national park visitor centers; complete activities and earn a badge. Available at Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef. Kids receive a swear-in from a ranger — genuinely memorable experience.
Natural History Museum of Utah (dinosaurs)
World-class dinosaur exhibit with 30+ mounted skeletons; hands-on archaeology exhibits; Native American culture galleries. 301 Wakara Way, Salt Lake City, UT 84108. Wednesday–Sunday 10 AM–5 PM.
Living Planet Aquarium
Utah's only full aquarium with 4,500+ animals including sharks, tropical fish, and penguin feeding. 12033 Lone Peak Pkwy, Draper, UT 84020; +1-801-355-3474. Daily 10 AM–6 PM.
Tracy Aviary & Botanical Gardens
City park aviary with 400+ birds including raptors; hands-on bird feeding experiences; botanical gardens surrounding Liberty Park. 589 E 1300 S, Salt Lake City, UT 84105. Daily 9 AM–5 PM.
Hogle Zoo
Salt Lake City's zoo with 800+ animals; elephant exhibit; children's zoo with interactive feeding stations. 2600 E Sunnyside Ave, Salt Lake City, UT 84108; +1-801-582-1631. Daily 9 AM–5 PM.
Clark Planetarium
Free admission to exhibits; IMAX films on space exploration $10–12. 110 S 400 W, Salt Lake City, UT 84101; +1-801-456-7827. Monday–Thursday 10 AM–8 PM; Friday–Saturday until 10 PM.
This Is the Place Heritage Park
Pioneer-era living history village with wagon rides, 19th-century demonstrations, and costumed guides. Located where Brigham Young first entered the Salt Lake Valley. 2601 E Sunnyside Ave, SLC; +1-801-582-1847.
Goblin Valley State Park Free Roam
Kids can run freely among thousands of sandstone 'goblins' (hoodoos) — one of the rare park experiences with zero trail restrictions in the main valley. Remote but worth the drive.
Sand Hollow State Park OHV and Beach
Combination of swimming beach and OHV sand dune riding near St. George. ATV and dirt bike rentals adjacent to park. Swimming beach $3/person.
Bear Lake Water Sports
Bear Lake's turquoise water is perfect for families: shallow swimming areas at Rendezvous Beach, kayak and paddleboard rentals (Bear Lake Boat Rentals: +1-435-946-3400), and excellent fishing.
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Grand America Hotel
Springhill Suites Moab
Under Canvas Arches
Zion Lodge
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
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Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Build downtime into every day — over-scheduled kids melt down faster than tired adults.
Carry snacks, water, and a small first-aid kit at all times.
Many attractions offer discounted family tickets — ask at the ticket window.