Are you planning a trip to Vernal, Utah? Or maybe you’re a new resident looking for some weekend fun? There are a lot of things to do and see. Vernal is rich in history, from wide exploration of oil and natural gas to early Mormon pioneers.
Vernal is the service town for Dinosaur National Monument and a perfect spot for numerous adventures in northeastern Utah. From ATV rides to whitewater rafting, there are so many options to roam around the scenic locations around the city.
Want to make sure you experience the best adventure, stay in the best places and eat the most delicious food? This blog will cover everything you need to know to plan a wonderful stay in Vernal.
Best Things to Do in Vernal, Utah
Touch Fossils at Dinosaur National Monument
A trip to Vernal is incomplete without a visit to Dinosaur National Monument. There are tons of dinosaur fossils there which attracts many visitors and tourists.
While you can explore this place on foot, don’t pass up the opportunity to see the monument by water. If you took the raft down the beautiful Green River, you would pass spectacular striated sandstone walls and lush coves.
Visit the State Parks
There are three state parks just a few minutes away from downtown Vernal; your adventure just begins within minutes of arriving in Vernal. Visit Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum. There are 14 life-size Dinosaurs waiting for you in the gardens. Next, plan to explore Red Fleet State Park. This place features Northeastern Utah’s huge red cliffs for boating, paddling, jumping, and tracking to the dinosaur trackway.
And last, spend your day at Steinaker State Park camping, fishing, or swimming at the beach.
Take a step into a fantasy-like scenery – Fantasy Canyon
You might have seen Fantasy Canyon in some office desktop wallpaper or photography magazine. This beautiful place is home to some of the unique rock formations in the world. Best of all, this place is a fun location for kids to use their imaginations and hike around on the rocks.
This place is also known as “The Devil’s Playground” because of its unique erosional features. It is definitely worth the 45-minute drive from Vernal to visit Fantasy Canyon. Experience the fantasy world here in Fantasy Canyon.
Visit the Uintah County Heritage Museum’s
This museum has preserved Uintah Bassin’s heritage. You can explore the museum galleries that feature artefacts from the earliest groups of people who lived in the mountain regions thousands of years ago. A gallery also showcases some of the works of regional artists and highlights from past community events.
Raft down the Green River
Paddle hard and float well as you shout with excitement when you do white water rafting. The Green River is one of the top-class river rafting destinations that are perfect for experiencing the real enjoyment of nature. This Green River flows through Flaming Gorge in northeastern Utah and passes through Dinosaur National Monument.
If you are looking for something mild, Section C of the Green River is the best option for you. Section C is east of Flaming Gorge and is great for fishing or for a float trip with young kids. However, if you want to spend an adventurous afternoon on whitewater, head down the Split Mountain section of the river.
Check out the street art
Main Street
When you drive through Main Street, you will notice several things. During summertime, the petunia planters overflow with flowers. These planters’ line Main Street and offer a cozy and welcoming vibe. Another amazing thing you will notice is the dinosaur street art along Main Street. You can see the best street art at Cobble Rock Park, where there is a fun splash pad with fountains.
Best Hotels to stay in Vernal, Utah
There are lots of affordable and beautiful hotels in Vernal, Utah, but how do you know which hotel is the best and near to all popular attractions? We will make it easy for you; here are the top 3 hotels that are affordable and feature top-notch amenities.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Vernal
This hotel is located off Highway 40, just a 5-minute drive from Vernal Regional Airport. It is the best option for families since they have spacious suites with king/queen bedrooms. Also, they have a gymnasium, indoor pool, outdoor firepits, and a complimentary breakfast buffet that’s included in your stay.
Moreover, the staff is friendly and helpful and always makes sure that their guests have everything whenever they need.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Vernal
The TownePlace suites by Marriot is the best extended-stay hotel that makes traveling for work a breeze. There is a beautiful indoor pool, and they offer spacious guest rooms. Another reason to book this hotel is the hot breakfast buffet.
This hotel provides affordable comfort just 20 minutes from the Dinosaur National Monument, and Salt Lake City is also closer. All in all, you can spend time with the entire family and make priceless memories because guests are permitted to bring a pet at affordable rates.
Final Thoughts
Would you have ever expected there could be so many amusing things to do in Vernal, Utah? You could easily spend a week in this part of Utah.
Hopefully, this offers you some brilliant ideas of what you can do as you plan your trip to Vernal.
