Exploring Springdale, Utah: Best Food and Local Activities besides Zion
While most people may think Springdale is just a base to stay for visiting Zion, they fail to explore and see the little town to it’s fullest potential! If you have an off day, or you’re tired and your legs are hurting from exploring Zion, check out this guide to see fun things to do in Springdale!
8 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Zion National Park
Coffee Coffee Coffee
There are tons of fun coffee shops to visit in Springdale. Perfect way to start your day and sit outside admiring the incredible rocks around you. Here are a few of my favorite coffee places there.
- Canyon Coffee
- Feel love Coffee
Breakfast
I’m making this section for one place only:
- Oscar’s Cafe: By far one of the best breakfast’s I’ve ever had. Got the standard breakfast platter with eggs, home fries, bacon, toast and of course a side of pancakes. The home fries and eggs were delicious and the pancakes were also incredible.
- What made this so incredible was the coffee however. It was so good I asked the waitress if I could buy a bag of coffee for the trip home, which they apparently couldn’t do, but they told me what kind of coffee it was. 10/10 recommend going here for breakfast at least one day.
- Deep Creek Coffee Company – A more chill spot with fresh breakfast sandwiches, smoothies, and a lovely outdoor deck. Great for slower mornings.
Adventure Outside the Park
Bike the Pa’rus Trail – Super scenic, beginner-friendly, and a fun way to explore the edges of the park without entering it.
Kayak the Virgin River – Peaceful, beautiful, and you’ll probably have the water to yourself. there are tons of local outfitters and rental shops where you can rent kayaks for a couple hours. A truly peaceful way to relax and unwind without having to hike in Zion.
Where to Eat and Drink
There are tons of places to eat in Springdale so you won’t fall short on options. Just a few of my recommendations.
- Zion Canyon Brew Pub – Located right next to the park near the visitor center, this is a great place to enjoy dinner and a drink after a long day in the park. Sit outside and admire the views or take on the AC indoors.
- Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon – Southwestern food with a cool, laid-back bar scene. They often have live music too.
- King’s Landing Bistro – For the Game of Thrones fans and lovers of fine dining. This bistro offers salmon, steak, burgers, fresh seafood and more!
- Jack’s Sports Grill – Not in the mood for anything fancy? This fun sports bar offers American BBQ, burgers and typical pub food with a great selection of local beer. This was our first place we stopped to eat in Springdale.
- Cowboys and Angels – Fun little speakeasy with outdoor seating. No dinner menu here. Strictly cocktails. A fun way to end your evening.
Other Activities to do in Springdale
Again, if it’s your rest day and you want to take a break from the hot sun and the hiking, then take a look at these options to do in Springdale:
- Explore Local Art Galleries – Springdale has a surprisingly vibrant art scene. Check out galleries like LaFave Gallery and David J. West Gallery for stunning landscapes, photography, and southwestern art.
- Shop at Local Boutiques – There are several cute shops in town where you can pick up local crafts, handmade jewelry, pottery, and souvenirs. Try DeZion Gallery or Joy Craft & Design for unique finds.
- Stargazing – Springdale has minimal light pollution, so the stars are incredible. Drive a few minutes out of town or simply step outside your lodge at night. Or check for stargazing tours run by local guides.
- Take a Yoga Class – Some hotels and studios offer drop-in yoga classes as well as massages, often with red rock views. Perfect for a day of recovery
- Bumbleberry Theatre – This small local theater sometimes shows classic outdoor adventure films or hosts live events. Check the schedule while you’re in town as it’s a fun way to spend a relaxed evening.
Springdale, Utah
While everyone whop stays or visits here obviously comes for Zion, don’t forget to explore some of the town, especially if you have a free day or time to kill, there’s lots to explore in Springdale and getting out on the town with other travelers and tourists is a super fun way to meet people from all over the world!
Other Tours
Private tour of Peek-A-Boo Slot Canyon!
Zion Sunset Off-roading Jeep Tour
Check out our other Utah / Zion Articles here
8 Mistakes to Avoid When Visiting Zion National Park
Angel’s Landing Hike: Is the Risk Worth the Reward? What to Know Before You Hike