From the outdoor adventurer to the avid sightseer, Moab, Utah offers something for everyone. Just a 6.5-hour drive and only 376 miles, this majestic destination is the perfect long weekend getaway. If the landscape seems familiar as you hike, bike, climb or drive through the spectacular red rock desert, it’s because such famous movies as “Rio Grande,” “Thelma and Louise” and “127 Hours” were filmed right here. Put the work week behind you and step into nature’s own little Hollywood, ripe for exploring.

Getting There
From the Denver Metro area, take Interstate 70 towards Grand Junction and follow it through to Utah for about 310 miles. Look for exit 182 for US-191 and take it towards Crescent Junction/Moab for 32 miles. Follow the 191 all the way to Moab.
 

Bluebird Cafe
730 Grand Ave.
Glenwood Springs, CO 81601
(970) 384-2024

Whether you’re looking for a pick-me-up coffee break or a bite to eat, the place to make a brief stop along the way is in Glenwood Springs. Just off of I-70 and over the bridge you will find the Bluebird Café. An ideal place to stop and stretch your legs, this cozy cafe offers amazing coffee to keep you going and WiFi to keep in touch. It’s a popular stop for delicious organic and gluten-free treats to delight your senses on your way to Moab.

Arches National Park
(435) 719-2299
www.nps.gov/

Price: $10 per vehicle

One of the most expansive clusters of sandstone arches in the world, these red rock wonders and sandstone formations await excited photographers. Hiking or driving will provide the most extraordinary sights to see such as pedestals, pinnacles, spires and balanced rocks as well. In two short hours, hike the Delicate Arch Trail and see the famous red sandstone arch as well as other beautiful scenic views. This adventure is only five miles north of Moab. 
 

Canyonlands National Park
(435) 719-2313
www.nps.gov

Price: $10 per vehicle

With colorful canyons, mesas and buttes, Canyonlands National Park is like another planet. Boasting the most incredible and unique views of Moab, this place will make feel like you’re on top of the world. Canyonlands offers incredible adventures in hiking, camping, biking, four-wheel driving and river running. In a short 30-mile drive from Moab, see the most amazing views from a path known as the island in the sky district.
 

Dead Horse Point
www.stateparks.utah.gov

Price: $10 per vehicle

Well worth the 32-mile drive from Moab, Dead Horse Point is where the famous final scene in “Thelma and Louise” was filmed. It offers panoramic views of the Colorado River 2,000 feet below and also happens to be one of the most photographed vistas in the world. This easy-to-get-to area offers mountain biking, camping and scenic drives galore, perfect for any shutter-happy traveler.

Moab Golf Course
2705 E. Bench Road
Moab, UT 84532
(435) 259-6488
www.moabcountryclub.com/

Price: $44 weekly

This 18-hole public golf course boasts beautiful views from each hole. With its subtle elevation changes and panoramic rock beauty, it’s a course you won’t soon forget. Located just a couple miles out of downtown Moab, it plays right up against the beautiful red-rock walls. It also offers a pro shop and snack bar. 

Dining

The Moab Brewery
 686 South Main
 Moab, UT 84532
(435) 259-6333
www.themoabbrewery.com/

The Moab Brewery provides indoor and outdoor dining, a relaxed family atmosphere, great burgers and vegetarian options, and even homemade gelato. For the beer connoiseurs, its famous Deadhorse Amber Ale can’t be beat. The Moab Brewery has been around since 1996, operating as Moab’s only microbrewery. This restaurant is perfect for both family and late night meals.

Eklecticafe  
352 N. Main Street
Moab, UT. 84532
(435) 259-6896

The charm of Eklecticafe promises a warm, wholesome feeling to you as you enjoy the best breakfast in Moab. Eat among the beautiful gardens and artwork, and energize for your day with organic homemade food. Refuel here at lunch as well and catch the local crowd in eclectic action.

Zax Watering Hole
96 South Main
Moab, UT 84532
(435) 259-6555      
www.zaxmoab.com/

Start off your day of adventures with Zax Watering Hole’s amazing sunrise breakfast, or kick back through the late night with incredible burgers, steaks and pasta dishes. It’s are also famous for its all-you-can-eat gourmet pizza. Locals boast it’s well known for its service with a smile. Located in the heart of down town Moab, this is the place to go to jazz up your evening as well.

Related: Trail Ridge Road Opens for the Season

Lodging

Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa
HC 64 Box 4002
Mile 17 Highway128
Moab, UT 84532
(435) 259-4642
www.sorrelriver.com/

Luxury meets adventure at the Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa. After a full day of hiking and exploring the beauty of the national parks, sink into rest and rejuvenation at this resort nestled in the red rocks. Its dine and dream package makes for a perfect weekend getaway for an anniversary or special occasion, especially if you want to bring the pets along.

Aarchway Inn
1551 N. Highway 191
Moab, UT
(435) 259-2599
www.aarchwayinn.com/

Click here for rooms and rates

Nestled between the picturesque red rock cliffs and the Colorado River, The Archway Inn offers premium lodging and a complimentary hot breakfast. Book fun adventure packages along with your room to enjoy a complete Moab vacation. The incredible views of the red rock landscape along with plenty of wildlife viewing make this an ideal place to stay.