Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
When you think of a vacation, two things probably come to mind: it's far away, and it costs a lot.
Most vacations mean leaving home, staying somewhere overnight and spending more money than you expect.
Writing for Bankrate, Karen Bennett says the average one-week vacation in the U.S. costs nearly $2,000 per person. Now imagine paying that for a family of four or five.
Luckily, if you live in Utah, you have a built-in advantage.
With stunning national parks practically in your backyard — and comfortable, affordable lodging just steps from the trailhead — an exciting and affordable family vacation is more accessible than you might think.
Here's why Ruby's Inn, the closest lodging to Bryce Canyon National Park, is the perfect place to start.
A vacation close to home that feels a world away
Staycations have their place, but sometimes you just need a true change of scenery.
Ruby's Inn is located less than four hours from Salt Lake City, so it's far enough to feel like a real escape, yet close enough for a stress-free drive. (You probably won't even be in the car long enough to hear the dreaded "Are we there yet?")
There's no need to book expensive flights or leave the state. Bryce Canyon's stunning red rock scenery feels like you've traveled to another world — without leaving Utah or stretching your budget.
A beautiful escape — and reprieve from the heat
Another advantage most people don't think about when they're vacationing in Bryce Canyon is the elevation. Since it's over 8,000 feet above sea level, you can expect cooler temperatures, even during the hottest parts of the summer.
According to the National Park Service, the average highs range from 75 to 80 degrees between June and August.
Plus, when Utah's valleys are trapped in inversion or sweltering heat, Bryce offers crisp mountain air, star-filled skies and peaceful pine forests.
It's the perfect escape when you need a break from the haze and heat of the city.
Affordable lodging and perks for families
The lodging options at Ruby's Inn are designed with families in mind, which is why they offer some of the most competitive rates in the region — especially when you consider what's included.
Every guest at Ruby's Inn enjoys daily housekeeping, access to an indoor pool, hot tub and fitness center, and a free hot breakfast every morning of their stay.
That's a big savings for families, not to mention a convenient and delicious way to start a day of adventure.
You can also take your pick among a wide range of accommodations, from hotel rooms to family suites, plus an RV park and campgrounds for those who prefer to bring their own setup.
Activities for every age and interest
Sometimes, finding lodging for a vacation is just a necessary evil. But staying at Ruby's Inn isn't just about having a place to sleep — it's about experiencing everything Bryce Canyon has to offer.
The inn is proud to offer family-friendly activities right on site, including guided ATV tours, horseback riding, mountain biking and even chuckwagon-style dinners with live entertainment at Ebenezer's Barn and Grill.
If you time it right, you may be able to attend a local rodeo.
Of course, you'll also be just minutes away from Bryce Canyon National Park, where you can hike among world-famous hoodoos, catch a ranger-led program, or simply take in the sunrise from one of the park's breathtaking viewpoints.
If accessibility is a concern, don't worry — the park has several short trails and scenic drives to accommodate all ages and fitness levels.
More than a vacation
In addition to being fun, visiting Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon can also be an educational and transformational experience. It's a great way to get outside, explore nature and learn something new about the world around you.
This part of Utah has some of the most unique landscapes on Earth, and seeing them up close is an experience your family will remember for years to come.
Continuing a long tradition of hospitality
Ruby's Inn has been welcoming guests to Bryce Canyon since 1916.
What started as a small ranch and lodging stop by Reuben C. "Ruby" Syrett has grown into a full-service resort, still owned and operated by the Syrett family.
They've spent over a century perfecting the art of Western hospitality — and they're proud to carry that tradition forward today.
Plan your family getaway today
Whether you're looking for a quick weekend retreat or a full summer adventure, Ruby's Inn offers unbeatable value, breathtaking beauty and a welcome change of pace.
So skip the stress of airports and expensive destinations and rediscover the incredible treasures right here in Utah!
An affordable family getaway with all the right ingredients is closer than you think. Book your stay at rubysinn.com — and discover a new family favorite you'll want to return to year after year.
