19 Fun Things to Do in Moab With Kids (10 Are Free)

You don’t need to break the bank to create unforgettable memories with your kids in Moab. This Utah desert town delivers incredible adventures that’ll keep your family busy for days, and the best part? More than half of them won’t cost you a dime. From towering red rock formations to dinosaur discoveries, Moab’s got something for every age and energy level. Here’s how to maximize your family fun while keeping your wallet happy.

Explore Arches National Park on Family-Friendly Trails

When you’re planning a family adventure in Moab, Arches National Park offers some of the most accessible and rewarding trails for kids of all ages. Start with Balanced Rock Trail, just 0.3 miles round trip, perfect for toddlers who need short distances and dramatic payoffs. Sand Dune Arch Trail provides a shaded sandy play area where kids can burn energy, while Double Arch Trail lets them spot wildlife like rattlesnakes on mixed terrain. For older children, tackle Landscape Arch—the world’s longest natural arch—via an easy 1.6-mile hike with minimal elevation gain. The Devils Garden Loop is recommended as the best hike in the park by locals and guidebook authors alike. Be sure to check the geological formations that make Arches unique and fascinating for young explorers. Pack plenty of water and sun protection since desert conditions demand preparation. Plan hikes during cooler morning hours to avoid heat and increase wildlife sightings, making every trail both educational and memorable.

Experience River Rafting Adventures on the Colorado River

While Moab’s hiking trails offer incredible views, nothing beats the thrill of experiencing the Colorado River’s rushing waters with your family.

The Fisher Towers trip works perfectly for kids aged 5 and older (minimum 40 pounds), featuring manageable Class II rapids that won’t overwhelm young adventurers.

Perfect for families with children 5+ weighing at least 40 pounds, featuring gentle Class II rapids ideal for young adventurers.

You’ll find options ranging from budget-friendly half-day excursions to multi-day camping trips on sandy beaches. Most full-day adventures cover 14 miles and include BBQ lunches, with morning departures around 8:00 or 9:00 AM.

Your kids can swim in the warm summer waters and spot wildlife between rapids. Professional guides handle safety briefings and provide all equipment—life jackets, paddles, and helmets are included.

For tighter budgets, consider river tubing or short float options that offer similar thrills at lower costs. Remember that popular trips fill up quickly during peak season, so booking early ensures your family secures the perfect adventure dates.

Discover Life-Size Dinosaurs at Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

After working up an appetite on the river, your family can explore millions of years of prehistory at Moab Giants Dinosaur Park.

Located nine miles north of Moab, this attraction features over 100 life-size dinosaurs along a half-mile trail with stunning views of Arches National Park. As the first dino park of its kind world-wide, it offers a truly unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

Your kids will love the hands-on experiences: digging for fossils in sandbox sites, climbing into a T-Rex’s mouth, and playing on the dino-themed playground.

The Interactive Tracks Museum uses cutting-edge technology to showcase real dinosaur footprints, while the 3D theater and 5D Prehistoric Aquarium offer immersive experiences.

Plan 2-3 hours for your visit, and you can grab lunch at their on-site restaurant.

The park’s open 10 AM-6 PM, closed Wednesdays.

Cool Off at the Moab Aquatic Center

Once the desert heat becomes too much, head to the Moab Recreation and Aquatic Center (MRAC) for some revitalizing relief. This family-friendly facility offers year-round swimming with both indoor and outdoor options that’ll keep everyone happy.

Your kids will love the excitement of:

• Racing down the 18-foot indoor water slide
• Practicing cannonballs from the 1-meter and 3-meter diving boards
• Splashing around in the dedicated leisure pool while you supervise from shaded tables

The indoor six-lane pool guarantees you can swim regardless of weather, while the outdoor pools provide that perfect summer experience.

Daily passes make it budget-friendly for visiting families, and the clean facilities with locker rooms mean you’ll have everything needed for a comfortable visit. If you need to freshen up after your swim session, the center also offers shower facilities for $7.00 per person, making it a convenient option for camping families looking to clean up.

Take an Off-Road 4×4 Adventure Through Rugged Terrain

Nothing beats the thrill of bouncing over Moab’s legendary slickrock in a 4×4 vehicle, and you’ll find plenty of family-friendly tour operators ready to show you the ropes.

Companies like Moab Cowboy and Epic 4×4 Adventures offer guided tours specifically designed for families with kids, complete with safety briefings and equipment.

You can choose between guided experiences or rental options where you’ll drive yourself. Popular trails like Hell’s Revenge and Fins and Things provide challenging terrain without being too intense for younger passengers.

Most operators offer half-day tours, and some include snacks, water, and photos. These adventures typically range from 3.5 to 4 hours, giving families plenty of time to explore the red rock landscape without overwhelming younger adventurers. UTVs and custom 4×4 Jeeps handle the rugged landscape while keeping everyone safe and entertained throughout your desert adventure.

Soar Through the Landscape on a Zipline Adventure

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush that’ll give your kids bragging rights for years, Moab’s zipline adventures deliver spectacular thrills without breaking the bank. Companies like Raven’s Rim and Canyonlands by Night and Day offer guided tours with six ziplines ranging from mild to wild, perfect for families with children 15 and up.

Your 2.5-3 hour adventure includes:

Get set for off-road thrills, suspension bridge crossings, and professional photo ops during your epic zipline adventure.

• Off-road rides to reach breathtaking launching points
• Suspension bridge crossings between ziplines
• Professional guides capturing photos of your screaming (happy) faces

At $119 for kids and $159 for adults, you’ll get thorough safety briefings, top-quality equipment, and experienced supervision. The tours also emphasize family-friendly safety, ensuring a fun and secure experience for everyone involved.

Weather can affect tours, so book ahead and stay flexible. The stunning canyon views make this investment in family memories absolutely worth it. Ravens Rim stands out as particularly welcoming for first-time adventurers, creating a safe and regulated environment where nervous beginners can build confidence.

Visit the Interactive 5-D Aquarium

Adventure awaits beneath the waves at Moab Giants’ 5-D Prehistoric Aquarium, where your kids can enjoy an underwater world without getting wet.

This virtual “walking theater” combines education with thrills as you’ll encounter friendly sea turtles and massive Megalodons through impressive visual and sensory effects.

The experience works perfectly for all ages, letting families learn together about prehistoric marine life while having fun. Your admission covers multiple park attractions, making it budget-friendly entertainment.

You can also explore complementary exhibits like dinosaur tracks and dig sites.

Plan to arrive before 5 PM since the aquarium closes at 6 PM and stays closed Wednesdays. The venue offers life-size dinosaurs both on land and underwater for a truly immersive experience.

With photo opportunities and interactive features throughout, you’ll create lasting memories while sparking your children’s curiosity about natural history.

Hunt for Dinosaur Fossils at the Dino Dig Sand Pit

While your kids might dream of becoming real paleontologists, the Dinosaur Dig-It-Out Sites at Moab Giants give them the perfect chance to live out that fantasy.

These hands-on sand pits let children uncover recreated dinosaur fossils using authentic brushes and shovels, just like real scientists do in the field. The excavation areas feature partly-shaded sandbox sites that provide comfortable digging conditions throughout the day.

The experience offers genuine educational value as kids learn about fossilization processes and dinosaur discovery methods.

You’ll find:

• Various recreated bones and plates from different dinosaur species scattered throughout the dig sites
• Age-appropriate tools that make every child feel like a professional fossil hunter
• Interactive learning opportunities about prehistoric life and geological history

The Dino Dig sites accommodate kids of all ages, making this an inclusive family activity that combines entertainment with education while keeping your budget reasonable.

Hike to the Stunning Corona Arch

After letting your kids explore ancient history at ground level, it’s time to elevate your adventure with one of Moab’s most rewarding family hikes.

Ready to take your family adventure to new heights with an unforgettable Moab hiking experience that creates lasting memories.

The Corona Arch trail offers a perfect 3-mile round trip that won’t break your budget – it’s completely free with no permits required.

This moderate hike takes about 2 hours and includes exciting features like a chain section and ladder that’ll make your older kids feel like real adventurers.

You’ll discover three arches along the way, including the massive Corona Arch nicknamed “Little Rainbow Bridge.”

The trail’s dog-friendly and less crowded than Arches National Park alternatives. The hike features a 440 foot gain in elevation as you navigate through road and slickrock terrain, providing an excellent opportunity to enjoy geological formations unique to the area.

Just arrive early since the small parking lot fills quickly, bring plenty of water, and pack sun protection for those scorching summer days.

Enjoy Free Fun at Rotary Park Playground

When you need a budget-friendly break from Moab’s trails, Rotary Park Playground delivers hours of entertainment without costing a penny. This well-maintained park features two playground areas designed for different age groups, complete with slides, jungle gyms, and swings that’ll keep your kids engaged.

What makes this playground truly special:

• Musical wonderland – Over a dozen interactive instruments including drums, xylophones, and bells let kids create their own concerts
• Water play features – Frog and dragonfly sculptures spray invigorating water during hot desert days
• Shaded comfort – Mature trees provide cool relief while you watch from picnic areas with grills

The park’s location on Moab’s bike trail makes it easily accessible, and with hours from 6 AM to 10 PM, you can visit whenever fits your schedule. A creek trail runs alongside the park with two bridges to cross, offering additional exploration opportunities for adventurous families.

Play Disc Golf at Old City Park

For families with older kids who crave adventure beyond playground equipment, Old City Park’s disc golf course offers an exciting challenge against Moab’s stunning red rock backdrop.

This 5,670-foot course weaves through desert terrain with panoramic views of sandstone cliffs and mountain peaks. You’ll find concrete tee pads, DISCatcher targets, and excellent signage to direct your way.

The course features moderate elevation changes and varied terrain that’ll test everyone’s skills. Watch for rocky drop-offs, cacti, and thorny plants while maneuvering the single loop layout.

Navigate carefully through desert hazards like rocky drop-offs and thorny cacti while enjoying the course’s challenging elevation changes and terrain variety.

Pack plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen for desert conditions. Good shoes are essential for the rocky terrain.

With modest amenities but fantastic natural scenery, it’s an affordable family adventure that combines outdoor recreation with Moab’s breathtaking landscape. Located on Old City Park Road, the course is easily accessible from downtown Moab with convenient parking available at the gravel lot across from the park.

Discover Ancient Petroglyphs and Local History

While your kids might think history is boring in textbooks, Moab’s ancient petroglyphs will captivate them with real stories carved into red rock by indigenous peoples thousands of years ago.

Most petroglyph sites around Moab are completely free and require minimal hiking, making them perfect for families. You’ll find easy roadside viewing at Potash Road Petroglyphs just 13 minutes from downtown, or visit the famous Moab Man behind the golf course fence. The Fremont culture created distinctive artwork with triangular bodies and square heads alongside the Anasazi from around 600 AD to 1250 AD.

These ancient sites offer incredible imagery:

• Chains of mysterious human figures dancing across dark rock walls
• Detailed sheep and bear carvings telling prehistoric hunting stories
• Unique birthing scenes at Birthing Rock showing cultural traditions

Remember to stay on trails and never touch the petroglyphs—vandalism damages these irreplaceable cultural treasures that your children’s children deserve to experience.

Explore the Cave Spring Historical Trail

Though the Cave Spring Historical Trail requires a 1.5-hour drive south to Canyonlands’ Needles District, this short family adventure delivers genuine Old West history that’ll transport your kids back to cowboy days.

You’ll explore an authentic cowboy camp tucked under towering cliffs, complete with remnants from cattle ranching operations. The cowboy camp is reached after just 0.1 miles, making it easily accessible for families with young children.

The 0.6-mile loop takes just 30-60 minutes, perfect for younger hikers. Your family will discover ancient pictographs on canyon walls and a natural spring hidden within rock formations. The moderate trail offers manageable challenges without overwhelming small legs.

Budget $30 for the park entrance fee covering your entire vehicle. Plan visits during spring or fall for comfortable temperatures, and pack water since facilities are limited in this remote location.

Try Bouldering Adventures for Older Kids

When your kids have outgrown easier hiking trails and crave physical challenges, Moab’s world-class bouldering scene offers the perfect next adventure. This rock climbing style focuses on shorter routes without ropes, making it ideal for building confidence and skills.

Head to these prime spots with your crash pads and safety gear:

• Big Bend Bouldering Area – Scenic routes near the campground with stunning red rock backdrops
• Moab Canyon Pathway – Accessible bouldering along the pathway with varying difficulty levels
• Multiple skill options – Routes ranging from beginner-friendly to advanced challenges

You’ll need basic climbing gear and must supervise younger climbers closely. The Big Bend area provides a safe environment away from busy roads where kids can focus on climbing without traffic concerns.

The physical demands require older kids who can handle the challenge, but the teamwork, fitness benefits, and confidence-building make it worthwhile for active families.

Visit Lions Park for Outdoor Recreation

After all that climbing excitement, you’ll want a spot where the whole family can unwind and enjoy some easier outdoor fun.

Lions Park sits strategically just south of Arches National Park, making it the perfect pit stop during your Moab adventures. This 5-acre park won’t cost you a dime and offers everything families need for a relaxing break.

You’ll find ample parking, clean restrooms, and covered picnic shelters where you can enjoy lunch without breaking the budget.

The park serves as a trail hub connecting to paved paths perfect for little legs, plus it offers safe, non-motorized routes back into town. The paved trail follows along the Colorado River, providing scenic waterfront views that make for memorable family photos. Your kids can stretch their legs while you plan your next adventure, all while enjoying easy access from Highway 191.

Hike to the Beautiful Left Fork Falls

One of Moab’s best-kept secrets awaits just minutes from downtown – Left Fork Falls offers families the rare treat of a genuine waterfall hike without the typical desert drive.

Left Fork Falls delivers an unexpected waterfall adventure mere minutes from Moab’s center, skipping the usual lengthy desert expedition entirely.

This accessible trail follows lush Mill Creek through shaded canyon walls that’ll remind you of Zion’s famous Subway.

Your kids will love discovering:

• Ancient petroglyphs carved into canyon walls early on the trail
• Shallow rock pools perfect for splashing and cooling off
• A stunning 12-foot waterfall cascading into crystal-clear swimming holes

The short, non-technical hike works perfectly for little legs, though you’ll want to supervise children near the narrow ledges around the falls.

Arrive early during summer to beat crowds and heat. Pack water shoes for the creek crossings to keep everyone’s feet comfortable on the rocky streambed.

Best of all, this incredible adventure costs absolutely nothing but creates priceless family memories.

Marvel at the Towering Fisher Towers Rock Formations

Towering red sandstone spires rise nearly 900 feet from the desert floor at Fisher Towers, creating one of Utah’s most jaw-dropping geological spectacles that’ll leave your kids speechless.

Located northeast of Moab along Utah Scenic Byway 128, you’ll find these 225-million-year-old formations perfect for family exploration without breaking the bank. The area sits approximately 16 miles from Moab and offers stunning views of Castleton Tower visible in the distance.

Access requires a short 2.2-mile drive on graded dirt road near mile marker 21. The Bureau of Land Management provides free camping with vault toilets, fire grills, and picnic tables—though you’ll need to bring your own water.

Your family can enjoy easy hikes offering panoramic views of the Colorado River and Castle Rock. The maze-like landscape of fins, pinnacles, and spires provides an outdoor geology classroom where kids learn about ancient floodplains and desert ecology.

Spend an Evening Stargazing Under Dark Skies

When darkness falls over Moab’s desert landscape, you’ll discover some of the most spectacular stargazing opportunities in the world.

Three International Dark Sky Parks—Arches, Canyonlands, and Dead Horse Point—offer your family incredible views of the cosmos without breaking the bank.

The region’s minimal light pollution creates perfect conditions for spotting constellations, planets, and the Milky Way.

Popular viewing spots include:

• Balanced Rock Picnic Area with its dark sky experience
• The Windows section providing picturesque backdrops
• Panorama Point offering unobstructed celestial views

Many parks host free ranger-led stargazing programs and telescope viewing sessions.

Remember to dress warmly, bring binoculars, and allow time for your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Your eyes need 20-30 minutes to fully adapt to the dark conditions for optimal stargazing.

Download a star identification app to help kids learn constellations.

Stroll Through Downtown Moab’s Family-Friendly Shops

After exploring Moab’s natural wonders, you’ll find downtown’s historic Main Street offers the perfect way to unwind with your family while discovering local treasures.

The quaint, bustling atmosphere maintains an authentic hometown feel that’s perfect for leisurely strolling with kids.

Your children will love browsing Moab Rock Shop‘s fascinating collection of minerals and fossils, while Walker Drug & General Store offers toys and unique finds beyond typical pharmacy items.

Lema’s Kokopelli Gallery features handcrafted Native American jewelry and Southwestern decor that’ll captivate young imaginations.

For creative families, Moab Made showcases local art prints and modern pieces, while Tumbleweed displays pottery and recycled art. Back of Beyond Books provides a charming bookstore experience with its wide selection and notable display of Edward Abbey memorabilia.

With ample parking and dining options nearby, you can easily spend an evening exploring these locally-owned shops after your national park adventures.

Recap

You’ve got 19 incredible adventures waiting in Moab, and here’s the best part – more than half of them won’t cost you a dime! With 10 completely free activities like hiking to Balanced Rock and stargazing under some of America’s darkest skies, you can create unforgettable family memories without breaking the bank. Whether you’re splurging on dinosaur parks or sticking to free trails, Moab delivers adventure that’ll keep your kids talking for years.