Best Places to Stay Near Zion & Bryce: Amazing Adventures

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Southern Utah, USA is a wonderful place to visit. A place to take in National Parks, historic sites, scenic viewpoints and immerse yourself in this fragile and beautiful landscape. We’ve put together our top picks for the best places to stay near Zion and Bryce for an amazing (and comfortable) adventure. To help you choose accommodations that suit your travel style and budget.

When planning a trip it can be hard to know where to find the best places to stay, without wasting hours scrolling through questionable reviews.

Which is why we’ve separated out our top picks by destination, including hotels, cabins, and resorts, for different budgets. There are great options for families, couples, and aventurers of all ages.

Where to stay near Bryce Canyon (our top pick is this Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel, minutes from the park).

Then where to stay near Zion National Park (Staying at this Cable Mountain Lodge is a fabulous choice).

We’ve included options for inside the parks as well.

Explore our resources to learn how you can maximize your Utah experience.

TOP PICKS: WHERE TO STAY NEAR ZION & BRYCE

Short on time? Here are our top picks for the best places to stay near Bryce and Zion.

Where to Stay When Visiting Zion and Bryce

Where to stay when visiting Zion and Bryce, really depends on your vacation goals, the amount time you have to spend in each park, and route you plan on taking for your Utah road trip.

There are three main options:

• Stay near or right in one of the parks for a night or two, then travel and stay near the next park – Recommended option to make the most of your visit, if you have more time. This is what will focus on in this post.

• Stay near either Bryce or Zion, and take a day trip to the other park – Great option if you are short on time.

• Stay in one of the quaint towns in between Bryce and Zion – If you like to avoid the crowds, and are looking for cheaper places to stay, this is a fantastic option. Last minute planners may also have more success looking for accommodations a little further from the parks. Read our full list of top picks for where to stay between Zion and Bryce here.

Driving from Zion National Park to Bryce Canyon National Park takes roughly 2 hours and is around 85 miles. While you could potentially do both parks in one day, we highly recommend planning at least a day or two in each park. More if you can swing it, as there is so much to see and do. Especially of you and your family loves the outdoors.

Route

Many people start in Las Vegas.

As it’s cheap to fly into, and generally cheaper to rent cars in Las Vegas.

Then take a road trip through Zion, Bryce and even the Grand Canyon. If starting in Zion, the most direct route has you starting at Springdale on route UT 9, heading northeast to US 89 at Mt Carmel Junction, turning right on UT 12-E and finally leading to a traffic circle, and UT 63-S to Bryce Canyon.

If starting at Bryce Canyon National Park, you would just do the reverse.

Below we’ve highlighted our top picks for where to stay near Bryce and Zion, broken out by each National Park. You’ll find everything from glamping, and hotels, to resorts and lodges. Plus places to stay in Bryce Canyon and Zion themselves.

WHERE TO STAY NEAR BRYCE CANYON

Utah is a fabulous place to take a road trip. Luckily Bryce and Zion are close together, so it would be a shame to miss out on seeing both if you are in the area.

Our list of best places to stay near Zion and Bryce includes our top picks of places to stay near Bryce Canyon. As well asinfo on the towns & lodgings near Bryce, that are great for families, couples and adventurers of all ages.

If you’re short on time, take a look at our top 3 quick list.

Quick Guide: Top 3 best places to stay near Bryce Canyon:

• ⭐️ TOP PICK: Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand (Close to park + pool & free breakfast)
• Cozy Inn B&B – Bulberry Inn Bed & Breakfast in Tropic, UT (away from crowds + home cooked free breakfast & farm animals for the kids)
• Pet Friendly Lodge – Entrada Escalante Lodge in Escalante, UT (extra special touches, pets welcome + mountain views)

What Town Is Closest to Bryce Canyon?

Bryce Canyon City is the closest town to Bryce Canyon, and just minutes from the park’s entrance. This scenic small town is super convenient, as a shuttle runs multiple times a day to the park’s main entrance.

It may be small, but mighty, and has everything you’ll need for your stay; a small grocery store, hotels, and restaurants.

Other options within a 20 to 30 minute drive include Tropic, Cannonville, Hatch and Panguitch.

Escalante is about an hour away and the perfect place to stay near Bryce, if you are also planning on visiting Capitol Reef National Park.

BEST PLACES TO STAY NEAR BRYCE CANYON

Looking for places to stay near Bryce? The closest options are in Bryce Canyon City right outside the park, or Tropic & Escalante, Utah, just a short drive away.

Bryce Canyon City

In town and close by, you’ll find 2 and 3 star hotel & lodge options, Ruby’s Campground and some private cabins, or vacation homes for rent. Many of these places are comfortable but not fancy. Bryce Canyon City doesn’t really have luxury accommodation options.

As mentioned earlier, Bryce Canyon City is the cute town closest to the park, with all the amenities you’ll need, and easy access to all the sites, hiking and gorgeous viewpoints.

Where to eat: Bryce Canyon Coffee Co, Stone Hearth Grill (make reservations), IDK Barbecue, Rustler’s Restaurant

What to explore: Bryce Canyon, Ebenezer Bryce Cabin (popular historic site), Mossy Cave & Waterfall

Check out our recommendations for the best places to stay in Bryce Canyon City below 

Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel

Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel is one of the nicer hotels in the area, and should be top of your list of where to stay Bryce Canyon. Not to be confused with the similarly named Best Western Plus – Ruby’s Inn across the street.

With suites available fitting 4-6 people, it’s a great option for families or small groups. Just note that cots and extra beds are not available, so be aware of beds / space when booking your rooms.

⭐️ Perfect location, great value! The location, if visiting Bryce Canyon, is absolutely perfect. Really nice breakfast buffet in the morning to get fueled up for a long hike. Really cozy, friendly feel.

– LIZ ⭐️ Best Western Grande Reviews

Families love their spacious suites, free breakfast and pool to play in.

Here is what people love about Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel and why you should book:

• Minutes from the park & shuttle stops
• Delicious free hot buffet breakfast
• Seasonal outdoor pool to cool off & relax in after a day of hiking
• Free WIFI & parking & fitness centre
• Onsite laundry & air conditioning in each room

TIPS:

• Grab quarters for the laundry machines at the front desk
• Families like this location & their spacious rooms, rating it 9.5/10 for stays with kids

Best Western Plus Ruby’s

Best Western Plus Ruby’s is definitely the more budget friendly option of the two Best Western’s, but you do get what you pay for.

This cowboy themed rustic lodge is not quite as nice or up to date as the Best Western Grand across the street.

Still a great hotel for the more budget conscious travellers, who want all the amenities, and just a clean comfortable place to lay their head at night.

⭐️ “Excellent hotel! Staff were super friendly, helpful and welcoming. Location is perfect as it’s a short 10 minute drive to Bryce Canyon. The breakfast was great and exceded my expectations. Many options to choose from. I would definitely stay here again because of the location and breakfast. It had good amenities as well!”

– RAPHAEL ⭐️ Best Western Plus Ruby’s reviews

Ruby’s offers suites that sleep 4 to 6 people, perfect for families or small groups. Cots and extra beds are not available, so be aware of number of beds when booking your rooms.

Famillies love having the extra space in family rooms, the free breakfast with many kid friendly choices and the two pools.

Here is what people love about Best Western Plus Ruby’s and why you should book:

• Budget friendly, air conditioned accommodations are an excellent value.
• Fantastic location minutes to the park, sites, restaurants
• Free buffet style breakfast & onsite restaurant with good food options
• 2 swimming pools – seasonal outdoor pool & year round indoor pool & jacuzzi great for relaxing after a long day
• Pets allowed on request, may be additional charge

TIPS:

• Hit up the breakfast early, as line ups can be long during the busy seasons.
• Families like this location, they rated it 9.3/10 for a stay with kids

Where to Stay In Bryce Canyon National Park

There are limited options when choosing where to stay when visiting Bryce Canyon, if you want to stay inside the park itself. You will be looking at either at the Lodge at Bryce Canyon or camping:

• The Lodge at Bryce Canyon – Rustic historic building and motel just minutes walk to the Bryce Amphitheater and all the most famous sites of the park. Their 114 rooms including motel rooms, suites and cabins. Unplug and get away from it all, surrounded by magnificent views. Book well in advance.

• Camping – Available in Bryce Canyon National Park at either the North Campground or the Sunset Campgrounds. They both have about 100 forested sites each, with no RV hookups for electrical, sewer or water.
  • North Campground sits closer to the Rim Trail, the Visitors Center, General Store, and Fairyland Loop/Rim Trail. There are four loops, 2 each for RVs and tenters.
  • Sunset Campgrounds is located near Sunset Point with a shuttle stop at its entrance. There are 3 loops, one for RVs and two for tenters.

Tropic, Utah Places to Stay

Tropic, UT is a cute, small town with more affordable places to stay. Plus only a 20 minute drive east from Bryce. Home to only about 600 residents, it still has enough accommodations, restaurants and small stores to grab what you need.

Where to eat: Bryce Canyon Coffee Co, Stone Hearth Grill (make reservations), IDK Barbecue, Rustler’s Restaurant

What to explore: Bryce Canyon, Ebenezer Bryce Cabin (popular historic site), Mossy Cave & Waterfall

Check out our recommendations for the  best places to stay in Tropic, UT below.

Bulberry Inn Bed & Breakfast

Bulberry Inn B&B is another gem, well-known for its family-friendly environment and proximity to great restaurants and local sites.

We recommend a stay here for that home away from home feeling, affordable price, and full bellies, after a peaceful and restful nights sleep. The family room will sleep up to 4 people.

It’s a working farm, so the kids (and the young at heart) will love a chance to visit with the farm animals onsite.

⭐️ “Exceptional. A family owned Inn. Amazing location. The kids had fun running around and playing with the animals in the farm. The owners are nice and welcoming.”

– SHIRA ⭐️ Bulberry Inn review

The Inn is only a short 11 miles away to the entrance to Bryce Canyon. As well as close to many popular local sites; Escalante State Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Dixie National Forest, among others.

Here is what people love about Bulberry Inn B&B and why you should book:

• Excellent hosts who make a delicious home cooked breakfast (free)
• Quiet – the perfect getaway from the crowds of Bryce Canyon City
• Free WIFI, parking & air conditioning in each room

TIPS:

• Visit the farm animals onsite – highlight for the kids
• Families like the location and rate it 9.7 / 10 for a stay with kids.

Escalante, Utah

Escalante is a gorgeous city, about an hour drive away (49 miles) from Bryce Canyon National Park and 90 minute drive (68 miles) from Capitol Reef National Park. If you are planning a visit to more than just Bryce and Zion, staying in Escalante, UT may be just the ticket.

Where to eat: Check out the french fries at Circle D and the sandwiches & pizza at Escalante Outfitters.

What to explore: Escalante Petrified Forest State Park, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef National Park, Escalante Grand Staircase

Quick Guide: Where to stay in Escalante, Utah:

• ⭐️ TOP PICK – Entrada Escalante Lodge – Pet friendly, cozy lodge that give you those special touches (locally roasted coffee in room, free snacks, first aid kit and pet supplies). See more info below.
• Most Unique – Escalante Yurts – Experience luxurious, and roomy yurt living. With warm, inviting hosts and all the amenities you’ll need and more. Delicious homemade breakfasts, fluffy towels, and comfortable beds for a good nights sleep.

Read on for more info about why we chose the Entrada Lodge as the best place to stay in Escalanate, UT.

Entrada Escalante Lodge

Gorgeous Entrada Escalante Lodge is a hidden gem, located in the heart of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in southern Utah. 

With only 8 rooms, you won’t be in a crowded hotel. Suites have basic kitchen facilities, and can fit up to 4-6 people. Plus cots are available for kids on request. Making the lodge a great place to stay with kids.

⭐️ What a great place to stay. The rooms are incredible; large, newer, very comfortable with AC a fridge. A lot of little well thought out things like great snacks, great local coffee, free laundry, lots of shampoo/ soap, even a pack of bandaids. The town itself is pretty cool too. If you’re heading out to Bryce, I would highly recommend staying here. I give it a 10+++ out of 10.

– TIM & DIANE ⭐️ Entrada Escalante Lodge

For pet owners, we recommend the Entrada Escalante Lodge for those special pet friendly touches (treats, food dishes and dog blankets). Plus welcoming tips on some more seasonal and dog friendly adventures in the area.

Here is what people love about Entrada Escalante Lodge and why you should book:

• Special touches like fresh ground, locally roasted coffee in room, free snacks, first aid kit and pet supplies.
• Relax under the covered porch with fantastic Mountain Views with your morning coffee
• Free WIFI, parking and laundry on-site.
• Friendly, knowledgeable and attentive hosts. Can help make recommendations for guides & activities

⭐️ “Wonderful small touches add to a beautiful stay, in a unique and amazing part of the southwest. The owners were supremely accommodating; pet friendly touches such as treats, food dishes and dog blankets, tips on some more seasonal and dog friendly adventures. Big comfy bed to wake up in, great pour over coffee to start the day. A quiet, relaxing retreat for my wife, our two dogs and myself. “

– DAVIS ⭐️ Entrada Escalante Lodge review

TIPS:

• Some rooms pet friendly (extra cost)
• Provide pet friendly touches such as treats, food dishes and dog blankets
• Request unscented products be used if sensitive

Where to Stay Near Bryce and Zion

WHERE TO STAY ZION

Which Town is Closest to Zion National Park

Springdale, Utah is the closest town and gateway to Zion National Park.

As the third most visited US National Park, accommodations are at a premium, and you should book well in advance to get the spot you want.

Home to spectacular red rock landscape, tall canyons and the winding Virgin River, it’s easy to see why people come here for epic adventures. It’s also the best town to stay in near Zion National Park.

Where to stay Zion? We’ve highlighted our recommended lodges, hotels & unique places to stay in and near Zion for fun adventures.

Where to Stay in Zion National Park

Zion Lodge – In The Park

Zion Lodge – In the Park  is the only place to stay (besides camping) in the park itself. These more rustic accommodations give you prime park access right out your front door, and night skies perfect for stargazing.

Get a head start on the crowds, by staying right in the middle of these epic rust orange vistas & hiking trails waiting for your adventures.

⭐️ “This was a great old school National Park lodge. Was better than expected. Food was well priced and surprisingly good. The staff was very nice. The patio with rocking chairs was nice in the rooms. Views incredible!”

– RHODA ⭐️ Zion Lodge – In Park reviews

Here is what people love about the Zion Lodge – In Park and why you should book:

• Location, Location, Location!!! Right in middle of all the action
• Unpretentious cabin-style lodge where nature is the star
• Beautiful village green area, with a huge, beautiful tree to picnic under
• On site Red Rock Grill, serves a yummy breakfast, lunch, and dinner

TIPS:

• There is limited cell and internet access in the park, and the lodge in general. The reception area is your best bet.
• Bring your own water, drinks etc. for your room as they don’t sell that in their gift store onsite
• Cribs and rollaway beds available for extra fee

Fun & Unique Places to Stay Near Zion National Park

There are many more options for places to stay near Zion National Park than Bryce Canyon.

Here you will find glamping tents nestled amongst the sage brush, Mountain Lodges adjacent to the park, and awe inspiring views from quaint cabins.

Where to eat: In Springdale – Oscar’s Cafe, Spotted Dog & the Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon

What to explore: Canyoning & Rapelling, UTV Tours & sandboarding, Zion National Park, sunsets over Kolob Canyon, David J West Gallery, road trip to Antelope Canyon

Short on time? Check out our quick guide to our top recommendations for lodgings near Zion.

QUICK GUIDE: Where to stay near Zion National Park, Utah:

• ⭐️ TOP PICK – Cable Mountain Lodge
• Most Unique (Glamping & Covered Wagons) – Zion Wildflower Resort
• Budget Friendly Inn – Bumbleberry Inn
• Affordable & Traveller’s Favorite Chain Hotel – Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites

Read on for all of our top Zion lodging recommendations, and key reasons why you should book a each place.

Cable Mountain Lodge – Best Place to Stay Near Zion

Stay at this gorgeous Cable Mountain Lodge, our top pick for places to stay near Zion. For fabulous canyon views, prime location and spacious suites with kitchenettes for cooking.

This gem is just a few minutes walk from the Zion Canyon entrance. You can skip parking, and the Springdale Shuttle, and get an early start to your days activities right from the entrance.

⭐️”Outstanding place 10/10! Located right at the Zion gate with free transportation into the park. The room was extremely nice, the view from our patio was stellar, and the brewpub/coffee shop/market/other stores/spa on the grounds are incredible. You cannot beat this place. This is hands down the best stay for Zion. We will be back.

– Jonathan ⭐️ Cable Mountain Lodge Review

Visitors and families love the seasonal outdoor pool, and hot tub. Ideal for soaking away those aches after a long day hiking. The pool, and picnic area by the river are a favorite with kids.

Virgin River runs through the property, and a picnic area with tables are available for some leisurely lunches.

Here is what people love about the Cable Mountain Lodge and why you should book:

• Location! Minutes walk to Zion’s entrance, so you can skip parking and head right to the Zion Shuttle
• Roomy suites, some with kitchenettes.
• Restaurant, small coffee shop & store onsite to grab what you need for the day
• Free parking & WIFI
• Seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub, plus year round spa to treat yourself after a long day exploring

TIPS:

• Breakfast is not included. You can grab some food at the coffee shop & market (& a pub) close by
• Families particularly like this location, they rate it 9.9 / 10 for a stay with kids.

Zion Wildflower Resort – Zion Glamping & Unique Place to Stay

Set amongst the sage brush, copper orange tableaus and open skies, the Zion Wildflower Resort is an experience not to be missed.

You’ll want to stay here for a really unique Zion glamping experience.

Accommodations run from spacious, fully outfitted glamping tents, complete with charging ports, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a private deck surrounded by magical fairy lights.

To chic cabins and bungalows with their own bathrooms, comfortable beds. All in admist a beautiful setting with absolutely breathtaking views.

⭐️ “Amazing location, really peaceful and quiet. Our kids 2 and 4 absolutely loved it. The fire and s’mores at night were fun, really enjoyed everything about this place.”

– EMMA ⭐️ Zion Wildflower Resort review

For extra fun sleep in their covered wagons. Just note, that the wagons and tents use two shared bathrooms / shower buildings, in case that’s a deal breaker.

Each accommodation can sleep up to 4 people comfortably. Cots are available for 2 and under, on request.

Here is what people love about the Zion Wildflower Resort and why you should book:

• Unique glamping experiences (covered wagons, glamping tents, chic cabins & bungalows)
• Comfortable heated bedding (for cool weather) & AC for hot weather
• BBQ for cooking, complimentary bags of ice & s’mores kit, free bike rentals
•  Families like the large community spaces, games for kids & large covered area for shade
• Small pets allowed, extra charges may apply

⭐️ “Incredible resort with jaw dropping views. We absolutely loved this resort. We were in a bungalow on the outside edge facing the farm and the mountains. Made for great sunsets on the front porch. The resort is very peaceful at night. So perfect for couples. I’m so excited to come back here again and would recommend it 10/10!”

– NIKKI ⭐️ Zion Wildflower Resort review

TIPS:

• They’re adding a pool & jacuzzi!
• Zion is about 20 minutes by car, and the grocery store about 10 minutes away.
• Families like this location, rating it 9.3 / 10 for a stay with kids

Bumbleberry Inn

This Bumbleberry Inn is a sweet, comfortable, budget friendly inn offering iconic Zion Mountain views from your private balcony.

Family owned since 1972, this Inn provides in-ground hot tub & seasonal heated outdoor pool kids (& adults) love splashing around in. Plus visitors like the easy access to all Springdale has to offer, within walking distance.

Take the shuttle right out front to the park, and avoid parking hassles of Zion.

⭐️ “Love the mountain view from our room. Our room was very clean and the staff was friendly and helpful. We loved the daily breakfast. The location was perfect for catching the bus to and from the park.”

– BEVERLY ⭐️ Bumbleberry Inn review

Here is what people love about the Bumbleberry Inn and why you should book:

• Budget friendly, good sized & clean rooms with comfortable beds
• Free hot breakfast, parking & WIFI
• Within easy walking distance of Springdale restaurants, grocery stores, gift shops
• Large gift shop onsite with hiking gear & souvenirs to take home
• Seasonal outdoor pool and year round hot tub area

TIPS:

• Extra bed & cot available for fee upon request
• Families like the location, they rate it 9.7 / 10 for a stay with kids.

Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites

If you prefer a more affordable chain hotel option, then the Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites is for you.

Large, clean rooms, that could easily sleep up to six. Breathtaking views, and within walking distance to all Springdale has to offer make this a perennial traveller’s favorite.

Be sure to make s’mores over the fire pits for a complete experience.

⭐️ “Such a beautiful, convenient location close to great restaurants and Zion’s entrance, visitor’s center and shuttle. Clean, comfortable, spacious room. Convenient location, with an awesome outdoor pool and hot tub. Great breakfast and beautiful views.”

– KAREN ⭐️ Best Western Plus Zion Canyon reviews

Here is what people love about the Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites and why you should book:

• Spacious suites, that can comfortably sleep up to 5-6 people
• Large pool and hot tub for relaxing in, after a busy day
• Free hot & cold breakfast items, starting early & 24 hr coffee and tea in the lobby
• Great location in the heart of Springdale & a shuttle bus stop outside the hotel
• Free WIFI & parking
• Families like the location, they rate it 9.7 / 10 for a stay with kids.

TIPS:

• Extra beds & cots available for a fee, upon request
• You can buy s’mores kit at the front desk for the fire pits
• Families like the location, they rate it 9.7 / 10 for a stay with kids.

Final Thoughts: Best places to stay in & near Bryce and Zion

There are many fabulous places to stay in and near Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks.

Our top picks Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel, just minutes from Bryce and the fabulous Cable Mountain Lodge within walking distance of Zion’s entrance, are all round great choices.

If these aren’t your cup of tea, I hope our other recommendations help you choose the best lodging for your Zion and Bryce adventure.

Need something else? Check out our Travel Resource Page