12 Unusual & Unique Stays in Utah for an Epic Adventure

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Utah blew my mind the first time I visited, and every trip since has been just as magical. The red rock formations, sprawling national parks, and otherworldly landscapes make it one of my favorite states to explore—and finding the right place to stay can make your adventure even more memorable.

After multiple road trips through the best places in Utah, I’ve discovered accommodations that are experiences in themselves. From a cozy cabin near Zion, where I woke up to deer outside my window, to a stargazing dome in Moab, where the Milky Way seemed close enough to touch, these stays elevate the whole experience. I’ve gathered 12 truly unique places that will transform your Utah adventure from great to absolutely unforgettable.

Top Unique Places to Stay in Utah

Looking to discover unique places to stay in Utah? Beyond the typical accommodations, the state offers plenty of distinctive options waiting to be explored. Relax at Under Canvas Moab, offering luxury glamping near stunning national parks. Experience the charm of Amangiri, a secluded resort with breathtaking desert views. Unwind at Zion Wildflower Resort, featuring adventurous stays and outdoor activities.

Neighborhood/Town	Accommodation	Best For	Hotel Prices	Walkability	Vibe
Moab	Under Canvas Moab	Adventure Travelers, Glampers	$$$	Moderate	Luxury Camping, Scenic
Escalante	Escalante Yurts	Outdoor Enthusiasts, Comfort Seekers	$$	Moderate	Rustic Luxury, Nature-Focused
Monument Valley	Traditional Navajo Hogan	Cultural Immersion, Photography	$$	Low	Authentic, Cultural, Spiritual
Park City	Treehouse on The Stream	Romantic Getaways, Nature Lovers	$$$	Low	Tranquil, Intimate, Whimsical
Monroe	Mystic Hot Springs	Wellness Seekers, Alternative Travelers	$	Low	Quirky, Nostalgic, Healing
Salt Lake City	The Anniversary Inn – 5th South	Couples, Novelty Seekers	$$$	High	Playful, Theatrical, Urban
Pine Valley	Holmstead Ranch Resort	Families, Farm Experience Seekers	$$$	Low	Rural, Authentic, Homey
Zion National Park	Zion Wildflower Resort	Social Travelers, National Park Explorers	$$	Moderate	Communal, Rustic-Chic
Virgin	Zion Alpacas Country Casita	Animal Lovers, Zion Explorers	$$	Low	Charming, Southwestern, Peaceful
Torrey	Adobe Retreat by Quiet Shelters	Design Enthusiasts, Solitude Seekers	$$$$	Low	Minimalist, Architectural, Harmonious
Wasatch Mountains	Sundance Mountain Resort	Luxury Travelers, Culture Enthusiasts	$$$$	Moderate	Sophisticated, Artistic, Elegant
Near Lake Powell	Amangiri	Luxury Travelers, Design Aficionados	$$$$$	Low	Exclusive, Spectacular, Otherworldly

Whether you’re into glamping, luxury, or adventure, here are 12 of Utah’s most exceptional places to stay!

1. Under Canvas Moab

Under Canvas Moab honestly lives up to the hype, and I’ve stayed at plenty of glamping spots that don’t. Located just seven miles north of Moab between Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, this place nails the luxury camping experience without feeling pretentious about it.

The safari-style tents come with actual king beds, private bathrooms, and wood-burning stoves for those chilly desert nights. I stayed in a Stargazer tent and the ceiling window made stargazing ridiculously easy – you literally just look up from bed. The communal areas are where this place really shines though. There’s live acoustic music most evenings, s’mores around the fire pit, and adventure concierge services that’ll hook you up with the best hikes.

Current rates run $234-$453 per night depending on tent type and season. Yeah, it’s pricey, but when you’re this close to world-class hiking and you don’t have to worry about setting up camp, it’s worth it. Just bring earplugs – Highway 191 runs nearby and can get noisy. The staff provides them, but better safe than sorry.

• Read next: Amazing Experiences in Moab, Utah

2. Escalante 2. Escalante Yurts

Escalante Yurts are probably the fanciest yurts you’ll ever stay in, and that’s saying something. Located right in the heart of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, these circular accommodations are way more luxurious than you’d expect from something called a yurt.

I was shocked by how spacious the larger 900-square-foot yurts are – they sleep seven people with two bedrooms, a loft area with twin beds, and a full kitchen. The smaller 450-square-foot options are perfect for couples and still include king beds, private bathrooms, and kitchenettes. Every yurt has heat, AC, Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs, so you’re not roughing it at all.

What really sets this place apart is the breakfast situation – they stock your fridge with pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and fruit every morning. It’s genius because there aren’t many restaurants in Escalante. The location is clutch too, sitting between Bryce Canyon and Capitol Reef with access to slot canyons like Peek-a-boo and Spooky Gulch. Rates start around $200-$300 per night, and honestly, it’s one of the best bases for exploring southern Utah’s national parks.

3. Traditional Navajo Hogan in Monument Valley

Staying in a Traditional Navajo Hogan isn’t just accommodation – it’s cultural immersion that’ll change how you think about the American Southwest. These authentic earthen dome structures sit right in Monument Valley Tribal Park on Navajo Nation land, surrounded by those iconic red buttes you’ve seen in every Western movie.

The hogan I stayed in was built with traditional juniper trees and mud but had modern touches like a queen bed, propane stove, and electricity for charging devices. There’s a hole at the top that connects you to “Father Sky” – a traditional feature that’s actually pretty cool for stargazing. The shared bathhouse is a short walk away, which keeps the authentic vibe while providing modern necessities.

What makes this special is the cultural access you get. Navajo guides share stories that have been passed down for generations and can take you to restricted areas regular tourists can’t see. The sunrise and sunset views are absolutely unreal – I’ve never experienced light like that anywhere else. Rates typically run around $170-$200 per night through various operators. It’s not luxury, but if you want to understand this sacred landscape on a deeper level, nothing else comes close.

• Read next: Iconic Monument Valley Attractions & Activities

4. Treehouse on The Stream

Treehouse on The Stream near Park City is exactly what you dreamed about as a kid, except with Wi-Fi and a hot tub. This handcrafted wooden retreat sits among pine and aspen trees with a babbling brook running underneath – the natural soundtrack is better than any white noise machine.

I loved how the treehouse balances rustic charm with actual comfort. The kitchenette is fully stocked, the bathroom has everything you need, and that private hot tub on the deck is perfect after hiking the Mid Mountain Trail. The place sleeps up to four people across two levels, with separate entrances if you want privacy. The owners really thought of everything – robes, board games, even dog blankets if you’re traveling with pets.

The location is clutch, just 30 minutes from Park City but feeling completely secluded. You can hit Sundance Resort in five minutes for dinner or activities, or just stay put and enjoy the stream-side swing set. Fair warning – you’ll need decent directions since it’s down a private road past horse pastures. Current rates hover around $200-$300 per night depending on season, but honestly, it’s worth every penny for the peace and quiet alone.

5. Mystic Hot Springs

Mystic Hot Springs in Monroe is what happens when hippie nostalgia meets natural healing, and somehow it actually works. This place has been drawing travelers since the 1800s, but current owner “Mystic Mike” has turned it into something truly unique with restored vintage buses and pioneer cabins.

The accommodations are definitely funky – I stayed in one of the converted school buses named after Grateful Dead songs, and it was way more comfortable than expected. The pioneer cabins are being restored using recycled materials and have that authentic 1800s vibe with modern necessities. Everything runs around $60 for one person plus $30 for each additional guest.

But let’s be real – you’re here for the hot springs. The vintage clawfoot bathtubs carved into travertine formations are Instagram gold, and the mineral water actually leaves your skin feeling amazing. The springs run 99-100°F and are open 24/7 to guests. The whole place has this laid-back festival vibe with live music, friendly staff, and random farm animals wandering around. It’s about 170 miles south of Salt Lake City, so plan accordingly, but the drive through Sevier Valley is gorgeous.

6. The Anniversary Inn – 5th South

The Anniversary Inn – 5th South in downtown Salt Lake City is pure themed hotel madness, and I mean that in the best way possible. Each suite is like stepping into an elaborate fantasy world – think jungle rooms, Western saloons, and actual castle chambers with working fireplaces.

I stayed in the “Jungle Safari” suite and couldn’t stop laughing at how committed they are to the theme. We’re talking stuffed animals, jungle sounds, and a bathroom that looks like a cave. It’s completely over-the-top, but that’s exactly the point. Every suite comes with a spa tub, complimentary cheesecake (yes, really), and amenities that match whatever world you’re staying in.

The location is perfect for exploring Salt Lake City – you can walk to Temple Square, hit up restaurants on Main Street, or catch a show at the Utah Symphony. It’s also a great launching point for Cottonwood Canyons if you want mountain adventures. Rates typically run $150-$300 per night depending on the suite. Yeah, it’s cheesy as hell, but sometimes you need that level of escapism. Plus, the staff takes it seriously enough that you can’t help but get into it.

• Read Next: 13 Incredible Cabin Rentals in Utah

7. Holmstead Ranch Resort

Holmstead Ranch Resort near St. George is where you go when your soul needs more sunset horseback rides and fewer conference calls. This working ranch sits on 600 acres against the Pine Valley Mountains, about 45 minutes from Zion National Park.

The luxury cabins are legit – timber-framed with vaulted ceilings, gourmet kitchens, and private porches overlooking the property. I woke up to horses grazing outside my window, which beat any city view I’ve ever had. The ranch offers morning meadow hikes, private pond fishing, and evening horseback rides that make you forget email notifications exist.

What really sold me was the farm-to-table dining featuring ingredients grown right on the property. The staff knows how to make you feel like a guest rather than just another booking. You can book activities like horseback riding and fishing, or just enjoy the peace and quiet. It’s the perfect antidote to desert exploration if you need a change of pace.

Rates vary by season and cabin type, but expect to pay premium prices for this level of service and location. The 30-minute drive to St. George and proximity to Zion make it an ideal base for exploring southern Utah without sacrificing comfort.

8. Zion Wildflower Resort

Zion Wildflower Resort near the east entrance of Zion National Park bridges the gap between camping and luxury perfectly. You can choose from canvas tents, covered wagons, or tiny cabins – all with shared bathrooms and communal fire pits that create this great social atmosphere.

I loved how the property attracts fellow adventurers who actually want to talk about their Angels Landing conquests over evening s’mores. The vintage games and relaxed vibe make it easy to connect with other travelers. Morning yoga sessions with those red cliffs as a backdrop honestly made me a morning person temporarily.

The location is money – you’re minutes from Zion’s east entrance and close enough to Bryce Canyon for day trips. The night sky visibility is incredible thanks to minimal light pollution, and they’ve got hammocks positioned perfectly for stargazing. Current rates run around $100-$200 per night depending on accommodation type.

It’s definitely more rustic than luxury, but that’s the appeal. You get the outdoor experience without having to pack all your own gear. Just don’t expect room service – this is about connecting with nature and fellow travelers, not being pampered.

9. Zion Alpacas Country Casita

Zion Alpacas Country Casita in Virgin might be the most unique wake-up call you’ll ever have – alpacas humming outside your window while you drink morning coffee. This Adobe guesthouse sits on a working alpaca ranch just 15 minutes from Zion’s west entrance.

The modernized casita has southwestern charm with handcrafted furnishings, a full kitchen, and a patio overlooking red rock vistas. The alpacas are definitely the main attraction – they’re curious and gentle, and their morning “conversations” are weirdly soothing. I spent way too much time just watching them interact.

The hosts are fountain of local knowledge, especially about lesser-known Zion hikes like Observation Point via the eastern plateau. After hiking, you can cool off in the seasonal stream before grilling dinner against those technicolor sunsets. The location gives you easy park access while feeling completely rural.

Rates typically run $150-$250 per night, and honestly, the alpaca entertainment alone is worth it. It’s perfect for couples or small groups who want something different from the standard hotel experience. Just be prepared to fall in love with the alpacas – leaving them is harder than you’d think.

10. Adobe Retreat by Quiet Shelters

Adobe Retreat by Quiet Shelters near Capitol Reef National Park is architectural eye candy that happens to be incredibly comfortable. The rammed earth construction keeps the interior naturally cool in summer and stores solar warmth for chilly desert nights.

Those floor-to-ceiling windows frame views of Waterpocket Fold’s dramatic ridgelines from every room, and the minimalist interior lets the landscape take center stage. I loved how the design forces you to slow down and actually look at the incredible scenery instead of being distracted by clutter.

The location near Torrey puts you close to Capitol Reef’s otherworldly hikes and scenic Highway 12. The outdoor shower is surprisingly luxurious thanks to their rainwater harvesting system. The rooftop deck is perfect for stargazing – this area earned International Dark Sky designation for good reason.

Current rates run around $200-$400 per night depending on season. It’s definitely a splurge, but the sustainable design and unparalleled views make it worth it. Plus, you’ll have a hard time finding another place where the architecture complements the landscape this perfectly. It’s like staying inside a piece of art.

11. Sundance Mountain Resort

Sundance Mountain Resort proves that Robert Redford actually knew what he was doing when he created this sustainable luxury retreat in the Wasatch Mountains. Just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City, the rustic-chic cabins with stone fireplaces feel properly remote while staying accessible.

The resort balances outdoor adventure with artistic pursuits perfectly. I went mountain biking in the morning, took a jewelry workshop in the afternoon, and caught a film screening that evening. The Tree Room restaurant serves sophisticated mountain cuisine that’s actually worth the price tag – not always a given at resort restaurants.

Winter brings uncrowded skiing on perfectly groomed slopes, while summer offers wildflower hikes and outdoor concerts. Despite the celebrity pedigree, Sundance maintains understated elegance without the pretentious vibe you get at some high-end resorts. The focus stays on nature and authentic experiences rather than showing off.

Rates vary significantly by season and accommodation type – expect to pay premium prices during peak times. But the combination of outdoor access, cultural activities, and genuine commitment to sustainability makes it worth the splurge. Plus, you can tell people you stayed at Redford’s place, which never gets old.

12. Amangiri

Amangiri is where you go when money is truly no object and you need a backdrop worthy of your best life photos. This ultra-exclusive resort emerges from 600 acres of protected valley near the Arizona border, and the concrete structures blend into ancient sandstone formations so seamlessly it looks like alien architecture.

Each suite features private courtyards, outdoor lounges, and uninterrupted desert panoramas that shift with changing light throughout the day. The main pool wraps around a massive boulder in a design move that’s both practical and stunning. I’ve never experienced service this impeccable – they anticipate needs you didn’t know you had.

Expert guides lead guests to hidden slot canyons and prehistoric petroglyphs on the private plateau that regular tourists never see. The spa incorporates Navajo healing traditions into treatments, adding cultural depth to the luxury experience. Everything about this place is designed to make you feel like you’re experiencing the desert in its purest form.

Rates start around $3,000+ per night, which is stratospheric but delivers an experience that haunts your imagination long after checkout. If you can swing it once in your lifetime, the surreal setting and unparalleled service create memories that justify the price tag.

• Read Next: 12 Amazing Places to Visit in the Southwest USA

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Most Unique Places to Stay in Utah

Are you looking for more content about where to stay in Utah? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about Utah’s most unique hotels.

What is the nicest part of Utah?

The nicest part of Utah really depends on what you’re looking for. If you love outdoor adventures, Southern Utah is fantastic, with its iconic red rock landscapes and national parks like Zion and Bryce Canyon. For a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences, Northern Utah, especially around Salt Lake City, offers both mountainous adventures and city attractions. Personally, I find the Moab area particularly striking for its natural beauty and access to Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

What is the best city to stay in to see Utah’s national parks?

Moab is an excellent base for visiting Utah’s national parks, particularly Arches and Canyonlands. It’s a small town with a range of accommodations and restaurants, making it convenient for park access. For Zion National Park, Springdale is ideal as it’s right at the park’s entrance. If you’re planning to visit Bryce Canyon, staying in Bryce Canyon City or nearby towns like Tropic can be convenient.

What is the #1 attraction in Utah?

The #1 attraction in Utah is arguably Zion National Park. It’s renowned for its stunning canyon views, hiking trails like The Narrows and Angels Landing, and its overall breathtaking scenery. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

What area of Salt Lake City should I stay in?

In Salt Lake City, staying downtown is a great choice. It puts you close to attractions like Temple Square, the Utah State Capitol, and the Salt Lake Temple. Downtown also offers a variety of dining and shopping options. For a quieter stay, consider the Sugar House area, known for its charming boutiques and cafes.

Is Colorado or Utah prettier?

Both Colorado and Utah have their unique beauty, and it really comes down to personal preference. Colorado is known for its majestic Rocky Mountains and lush green landscapes, especially appealing to those who love mountainous terrain and outdoor activities like skiing and hiking. Utah, on the other hand, is famous for its dramatic red rock formations, desert landscapes, and stunning national parks. If you’re fascinated by desert beauty and unique geological formations, Utah might be more appealing to you.

Wrapping Up: Utah’s Unique Places to Stay

In conclusion, exploring Utah is an experience filled with diverse landscapes and unique accommodations that cater to every traveler’s taste. From my personal adventures, Under Canvas Moab stands out as a favorite. It perfectly captures the essence of Utah’s outdoor spirit, offering a comfortable yet immersive nature experience.

If you’re drawn to the red rock vistas of Southern Utah or the cultural vibrancy of the Salt Lake City area, each region has its own charm. Remember, Utah’s weather can be quite varied, so pack accordingly. And don’t miss out on local eateries wherever you stay; they often offer delightful regional flavors. Lastly, always respect the natural environment to preserve these wonders for future visitors. Happy travels in Utah!