Moab, Utah is one of the most spectacular places to visit in the United States. The breathtaking views and an incredible amount of outdoor adventure awaits around every arch, butte, canyon, hoodoo and waterfall! And being in close proximity to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks, Moab is the perfect center point for your amazing adventure!
Simply stated, Moab and its’ surrounding region is quite literally, the biggest adult adventure playground in the United States! From catching the sun rising through the arches and early morning hikes, shooting the rapids to climbing slick rocks in a Jeep or on a mountain bike, never will you ever say you’re bored.
So, that should be your cue to put Moab, Utah at the top of your bucket list. Actually, let’s do one better. Let’s get planning your Moab adventure right here and right now!
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Your Ultimate Moab Adventure and Visitors Guide
Your Moab adventure is going to be nonstop excitement and exhilaration! Because Moab is a place like no other in the entire United States. You can be as daring as you want or take it slow enjoying the magnificent beauty all around Moab and the surrounding areas. And, at the close of each day, I guarantee you will be utterly exhausted. But even if you’re too excited to go to sleep, get some good shuteye because your next day’s adventure just as awesome, if not better than the day before!
About Moab, Utah
Moab is situated in eastern Utah. This adventure city is sandwiched between Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park. It’s also near Dead Horse Point State Park that overlooks the La Sal Mountains and the Colorado River.
Nowhere in the United States will you find a more beautiful collision of slickrocks, brilliant red towering hoodoos and arches that make the perfect landscape against the bright blue skies. It’s a photographer’s dream. It’s a dare devil’s dream. And now, it’s YOUR dream!
The biggest draw to Moab, Utah is it’s close proximity to Utah’s Mighty 5 National Parks! I’d be hard-pressed to say you could do these all in a week of seven days. However, once you’ve been to a couple, you’re going to absolutely want to adventure back to Moab! Because simply put, you’d want to actually spend at least few days in each of Utah’s Mighty 5. But since you may only have just a few days to visit, let’s see what their major attractions are.
One of the top and most visited National Parks in the United States is Arches National Park. Over 2000 crimson sandstone arches have been decorating Utah’s high desert for millions of years. Its’ 73,000 acre magical prolific landscape, no wonder it’s one of the most photographed destinations in the world.
Arches is also one of the most favorite hiking adventures near Moab and for good reason. Everywhere your eyes glance, you’ll have to hold back tears of awe because this place is heaven on earth. You and your travel companions will get up close views, not only of the incredible towering arches, but fiery red balanced boulders, hoodoos, and you may even see a few gargoyles.
To see the most notable and world-famous landmark, Delicate Arch, you’ll want to get up before the sun to hike up to watch the sunrise. Its’ brilliant red sandstone changes throughout the day to different hues of reds and oranges.
Comparatively speaking, Canyonlands National Park is the mini Grand Canyon of Utah’s Mighty 5. Canyonlands resonates a deep and cavernous exposed underworld full of red arches, spires, rock formations that leave you wondering “what happened millions of years ago to leave it this way?”
The Colorado and Green Rivers slice through the Canyonlands providing topographical overlooks that allow you to see the snow-covered La Sal Mountains in the far distance. But, don’t discount Canyonlands being less than Arches or Bryce Canyon. In fact, quite the contrary! Canyonlands gives that spiritual vibe and feelings of peace and solitude.
Zion National Park, often snow capped, majestically stands as an artist’s dream; a backdrop of beautifully blended whites, grays and red sandstone towers. But what draws many to the park is it’s home to two of the most magnificent hikes you’ll ever experience; Angels Landing and the Narrows.
But these hikes are no easy walk in the park and surely isn’t for those weak in the knees (literally speaking). Angels Landing is one of the most dangerous hikes in the United States.
The 5.2 mile hike is a strenuous climb up to where the angels sing. You’ll be hiking up 1500 feet and gripping chains to reach one of the most magnificent views few get to brag about.
MOAB ADVENTURE TIP: Recommended by some of my hiking friends who scaled to the top, be sure to take your hiking gloves and have good hiking shoes.
Before heading out for your hike, we recommend reading: Angel’s Landing Survival Guide: Things to Know Before You Go written by EarthTrekkers.
And The Narrows in Zion National Park should also be at the top of your Moab adventure as well. Why it’s called The Narrows is it’s the narrowest part of the Zion Canyon. It’s one of the most sought after hikes in Zion National Park. And, Zion’s ‘Top Down’ Narrows hike is not for beginner, easy or even moderate hikers. This hike is a long and arduous 16 miler that will test your legs, back and mind.
But, do appreciate the fact that you’ll get wet on the Narrows hike. So, plan on wearing clothing that dry quickly. You’ll also want to bring or wear a long sleeve sweatshirt or jacket; especially if you hike the Narrows between Fall through Springtime.
Most importantly, before trekking on your hike to the Narrows, you need to check in with the Zion Visitor’s Center to make sure the water is low. You DO NOT want to hike the Narrows during flash flooding. Worth noting, the Narrows hike will cost you $15 for 1 to 2 hikers (2021).
Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks aren’t really in Moab’s backyard. However, both still reign as two of Utah’s Mighty 5. Capitol Reef is 2+ hour drive and Bryce Canyon is almost double that of about 4+ hour drive from Moab. However, both are very much worth visiting if you have or could afford the extra time to drive there.
Capitol Reef National Park prides itself as being the least visited quiet brother of the Mighty 5 but it surely doesn’t lack any strength or beauty of being a National Park. You’ll be mesmerized by the ribbon-like rainbow layers of sandstone, tilted buttes and towering rock formations, white sandstone dome rocks and deep canyons. It’s also known for Chimney Rock Pillar and Hickman Bridge Arch.
And at Bryce Canyon National Park, you’ll be simply amazed at the millions of variegated red sandstone desert spires. You’ll need to dress warmly in the late fall, early spring, and most winter months as it gets extremely cold due to it being in the high elevation desert.
For an amazing intro to Utah’s Mighty 5, check out Alexi from Bright Trip’s How to Explore Utah’s Mighty Five:
As you see, Utah’s Mighty 5 may be the big stars of the show however, there’s a heck of a lot to see and do yet! So, buckle up and rock crawl through these adventurous things to do in Moab.
Things to Do in Moab
Scenic Drives and Tours
Moab isn’t just for wild and daring adventures. There’s quite a few scenic drives through the Arches and Canyonlands National Parks as well as the scenic vistas along the main roads.
But, if I can offer a bit of advice, before you set out driving aimlessly and getting lost, we highly recommend visiting the Moab Information Center downtown to pick up tourist brochures, maps and information.
Three main scenic drives in Moab are described in detail in Moab Area Travel Council’s Moab’s Scenic Byways:
- Upper Colorado River Scenic Byway (U-128)
- Potash-Lower Colorado River Scenic Byway (U-279)
- Dead Horse Point Mesa Scenic Byway (U-313)
- La Sal Loop
- Kane Creek
Fresh Off the Grid proves that you don’t need to own a 4×4 jeep or a dune buggy to explore Moab, UT. In their 6 Scenic Drives in Moab that DON’T Require Four Wheel Drive, they’ve compiled a list of rental-car-ready (or Jeep) scenic drives that will allow you to experience the breathtaking landscape of Moab, without getting yourselves stuck in the sand!
Arches National Park Tours are available if you would rather leave the driving up to someone else so you can enjoy the scenic wonders and take lots of photos. They know all the perfect photo shot spots! But, if you’re wanting to drive at your own pace in Arches, you can download their Arches National Park Utah Audio Tour (Google) (Apple).
Petroglyphs, Pictographs and Rock Art
There are also several places with pull offs where you can get a glimpse of some Petroglyphs along the road. But please, only take photos and leave with just memories. Please do not touch or alter the petroglyphs and it would be prudent of you to read up on Petroglyph site etiquette.
Popular Petroglyph Sites in and around Moab
- Birthing Scene Petroglyphs
- Courthouse Wash Rock Art
- Zion South Gate Petroglyph Site
- Parowan Gap Canyon Petroglyphs
- Potash Road Dinosaur Tracks and Petroglyphs
- Sego Canyon Pictographs
- Intestine Man Pictographs
- Moab Man – Moab Golf Course
Check out Jonesing for Adventure‘s video on 6 Can’t Miss Things to Do Around Moab | Plan Your Moab Trip Today! Great tips at the end too!
Jeeping and Off-Roading
Whether this is going to be your first visit to Moab, a return trip or you’re attending Easter Jeep Safari or Labor Day Jeep Safari (click here for information), you’ll appreciate that the signature vehicle to explore, off-road and rock climb is the JEEP!
In fact, you’ll see them everywhere in Moab because not only are they the tool of the trade for rock climbing and trail riding but, they’re pretty cool to tool around town in (we own one!). There are numerous Jeep rental companies that will set you up with a Jeep made for your level of comfort.
Jeep rentals start at about $200 and go upwards to about $400 per day depending on which model Jeep you rent. Basic Jeep Wranglers cost less than Jeep Gladiators and Rubicons, so keep that in mind when figuring your Jeep adventuring budget.
If you decide to go with a Jeep Tour Company, plan on pushing the dollar value even higher up to about $800 depending on the type of Jeep you rent along with the tour length and location. While this may be a huge expense, it will be an adventure you’ll never find elsewhere (and your friends back home will be super jealous!). Moab and Jeeps go together like peanut butter and jelly!
Popular Jeep Rental Services in Moab
Our friends and fellow RVers, Kyle and Olivia of Drivin’ & Vibin’, explain what to expect from your rental in their Moab Jeep Rentals: Read This Before Booking article.
While Moab is the best Jeep Safari destinations, you don’t need a Jeep to enjoy it’s many off-roading playgrounds! There’s a ton of ATV rental companies in and around Moab, Canyonlands and Arches. And according to AllTrails, there are almost 100 OHV driving trails that will take you through the most scenic places outside of Moab.
You can explore using their hand-curated trail maps and driving directions as well as detailed reviews and photos from adventurers just like you. Check out their interactive maps that show each trail; start to finish.
Rounding out the top 10 OHV trails near Moab:
But, after booking your ATV rental, there are few reminders for adventurers of all levels when renting an ATV, side-by-side, RZR or other off-road vehicle:
- Always plan to arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour departure time.
- Wear comfortable, closed-toed shoes. Leave your flip flops and sandals back at your lodging.
- A hat with a sun-shielding brim, sunglasses, neck gator or buff, and sunscreen are personal items you should bring or wear.
- Bring a jacket or coat for cooler weather, morning departures or evening returns.
- While bottled water may be provided on your tour(s), it’s wise to bring your own.
As I mentioned before, there are a ton of ATV, RZR and Side By Side rental companies; actually too many to list here. They aren’t hard to find.
Our suggestion is to research to see which offer tours of your type of adventure. ATV rental tours can cost anywhere from $120 up to the sky’s the limit based on how many hours to days you want to rent your ATV. Most of them are right in the city of Moab.
We actually looked up on TripAdvisor their 10 BEST Moab 4WD and Off-Road Tours to give you an idea of pricing. Also, they have a great FAQ section that you may want to check out such as:
- Which places provide the best 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Moab for kids and families?
- Which places provide the best 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Moab for travelers on a budget?
- Which places provide the best hidden gems for 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Moab?
- Which places provide the best 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Moab for adrenaline seekers?
- Which places provide the best 4wd, atv & off-road tours in Moab for adventurous travelers?
Popular ATV rental and tour companies in Moab
Hiking
Hiking in Moab and the Mighty 5 is a favorite amongst hikers of all ages and difficulty levels. Being that Arches and Canyonlands are in Moab’s backyard, those are the trails to hit if you don’t want to drive far. And Moab, itself, offers amazing hiking opportunities without having to deal with entrance fees and crowded trails.
While there are literally hundreds of hiking trails in or near Moab, amongst our favorites are Mesa Arch in Canyonlands and Delicate Arch in Arches National Parks. As we’ve read in Escape Campervan‘s 8 Best Hikes in Moab, “the little town of 5,000 is a prime launching pad to Canyonlands National Park, Arches National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park.”
In other words, there’s quite a few hiking trails that are just steps away from wherever you’re camping or lodging. They range between easy and moderate in difficulty level from a half mile to over 10 miles. So, there’s something for everyone. And lastly, before hitting the hiking trails, it’s a good idea to read our Hiking Trail Etiquette Guide.
MOAB ADVENTURE TIP: Sharpen your smartphone photography skills before heading out on your amazing Moab vacation destination!
Mountain Biking and Cycling
There are several ebike and bicycle rental companies located in downtown Moab. Each has their own specialty of gear and services. So be sure to visit each of their sites to see which is going to fit you and your cycling adventure expectations and needs. Some even offer tours and clinics. All of them are within a 10 minute drive to Slickrock bike trail and Sand Flats Recreation Area.
Popular Bicycle Rental Services in Moab:
Also, whether you’re renting a bike or have your own, if you need a shuttle, you can book a shuttle through Coyote Shuttle for about $25-30 (2021 prices per person/bike).
Worth noting, be aware that motorized bikes, electric bikes and pedal assist bicycles are not permitted on the single-track trails on BLM or Forest Service lands. That said, they are allowed at Dead Horse State Park, the Slickrock Trail, Sovereign Trail and on most Jeep roads in the area.
But, before heading out on the bicycle trails, we highly recommend reading our Bicycle Safety Guide to learn or freshen up on how to ride safely on roads and bike trails.
Horseback Riding
While hiking and off-roading is fun, horseback riding is a totally different kind of adventure that you’ll enjoy but at a higher observation point and different perspective. So, if you’re a horse lover or you want to enjoy seeing the scenery at a slower pace, there’s plenty of opportunities to take a horseback backcountry tour.
And some of the trails you’ll be riding allow you exclusive views of wildflowers and different sandstone rock creations that you may not see hiking or off-roading.
Just like the early nomads and settlers, you can explore some of Utah’s best riding trails just outside of Moab. Enjoy cowboy-trained backcountry ride tours that will literally take your breath away. In fact, when our son and his wife visited Moab a few years ago and said it was one of their favorite Moab adventures. (photo above)
Popular Horseback Riding Tours
So, get your cowboy hat and boots and saddle up for a truly authentic rugged desert experience. See and feel exactly what the old wranglers did back in the days of the Wild West! Giddy up! Let’s go!
Whitewater Rafting
If you have good sea legs, don’t get motion sick and don’t mind getting a little wet, there’s a whole different kind of exhilarating adventure waiting for you in Moab! You can shoot the rapids on the Green River or Colorado River one of the amazing whitewater rafting tour companies in Moab. After a little professional instruction, you’ll head out with your team of paddlers to your own splashin’ safari!
Moab rafting trips are great; from solo adventurers to groups of friends and families. You’ll weave through the Green River or Colorado with stretches of calm water to catch your breath. But around the bend, you’ll get the shower of your life as you laugh hysterically at this incredible splashing whitewater safari!
There are several outfitters in Moab that you can pay to take the cruise of your life. They will supply everything you need for your afternoon adventure. And depending on your own skills, you can sign up for which level you feel comfortable navigating.
Your outfitter guides are highly trained in swift water rescue, CPR, first aid and yes, they’ll even help calm you down if you feel like you bit off more than you can chew. They will help make your Moab water adventure picture perfect!
Popular Whitewater Rafting Tour Companies and Outfitters
Kayaking, Canoeing and Paddle Boarding
If you feel whitewater rafting is a little out of your league or you don’t want to worry about getting your hair wet, there are superb paddling adventures that awaiting you. You’ll enjoy canoeing, kayaking and paddle boarding through the beautiful canyons and riverbanks looking up the bright red, varnished sandstone walls that Moab is known for.
There are a few points on the Green and Colorado Rivers where you can launch your own kayak, paddle board or canoe. Or, if you want to leave the tour guiding to someone else, you can sign up for a tour.
And, if you’ve driven or flown in without your own watercraft, there’s plenty of outfitters waiting for you to schedule your tour through the Westwater and Cataract Canyons.
Individuals, couples or groups may paddle the rivers on their own or with a professional river outfitter tour guide.
Popular Kayak, Canoe and Paddle Board Outfitters in Moab:
MOAB ADVENTURE TIP: Before launching your kayak, canoe or paddle board, you’ll want to read and review Our Top 13 Kayak Safety Tips That Can Save Your Life.
Air Tours and Skydiving
Get a bird’s eye view of Moab by taking an airplane tour! If you have a little cash to afford it, you can book a high adventure over Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, Canyonlands, Fisher Tower, Lake Powell, and Monument Valley. And speaking of Canyonlands, you can even book a special sunset flight to get views like no other.
And, if you’re super daring and want a once in a lifetime experience, you can take a chance on skydiving over some of Utah’s best! Your tandem altitude will give you the most time to soak in the incredible views, experience the thrill of free-fall and live in the moment!
Aerial Tours
Skydiving Adventures
Now that we’ve shared just a pinch of some of the great things to do in Moab, let’s get down to the nitty gritty; the logistics of your Moab vacation getaway.
Clothing and Adventure Gear to Bring to Moab
When packing for your Moab vacation, leave the fancy clothes out. And ladies, leave the makeup home as well. You’re not going to need them. The Moab vibe is come as you are. Here, you dress strictly for comfort and be ready for adventure. You’re going to get dirty, sweaty but dang, you’re going to have lots of fun! Here are some suggestions on what to bring in your backpack or suitcase.
Clothing to bring to Moab:
- 2 pair of durable quick-dry hiking trousers
- 2 pair of quick-dry shorts
- 5 or 6 lightweight wick-away tops
- 1 Sweatshirt or pullover
- Lightweight jacket
- 5-6 pair of comfortable hiking socks
- 5-6 pair of undergarments
- Swimsuit
- Sleepwear
- Wick-away neck gaitor or buff
- Rain ponch
- Wide brimmed hat
- Knit cap (for cold weather)
- Gloves or mittens (for cold weather)
- Hiking shoes (doubles as walking shoes)
- Waterproof sandals (for water adventures)
- Hiking gloves (optional)
- Face masks (COVID)
Also, it’s smart to wear or bring sturdy hiking shoes that are comfortable and have good tread to handle everything from sandstone trails to slick rock surfaces. Our personal suggestions are listed below:
| KEEN Women’s Voyageur Hiker
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MOAB ADVENTURE TIP: It would be wise to break your hiking shoes in BEFORE you step foot on the plane or head out on your road trip to Moab.
Even if you don’t plan on hiking (oh yes you will!), we still recommend bringing a comfortable daypack to keep all your items that you’ll use throughout your days as well as emergency items.
Items to put into your hiking or day pack
- Hydration packs
- Water bottle(s)
- First aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent
- Camera
- Extra memory cards
- Charging cords for smartdigital devices
- Cash – small bills and quarters
A hiking stick or trekking poles can be beneficial or those needing a little more support. But, we’ve found they are great for hiking in the desert. It’s better to stick your hiking pole in a crevice or hole first before reaching with your hand or foot.
MOAB ADVENTURE TIP: If you’re flying in and can’t bring all your gear with you or you’ve forgotten something, there’s outdoor gear and outfitter stores in downtown Moab.
Popular Adventure Gear and Apparel Stores in Moab
MOAB ADVENTURE TIP: Exploring Moab with kids? Check out Moab Adventure Center’s 10 Things to do in Moab with Kids!
Shuttle Service
If you’re flying into Canyonlands Regional – Moab Airport, you are only about a 10-minute ride to downtown Moab. You can catch an airport shuttle using the Moab Express for $20 each way. They do offer discounts for roundtrip shuttles
If you’re not going to rent a Jeep or rental vehicle, you’ll need to use shuttles to get to hiking and mountain bike trailheads as well as river adventure tours. Remember, if you’re renting bicycles, your rental company may offer rental/shuttle packages. In other words, you may want to figure out if it’s actually cheaper to rent a Jeep vs. relying on shuttle services.
Shuttle Service Options in Moab
(Key: T – Trailhead, R – River Launch, V – Vehicle, A – Moab Airport, LV – Las Vegas, GJ – Grand Junction, SLC – Salt Lake City, GR – Green River)
- Moab Express – A, GJ, SLC, GR
- Coyote Shuttle – T, R, V
- Porcupine Shuttle LLC – T, R, V, GJSLC
- Red Rock Express – R, V, A, GJSLC, LV
- Road Runner Shuttle – T, R, V, A, GJSLC
- ACME Bike Shuttle – T
- Moab Taxi Cab – T, R
Coyote Shuttle drivers will shuttle you in classic Volkswagen vans. You’ll be starting your adventure with a good vibe with every ride. Be aware though, they do not shuttle e-bikes and pedal assist bicycles as they are not permitted on the singletrack on BLM or Forest Service lands. You may want to familiarize yourself with the e-bike guide to Moab for access and trail information.
Where to Stay in Moab
Just because the Moab vibe is rugged and red stone, that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a poshy night’s sleep. There’s several lodging options in Moab. You can overnight in a cabin, hotel, motel, AirB&B or enjoy your vacation destination in a beautiful rental.
According to Grand County Utah statistics, as of 2020, there are over 2888 hotel and resort rooms, 71 Bed and Breakfast Rooms and 524 Condo vacation rentals in Moab alone. So, don’t worry about not being able to find a room at the inn (with the exception of Labor Day and Easter Jeep Safari Weeks and other local events listed below in the Events section).
Instead of listing every hotel, motel or other lodging in Moab, I’ll just list some resources for you to find exactly what you’re looking for.
Lodging accommodations in Moab
Where to Camp in Moab
If you enjoy the camping vibe, Moab definitely is the place to be! There are several places to tent camp or park your RV either within the city limits or out in the wild wonder. Most campgrounds are set where the views are fantastic. You’re tent may open to a river or walk out of your RV to beautiful canyon or slickrock scenery.
And seriously, there’s nothing more magical than looking up at some of the clearest skies in the world. And, if you’ve never seen the Milky Way in the dessert, you’re in for a treat. There are actually three dark sky parks near Moab; Dead Horse Point being the romantic favorite.
According to Grand County Utah statistics, as of 2020, there are over 1223 campground sites situated in and around Moab.
If you prefer clean RV parks with full hookups, pool and other fancy amenities, you could park your RV or tent at an RV Resort or large chain campground right in town. However, those campgrounds are a bit more pricy than most basic campgrounds because of convenience and amenities.
But, if you’re feeling just a basic campground with electric, water, sewer connections or dump station, there are those camping options too. And, if you’re coming with a bunch of friends, some of the National Parks offer group camping as well as regular campsites.
Also know that most National Park campgrounds typically have smaller campsites. Therefore, RV’s that are over 35′ in length may have to camp elsewhere.
All of that said, once you know your dates of when you’re going to Moab, you’ll want to make your reservations well ahead of time to ensure you score a great campsite.
Popular Campgrounds In and Near Moab:
- Up the Creek Campground – Tent Camping Only – Downtown Moab
- Sun RV Resorts Canyonlands RV Resort & Campground
- Sun RV Resorts Slickrock Campground
- Moab KOA Holiday Campground – RV &Tent Sites and Cabins
- Dead Horse Point State Park Kayenta Campground
- Arches National Park – Devil’s Garden Campground
- Canyonlands National Park, The Needles District: Squaw Flat Campground
- Canyonlands National Park – Needles Campground – Tent and Small RV <28′
Check out this great resource of Commercial Campgrounds In and Around Moab.
Popular BLM and Public Lands Camping Areas:
There are other several campgrounds operated by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). When you’re camping on public lands or BLM in your RV, you’ll need a place to empty your tanks. You’ll want to make sure you read up on how to find RV dump stations and potable water, Also, it does bear reminding that RV boondockers and tent campers should follow the rules of off grid camping.
Great Eats in Moab
Having been to Moab twice myself, I can say that Moab has quite an eclectic list of places to eat and imbibe. You can find everything from Mexican and Italian to simple sandwiches and brews.
Since we’re not partial to any particular cuisine, it would be difficult for us to pick out a favorite restaurant. However, we’ve enjoyed chowing down at a few of them during our stays in Moab.
Since there’s way too many to list (we don’t want to leave any out!), check out TripAdvisor’s Top 10 Best Restaurants in Moab. But they don’t just stop at 10. There’s actually over 50 restaurants, cafes and hole-in-the-wall eats including a few fast food restaurants to satisfy every palette.
Oh, and on a personal recommendation, skip the hotel coffee and head over to Moab Coffee Roasters right on the corner of North Main and East 100th for your morning brew and homemade pastry! They also have yummy, ice cold Gelato for an afternoon refreshing snack or after dinner treat. Can you tell it’s my favorite go-to for coffee, smoothie or yes, that refreshing Gelato!?
Brew, Wine and Spirits
I’m not going to lie, we love breweries and of course, the name in town is *drum roll*, the Moab Brewery. It’s actually Moab’s largest restaurant and only microbrewery and distillery in town!
Founded in 1996, the Moab Brewery is the place to be! Their chow is delicious and their brew goes down smooth. But they also recently launched their Moab Distillery in 2017; making their own vodka, gin, agave and whiskey. Both, the Moab Brewery and Moab Distillery are next door neighbors, so you don’t have to go far to get your favorite brew and spirits.
Aside from the Moab Brewery, a lot of restaurants in town serve both foreign and domestic beers, select wines and yes, those crazy liquored up concoctions too. But hey, don’t ruin your adventurous vacation by imbibing too much because you have so much more to do while you’re in Moab! And of course, you don’t want to ruin your vacation by meeting Moab’s finest.
Shopping in Moab
There are about 20 specialty and gift shops in Moab where you can pick up anything from souvenirs, t-shirts, books, hiking and biking gear, camping and outfitter supplies as well as handcrafts and art.
Most of the stores are all within walking distance of downtown. So, you can catch a bite to eat at any of Moab’s best cafes and eating spots and shop for those at home to show you’ve had a great time.
There are 6 grocery stores in Moab where you can pick up basic staples, produce, meats and foods.
- City Market – 425 S Main St, Moab
- Dave’s Corner Market – 401 S Mill Creek Dr., Moab
- Moonflower Community Cooperative – 39 East 100 North, Moab
- T&H Corner Store – 495 West 400 North, Moab
- Village Market – 702 S Main St., Moab
- Walker Drug General Store – 290 S Main St., Moab
Closures and COVID 19 Updates
As sign of the times, it’s important to check on the Moab COVID-19 Updates as it will tell you what is open and closed. You may want to check each morning prior to any tour or before stepping out to any attraction, trail, or boat launches. The site will also update the site regarding restaurants and businesses affected by the COVID-19 status.
Also, face coverings should completely cover the nose and mouth are recommended in Moab; unless stated otherwise. They should be worn in public areas including indoor or outdoor space open to the public where consistent social distancing of at least 6 feet is not possible.
Free masks are available at the Moab Information Center, on the corner of Main and Center Streets, and at the National Parks. That said, it’s always safe to bring your own face mask in case they run out.
Other Notes and Suggestions
When planning your Moab vacation, check the local events. There are big events like the Jeep Safari, music festivals, road races and other cool events that draw in visitors and vendors from all over the world. They may impact your planning and reservations. Or, you could be a part of them.
Regardless of time of year, you’ll need to take enough water as Moab is a desert environment. So, we recommend hydration packs because they leave your hands free allowing you to take photos, use your trekking poles or wiping the hard-earned sweat from your brow.
Moab Adventure Tip: After picking up your Jeep or rental vehicle, pick up a few gallons of drinking water to keep in your Jeep. Then you can refill your water bottles or hydration backpacks each time you go adventuring or sightseeing.
Final Thoughts on Moab, Utah
After reading our Ultimate Moab Adventure and Visitors Guide, are you ready for some exhilarating, life-changing adventure that you’ll be talking about for decades!? Because, having been there twice and done several of these adventures ourselves, I can tell you that Moab, Utah is NOT a one and done vacation destination.
In fact, as I finish writing this, I’m making reservations for our next Moab adventure! I want to go back again and again and again…and you will too!
So, are YOU ready to go on your Moab adventure! Let’s GO!
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