Photo: Moab Museum
Photo: Moria Mesillas
Photo: Moab Museum
Moab Museum
★4.5(258 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1-1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 7 and up. School-age children and teens who enjoy movies will appreciate the film clips and props, while younger kids may find the historical content less engaging unless they're already familiar with some of the featured films.🧡 Saved by 50+ families
About
The Moab Museum offers a fascinating dive into Hollywood's love affair with the Utah desert, showcasing the classic Western films and blockbusters shot against Moab's iconic red rock backdrop. Interactive exhibits featuring movie memorabilia, behind-the-scenes stories, and local film history make this a surprisingly engaging stop for families, especially those who've watched movies like Indiana Jones, Thelma & Louise, or any John Wayne Western.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive displays featuring props and costumes from famous films shot in the area
- ✓Video clips and film reels showing Moab's stunning landscapes on the big screen
- ✓Movie memorabilia from John Wayne Westerns and modern blockbusters
- ✓Maps showing actual filming locations you can visit around Moab
- ✓Exhibits on the region's Native American history and pioneer settlement
Pro Tips
- 1.Watch a classic Western filmed in Moab (like Stagecoach or Rio Grande) before your visit to help kids connect with the exhibits and get more excited about what they're seeing
- 2.Street parking is available on Center Street, but the lot behind the museum offers easier access with strollers
- 3.Plan your museum visit for a hot afternoon or rainy day,it's perfectly air-conditioned and makes a nice break from outdoor Moab adventures
- 4.Ask staff about the Junior Explorer activity sheets designed to keep younger visitors engaged throughout the exhibits
- 5.Combine your visit with a scenic drive to some of the actual filming locations around Moab for a memorable movie-themed day
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 9-11 AM) for the quietest experience, or save it for a scorching summer afternoon when outdoor activities are less comfortable. Spring and fall see the most crowds due to peak tourism season.
What to Know
Admission fees apply (children under 6 are typically free). The museum is wheelchair accessible with an elevator. No food service on-site, but you're on Moab's main street with numerous restaurants within a block or two.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round Tuesday-Saturday. Closed Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays. Summer (June-August) sees the highest visitor numbers, while winter offers a quieter experience with shorter lines.
Nearby Eats
Moab Brewery (3 blocks away) offers kid-friendly burgers and pizza in a casual atmosphere, or try Quesadilla Mobilla for quick, fresh Mexican food that kids love, just a short walk down Main Street.
More Activities Near Moab
Adventure
Utah 128
Free❤️11
Utah Highway 128 offers families an unforgettable scenic adventure along the Colorado River with minimal hiking required. This 44-mile paved route features numerous pullouts where kids can safely enjoy breathtaking red rock canyon views, spot wildlife, and take memorable family photos without strenuous physical activity,perfect for families with varying ages and abilities.
Ice Cream
Twisted Sstrait Ice Cream
$
Twisted Sstrait Ice Cream is a beloved local Moab ice cream shop offering creative, unique flavors that go beyond typical vanilla and chocolate. After a day of hiking Arches or exploring red rock country, families can cool down with premium, creamy scoops while enjoying outdoor seating and the friendly, small-town atmosphere that makes Moab special.
Adventure
Pack Creek Ranch
★5.0$$❤️28
Pack Creek Ranch offers families an authentic Western adventure with guided horseback rides through Moab's stunning red rock country. With experienced wranglers leading the way, even first-time riders and children can safely explore the scenic trails, making this a memorable outdoor experience that introduces kids to the joy of horseback riding in one of Utah's most beautiful landscapes.
Adventure
Moab Adventure Center
★4.9$$❤️31
Moab Adventure Center is your family's gateway to unforgettable outdoor thrills in Utah's stunning red rock country. With professional guides leading age-appropriate rock climbing, canyoneering, and zip-lining adventures, even first-time adventurers can safely experience the magic of Moab's dramatic landscapes. The center's excellent 4.9-star rating from over 3,000 families speaks to their expertise in creating memorable, confidence-building experiences for kids and parents alike.