Ultimate Family-Friendly 8-Day Utah National Parks Adventure

Day 1: Explore Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, Utah

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pancake House

Start your day with family-friendly pancakes and delicious omelets that are sure to energize you for the day ahead.
Located in downtown Salt Lake City, it's an easy start for your trip.
USD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Natural History Museum of Utah

Perfect for families, the museum features engaging exhibits and interactive displays that kids will love.
Drive 15 minutes from the restaurant.
USD 42, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Red Iguana

Enjoy some authentic Mexican cuisine with a family-sized plate of enchiladas that will satisfy everyone's taste.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD 75, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Stroll through Liberty Park

Let the kids run around and enjoy the playground while you take a leisurely walk around the beautiful park.
Only a 5-minute drive away.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Depart for Arches National Park

Get ready for your adventure and drive the 4-hour journey to Arches National Park.
Take US-6 E and I-70 E, with some scenic views.
USD 40 (gas), 4 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Moab Brewery

Try the local brewery for comfort food and some kid-friendly options too.
Located in Moab, close to the park entrance for the next day.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

9:30PM

Settle into Accommodation

Check into your family-friendly hotel and rest up for the exciting days ahead.
Make sure to book in advance!
USD 150, Rest of the night
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Discover Arches National Park

Arches National Park, Utah

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the complimentary breakfast at your hotel to fuel up for a day of adventures.
On-site at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hike the Delicate Arch Trail

This family-friendly 3-mile round-trip hike leads you to the iconic Delicate Arch.
Drive 15 minutes to the park entrance.
Included in Park Fee, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Visitor Center

Gather more information about the park and learn about its unique geology.
Located at the entrance of the park.
Included, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Quesadilla Mobilla

A local favorite offering delicious quesadillas and kids' meals perfect for a quick bite.
Return to Moab for a quick meal.
USD 50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Balanced Rock

A short walk that the whole family can enjoy while taking pictures of this striking rock formation.
Drive 10 minutes back to the park.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

3:00PM

Drive and Scenic Stop at Park Avenue

Take in the views and let the kids stretch their legs in this stunning canyon-like area.
A short 5-minute drive within the park.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Moab

Head back to your hotel to rest after a busy day.
Drive 15 minutes back to Moab.
USD 10 (gas), 30 minutes

5:00PM

Dinner at Desert Bistro

Indulge in a wonderful dinner where you can find something for everyone, even picky eaters!
Located also in Moab.
USD 110, 1.5 hours

6:45PM

Return to Hotel

Relax and prepare for the next day.
Only a short drive away.
Free, 15 minutes
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Day 3: Canyonlands National Park Adventure

Canyonlands National Park, Utah

7:00AM

Breakfast at Moab Diner

Grab a hearty breakfast with plenty of options to fill you up before hitting the trails.
Located centrally in Moab.
USD 80, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore Island in the Sky District

Spend the morning along the scenic drives and stop at overlooks like Grand View Point.
Drive 30 minutes to the park.
USD 30 (park fee), 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Hike to Mesa Arch

An easy half-mile hike that provides rewarding picturesque views for the whole family.
Located in the Island in the Sky District.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at the Green River Overlook

Pack a picnic to enjoy at the overlook with the beauty of the Colorado River below.
Drive to the overlook.
USD 20 (picnic supplies), 1 hour

1:00PM

Scenic Drive through the Park

Keep exploring the park with additional scenic stops at various view points.
Careful navigation will lead you to stunning views.
Included in Park Fee, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visitor Center Exploration

Engage with interactive exhibits that are both fun and educational for children.
Back to the visitor center.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to Capitol Reef National Park

Travel about 2 hours to reach Capitol Reef, passing by stunning scenery along the way.
Follow UT-191 S and UT-24 W.
USD 30 (gas), 2 hours

6:15PM

Dinner at The Island in the Sky Cafe

Enjoy a dinner stop with comfort food and healthy options for kids too.
Located conveniently near the park.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

7:45PM

Check into lodging near Capitol Reef

Relax at a cozy lodge after an active day full of exploration.
Book in an advance to secure a family-friendly option.
USD 150, Rest of the night
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Capitol Reef National Park Discovery

Capitol Reef National Park, Utah

7:00AM

Breakfast at Home Plate Café

Dive into the day with hearty breakfast options right near Capitol Reef.
Located outside the park.
USD 60, 1 hour

8:30AM

Explore the Fruita Historic District

Wander through the historic fruit orchards while learning about the history of the area.
A short drive to Fruita.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Stop at Goosenecks Overlook

Marvel at the stunning views of the river's twists and turns from high above.
Drive towards the overlook, following park signage.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

11:00AM

Lunch at The Chuckwagon

Enjoy local fare with kid-friendly choices near the park.
Drive back towards the park.
USD 60, 1 hour

12:00PM

Hike the Hickman Bridge Trail

An easy 2-mile round-trip hike the family can enjoy, ending at a picturesque bridge formation.
Follow the trail markers to the bridge.
Included in Park Fee, 2 hours

2:30PM

Visitor Center Exploration

Learn more about the park's history through informative exhibits.
Return to the park's visitor center.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

3:30PM

Scenic Drive - Capitol Reef National Park

Take a scenic drive to absorb the unique rock formations and landscapes.
Follow scenic drive signage.
Included in Park Fee, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Red Snapper

Try some specialty seafood dishes with something for the whole family.
Located conveniently near the park.
USD 90, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Return to Lodge

Relax and unwind for the evening, preparing for a new adventure ahead.
Back to your accommodation.
Free, Rest of the night
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Bryce Canyon National Park Exploration

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

7:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Fill up with a hearty breakfast on site, perfect for fueling up for a day of exploration.
Located at your lodge.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Bryce Canyon National Park

Travel to Bryce Canyon for about 2 hours through beautiful scenic routes.
Follow the signs to the national park.
USD 30 (gas), 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit Bryce Canyon Visitor Center

Stop by for maps, educational info, and ranger programs that will engage the entire family.
Located at the park entrance.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

11:30AM

Hike the Rim Trail

Enjoy a family-friendly hike along the Rim Trail with stunning views over Bryce Canyon's unique formations.
Trailhead is easily accessible from the visitor center.
Included in Park Fee, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bryce Canyon Lodge

Savor lunch with a view at this lodge's cafe featuring local cuisine.
Located in the park.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Sunset Point

Take in breathtaking views and snap family photos at this beautiful lookout.
Drive a short distance from the lodge.
Included in Park Fee, 1 hour

4:00PM

Drive to Zion National Park

Travel for about 2 hours, gearing up for the next park adventure.
Follow signs to Zion National Park.
USD 30 (gas), 2 hours

6:15PM

Dinner at Oscar's Cafe

Enjoy a mix of American and Mexican cuisine, with kid-friendly options available.
Just outside of the park in Springdale.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

7:45PM

Check into Lodge near Zion

Rest at a family-friendly lodge ready for your Zion park exploration tomorrow.
Book well in advance due to popularity.
USD 150, Rest of the night
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Zion National Park Adventure

Zion National Park, Utah

7:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Fuel your family with breakfast in the comfort of your lodge before a big adventure.
Located at your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Shuttle to Zion Canyon

Hop on the free shuttle that runs through Zion Canyon to access various trailheads.
Catch the shuttle at the designated stop.
Free, 30 minutes

9:00AM

Hike the Riverside Walk

This easy, paved trail is perfect for families and leads you right to the entrance of the Narrows.
Start this hike directly from the shuttle drop-off.
Included in Park Fee, 2 hours

11:00AM

Picnic Lunch near the Virgin River

Pack your lunch and enjoy a scenic picnic along the river with stunning canyon views.
Find a comfortable spot along the river bank.
USD 20 (picnic supplies), 1 hour

12:00PM

Explore the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

Continue through stunning vistas as you hop on and off the shuttle at various stops.
Plan your route with the information from the visitor center.
Included in Park Fee, 2.5 hours

2:30PM

Short Hike to Lower Emerald Pools

An easy hike suitable for all ages leading to beautiful waterfalls and pools.
Access from shuttle stops.
Included in Park Fee, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shuttle back to Springdale

Catch the shuttle back for a well-deserved break after a day of exploration.
At the designated shuttle stop.
Free, 30 minutes

4:30PM

Dinner at Spotted Dog Café

Enjoy a dining experience with a menu full of family favorites in Springdale.
Easily walkable after your shuttle ride.
USD 100, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Lodge

Rest and reflect on the incredible day spent in Zion.
Only a short distance away.
Free, Rest of the night
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Las Vegas Adventure

Las Vegas, Nevada

7:00AM

Breakfast at Lodge

Enjoy your last breakfast in Zion before heading to the vibrant city of Las Vegas.
Part of your lodge accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Las Vegas

Retrace your route to reach Las Vegas in about 2.5 hours, make sure to enjoy the drive.
Follow I-15 S for a direct route.
USD 30 (gas), 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Check into Family-Friendly Hotel

Rest up and prepare for your Las Vegas adventure ahead with a comfortable stay.
Choose a hotel near the Strip for easy access to attractions.
USD 150, Rest of the morning

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Choose from a vast menu with options for everyone, including dessert to indulge!
Located at Caesars Palace.
USD 100, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Las Vegas Strip

Walk along the iconic Strip, taking in the famous hotels and entertainment.
Begin your stroll from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore the High Roller Observation Wheel

Experience breathtaking views of the city from the comfort of this iconic observation wheel.
Walk 15 minutes to the LINQ.
USD 90, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Ghirardelli Ice Cream and Chocolate Shop

Treat the family to an evening filled with delightful desserts, all while enjoying the Las Vegas atmosphere.
Located along the Strip.
USD 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Return to Hotel

Get some rest or continue to explore more within Las Vegas.
Easy walking distance.
Free, Rest of the night
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Departure from Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel before setting off.
On-premises dining.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Neon Museum

Explore the iconic neon signs that tell the history of Las Vegas.
A 10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Check out of Hotel

Gather your belongings and prepare for your journey home.
Pack and arrange transportation.
Free, 30 minutes

11:00AM

Head to Las Vegas Airport

Depart for the airport for your flight home, reminiscing about the epic family adventure you just had.
A 15-minute drive to the airport.
Free, 30 minutes
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