Zion National Park is a celebrity amongst US National Parks with its biggest draws being its rock formations, hiking trails and stunning Zion Canyon. Of course, you’ll likely recognize the most famous trails, like The Narrows, from social media but there are many outdoor adventures to be had from mountain biking, to canyoneering its slot canyons, and rock climbing.
Zion National Park is located on the Southwest border of Utah and it is only a few hours across the Nevada border to Las Vegas . While Utah has five National Parks, Zion is the state’s oldest – settled in 1863 and officially opened in 1919.
The real question is where to stay in Zion National Park. There are a lot of areas to choose from that cater to different styles and needs, and there are plenty of hotels for every type of budget level. Here’s a breakdown of where to stay in Zion National Park.
Best Zion National Park Hotels – Cut To The Chase
If you want a quick selection of our recommendations for where to stay in Zion National Park, these are the top hotels for every budget.
The 6 Best Areas To Stay Near Zion National Park
The best areas to stay near Zion National Park are dotted around the park perimeter. But exactly where to stay in Zion National Park depends on what is important to you. Are you looking for airport proximity, park entrance proximity, nightlife, accessible amenities, or tourist attractions?
Springdale is Zion’s closest town and does a good job of balancing park proximity and accessible amenities like supermarkets. Cedar City and Hurricane are best for their airports (if you want to fly from Salt Lake City), nightlife, and tourist attractions. St George is perfect for cultural entertainment and amenities, with a pioneer-styled downtown and museums. Of course, you could also just stay inside Zion National Park and embrace staying in complete wilderness.
In short, Zion is your oyster! But let’s break things down in more detail.
1. Closest Zion National Park Lodging
Sometimes simplicity is key, and staying in the park is a simple answer to the question of where to stay in Zion National Park. The 148,016-acre park isn’t short on accommodation choices, and you can stay in a family-friendly Zion lodge, standard B&B, or a full-scale luxury resort. The main benefit of staying inside Zion National Park is being surrounded by nature – which is what you came for, right?
Of course, the downside is that you aren’t nearby to amenities and you might have to swap city nightlife for a beer at a Zion hotel bar. However, you’d expect to make sacrifices to stay inside one of the most world-famous National Parks, so nothing should come as a surprise.
So, while you can expect remote hotels and will definitely need a reliable car, the immersion in nature outweighs any difficulties. If you are planning on spending your entire holiday hiking, finding accommodation in the National Park is also more logical. You’ll be closer to all the natural attractions and reduce your daily driving – so stay in Zion to maximize hiking time.
Don’t forget that Zion also has two major campgrounds. The South Campground and Watchman Campground, both are near the Springdale entrance.
Best Hotels Closest to Zion National Park
Luxury: Zion Villa
To describe Zion Villa as luxurious would be a massive understatement. This Zion National Park lodge is a vacation rental sleeps up to twelve guests in five spacious bedrooms. When you and your other guests aren’t spending time hiking in the National Park, you can enjoy the private hot tub and desert views.
Zion Villa provides free parking, free wifi, a fully equipped kitchen, sun terrace, and barbecue facilities. Sit on your private sun terrace and watch the sunset over undisrupted wilderness – perhaps with a glass of wine. Alternatively, sign up for an arranged activity like skiing, horse riding, or cycling.
Mid-range: Under Canvas Zion
Feeling adventurous? Under Canvas Zion is an exciting place to stay in Zion, where you can skip a Zion lodge for a luxury tent. The desert glamping site has incredibly designed canvas tents and communal areas that maximize shade but leave space for star spotting.
Under Canvas Zion has a range of tent options, including family suites with adjoining kids’ rooms. You can start your day with an American or Vegetarian breakfast and a complimentary desert yoga session. Then, choose an organized tour or activity to experience more of Zion National Park.
Budget: 2 Cranes Inn
When wondering where to stay in Zion National Park on a budget, sometimes it pays to think outside of the box.
2 Cranes Inn is a little further out from Zion National Park – just 4.7 miles from the South Entrance. However, 2 Cranes Inn is the closest budget-friendly hotel to the park and has a great location.
The Zion Lodge offers a shared kitchen, barbecue facilities, free parking, and free wifi. For solo travelers managing all the costs of visiting Zion alone, the 2 Cranes Inn is an excellent option. The Inn is just outside of the expensive zone, yet also has easy access to the Southern entrance of the National Park and all the views – perfect!
2. Springdale
For a town experience that is not too far from Zion National Park, Springdale is somewhat of a golden child. You’ll have amazing views of Mount Kinesava and The West Temple as you relax with supermarkets, bars, and restaurants right on your doorstep.
The best part about Springdale is that you can visit some of Zion’s natural attractions on foot. If you stay at the Cable Mountain Lodge (Check prices here), you will literally be right at the entrance to the park. The Zion Canyon is a ravine just south of Springdale, which you can hike around and experience without having to jump in your car and head deep into the National Park. The Virgin River cuts through the Zion Canyon, and, especially on hot days, a paddle is great for cooling off.
Even if you want to venture to Zion National Park’s remote trails, driving isn’t necessary. The Zion National Park Visitor Center is just a twenty-minute walk, or a three-minute drive, from Springdale Town Center. Here, you can book a place on the Springdale Shuttle to the Zion National Park entrance and popular hiking start points.
Springdale has a great location. It is definitely recommended if you don’t want isolated accommodation yet still want to spend most days exploring the Zion National Park. While you shouldn’t expect a lot of nightlife endless attractions, Springdale is close to the Zion park entrance, has a helpful visitor center, and overall makes an ideal base for an outdoor holiday.
Best hotels in Springdale
Luxury: La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale
The Quinta chain has some of the most popular hotels in Utah, and with excellent reason. La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park provides impressive guest entertainment options.
Guests have full use of an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, hot tub, and 24-hour business center. The hotel also offers a daily buffet breakfast, so start your day with complimentary waffles before exploring Zion!
The hotel offers family rooms, accessible suites, and designated no-smoking rooms. If you want reliable luxury, La Quinta is one of the best Springdale hotels.
Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Springdale
As far as mid-range hotels go, the Holiday Inn Express Springdale is as luxurious as it is reasonably priced.
Each room has tea and coffee-making facilities, so you don’t need to rush out to find a caffeine fix in the morning. You can grab breakfast to go from the on-site mini-market and head straight out to the National Park.
Guests can rejuvenate after a day of hiking in the outdoor swimming pool, hot tub, or with a sunbathing session on the sun terrace.
Budget: Bumbleberry Inn
Bumbleberry Inn’s prices might not seem budget-friendly compared to low-cost properties in neighboring areas. However, Bumbleberry Inn does offer some of the cheapest hotel rooms in Springdale.
Bumbleberry is a practical accommodation choice to explore Zion. You can catch the complimentary Springdale Shuttle service to the National Park entrance, enjoy free wifi, and use the on-site parking. But Bumbleberry has its luxuries too – including Zion Mountain views from your private balcony.
Solo travelers rate Bumbleberry Inn as one of the best Springdale hotels, so keep it in mind if you are planning a solo trip to Zion.
VRBO: Infinity Edge Pool Newer Luxury Home
This luxury property is an elite VRBO option and is extremely close to the Zion Canyon.
On the banks of the Virgin River, guests can unwind entirely in their private infinity pool and hot tub. Whether you hop in the pool, relax in the hot tub, or head down to the river bank for a swing in the hammock, the property provides an ultimate Zion experience.
For a riverside Zion lodging, forget Springdale hotels and save this VRBO to your favorites.
3. Hildale
Hildale has made headlines for sects and political news over the past few years. However, the city itself is an interesting and decently located area to consider.
As a twin city, it is considered a different municipality from Colorado City. But, as a visitor, you’ll have access to both cities – including the Colorado City Municipal Airport. If you are looking for efficient airport access, Hildale is an excellent choice!
Similarly, you’ll have a better selection of amenities than you would find in Springdale. Colorado City has a well-rated microbrewery called ‘Edge of the World Brewery’, which is worth visiting after a long day of hiking. You will be able to move freely across the Utah/Arizona border and make the most of Hildale and Colorado City’s hospitality venues and shops.
Zion is an hour away. But, if you don’t mind a two-hour return trip, Hildale has plenty of entertainment and is a great place to base yourself.
Best hotels in Hildale
Luxury: Zion Glamping Adventures
If the glamping inside the Zion looked amazing but a bit out of budget, Zion Glamping Adventures is worth considering.
Prices are slightly lower in Hildale – a win, win situation for those wondering where to stay in Zion National Park for reasonable luxury. The glamping site is on the city outskirts of town, with otherworldly white tents cutting an impressive picture against their mountain backdrop.
Each tent has a dining area, seating area, and air conditioning. Families will also appreciate the children’s playground and barbecue area.
Mid-range: South Zion Inn and Suites
Looking for spacious, reasonably priced rooms? South Zion Inn and Suites ticks the box.
Compared to other mid-range hotels, the South Zion Inn and Suites is the epitome of high-end. Every room has top-of-the-range air conditioning, tea and coffee making facilities, and a premium TV. While, if you want to splash out, the Deluxe Apartment includes a spa bath and a modern, fully equipped kitchen.
The setting is equally impressive, and the property is set against a sandstone cliff backdrop.
Budget: Zion’s Most Wanted Hotel
For such a boldly named hotel, it is aptly christened. Zion’s Most Wanted Hotel books out quickly, so book ahead if you want a budget stay.
Zion’s Most Wanted Hotel is a historic lodge and the best budget hotel in Hildale. You can stick to a budget trip and make use of free wifi, continental breakfast, and toiletries. Alternatively, you can treat yourself to a treatment at the onsite spa or a ride at the ranch next door.
VRBO: Dog-friendly studio
Traveling with a dog can complicate Zion accommodation hunting. However, this luxury studio exclusively offers accommodation to guests with accompanying canines!
Your pet can join you as you watch the sunset on your private patio overlooking Canaan Mountain. Or, after a day out walking, you can curl up in your master bedroom for a movie night.
The studio has a kitchenette and dining table – so you have all the facilities to cook up a storm and save money instead of dining out.
4. Hurricane
Hurricane is a desert city with a community town feel. Being surrounded by nature, watersports, amenities, and near Zion National Park – Hurricane gets four green ticks.
You are only a thirty-minute drive from Zion National Park, yet are also flanked by state parks and hiking trails if you want to stay in Hurricane for the day.
The Sand Hollow State Park is a red sandstone park with a reservoir where you can boat and fish. While if you are feeling adventurous, you can head off-roading in a 4WD on Sand Mountain. Sand Hollow State Park is an excellent place to spend a day and just a fifteen-minute drive south of Hurricane.
North of Hurricane, Quail Creek State Park is another watersports hotspot. Here you can boat, swim, fish, kayak, and even jet-ski, to your heart’s content – only a thirteen-minute drive from central Hurricane.
Hurricane is ideal if you love the outdoors and want easily accessible outdoor activities. Apart from the state parks, Hurricane is surrounded by multiple golf courses and countless trails. Adventure lovers and sports enthusiasts? Hurricane is where to stay in Zion National Park.
Best hotels in Hurricane
Luxury: Zion Village Oasis By The Pool
This Zion National Park lodging is an amazing base for outdoor exploring and having slower, relaxing stay-at-home days.
The pool is the property’s most impressive feature and is built around a sunken fire pit. You can alternate days out hiking canyons with lounging around the outdoor pool or working up a sweat in the fitness suite. Zion Oasis By The Pool also has multiple hot tubs – featuring one in each of three bathrooms.
Mid-range: Comfort Inn & Suites Zion Park
The Comfort Inn & Suites is a two-star hotel with an adjoining spa, fitness, and wellness center.
Guests can start their days with a continental or buffet breakfast, making use of the free wifi to plan their day out around Zion as they eat. Of course, the hotel has a 24-hour reception desk if extra inspiration or guidance is needed.
The Zion lodge has glowing Booking.com reviews, with many praising the spacious rooms, staff friendliness, and good value for money.
Budget: Econo Lodge Hurricane
Econo Lodge Hurricane embodies the attitude that what you see is what you get. Wondering where to stay in Zion National Park on a budget? The Econo is a reliable Zion lodge.
The hotel is unfussy, but with all the pleasant amenities you secretly hope for when booking accommodation in Zion. With an outdoor pool and hot tub, you can cool off on sweltering, peak summer days. And, you don’t have to research dining options for breakfast as the hotel offers continental or buffet breakfasts.
VRBO: Sand Hollow Springs
Booking accommodation for large groups can undoubtedly be stressful. Luckily, Sand Hollow Springs sleeps up to 32 guests!
Pool? Hot tub? Of course – the property even has a waterslide. Plus, the hot tub is adjoining the pool, so adults can supervise children playing while relaxing themselves. With eight private bedrooms and eight bathrooms, there should be no arguments about getting ready in the morning.
Sand Hollow Springs is the ideal Zion lodge for extended family holidays or reunion getaways.
5. St George
For a small city, St George has a lot going on. The city is only an hour’s drive from Zion National Park, but has so much to offer that you’ll need to allocate some ‘St George days’ in your Zion itinerary.
St George has a Mormon temple, wildlife museum, manicured desert gardens, St George Narrows, cocktail bars, and a laser tag venue. The attractions may sound eclectic and, to be honest, they are! However, if you want entertainment within comfortable walking distance of your accommodation, St George is where to stay near Zion National Park.
The St George Narrows is particularly famous in the city. When you aren’t exploring Zion National Park, you can practice your climbing skills by traversing the challenging gap between the two cliff faces. Once you’ve completed it, the 52-acre Pioneer Park is only a short walk away too – with BBQ facilities and city views to unwind.
St George might not be on Zion’s doorstep like Springfield. However, if you want a varied holiday with cultural, fun, and outdoor activities, it makes an excellent candidate.
Best hotels in St George
Luxury: Courtyard by Marriott St George
The Marriott chain hardly requires an introduction, and this Zion property lives up to the hype.
The hotel has multiple swimming pools, including an indoor pool and whirlpool. And, as an ode to the luxury lifestyle, the Marriott St George only offers suites. Each suite has a fully equipped kitchen, en-suite bathroom, and a TV to watch movies after a long day.
At mealtimes, you can head to the in-house café, cook in the privacy of your suite, or dine at the local restaurants. Settled in for the night but missing key ingredients for dinner? You can always make use of the grocery service.
Mid-range: Claridge Inn
Claridge Inn is an unpretentious two-star hotel with a large outdoor pool and adjoining hot tubs. If you are wondering where to stay in Zion National Park to relax somewhere friendly but low cost, bookmark Claridge Inn.
The interior is comfortably decorated, with classic wood paneling and warm furnishings. The property offers a range of room choices, some of which include balconies and city views.
Budget: Coronada Inn & Suites
Cheap and cheerful always makes for a pleasant stay.
Coronada Inn & Suites offers basic suites with kitchens, living areas, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can also make use of the communal indoor pool and hot tub. And, in the morning, you can tuck into a complimentary continental breakfast.
VRBO: Cute & Clean Poolside Condo
Wanting a resort experience without the price tag? This VRBO condo is situated in the Green Valley Resort and provides guests with access to stunning communal facilities.
As a two-bedroom condo, it is ideal for a couple or a small group of friends. Families may also appreciate the fact it is a ground-floor property with no stairs, with nearby playgrounds, and provided high chairs.
6. Cedar City
Of course, visiting Zion National Park doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the other National Parks and conservation areas!
For hikers and climbers, Cedar City is where to stay in Zion National Park. The city is an hour’s drive from Zion National Park, but has closer adventures to mix up your Zion itinerary as well.
You have constant views of the surrounding mountains. And, when you aren’t exploring Zion National Park, you can use Cedar City as a launchpad for visiting Utah’s other natural attractions. Head to Black or Cedar Mountain, or drive less than half an hour to reach the Cedar Breaks National Monument National Park.
The Cedar Breaks National Monument has incredible overlook viewpoints accessible by car on the 148 road between April and October. Cedar City should be a definite consideration if you are planning a visit to Zion during this period.
In Cedar City, you can entertain yourself at the Southern Utah Museum of Art or the Frontier Homestead State Park Museum – both of which are within walking distance of the city center. Cedar City is ideal if you want lots of activities and nearby natural attractions. Plus, you can easily fly into the Cedar City Regional Airport.
Best hotels in Cedar City
Luxury: La Quinta by Wyndham Cedar City
The La Quinta chain is a reliable collection of luxury properties.
The indoor heated pool enables fantastic all-year swimming, while the fitness suite is extra spacious – a luxury in peak hours. The property takes a thoughtful, gentle approach to luxury. Expect soft, comfortable furnishings and indulgent policies rather than a brash extravagance.
Mid-range: Big Yellow Inn
Some hotels are an architectural experience, and the Big Yellow Inn is one of them.
From the Grand Staircase to the even grander wrap-around porch and private balconies, the Big Yellow Inn is a statement. This property is the most traditionally styled out of all the Zion hotels.
Inside is a picture of decadence, with a traditional library and games room to unwind in. While, for those who can’t escape work, the hotel offers free fax and photocopying services in the business center.
Budget: Quality Inn Cedar City University Area
Light, airy, cheap, and well located, Quality Inn Cedar City is a refreshing place to stay while visiting Zion National Park.
The property has stellar reviews, many of which credit its clean and calm atmosphere. Quality Inn has an impressively large indoor pool which has plenty of natural lighting streaming in through nearly floor-to-ceiling windows.
VRBO: Gorgeous 8-Bedroom Mansion With Pool
Wondering where to stay in Zion National Park that has home-style entertainment? Easy – this eight-bedroom mansion.
The property has a movie theater, pool table, ping pong table, hot tub, and swimming pool. Forget family arguments over movie choices as well, as there are eight different TV to use throughout the holiday home.
Zion National Park FAQ
How long should you stay in Zion National Park?
You should stay at least seven days in Zion National Park. It is important to leave rest days between big hikes, and you don’t want to miss out because your legs are still aching!
Why should you stay in Zion National Park?
You should stay in Zion National Park because of the otherworldly desert landscape and unique hikes.
What is the best time of year to visit Zion National Park?
Early Spring is the best time of year to visit Zion National Park. It is quieter with fewer tourists than in Summer but has better hiking weather than in Fall and Winter.
Final Thoughts
The word ‘Zion’ actually translates as ‘The Promised Land’ in the Bible, which is well-suited to all the promises of the Zion National Park. Zion has accommodations to suit every budget and areas to suit all interests. Between its hospitality and its natural beauty, the Zion National Park is a dreamy holiday destination.