The 25 Best Things to Do in Moab, UT

Picture this: You're standing atop a towering red rock formation, the setting sun painting the vast desert landscape in hues of orange and purple. Massive stone arches and deep canyons stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a scene so surreal it feels like you've landed on Mars. Welcome to Moab, Utah – a place where reality often feels like science fiction.

This red rock wonderland draws millions of visitors each year, all eager to snap that perfect Instagram shot. But let me tell you, Moab's appeal goes way beyond social media fodder. It's a playground for adventure junkies, a haven for nature lovers, and a time capsule of the Wild West all rolled into one dusty, sun-baked package.

Whether you're itching to conquer world-class mountain bike trails, raft down roaring rivers, or simply soak in the otherworldly scenery, Moab's got you covered. And don't worry if you're not an adrenaline junkie – there's plenty here for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and those who prefer their adventures with a side of air conditioning. So grab your sunscreen and sense of wonder – we're about to dive into the 25 best things to do in Moab. Trust me, by the end of this list, you'll be booking your ticket faster than you can say "red rock."

Hike to Delicate Arch in Arches National Park

Let's kick things off with Moab's crown jewel – the iconic Delicate Arch. This massive, freestanding arch is the poster child of Utah, gracing everything from license plates to travel brochures. But trust me, no picture does it justice. The 3-mile round-trip hike to reach it is no walk in the park (pun intended), but the payoff is worth every drop of sweat.

As you round that final bend and the arch comes into view, framing the La Sal Mountains in the distance, you'll feel like you've stepped into a painting. Pro tip: Time your hike for sunset. The way the fading light sets the red rocks ablaze is nothing short of magical. Just don't forget your headlamp for the trek back – stumbling around in the dark desert is not the kind of adventure you're after.

Key Information:

• Location: Arches National Park, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Open 24/7, but ranger-staffed hours vary seasonally
• Admission: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)

Why Visit: Witness Utah's most famous natural landmark up close and personal, with jaw-dropping views that'll make your Instagram followers green with envy.

Insider Tip: Start your hike early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds. The lighting for photos is better then, too!

Mountain Bike the Slickrock Trail

Calling all two-wheel enthusiasts! The Slickrock Trail is to mountain bikers what Pipeline is to surfers – a bucket-list experience that'll test your skills and possibly your nerves. This 10.5-mile loop takes you over petrified sand dunes and steep ledges, with views that'll make you want to stop and stare (just don't do it on the tricky bits).

Don't let the name fool you – "slickrock" is actually quite grippy, allowing your tires to cling to seemingly impossible angles. It's like riding on Velcro, if Velcro were made of sunbaked sandstone. Even if you're not a seasoned rider, the practice loop lets you get a taste of the terrain without committing to the full, quad-burning adventure.

Key Information:

• Location: Sand Flats Recreation Area, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: $5 per vehicle day-use fee

Why Visit: Experience one of the world's most famous mountain biking trails and push your riding skills to the limit.

Insider Tip: Rent a bike with extra-wide tires for better traction and control on the sandstone. Your legs (and rear end) will thank you.

Raft the Colorado River

Want to cool off after all that desert heat? How about a splash-tastic adventure down the mighty Colorado River? From mild to wild, Moab offers rafting trips to suit every thrill level. Float through calm sections, taking in the towering red cliffs and spotting wildlife, or brace yourself for adrenaline-pumping whitewater that'll have you whooping (and maybe accidentally swallowing river water).

For a truly unforgettable experience, sign up for a multi-day trip. There's nothing quite like falling asleep under the stars on a sandy riverbank, the sound of the rushing water your only lullaby. Just watch out for those sneaky sand-loving critters – they have a knack for finding their way into sleeping bags!

Key Information:

• Location: Various outfitters in downtown Moab
• Hours: Trips typically run from March to October
• Price: Varies by trip length and type, starting around $60 for half-day trips

Why Visit: Cool off, get your adrenaline fix, and see Moab's stunning landscape from a whole new perspective.

Insider Tip: Book a trip through Westwater Canyon for the perfect mix of scenery and excitement – it's less crowded than other sections and offers some serious rapids.

Explore Canyonlands National Park

If Arches is Moab's Hollywood starlet, Canyonlands is its rugged, mysterious cousin. This massive park is divided into three districts, each offering its own flavor of desert wonder. The Island in the Sky district is the most accessible, with panoramic vistas that'll make your jaw drop faster than you can say "look, Ma, no guardrail!"

For the truly adventurous, the Maze district lives up to its name with a labyrinth of remote canyons. It's not for the faint of heart (or the directionally challenged), but the solitude and raw beauty are unparalleled. And if you're up for a real Indiana Jones moment, seek out the Great Gallery in Horseshoe Canyon. These ancient rock art panels are like a prehistoric Sistine Chapel – minus the crowds and gift shop.

Key Information:

• Location: Canyonlands National Park, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Open 24/7, visitor center hours vary seasonally
• Admission: $30 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)

Why Visit: Experience the raw, untamed beauty of the Colorado Plateau without the crowds of more famous parks.

Insider Tip: Drive the White Rim Road for an epic 100-mile adventure through the heart of the park. Just be sure to get a permit first – this isn't your average Sunday drive!

Stargaze at Dead Horse Point State Park

Okay, let's slow things down a bit. After all that hiking, biking, and rafting, you deserve a moment of zen. Enter Dead Horse Point State Park, home to what might be the most dramatic viewpoint this side of the Grand Canyon. During the day, you can gaze out over the Colorado River 2,000 feet below, twisting and turning like a giant, muddy snake.

But the real magic happens after dark. This park is a certified International Dark Sky Park, which is a fancy way of saying the stargazing is out of this world (literally). On a clear night, the Milky Way stretches across the sky like a celestial highway, and you can spot planets, shooting stars, and maybe even a UFO or two (hey, this landscape is pretty alien-looking).

Key Information:

• Location: UT-313, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Admission: $20 per vehicle

Why Visit: Witness one of the most spectacular views in the Southwest and stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country.

Insider Tip: Bring a red-light headlamp to preserve your night vision. And maybe pack some hot chocolate – desert nights can get chilly!

Hike to Corona Arch

Looking for a taste of Arches National Park without the entrance fee or crowds? Say hello to Corona Arch, the unsung hero of Moab's arch scene. This massive 140-foot tall, 105-foot wide natural arch is just as impressive as its more famous cousins, but getting there feels like you're in on a local secret.

The 3-mile round trip hike is a fun little adventure in itself, with a bit of easy scrambling and even a section with safety cables. Don't worry, it's not as scary as it sounds – unless you have a crippling fear of mildly steep slopes. The arch is a perfect spot for a picnic, and if you're lucky, you might catch some daredevils slacklining between the arch's massive span. Just don't get any ideas – unless you enjoy the thought of a helicopter rescue and a stern talking-to from park rangers.

Key Information:

• Location: Potash Road (UT-279), about 10 miles southwest of Moab
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience a spectacular arch without the national park crowds, and enjoy a fun, mildly challenging hike.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning for the best light on the arch and to beat the heat. And keep an eye out for Bowtie Arch, Corona's smaller but equally charming neighbor.

Take a Scenic Drive on Potash Road

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Not all of Moab's adventures require breaking a sweat. Sometimes, the best way to take in the scenery is from the comfort of your air-conditioned car. Potash Road (also known as Scenic Byway 279) offers a 17-mile journey along the Colorado River that's packed with enough eye candy to satisfy even the most jaded traveler.

As you cruise along, keep your eyes peeled for ancient Native American rock art panels, towering red cliffs, and even dinosaur tracks. You might also spot some rock climbers doing their spider-man thing on the cliffs – feel free to stop and watch, but resist the urge to offer advice unless you want to see some world-class eye-rolling.

Key Information:

• Location: Start at the intersection of Potash Road (UT-279) and US-191, just north of Moab
• Hours: Best driven during daylight hours
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Enjoy stunning river and canyon views, see ancient rock art, and maybe spot some climbers in action, all without leaving your car.

Insider Tip: Stop at the Jug Handle Arch parking area for a short walk to a unique arch and some impressive rock art panels.

Visit Moab Giants Dinosaur Park

Let's face it – deep down, we're all still kids who think dinosaurs are the coolest things ever. At Moab Giants, you can indulge that inner child with life-sized dinosaur replicas set against the backdrop of Moab's red rocks. It's like "Jurassic Park," minus the whole "running for your life" part.

The outdoor trail features over 100 full-size dinosaur models, many of which once called this area home. Inside, you can check out a 3D theater, a fossil dig, and interactive exhibits that'll make you feel like a proper paleontologist. Just try not to get too attached to any particular dino – we all know how that story ends.

Key Information:

• Location: 112 W. SR-313, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Open daily, 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (seasonal hours may vary)
• Admission: $25 for adults, $15 for children (3-12)

Why Visit: Step back in time and come face-to-face with life-sized dinosaurs in a setting they once called home.

Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon when the lighting makes for great photos of the dinosaurs against the red rock backdrop.

Stand-Up Paddleboard on the Colorado River

Want to experience the Colorado River but not quite ready for whitewater rafting? Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) offers a peaceful way to explore the river's calmer sections. It's like walking on water, if walking involved occasionally falling in and pretending it was on purpose.

Glide past towering red cliffs, spot wildlife along the shores, and work on your core strength all at the same time. The best part? When the desert heat gets too intense, you can just "accidentally" fall in. Oops, how clumsy of you!

Key Information:

• Location: Various outfitters in Moab offer SUP rentals and tours
• Hours: Typically offered from spring through fall
• Price: Around $50-$80 for guided trips, less for rentals

Why Visit: Experience the Colorado River at a relaxed pace and get a unique perspective on Moab's stunning scenery.

Insider Tip: For a truly serene experience, book an early morning tour. The water is often glassy smooth, and you might have the river all to yourself (well, except for the fish and birds).

Explore Moab's Rock Art

Long before Moab was a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts, it was home to ancient Native American cultures who left their mark on the landscape – literally. Petroglyphs (images carved into rock) and pictographs (images painted on rock) can be found all over the area, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who called this harsh desert home thousands of years ago.

Some of the best sites include the Courthouse Wash Panel, the Golf Course Rock Art Site, and the Moonflower Canyon Petroglyphs. As you marvel at these ancient artworks, try to decipher their meanings. Is that a bighorn sheep? A hunting scene? An alien? (Probably not, but hey, those UFO enthusiasts have to get their ideas from somewhere.)

Key Information:

• Location: Various sites around Moab
• Hours: Accessible year-round, best viewed in daylight
• Admission: Most sites are free to visit

Why Visit: Connect with the area's ancient history and see some of the oldest art galleries in North America.

Insider Tip: Always practice "Leave No Trace" principles when visiting rock art sites. Take only photos, leave only footprints, and resist the urge to add your own "artistic contributions" – unless you fancy a hefty fine and the eternal shame of being "that guy."

Tackle the Moab Rim Trail

Ready to earn some serious bragging rights? The Moab Rim Trail is not for the faint of heart, but it offers some of the most spectacular views in the area – if you can stop panting long enough to enjoy them. This challenging trail can be hiked or biked, climbing steeply up the cliff face west of town.

As you ascend, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the La Sal Mountains, the Colorado River, and the town of Moab spread out below. The trail is technically an out-and-back, but trust me, you won't mind seeing those views twice. Just remember, what goes up must come down – and in this case, "down" involves some seriously steep sections. Keep those knees bent and those brake fingers ready!

Key Information:

• Location: Moab Rim Trailhead, Kane Creek Blvd, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Open year-round, best hiked in spring or fall
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Challenge yourself on one of Moab's toughest trails and be rewarded with unparalleled views of the area.

Insider Tip: If you're mountain biking, consider shuttling to the top and riding down – it's still a challenge, but you'll have more energy to enjoy the descent.

Soak in the La Sal Mountains

Think Moab is all desert? Think again! The La Sal Mountains offer a refreshing alpine escape just a short drive from town. These peaks, which you've probably been admiring from afar during your desert adventures, provide a cool retreat when the summer heat gets too intense.

Take a scenic drive up the La Sal Mountain Loop Road for stunning views, or lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. In fall, the aspens put on a golden show that rivals anything New England can offer. And in winter? You can even go skiing! Who says you can't have it all?

Key Information:

• Location: La Sal Mountains, about 20 miles southeast of Moab
• Hours: Accessible year-round, but some roads may close in winter
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience a completely different ecosystem just a stone's throw from Moab's desert landscape.

Insider Tip: Pack a picnic and head to Warner Lake for a scenic lunch spot. Just watch out for the local marmots – they're cute, but they have a knack for snack thievery.

Get Your Art Fix at Moab Museum

Need a break from all that outdoor adventuring? Give your legs a rest and feed your brain at the Moab Museum. This compact but engaging museum offers a deep dive into the area's natural and cultural history, from dinosaurs to the more recent (and equally extinct) uranium boom.

Check out ancient artifacts, learn about the area's geology, and gain a new appreciation for the hardy souls who carved out a living in this harsh landscape. The museum also features rotating exhibits showcasing local artists, proving that Moab's creative spirit is just as vibrant as its outdoor scene.

Key Information:

• Location: 118 E Center St, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Admission: $10 for adults, free for children under 12

Why Visit: Gain a deeper understanding of Moab's rich history and diverse ecosystems in an air-conditioned environment.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the exhibit on Charlie Steen, the "Uranium King" who put Moab on the map during the Cold War uranium rush. It's a wild tale that sounds more like a Hollywood script than real history.

Take a Scenic Flight Over Canyonlands

Want to see Moab's stunning landscape from a whole new perspective? How about from a few thousand feet up? A scenic flight over Canyonlands National Park offers views that'll make your jaw drop faster than you can say "fasten your seatbelt."

Soar over deep canyons, towering mesas, and winding rivers, getting a true sense of the vast, untamed wilderness that surrounds Moab. It's like Google Earth, but in real-time and without the wi-fi lag. Plus, you get to pretend you're in Top Gun for an hour or so (aviator sunglasses not included, but highly recommended).

Key Information:

• Location: Canyonlands Field Airport, 110 W Aviation Way, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Flights available daily, weather permitting
• Price: Varies by tour length, starting around $100 per person

Why Visit: Gain a bird's-eye view of Moab's incredible landscape and snap some truly epic photos.

Insider Tip: If you're prone to motion sickness, take some medication before the flight and request a morning tour when the air is typically calmer.

Climb a Desert Tower

Moab isn't just a playground for hikers and bikers – it's also a rock climber's paradise. And nothing says "I conquered Moab" quite like scaling one of the area's iconic desert towers. These freestanding spires of rock look like they shouldn't be climbable, which makes topping out all the more satisfying.

Popular towers like Ancient Art, Castleton Tower, and Fisher Towers offer everything from beginner-friendly routes to expert-level challenges. And the views from the top? Let's just say they make those sweaty palms and shaky legs totally worth it.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations around Moab
• Hours: Best climbed in spring or fall
• Price: Free to climb, but hiring a guide is recommended for beginners

Why Visit: Test your climbing skills on some of the most unique and photogenic rock formations in the world.

Insider Tip: If you're new to tower climbing, book a guide through a local outfitter. They'll provide gear, expertise, and most importantly, the confidence to get you to the top.

Explore Moab's Food Scene

All that adventuring is bound to work up an appetite, and Moab's food scene is ready to answer the call. From quick bites to fuel your next hike to gourmet dinners perfect for celebrating your desert conquests, this little town packs a surprising culinary punch.

For a true taste of Moab, try the Moab Brewery for craft beers and pub grub, Desert Bistro for upscale Southwest cuisine, or Moab Food Truck Park for a variety of quick and delicious options. And don't forget to sample some prickly pear margaritas – they're practically a local food group.

Key Information:

• Location: Various restaurants throughout Moab
• Hours: Vary by restaurant
• Price: From budget-friendly to splurge-worthy

Why Visit: Refuel and relax while sampling some of Moab's best local flavors.

Insider Tip: Many popular restaurants get packed during peak season. Make reservations when possible, or try eating a bit earlier or later to avoid the crowds.

Go Off-Roading on Hell's Revenge

Think your rental Jeep makes you a off-road warrior? Put your skills to the test on Hell's Revenge, one of Moab's most infamous 4x4 trails. This 6.5-mile route features steep climbs, daunting descents, and obstacles with names like "Devil's Backbone" and "Hell's Gate." Subtle, right?

As you navigate the slickrock terrain, you'll be treated to stunning views of the La Sal Mountains and the Colorado River. Just remember to look at the trail occasionally – those views are great, but not when you're tipping sideways into a ravine.

Key Information:

• Location: Sand Flats Recreation Area, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Open year-round, but best driven during daylight
• Admission: $5 per vehicle day-use fee for Sand Flats Recreation Area

Why Visit: Experience the thrill of true off-roading on one of Moab's most challenging and scenic 4x4 trails.

Insider Tip: Unless you're an experienced off-roader, consider booking a guided tour. The guides know the trail like the back of their hand and can help you navigate the trickiest sections.

Stroll Through Moab's Art Galleries

Moab isn't all rocks and adrenaline – it's got a softer, artsy side too. The town is home to a thriving community of artists inspired by the dramatic desert landscape. Take a break from the great outdoors and explore some great indoors at Moab's numerous art galleries.

From landscape photography that'll make you see the desert in a whole new light to unique sculptures crafted from local materials, Moab's art scene is as diverse as its terrain. Who knows? You might even find the perfect souvenir to remember your Moab adventure by – something a bit more sophisticated than that "I hiked Delicate Arch and all I got was this t-shirt" shirt.

Key Information:

• Location: Various galleries throughout downtown Moab
• Hours: Typically open daily, hours vary by gallery
• Admission: Free to browse

Why Visit: Experience Moab's creative side and maybe find a unique piece of art to take home.

Insider Tip: Time your visit for the second Saturday of the month to catch the Art Walk, when galleries stay open late and often offer refreshments.

Discover Ancient History at Edge of the Cedars State Park

Ready for a little time travel? Edge of the Cedars State Park takes you back to the days when the Ancestral Puebloans (also known as the Anasazi) called this area home. Located about an hour south of Moab in Blanding, this park features a beautifully preserved Puebloan village and an impressive museum of Native American artifacts.

Climb down into a kiva (a ceremonial underground chamber), marvel at intricate pottery and rock art, and try to imagine life in this harsh landscape 1,000 years ago. It's like a real-life version of "Survivor: Ancestral Pueblo Edition," minus the cheesy challenges and dramatic tribal councils.

Key Information:

• Location: 660 W 400 N, Blanding, UT 84511
• Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Sunday
• Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for children (ages 6-12)

Why Visit: Explore well-preserved Ancestral Puebloan ruins and learn about the rich cultural history of the area.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the museum's collection of Ancestral Puebloan pottery – it's one of the largest and most comprehensive in the Southwest.

Take a Dip in Mill Creek

When the desert heat starts to get to you, do as the locals do and head to Mill Creek. This oasis just outside of town offers a refreshing escape with its series of pools and waterfalls. It's like nature's own water park, minus the overpriced snacks and questionable hygiene standards.

A short hike leads you to the main swimming hole, complete with a small waterfall that's perfect for cooling off. Brave souls can even try their hand at cliff jumping (at your own risk, of course). Just remember, desert streams can flood quickly during rainstorms, so keep an eye on the weather.

Key Information:

• Location: Mill Creek Parkway, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Open year-round, best visited in summer
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Cool off in a beautiful natural setting and experience a different side of Moab's water-carved landscape.

Insider Tip: Wear shoes you don't mind getting wet – the rocks can be slippery, and the hike involves some stream crossings.

Attend the Moab Folk Festival

If you thought Moab was all about the great outdoors, think again. Every November, the town trades in its hiking boots for dancing shoes at the Moab Folk Festival. This three-day event brings together folk, Americana, and acoustic artists from around the country for a weekend of toe-tapping tunes.

Concerts are held at various venues around town, including outdoor stages with those famous red rock backdrops. Between sets, you can attend workshops, jam sessions, or just mingle with fellow music lovers. It's like Woodstock, but with better scenery and fewer mud fights.

Key Information:

• Location: Various venues throughout Moab
• Dates: First weekend in November
• Price: Varies by ticket type, from single-show tickets to full festival passes

Why Visit: Experience Moab's vibrant music scene and enjoy world-class folk music in a stunning setting.

Insider Tip: Book your accommodations well in advance – the festival draws crowds from all over, and Moab's limited lodging fills up fast.

Explore Castle Valley

Just when you think you've seen all the scenic wonders Moab has to offer, along comes Castle Valley. This quiet, less-visited area about 20 miles northeast of Moab offers some of the most dramatic and photogenic landscapes in the region. It's like someone took all the best parts of the Southwest and condensed them into one impossibly beautiful valley.

Drive the scenic loop to gawk at towering sandstone formations like Castleton Tower and the Priest and Nuns. If you're feeling adventurous, there are plenty of hiking and rock climbing opportunities. Or simply find a quiet spot to watch the sunset paint the rocks in shades of red and gold. Just try not to let your jaw hit the ground too hard – the dust can be a pain to wash out.

Key Information:

• Location: Castle Valley, about 20 miles northeast of Moab
• Hours: Accessible year-round
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience some of the most stunning and lesser-known scenery in the Moab area.

Insider Tip: For a truly unforgettable experience, book a night at one of the bed and breakfasts in Castle Valley. Waking up to those views? Priceless.

Visit Dead Horse Point State Park

Legend has it that cowboys once used the narrow neck of this mesa as a natural corral for wild mustangs, some of which died of thirst within sight of the Colorado River 2,000 feet below. Cheerful stuff, right? But don't let the grim name fool you – Dead Horse Point State Park is home to some of the most breathtaking views in the Southwest.

The overlook at Dead Horse Point offers a panoramic vista of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park that will make your heart skip a beat. It's like the Grand Canyon decided to take a vacation in Moab. Hike the rim trails, marvel at the bizarrely eroded landscape, and try to wrap your head around the millions of years of geology laid bare before you.

Key Information:

• Location: UT-313, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Admission: $20 per vehicle

Why Visit: Experience one of the most dramatic overlooks in the Southwest and enjoy stunning views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands.

Insider Tip: Visit at sunset for the most dramatic lighting, but bring a jacket – it can get chilly once the sun dips below the horizon.

Bike the Intrepid Trail System

Not all of Moab's bike trails require nerves of steel and thighs of iron. The Intrepid Trail System in Dead Horse Point State Park offers a more beginner-friendly introduction to desert mountain biking, with stunning views to boot. It's like the bunny slope of Moab biking, but with scenery that'll make you forget you're a newbie.

With over 16 miles of trails ranging from easy to moderate, there's something for everyone. Cruise along the cliff edges (don't worry, not too close) for panoramic views of the Colorado River and Canyonlands National Park. Just try to keep your eyes on the trail occasionally – face-planting into a cactus is not the souvenir you want to take home.

Key Information:

• Location: Dead Horse Point State Park, UT-313, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Sunrise to sunset
• Admission: $20 per vehicle (included in park entrance fee)

Why Visit: Experience the thrill of desert mountain biking on beginner-friendly trails with world-class views.

Insider Tip: Rent a bike in Moab before heading to the park – there's no rental facility at Dead Horse Point. And don't forget to pack plenty of water!

Tour Moab's Wineries

Bet you didn't expect to find vineyards in the desert, did you? Surprise! Moab's high desert climate and sandy soils actually produce some unique and tasty wines. Taking a break from outdoor adventures to sip some local vino is a great way to, um, rehydrate. Yeah, let's go with that.

Castle Creek Winery, located along the Colorado River, offers tours and tastings with a side of spectacular scenery. Spanish Valley Vineyards & Winery, just south of Moab, produces small-batch wines you won't find anywhere else. Who knows? You might discover your new favorite summer sipper – desert sage wine, anyone?

Key Information:

• Location: Various wineries in and around Moab
• Hours: Vary by winery, typically open daily
• Price: Tastings usually range from $5-$10

Why Visit: Sample unique desert wines and see a different side of Moab's agricultural scene.

Insider Tip: Try the late harvest wines – the desert climate produces some interestingly intense flavors in these sweet varieties.

Attend a Moab Cowboys Open Range Event

Yeehaw! Channel your inner cowboy (or cowgirl) at a Moab Cowboys Open Range event. Held at the Old Spanish Trail Arena, these events showcase traditional Western skills like barrel racing, team roping, and bull riding. It's like stepping into a real-life Western, minus the cheesy dialogue and improbable shootouts.

Even if you don't know a lasso from a latte, these events are a blast to watch. The skill, the danger, the dust flying – it's all part of the show. Plus, you get to wear a cowboy hat without looking like a tourist. Well, less like a tourist, anyway.

Key Information:

• Location: Old Spanish Trail Arena, 3641 S. Highway 191, Moab, UT 84532
• Dates: Check the arena's calendar for upcoming events
• Price: Varies by event

Why Visit: Experience authentic Western culture and see some impressive rodeo skills in action.

Insider Tip: Bring a bandana to cover your nose and mouth – it'll protect you from dust and make you look like a proper outlaw.

Explore Monument Valley

Okay, so this one's a bit of a cheat – Monument Valley is actually about a 2.5-hour drive from Moab. But hear me out: if you've come all this way to see the iconic landscapes of the American Southwest, you can't miss Monument Valley. It's like the grand finale of your red rock adventure.

This Navajo Tribal Park is home to some of the most recognizable buttes and mesas in the world. You've seen them in countless Western movies and car commercials. Now's your chance to see them in person and realize that, yep, they're even more impressive in real life. Take a guided tour to learn about Navajo culture and history, or simply drive the loop road and let your jaw drop at every turn.

Key Information:

• Location: Monument Valley, UT 84536 (about 150 miles south of Moab)
• Hours: May-Sep: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Oct-Apr: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Admission: $20 per vehicle (up to four people)

Why Visit: See one of the most iconic landscapes in the American West and learn about Navajo culture.

Insider Tip: If you can, stay for sunset. The way the fading light plays on the towering rock formations is nothing short of magical.

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Want to take your Moab experience to new heights? How about floating gently over the red rock landscape in a hot air balloon? It's like a scenic flight, but with more wind in your hair and a slightly higher chance of saying "Oh my god, we're so high up" every five minutes.

As you drift over Moab's canyons and mesas, you'll get a whole new perspective on the landscape. Watch the early morning light paint the rocks in shades of orange and gold, spot wildlife from above, and pretend you're in a really slow, really high-stakes version of "Up."

Key Information:

• Location: Flights typically depart from various locations near Moab
• Hours: Early morning flights, usually starting around sunrise
• Price: Around $300 per person

Why Visit: Experience Moab's stunning landscape from a unique aerial perspective.

Insider Tip: Dress in layers – it can be chilly at first, but it warms up quickly once the sun rises. And maybe skip that extra cup of coffee before the flight – bathroom breaks are, uh, challenging up there.

Visit the Movie & Rock and Roll Museum

Moab isn't just a playground for outdoor enthusiasts – it's also been a backdrop for countless movies, from old Westerns to sci-fi blockbusters. The Movie & Rock and Roll Museum offers a quirky look at Moab's Hollywood connections and its place in rock and roll history.

Check out props and memorabilia from films shot in the area, including "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" and "Thelma & Louise." The rock and roll section showcases vintage instruments and pays homage to the many musicians who've been inspired by Moab's landscapes. It's a fun, offbeat stop that'll give you a new appreciation for Moab's cultural impact.

Key Information:

• Location: 53 N Main St, Moab, UT 84532
• Hours: Vary seasonally, typically open daily
• Admission: Donations suggested

Why Visit: Discover Moab's surprising connections to Hollywood and the music world.

Insider Tip: Ask the staff about local movie locations – you might be inspired to recreate some famous scenes during your visit. Just leave the car-driving-off-a-cliff bit to the professionals, okay?

Attend the Moab Arts Festival

If you happen to be in Moab over Memorial Day weekend, you're in for a treat. The Moab Arts Festival transforms Swanny City Park into a vibrant celebration of creativity, featuring over 100 artists from around the country. It's like your Instagram feed come to life, but with the added bonus of being able to take home your favorite pieces.

Browse booths showcasing everything from paintings and photography to jewelry and ceramics, all inspired by the unique beauty of the Southwest. Live music, food vendors, and beer and wine gardens round out the experience. Who knows? You might find the perfect artistic memento of your Moab adventure – something a bit more sophisticated than a "I hiked Delicate Arch and all I got was this lousy t-shirt" shirt.

Key Information:

• Location: Swanny City Park, 400 N 100 W, Moab, UT 84532
• Dates: Memorial Day weekend (Saturday and Sunday)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: Experience Moab's vibrant arts scene and potentially take home a unique piece of Southwestern art.

Insider Tip: Come early for the best selection, but stick around for the afternoon when some artists offer discounts to avoid packing up unsold items.

Structuring Your Moab Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

So, you've got three days to experience the best of Moab? Challenge accepted! While you could easily spend weeks exploring this red rock wonderland, here's a action-packed itinerary that'll give you a taste of Moab's greatest hits.

Day 1: National Park Adventures

• Start early with sunrise at Delicate Arch in Arches National Park. Trust me, the early wake-up call is worth it.
• Spend the morning exploring other highlights of Arches, like the Windows Section and Devil's Garden.
• Grab lunch in Moab – try Moab Brewery for some local flavor.
• Dedicate the afternoon to Canyonlands National Park, focusing on the Island in the Sky district.
• End your day with sunset at Dead Horse Point State Park.

Day 2: Adventure Day

• Start with a morning mountain bike ride on the Intrepid Trail System at Dead Horse Point State Park.
• Head back to Moab for lunch – Desert Bistro offers a great midday break.
• Spend the afternoon rafting on the Colorado River.
• Cool off with a dip in Mill Creek.
• End your day with stargazing at Arches National Park.

Day 3: Off the Beaten Path

• Begin with a scenic drive along Potash Road, stopping to see dinosaur tracks and rock art.
• Hike to Corona Arch for a taste of Moab's arches without the national park crowds.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch with a view.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the shops and galleries in downtown Moab.
• Cap off your trip with a sunset hot air balloon ride for a bird's-eye view of the landscape.

Remember, this is just a starting point – feel free to mix and match activities based on your interests and energy levels. And don't forget to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take plenty of photos. After all, you'll want proof when you try to convince your friends that yes, places this beautiful really do exist!

There you have it, folks – 25 of the best things to do in Moab, plus a bonus itinerary to help you make the most of your trip. From towering arches and deep canyons to thrilling adventures and quirky cultural experiences, Moab truly has something for everyone. So pack your sense of wonder (and maybe some extra sunscreen) and get ready to explore one of the most unique and beautiful places in the American West. Just don't blame me if you end up extending your trip... or plotting your permanent move to red rock country!