Thanks to plenty of wide-open space and its emphasis on all things outdoors, Utah is a fantastic destination for travelers on a budget.
From millions of acres of public lands and the occasional fee-free day at the state’s majestic national parks to natural hot springs and land art in the middle of the desert, many of Utah’s natural attractions are free to visit. And it’s not just about the great outdoors: you’ll also find plenty of parks, historic sites and architectural wonders in Utah that also require no fee. Here’s our list of the top free things to do in Utah.
There are millions of acres of public lands in Utah that are just as scenic as the official state and national parks – and, unlike them, totally free to visit. The San Rafael Swell, a huge uplift in the earth’s surface between Arches and Capitol Reef National Parks, is one of the most impressive of these free areas to visit. The “Swell,” as it’s often referred to, is home to dozens of narrow slot canyons, from easily accessible, family-friendly hikes like Little Wild Horse Canyon to full-day adventures requiring ropes and a good deal of technical skill. There are also plenty of free camp spots in the San Rafael Swell, particularly around the Temple Mountain Area.
Planning tip: Canyoneering may look easy, but if you don’t have the right gear, experience and knowledge of the area, it’s easy to get into trouble. This is a great spot to try canyoneering, but consider booking an excursion with a local guide service to ensure a safe visit to the San Rafael Swell.
Just 30 minutes from Zion National Park in Kanab, Utah, is America’s largest animal sanctuary for homeless pets. Best Friends Animal Sanctuary is located in beautiful red-rock Angel Canyon and is home to roughly 1600 rescue animals, from cats and dogs to parrots, pigs, goats, horses and more. The sanctuary offers free daily tours, including animal-specific visits where you can walk among the pot-bellied pigs, take a trip to Horse Haven or visit the wild animals being rehabilitated for release at Wild Friends. Better yet, plan ahead to volunteer and spend the day walking dogs, serving pet food or grooming the mules.
Searching for free museums or cultural centers in Utah? The Utah Museum of Contemporary Art fits both bills. This stunning museum has been showcasing a growing collection of art since 1931. A mix of permanent and rotating exhibits featuring paint, photographs and sculptures by local, national and international artists ensures there’s always something new to see when you visit. The museum also hosts public art exhibitions throughout the city.
Planning tip: While the museum does recommend a $5 to $10 donation, it practices a pay-what-you-can policy, allowing
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