We just returned from our yearly vacation to the Emerald Coast and it was amazing as usual. The area is breathtaking and we want to share the affordable activities we loved. Ready to plan your cheap beach vacation? Here are five fun, memorable, and budget-friendly beach activities you’ll love! I hope you find these travel tips helpful!

Play at Goofy Golf — Okaloosa Island

If you’re looking for cheap things to do in Fort Walton Beach, Goofy Golf is a must! This iconic mini golf course has been entertaining families since 1958 with its quirky statues and old-school charm. It’s the perfect throwback activity for your budget-friendly beach trip. We have been visiting for years and they have started to renovate over the past year. Several new obstacles, fresh paint, and updated lanscaping have been completed under new ownership.

Location: 401 Eglin Pkwy NE, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Cost: $6 per adult, $4 per child

Pro tip: Go in the evening when the temperature drops and the statues light up for a magical, family-friendly good time.

Explore the Air Force Armament Museum — Eglin AFB

Looking for free things to do on the Emerald Coast? The Air Force Armament Museum at Eglin Air Force Base is a fantastic stop. It offers a great collection of historic aircraft, missiles, and military memorabilia. It’s a great way to mix a little learning into your budget-friendly beach activities. Leave it to the homeschool family, right?! Lol.

This museum exceeded our expectations. It is big enough to have some amazing pieces and small enough to not spend the entire day there. Even our elemtary aged girls loved the memorabilia and the stories behind it.

Location: 100 Museum Dr, Eglin AFB, FL 32542
Cost: Free!

Perfect for history lovers and anyone looking for affordable family vacation ideas.

Snorkel at O’Steen Public Beach Access (East Jetty)

Want to experience underwater adventure on a budget? Head to O’Steen Public Beach Access near the East Jetty in Destin, one of the best spots for snorkeling on a budget in Florida. If you bring your own gear, it’s completely free! The area is made up of four small inlets with the jetty semi protecting the area from the pass. There is beach access at each of the inlets.

My son and I have a tradition to catch the sunrise on a beach walk each year. This year we decided to catch some early snorkling before anyone was in the water. It paid off, too. We saw a few puffer fish, several jelly fish, crabs, so many varieties of fish, and a sea turtle! I didn’t get pictures since we left our phones in the car.

Location: 320 Gulf Shore Dr, Deston, FL 32541
Cost: Free! We parked just ourside of the entrance and parking there is $20 for four hours. There may be cheaper or free parking somewhere else. I guess we will look next year!!

This is a true gem for families looking for budget-friendly beach activities.

Share a Meal at McGuire’s Irish Pub

Eating out doesn’t have to blow your travel budget! McGuire’s Irish Pub in Destin is famous for its fun atmosphere and gigantic portions, perfect for splitting. Sharing plates is a great strategy for traveling on a budget while still enjoying delicious local food. They do have an option to split the entree and get an extra side and salad for a bit more money. Still a great deal!

Location: 33 US-98 Destin, FL 32541
Cost: Varies but splitting meals makes it very budget-friendly

Insider tip: Try their 18¢ Senate Bean Soup! Yes, you heard me. This is another way to get plenty of food for the price. Each entree qualifies for the discounted bowl of Senate Bean Soup. Also, check out the ceiling and almost every other square inch of wood in the restaurant. They have over $1.000.000 in one dollar bills hanging from the ceiling and walls throughout the restaurant. They will bring you a stapler and marker if you want to leave a message on your bill.

Visit Seaside — A Charming Coastal Village

For a classic, postcard-perfect Florida experience, take the short drive for a day trip to Seaside. This colorful, iconic beach town is known for its pastel cottages, white picket fences, and that small-town charm. You might recognize it from the movie The Truman Show! This beautiful little town is unlike any other town we have visited. Be prepared to fall in love.

Wandering around Seaside is completely free. You can stroll through the open-air market, explore art galleries, and take in the beautiful architecture. The beach views here are stunning and make for perfect photo ops. Buying souvenirs at the local Seaside stores will most likely not fit into the budget-friendly beach activities category, though! Lol!

Location: Seaside, about 25 miles east of Fort Walton Beach
Cost: Free to visit and walk around

Budget tip: Food trucks, cute cafes, and boutique shops here can be pricey, so plan ahead. Even if you’re just window shopping or grabbing an ice cream, it’s still a fun and memorable stop that won’t cost a thing if you skip the splurges!

Perfect for those looking for cheap things to do in Fort Walton Beach and a romantic or family-friendly evening.

Plan Your Affordable Family Vacation Today!

Fort Walton Beach and the surrounding area are filled with budget-friendly beach activities and fun ways to make memories without overspending. From cheap mini golf in Florida to free museums and gorgeous sunsets, these ideas prove you can have an amazing cheap beach vacation that the whole family will love.

Bonus Tips for Traveling on a Budget

• Visit during off-season (spring or fall) for lower prices on accommodations. We love to go in mid to late May often making the budget-friendly beach activities even cheaper.
• Pack snacks and drinks to avoid pricey beach concessions.
• Look for free or low-cost local events happening during your stay.
• Budget-friendly beach activities typically don’t just happen. They take pre-planning. If you wait until you are on vacation it’s easier to get wrapped in the emotions of spending more money for memories.

Check out some of our other travel posts:

Couple’s Getaway to Nashville: A Blend of Urban Cool and Southern Charm

Celebrating 28 Years in Utah: A Winter Travel Review

Anakeesta Mountaintop Park Review: A Magical Experience

Why Destin Is Perfect for a Family Beach Vacation

Ready to plan your next affordable family vacation? Share this with a friend who loves saving money on travel, and let us know your favorite budget-friendly beach activities or spots below!

A Real-Life Look at Short-Term Rentals vs Hotels for Families

We were reminded why we choose short-term rentals on a recent trip. We traveled to Dayton, Ohio, for a family funeral a few weeks ago. It was a quick, emotional trip—just the two of us and our younger kids (ages 10 and 8). Our older two were finishing up their college semester and couldn’t come.

We found a two-bedroom short-term rental in a fairly central location. The rental was simple and small, but it was all we needed—and it was significantly cheaper than nearby hotel options. This was a great reminder of how short-term rentals vs. hotels stack up when you’re traveling on a budget with kids.

The Airbnb was newly renovated, which was really nice. Everything felt new and clean. It was a small bungalow-style house with two bedrooms and one full bathroom. The neighborhood was a bit rough-looking, but it was quiet and felt safe.

Even though the reason for the trip was difficult, we made space for connection. We had a huge family dinner at a famous local spot—Marion’s Pizza. This is a big deal if you’re from Dayton! Dayton-style pizza is super thin, with toppings spread all the way to the edges. They don’t make pizza like this in our home state!!

After the funeral, we visited the Spaghetti Warehouse in downtown Dayton. This building is filled with character, tons of history, and charm that makes you feel like you’re eating in a time capsule. The decor pays homage to local heroes, the Wright Brothers, Norman Rockwell, and various famous artists. The food was so good; our favorite part was the sourdough bread and garlic butter.

The other side of my family also had a small breakfast get-together at Bob Evans. Eggs, Bacon, Sausage, Biscuits, pancakes…Need I say more? It was wonderful, and spending time connecting with family was great.

Of course, we couldn’t leave Ohio without getting Skyline Chili—a Cincinnati classic. Honestly, it might just be my favorite food on the planet.

Each of these meals became a little moment of normalcy in the middle of a heavy trip. And coming “home” to a quiet, peaceful, and private rental each night made all the difference.

8 Benefits of Short-Term Rentals for Families

Whether we’re traveling for something exciting or something unexpected, here’s why we usually skip the hotel and go for a rental:

1. Separate Bedrooms = Better Sleep

When traveling with kids, having everyone’s own space is a game-changer. I don’t want to go to bed at the same time as our kids. If we stay at a hotel, it’s lights out for everyone at our elementary-age girls’ bedtime. I don’t want to tiptoe around a hotel room in the dark.

We also have six in our family: two college students and two younger kids. Six people in one hotel room? It just doesn’t work. At all. We have tried, and it was miserable. A short-term rental gives us space to unwind after bedtime routines are over.

2. Feels More Like Home

There’s something comforting about staying in a real home. There’s a couch to curl up on, a table to eat around, and a kitchen to make coffee in the morning without standing under fluorescent lights. Sure, the breakfast is complimentary—but I’d rather eat without being surrounded by 41 strangers in their pajamas.

Short-term rentals are a competitive market. So we see hosts doing and offering more to make their rentals feel like homes. “Home” on the road beats a hotel in my book.

3. A Full Kitchen Saves Money

Having a full-size fridge for snacks and drinks is a must. With six of us, a hotel fridge can’t hold all our cold items. A vacation rental kitchen is one of the best benefits of short-term rentals, just making breakfast or lunch in helps keep costs down (and keeps kids happy).

 Eating out three meals a day with a big family adds up fast.

4. It’s Often Cheaper

Hotel rates were surprisingly high for our Ohio trip near the funeral location. The rental we found was not only more comfortable but also significantly cheaper. That kind of savings makes a real difference.

Also, vacation rentals for big families are often more budget-friendly than booking multiple hotel rooms. The value is hard to beat, especially if you’re looking for a family-friendly Airbnb.

Our trip was last-minute, so our options were semi-limited, but the available rentals were prime for a discount.

Travel Pro Tip: Message the host and ask for a discount (especially if it is a last-minute booking)!!

5. No Noisy Neighbors

You don’t share walls or ceilings with strangers in a vacation rental. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve stayed in a hotel and heard stomping, talking, or loud TV or music through the walls. Ever have the kids running around above you in a hotel at 5 am? What about the party down the hall? In a short-term rental, there’s no need to worry about paper-thin walls or noisy hallways at 11 p.m.

6. Space to Spread Out

It makes such a difference to have a little elbow room. Hotel rooms can feel cramped fast, especially if you’re stuck inside due to weather or need a minute to breathe. Even if it is just Kasey and me, the room seems to get smaller after a while. And if we want to watch TV, we have to sit on the bed. There is no couch or multiple chairs in every room. The bottom line is that a hotel room is not really an option for all six of us. We can squeeze, but I fear for all of our sanity if we try.

7. Laundry Access

Many short-term rentals include washers and dryers. For longer trips (or spills and surprises), that’s a huge perk. Also, I am crazy about keeping the dirty clothes pile as small as possible. With a big family, you have to stay on top of the dirty laundry, or you will get overwhelmed. This is why I always look for rentals with laundry access.

8. You Feel Like a Local

One of our favorite things about staying in short-term rentals is the chance to feel like locals. Whether in a small town or a big city, an Airbnb with kids lets you explore local spots at your own pace—no crowded lobbies or set breakfast hours.

Staying in a residential area instead of a commercial district lets you experience a city differently. You get to see and experience parts of the city you never would at a hotel by the interstate. It’s quieter, more personal, and often puts you close to hidden local gems, like Marion’s Pizza or Spaghetti Warehouse.

Family-Friendly Vacation Rentals vs Hotels: What Works for Us

When you’re planning a trip, choosing the right place to stay can shape the entire experience. For our family, short-term vacation rentals check all the boxes: comfort, space, privacy, and affordability. Whether you use Airbnb, Vrbo, or another booking platform, we’ve found that short-term rentals give families the freedom to rest, reconnect, and enjoy the journey without the stress that hotels can bring.

Final Thoughts on Short-Term Rentals vs Hotels for Families

Traveling with kids doesn’t have to be chaotic. Choosing short-term rentals vs hotels for families gives us the freedom and comfort we need to focus on what matters most…our time together. Whether it’s a fun vacation or a meaningful family gathering, the little things (like separate bedrooms, a quiet space, and homemade coffee) help us feel grounded.

Whether it’s an Airbnb or another vacation rental, finding the right family-friendly stay can make a big difference. From kitchens to extra space to better sleep for everyone, short-term rentals are the best option for traveling families. We’ve learned that these are truly some of the best places to stay with family when traveling, especially if you want comfort, quiet, and a little room to breathe.

What about you? Short-term rentals vs hotels for families. Which do you prefer?

Check out our other travel posts:

Why Destin is the Perfect Family Vacation

Celebrating 28 Years in Utah

Couples Getaway to Nashville 

Romantic Getaway to Hiwassee River Retreat

Selah Ridge Resort – Our favorite romantic short-term rental!!

Bradford Flats: A Perfect Host for our Nashville Weekend Getaway

Our home base in Nashville was a stylish one-bedroom flat in a renovated commercial office complex. The Bradford Flats is Nashville’s up-and-coming condo community, located less than five miles from downtown. The industrial-chic space featured polished concrete floors, exposed metal rafters, and ductwork, creating a unique urban atmosphere.

Modern amenities like a fully stocked kitchen, a bed that was sooo comfy, an in-unit washer and dryer, and a tiled shower stocked with body wash, shampoo, and conditioner made us feel right at home. The quiet commercial area provided a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center.

Things to do in Nashville for Couples: Centennial Park and the Parthenon

A visit to Centennial Park was a highlight of our trip. The park’s crown jewel is the full-scale replica of the Parthenon. WOW. That is all I could say. This architectural marvel, originally built for Tennessee’s 1897 Centennial Exposition, now serves as an art museum. The proximity of these landmarks make them one of the best Nashville attrations for couples

Unfortunately, we were running a little behind for the day and didn’t get to the park until dark, so we didn’t get to tour the art museum. However, we did spend time exploring the beautiful park grounds, admiring the Parthenon’s massive presence, and enjoying the local atmosphere as families and friends finished their picnics, recreation, and live music. We loved out Nashville date night.

Capitol Building Tour

Our tour of the Tennessee State Capitol offered an amazing glimpse into the state’s political history. The Greek Revival building sitting atop a hill in downtown Nashville has stunning architecture and beautiful city views.

We learned intriguing facts about the building’s construction, the state’s governance, and notable figures in Tennessee’s political landscape. This building was built in 1859. How in the world was something so amazing built so long ago without today’s technology? It was amazing to see where our State Representatives and Senators negotiate bills, eventually conduct business, and vote. My favorite was the Legislative Lounge, where the details behind many laws are hammered out. What Nashville weekend getaway would be complete without super nerdy homeschool stuff? Right? lol!

Nashville Attraction for Couples: Ryman Auditorium

No trip to Nashville is complete without experiencing the legendary Ryman Auditorium. Known as the “Mother Church of Country Music,” this historic venue NEVER disappoints.

We were fortunate to catch a live event here, and the acoustics, I’m told, are simply phenomenal. I really don’t understand any of that. lol! My husband is in awe of the building (every time we visit) and the sounds that come out of it. The Ryman’s intimate setting and storied past, starting as a church and hosting countless music legends, created an unforgettable night that totally describes Nashville’s musical soul. Ryman…we will be back in two months to visit again. lol.

Nashville Farmers Market

We had the chance to drop by the Nashville Farmers Market. It was a weekday and around lunch, so unfortunately, most of the booths were already closed. We did strike gold with one of the veggie and fruit stands—peaches and blackberries!! The food court is amazing and has a fantastic variety of foods. The garden center is amazing. My hubby is obsessed with all things landscaping and plants. He was like a kid in a toy store.

The Food Scene on Our Nashville Weekend Getaway

Nashville’s food scene absolutely never lets us down. The city offers a perfect mix of Southern comfort and innovative cuisine. We tend to enjoy traditional Southern food more than the trendy food scene. We have had romantic getaways to Nashville that included much fancier and intimate dining experiences but this Nashville weekend getaway was about enjoying some of our favorite Nashville dining spots.

Loveless Cafe

We indulged in classic Southern hospitality at the historic Loveless Cafe, famous for its flaky biscuits, homemade jams, veggies, and fried chicken. Between the two of us, we had fried chicken, fried okra, green beans, creamed corn, and smashed potatoes.

Martin’s Bar-B-Que Joint

Martin’s BBQ, one of the most popular BBQ restaurants in Nashville, satisfied our craving for authentic Tennessee barbecue with its smoky, tender meats and delicious sides. We split a sampler meal that feeds “one,” and there was more than enough food for both of us. The pork and brisket had great flavor. Fresh French fries and green beans were also great.

The BBQ sauce was not my favorite. It is a West TN vinegar-based sauce. Most BBQ restaurants I’ve eaten at have offered several types of sauce, but Martin’s is locked in on the vinegar sauce. All-in-all, it was a good experience. It has a really cool vibe, with an indoor and a huge outdoor area for eating.

Country Cafe

Y’all, this was a find!! Tiny and tucked away a few minutes from downtown Nashville is The Country Cafe, which met our taste for a home-style breakfast. Picture a hometown Waffle House that is family-owned and run. The staff was great, and the food—OH MY! My hubby had a sausage and cheese omelet, and I had a ham, egg, and cheese biscuit. This place hit the spot!

Till Five Pizza

After our night at the Ryman, we were definitely hungry, but there were very few things open that late. We could have walked to Broadway for a late dinner, but that is really not our scene. We opted for a late-night pizza place. Till Five Pizza is, well, open until 5 AM. So, this food really qualifies as food that would be served to folks who would be eating pizza at the same time most of us are waking up. It’s not the worst, but definitely not the best!! Pizza was better than the staff.

Wrap Up of out Nashville Weekend Getaway

Our Nashville weekend getaway offered a perfect blend of history, music, nature, and mouthwatering food. We really got the best of both worlds on this trip. Our trendy, quiet flat was the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring. There’s just something about Nashville that hooks you. It holds a special place in our hearts since this is where we renewed our wedding vows a few years ago.

The city has this really cool vibe where cowboy boots meet hipster coffee shops. We’re just homeschool parents with kids from elementary school to college, so we kind of end up right in the middle—not too cowboy and definitely not too hipster. lol. This is a defeinte must try because there are so many things to do in Nashville for couples.

This Nashville weekend getaway barely scratched the surface, and I’m already itching to go back. There’s so much more to see and do in this town. Make time to visit Nashville. I promise it’s a city you’ll grow so fond of.

Check out some of our other travel reviews:

5 Best Budget-Friendly Beach Activities Near Fort Walton Beach

8 Reasons Short-Term Rentals Beat Hotels for Traveling Families – And a Peek at Our Recent Trip to Ohio

Everything you Need for a Perfect Utah Getaway: A Winter Travel Review

Where We Stayed: A Beachfront Condo for the Best Family Beach Vacations

We stayed at Jade East Towers, a high-rise beachfront condo in Destin that checked all the boxes: ocean views, roomy living spaces, and the perfect setup for a Destin, Florida, family vacation.

Our 3-bedroom, 3-bath condo was on the 17th floor, which meant coffee on the balcony with a full view of the emerald water every morning. It was peaceful and stunning, and let me tell you…eating breakfast on the balcony while watching and listening to the waves roll in? That’s the kind of quiet parents dream about.

The condo came with free beach service—two chairs and an umbrella set up every day just for us. No hauling gear across the sand while juggling sunscreen and towels. That’s a win, especially for a family of six!

The kids loved the oceanfront pool (complete with a waterfall), and we even took a few dips in the hot tub after dinner. The biggest surprise was the random pink unicorn that showed up at the pool. Yeah, weird to me too! Lol.

There’s a tennis court, basketball court, and even a gym if you like to work out on vacation.

In the evenings, we’d crash on the couch and watch the NBA playoffs on the giant TV. We also played board games and finished a puzzle already in the unit. This place really felt like home, just with way better views. Lol!

Looking for tips on where to stay in Destin with kids? This is it.

Our Relaxed Destin Beach Trip Itinerary

If relaxing is what makes for the best family beach vacations then check out what ours looked like.

• Breakfast in the condo (balcony views galore!)

• Mornings at the beach, playing in the waves, and digging moats around sandcastles

• Lunch at the pool or back in the condo

• Dinner out at one of Destin’s many family-friendly restaurants

• Evening shopping or mini golf (an annual must)

It was simple, flexible, and exactly what we needed.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Destin, Florida

If you’re planning a Destin, Florida, beach vacation and want to know where to eat in Destin, Florida, here’s our round-up of all the places that made our bellies (and hearts) happy. We love to connect and make memories around the table. Destin restaurants make for the best family beach vacations!

🍀 McGuire’s Irish Pub

We ate here more than once—because once is never enough. McGuire’s has excellent steaks, burgers, and shepherd’s pie. That’s exactly what we ordered, along with the delicious bread and honey butter as well as the bean soup!! As good as the food is, the real experience is the pub itself. It’s covered in over a million signed dollar bills and feels like a quirky Irish time capsule. Definitely a must if you’re after kid-friendly restaurants in Destin, FL that adults love too. I promise you will leave satisfied!

🐊 Fudpucker’s

Yes, it’s called Fudpucker’s. Yes, the kids laughed every time we said it. But where else can you feed live alligators after dinner? They’ve got over 100 on-site, and it’s part restaurant, part wild Florida adventure. Super fun, super weird—in the best way.

🐖 Moe’s Original BBQ

Moe’s is Southern-style barbecue done right, with all the sides. It’s casual, quick, and so satisfying after a day at the beach.

Pro tip: Order the banana pudding. You can thank me later.

🍕 Merlin’s Pizza

Delivered straight to the condo = poolside lunch win for everyone. We didn’t even have to put on shoes. The pizza was great and the convenience! Merlin’s is a great option if you want to eat in on your Destin vacation rental.

🍩 The Donut Hole

You haven’t done Destin right if you haven’t had The Donut Hole. The food is so good, and the donuts are even more incredible! They serve a full southern breakfast, so come hungry.

🌮 Pepito’s

Our family loves Mexican food. I mean, we really love it. So, of course, we have to find a great local spot. Pepito’s is a great Mexican restaurant in Destin with delicious fajitas, fresh salsa, and quick service. We all left full and happy—and that’s saying something with our crew.

🌯 Burritacos

A total hidden gem. Like in a gas station, hidden. These were probably the most authentic tacos we’ve had. It’s authentic, tucked away, and worth finding.

Pro tip: There are only two tables, and you may not understand the employees of Burritacos unless you also speak Spanish. This restaurant contributes to Destin being one of the best family beach vacations.

☕ Café Destin

We visited Cafe Destin for Mother’s Day brunch, and we couldn’t have picked a better spot. It’s laid-back but still feels a little special—perfect for pancakes and celebrating. It really gave my wife a chance to take in all of her thoughts and feelings on Mother’s Day.

Making Mother’s Day Special on a Destin Beach Vacation

We happened to be in Destin over Mother’s Day, which made the trip even more special. We took the day to celebrate my wife, the amazing mom who keeps our family running.

We started the morning slowly—coffee on the balcony, lots of hugs, and “You’re the best, Mom!” from the kids.

For brunch, we went to Café Destin, and it was perfect. Cozy little outside table, great food, and a great atmosphere to hang around and eat just a little slower.

Later that day, the surprise Walmart moment happened, which honestly felt like a cherry on top. Celebrating Mother’s Day at the beach, with sunshine, family, and new memories, will be hard to beat.

The Wildest Walmart Pickup Ever

So this was totally unexpected. We went to pick up our grocery order, and several Walmart employees came running out to the car like we were celebrities. Turns out, my wife won their Mother’s Day giveaway—even though she didn’t enter anything! They handed her a giant bag of summer goodies and posted her on their social media.

We have had some tough seasons of marriage that have made my wife question herself. Question her value and worth. This was a divine moment for the Creator to show her how special she is. She was shocked and glowing. It was just one of those sweet little surprises that make a trip extra special.

Our Favorite Things to Do in Destin with Kids

After dinner, we’d hit up Silver Sands Premium Outlets or Destin Commons. They’re both packed with stores for all ages, so our younger kids could grab candy, cute souvenirs, and beg for a Build-A-Bear, and our older kids could grab a Starbucks.

Our favorite part of the trip? Mini golf at Goofy Golf in Fort Walton Beach—an old-school spot that’s been around since 1958. It’s a little quirky and super nostalgic, with big colorful statues and winding little courses that are just the right amount of silly. It’s one of the best fun activities in Destin for kids that grown-ups love, too, and it’s cheap! If you’re looking at budget-friendly activities in Destin, then this is it!

Best Family Beach Vacations: Why We Keep Coming Back to Destin, Florida

Like every other trip to Destin, this trip gave us space to rest, time to connect, and so many laughs. Between the beach, the food, the games, and the unexpected Walmart moment, it felt like a true getaway. It was not rushed, not overscheduled, just full of fun, sunshine, and the kind of memories you bring up around the dinner table for years. This is what matters—great memories.

If you’re planning your next Gulf Coast family vacation or searching for the best Florida beaches for families, you’ve gotta give Destin a shot. It’s got everything—plus authentic tacos!

Check out some of our other travel reviews:

Couple’s Getaway to Nashville: A Blend of Urban Cool and Southern Charm

5 Best Budget-Friendly Beach Activities Near Fort Walton Beach

Celebrating 28 Years in Utah: A Winter Wonderland

Anakeesta Mountaintop Park Review: A Magical Experience

Where to Stay in Salt Lake City: Hyatt Regency Hotel Review

Our stay at the Hyatt Regency in Salt Lake City was nothing short of amazing. Located in the heart of the city, this hotel made it easy to access everything on our itinerary. We stayed on the 19th floor. The views? Absolutely breathtaking. Floor-to-ceiling windows gave us a front-row seat to the night lights of Salt Lake City’s valley and the snow-capped mountains. Waking up to that? Pure magic.

Our room had a comfortable king-sized bed, and the decor was sleek and modern. The staff was another highlight—they were incredibly helpful and professional, always ensuring we had everything we needed to enjoy our Utah winter getaway. Kasey and I were trying to take pictures in front of their Christmas tree and one of the workers came from across the lobby just to take a few pictures for us.

The lobby was huge and offered several high-end restaurants. The Market, located off the lobby, offered fresh pastries, sweets, and a menu perfect for room service or quick pickup. And the drink options? A lifesaver for caffeine lovers like me—coffees, sodas, energy drinks, you name it. And let’s be real—vacation isn’t vacation without a little candy stash. No judging here! lol! 

The only downside was the parking situation. I saw this in many Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City reviews but didn’t grasp it until I was there. The hotel uses a public parking garage, and while it’s semi-convenient location-wise, the cost adds up quickly. Despite this minor inconvenience, the Hyatt Regency provided the comfort and quality you’d expect from a high-end hotel.

After settling into the Hyatt Regency, it was time to dive into the adventures that make Utah such a winter wonderland.

Snowmobiling in Park City: Thousand Peaks Ranch Review

No winter trip to Utah is complete without a Park City snowmobiling tour, and ours did not disappoint. We booked with Park City Peaks Snowmobiling, and the experience was unforgettable. Our guided tour took place during a snowstorm, and while that may sound intimidating, it added to the magic. Have you seen Frozen? That is exactly what it felt like.

It was so cool riding the trails while snowflakes filled the air. I grew up in Ohio and I hadn’t seen snow like this! Our guide made the experience even better. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and full of fascinating tidbits about the 20,000-acre private ranch where we rode…Thousand Peaks Ranch. The trails were pure magic. Snow-covered mountains and postcard-worthy views everywhere you looked.

The lodge was cozy and welcoming, the perfect place to warm up before or after your ride. The only inconvenience was the outdoor restrooms. Definitely not ideal when it’s freezing outside. Some of the trails were a bit rough and could use maintenance, but overall, the experience was amazing. We snapped tons of pics, and every single one looked like it belonged on a Christmas card. Now I see why Utah winter getaways are so special!

Tubing & Winter Fun at Woodward Park City Resort

Woodward Park City is a must-visit if you’re traveling with family or just want to feel like a kid again. The tubing hills here are some of the longest and highest in Utah. The staff was incredibly friendly and so helpful, making the experience enjoyable and fun from start to finish. Special shout out to Zeke. He was so helpful and kind.

But tubing is just the beginning. Woodward Park City offers so much more. It’s a fantastic destination even if tubing isn’t your thing. There’s a food court with plenty of options to grab lunch or a snack, cozy lounge areas where you can hang out and relax, and an indoor jump park that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. If you’re into action sports, you’ll love the indoor skate and bike parks, complete with ramps that launch you into foam pits. The skiing also looked amazing with lots of slope options depneding on ability.

Whether you’re sliding down the Woodward Park City tubing hills or just hanging out with a hot chocolate in hand, Woodward Park City resort is the kind of place that reminds you how fun winter can be

Broadway in Salt Lake City: Eccles Theatre Musical Review

Seeing Shrek the Broadway Musical at the Eccles Theatre was one of the highlights of our trip. I am a total musical fan so this was right up my alley. The venue is absolutely stunning—easily one of the nicest theaters we’ve ever been to. From the moment you walk in, the elegance and attention to detail make it feel like a special occasion.

Admission was quick and easy, and the staff was helpful in guiding us to our seats. The performance itself was top-tier. This was a traveling Broadway show, and it exceeded every expectation we had. The actors, costumes, and set design were phenomenal, making it an unforgettable afternoon.

The only minor downside was the limited food and drink options at the theater, but it didn’t take away from the experience. If you have a chance to catch a show at Eccles Theatre, I highly recommend it.

LDS Temple Square Christmas Lights & Holiday Tour

The LDS campus in Salt Lake City was under heavy renovation during our visit, but that didn’t stop us from enjoying its charm. The highlight was the Christmas lights—millions of twinkling lights illuminated the campus, creating a magical, festive atmosphere.

The LDS staff were welcoming and eager to answer any questions we had, adding a personal touch to the visit. While we didn’t get to experience the free genealogy service called FamilySearch during its business hours, it’s a wonderful resource for anyone interested in tracing their ancestry. Overall, the campus was a peaceful and beautiful spot to soak in the holiday spirit.

Where to Eat in Salt Lake City & Park City: Restaurant Guide

Utah has no shortage of great dining options, and we made the most of it during our trip. For our anniversary dinner, we went to Ruth’s Chris in Salt Lake City—our favorite spot for a special meal. As always, the food was cooked to perfection, and the staff went above and beyond to make us feel celebrated, even surprising us with a free dessert.

Other memorable meals included:

• Donut House: Perfect for a quick breakfast. The apple fritter was fresh, delicious, and unforgettable.
• Park City Roadhouse Grill: Great onion rings and fries, though the sliders were a bit heavy on the bread.
• Davanza’s Pizza: Cozy and tasty, though the small tables made seating a bit cramped.
• Brickyard Bar: A laid-back bar with decent food. It was funny having to show my ID—it’s been a while since I’ve done that for anything other than voting!

Travel Tips: Renting a Car & Flying into Salt Lake City

Getting around Utah was easy thanks to Sixt rent a car. I had never heard of this company. Maybe it’s because I haven’t rented a car in YEARS. While their location is off-site from the airport, the free shuttle service was quick and convenient. Junior was so noligable and incredibly helpful. They upgraded us to a 4WD GMC Terrain at no extra charge, which was a lifesaver in snowy Park City.

We flew with American Airlines, and as frequent flyers with priority status, we were treated exceptionally well. From seamless upgrades to even landing first-class seats on one leg, it was a stress-free travel experience.

Final Thoughts on Our Utah Anniversary Trip

This trip was everything we wanted and more. While the rain in Salt Lake City limited some of our exploring, Park City’s cozy, romantic vibes and fresh snowfall made up for it. From thrilling adventures to peaceful moments, Utah gave us the perfect mix of excitement and relaxation to celebrate 28 wonderful years together. All things considered, our Salt Lake City winter travel did not disappoint!

Thinking about a winter trip to Utah?

Use this guide to plan your own unforgettable Utah winter getaway—whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a family adventure, or just need a snowy escape. Got questions about our trip? Drop them in the comments or reach out—we’re happy to share!

Check out some of our other travel posts:

Why Destin is Perfect for a Beach Vacation

Couples Getaway to Nashville: A Blend of Urban Cool and Southern Charm

5 Best Budget-Friendly Beach Activities Near Fort Walton Beach