Curator’s statement
Utah is a hidden gem when it comes to family vacations in the summer. This stunning state is home to five national parks, often called the Mighty Five, each with its unique beauty and charm, offering endless outdoor recreational opportunities for all ages. From hiking and biking to river rafting and horseback riding, there are numerous things to do in Utah with kids, and there is something for everyone. Moreover, Utah's diverse cultural and historic sites provide an enriching experience for families interested in learning about the area's heritage. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation or a mix of both, Utah is sure to satisfy every member of your family.
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Day 1: Explore Salt Lake City
Start your summer Utah adventure by landing in Salt Lake City in the morning. After picking up a rental car, spend some time in Salt Lake City with visits to Temple Square and the Tabernacle. Enjoy the Copper Onion or Spitz for lunch. After visiting Salt Lake City for the afternoon, start your drive to Park City, about 45 minutes into the mountains.
Day 2: Adventurous things to do in Utah with kids
After a great night's sleep in your Park City resort, it's time for a day of adventure. Head to Utah Olympic Park to pickup your Summer Gold Pass (pre-reserve online, two sessions per day). The Summer Gold Pass gives you 3.5 hours of unlimited access to the Alpine Slide, Extreme Tubing, Extreme Zip, Freestyle Zip, Discovery Course, Canyon Course, Summit Course and more.
After a morning of extreme adventure, head into Park City for a quick lunch and exploring the local shops. When you've finished exploring, head to The Funicular at St. Regis, where the kids will love the funicular ride to the top, while parents will be rewarded with coffee or cocktail at the Terrace Café.
Day 3: Enjoy a family hike
Looking for more active things to do in Utah with kids? For your second day in Park City, it's time for a morning family hike. For beginners or those with strollers, try McLeod Creek Trail (the full out-and-back is six miles).
Other great options include Willow Creek Trail, Armstrong Trail and Quinn's Junction Trailhead. Check out and grab lunch at the hotel before you start the four-hour drive to Moab. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your Moab hotel.
Day 4: Visit Moab, one of the best things to do in Utah with kids
While in Moab, it's time for more outdoor adventures. Spend two days exploring Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park (two of the best things to do in Utah with Kids), where kids will enjoy one of the 4x4 tours.
You can also book horseback riding (Sorrel River Ranch offers private family rides) or whitewater rafting. If you get a chance, stop by Moab Brewery, which is kid friendly.
Day 5: Family picnics & outdoor adventures
Day five is a long day. Check out early from your Moab hotel and head toward Capitol Reef National Park, about a 2.5-hour drive (grab some picnic lunch food along the way). Pick up a Junior Ranger Activity Book at the Visitor Center, and then spend a few hours completing the activities and enjoying your picnic.
Then pack yourselves back into the car to drive to your hotel. If you're staying in Bryce Canyon, it's about two hours. If you choose the amazing family camping at Amangiri (one of the best things to do in Utah with kids), it's an additional two-hour drive.
Days 6-8: Stargazing, canyoneering & more fun things to do in Utah with kids
Spend the last days of your kid-friendly Utah itinerary exploring Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park.
If you have older children, try canyoneering in East Zion. For one evening, make sure you book a stargazing tour. After plenty of adventure, it's time to head back to Salt Lake City for your flights home.
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Samantha Dwinell
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Craving more travel tips? Check out Fora Advisor Brigid Finely's guide to a family-friendly ski vacation in Snowmass, Colorado.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Utah.