6 Best Towns Near Zion National Park (Where to Stay and Eat)

If you’re planning a trip to Zion National Park, choosing the right place to stay makes a big difference. The best towns near Zion National Park offer quick access to the park, comfortable lodging, and plenty of good places to eat.

This guide covers the six best towns near Zion: Springdale, Hurricane, La Verkin, Virgin, St. George, and Kanab. You’ll find updated recommendations for where to stay and eat, how far each town is from the park, and what makes each one a practical base for your visit.

Use it to choose the best location for your stay and make the most of your time in Zion.

Springdale sits right at Zion’s south entrance, so you can walk or take the park shuttle without worrying about parking.

It’s the most convenient base with plenty of lodging, restaurants, and gear rentals. It has pretty much everything you need once you arrive.

Springdale has the most lodging options of any town near Zion. You can stay right by the park entrance or a little farther out for quieter surroundings. Here are some of the best and most reliable places to stay:

Bumbleberry Inn – Bumbleberry Inn has been run by the same local family for decades. The rooms are simple and spotless, many with great red rock views. The on-site restaurant is known for its homemade pies, and there’s a bakery and café just next door.

GOOD TO KNOW: You get vouchers for free breakfast, and the location makes it easy to walk to shops and restaurants.

Hotel De Novo Springdale –  Hotel De Novo Springdale, formerly Majestic View Lodge, this property has been fully rebranded and updated under Hilton’s Tapestry Collection. It sits just south of Springdale with sweeping views of Zion’s cliffs. The rooms are modern and quiet, and the on-site restaurant serves classic American dishes in a nice and relaxed setting.

PRO TIP: Ask for an upper-level room facing the cliffs. You will just love watching the sunrise and the incredible colors of the cliffs.

Zion Canyon Lodge – Zion Canyon Lodge is located in the center of town, about half a mile from the park entrance. The lodge is a short walk to the shuttle stop, restaurants, and gear shops. Rooms include small refrigerators, microwaves, and good Wi-Fi. Parking is free.

PRO TIP: Ask for an upper-floor room if you prefer less foot traffic and better views.

Flanigan’s Inn – Flanigan’s Inn is a very nicely maintained property within walking distance of the park entrance. Rooms are spacious and quiet, and the property includes a small spa, pool, and yoga studio. The on-site Spotted Dog Café serves some of the best meals in Springdale.

PRO TIP: Request a room away from the main road for the most peaceful stay.

Driftwood Lodge – Driftwood Lodge is set slightly away from the busiest part of town, which is nice. It offers large rooms, easy parking, and an outdoor pool with unobstructed red rock views.

GOOD TO KNOW: Several rooms have patios that open directly to grassy areas overlooking the cliffs, so make sure to inquire about them when making a reservation.

Cliffrose Springdale – Cliffrose Springdale, Curio Collection by Hilton, is a beautiful upscale lodge set along the Virgin River, less than a five-minute walk from the Zion entrance. Landscaped gardens, two pools, and an on-site restaurant make it one of the most complete stays in town.

GOOD TO KNOW: The park shuttle stop is right outside the property, and early risers can walk into the park before shuttle service starts.

Cable Mountain Lodge – Cable Mountain Lodge is located directly next to the Zion National Park visitor center. This lodge offers the shortest commute to the park of any hotel in Springdale. Suites include kitchenettes and laundry access. There’s a small market, café, and gear rental on-site.

PRO TIP: If you plan to start hikes early, staying here lets you skip parking entirely and enter the park on foot.

Springdale has a good mix of casual cafés and sit-down restaurants, all within a short walk or shuttle ride from most hotels. Many places close early, especially outside peak season, so plan to eat before 8:30 pm.

Oscar’s Café – A longtime favorite and one of the few spots open year-round for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The portions are generous, and the food is consistently fresh. The outdoor patio has shade and great mountain views.
PRO TIP: Don’t skip the Huevos Rancheros for breakfast or the fish tacos after a hike.

Bit & Spur Restaurant & Saloon – Springdale’s classic southwestern restaurant, known for its Green Chile Stew, elk tacos, and prickly pear margaritas. There’s often live music on the patio in the evenings.

Spotted Dog Café (inside Flanigan’s Inn) – The menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients; think Utah trout, lamb, and seasonal vegetables. The dining room overlooks the cliffs, and service is always professional.

Zion Pizza & Noodle Co. – Casual, family-friendly, and set in a converted church, one of the most relaxed spots in Springdale. Great place for pizza, pasta, and a cold beer after a long hike.
PRO TIP: Arrive early for dinner — lines form fast after 6 pm during high season.

Café Soleil – Perfect for breakfast or a light lunch before hitting the trails. They serve good espresso, smoothies, and sandwiches made with fresh ingredients. It’s right on the main road, close to the visitor center.

Hurricane is about a 20-minute drive from Zion’s south entrance. It’s one of the best places to stay if you want lower prices than Springdale but still want quick park access.

The town has a good mix of hotels, restaurants, and stores, plus easy access to nearby Sand Hollow and Quail Creek State Parks for swimming, kayaking, and off-road adventures.

Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane/Zion National Park – Wingate by Wyndham Hurricane/Zion National Park is a newer, well-managed property with modern rooms, an outdoor pool, and a hot tub. Breakfast is included, and there’s plenty of parking. 
PRO TIP: Ask for a room facing east to catch the red cliffs glowing at sunrise.

Comfort Inn & Suites Zion Park Area – Comfort Inn & Suites Zion Park Area is spacious, comfortable, and quiet despite being just off the main road. The hotel has an indoor pool, gym, and free hot breakfast.

My Place Hotel – Hurricane/Zion National Park – My Place Hotel – Hurricane/Zion National Park is a practical choice if you like flexibility; every room has a kitchenette and full-size fridge, and there’s a guest laundry on-site.

Sand Hollow Resort –  Sand Hollow Resort is located 10 minutes outside. This resort overlooks Sand Hollow State Park and its bright-blue reservoir. The property offers spacious vacation-rental-style–style units, from single rooms to full villas with kitchens and living areas. You have access to a championship golf course, restaurant, and pools.

Main Street Café – Classic small-town diner serving hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and homemade pies. Service is quick, and portions are generous.

Pig’s Ear American Bistro – Locally owned restaurant with creative takes on comfort food; think braised short ribs, burgers, and salmon with seasonal sides. 
GOOD TO KNOW: Reservations are helpful on weekends; the dining room fills up fast.

River Rock Roasting Company – Set on a hill between Hurricane and La Verkin, this café has strong coffee, breakfast burritos, and a patio with views over the Virgin River canyon.

St. George is about 45 minutes southwest of Zion’s south entrance, making it a great option if you prefer more dining, shopping, and cultural choices while still being close enough for day trips to the park.

The city has excellent hiking in Snow Canyon State Park, multiple golf courses, and a nice downtown with restaurants, galleries, and a beautiful outdoor amphitheater.

Inn on the Cliff – Inn on the Cliff is set on a bluff overlooking the city. This boutique hotel is clean, with modern rooms and panoramic views. Every room has a balcony facing the red rocks, and the on-site restaurant serves dinner with one of the best views in town.
PRO TIP: Book a top-floor room for the widest view across the valley.

Red Mountain Resort – Red Mountain Resort is a wellness-focused resort on the edge of Snow Canyon State Park. It offers fitness classes, guided hikes, and a full-service spa; perfect if you want to pair park adventures with relaxation.
GOOD TO KNOW: All meals are available on-site, and the kitchen specializes in healthy, locally sourced dishes.

The Advenire – Autograph Collection – The Advenire – Autograph Collection is located right in downtown St. George. The Advenire is a boutique Marriott property with a locally inspired design that mixes red-rock textures and pioneer-era details. Rooms are stylish but comfortable. The on-site restaurant, wood.ash.rye., focuses on regional flavors and locally sourced ingredients, and the rooftop terrace has views of the surrounding cliffs.

Painted Pony Restaurant – Upscale but relaxed, serving creative Southwestern-inspired dishes like elk tenderloin, local trout, and roasted vegetables.
PRO TIP: Reserve ahead if you want a table near the windows — the view of the red cliffs at sunset is worth it.

George’s Corner Restaurant – Local institution in the historic district. The menu includes burgers, tacos, and comfort food with local beer on tap.

TwentyFive Main
Charming café and bakery serving breakfast, lunch, and cupcakes baked daily.
PRO TIP: Make sure to try the French toast soufflé for breakfast or a slice of carrot cake to-go after dinner.

Cliffside Restaurant (at Inn on the Cliff) – Beautiful setting overlooking the valley; excellent food without being formal.
PRO TIP: Time your dinner for sunset; this view is one of the best in southern Utah.

La Verkin sits about 20 minutes from Zion’s south entrance, just a few minutes north of Hurricane. It’s smaller and quieter, with a few good hotels and easy access to both the park and the scenic Virgin River Canyon.

Staying here works well if you want to be close to Zion but prefer a calmer, less touristy base.

Best Western Plus Zion West Hotel – Best Western Plus Zion West Hotel is clean, with modern rooms. There’s a pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast. Parking is free and easy.
PRO TIP: Ask for a second-floor room on the west side; the sunset views over the cliffs are excellent.

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham La Verkin – La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham La Verkin is conveniently located right off State Street. This property has spacious rooms, a small outdoor pool, and free breakfast.
GOOD TO KNOW: It’s a great pick if you’re planning day trips to both Zion and nearby Snow Canyon State Park.

River Rock Roasting Company – Known for strong coffee, breakfast burritos, and a patio overlooking the Virgin River Canyon. It opens early, which makes it a great stop before entering the park.
PRO TIP: Try the house-made pastries or the Southwest breakfast burrito.

Stage Coach Grille – Western-style steakhouse serving prime rib, burgers, and ribs. Portions are large.

Kanab is about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Zion’s east entrance and makes a great base if you plan to explore more than one park. From here, you can reach Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon North Rim, and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, all within a couple of hours’ drive.

It’s a small, friendly town with a strong outdoor community and a surprising number of good restaurants.

Comfort Suites Kanab National Park Area – Comfort Suites Kanab National Park Area is a reliable, modern hotel just off Highway 89 with Spacious rooms, an indoor pool, and complimentary breakfast.

The Lodge at Red River Ranch – The Lodge at Red River Ranch is set outside Kanab on a large private ranch surrounded by red cliffs. This lodge offers rustic luxury: wood-beamed ceilings, fireplaces, and sweeping desert views.

Rocking V Café – Local landmark serving creative Southwestern and American dishes. Expect colorful décor, good service, and hearty portions.
PRO TIP: Make sure to try the house-made Green Chile Stew and the bison burger — both are local favorites.

Sego Restaurant – Kanab’s standout dining experience, focusing on modern American small plates and locally sourced ingredients. Chef Shon Foster’s menu changes seasonally but always includes vegetarian and gluten-free options.
PRO TIP: Reserve ahead — this is one of the few places in town that books up regularly.

Peekaboo Canyon Wood Fired Kitchen – Casual, vegetarian-friendly restaurant with wood-fired pizzas, salads, and sandwiches. Family-friendly and consistently well-rated.
PRO TIP: Make sure to try the smoked brisket pizza or the roasted vegetable salad — both excellent after a long hiking day.

Orderville and nearby Mount Carmel Junction are just 25 minutes from Zion’s East Entrance. They’re small, quiet towns surrounded by red cliffs and sagebrush, perfect if you want a peaceful base away from the crowds of Springdale.

This area is ideal if you’re entering or leaving Zion through the Mt. Carmel Highway Tunnel or combining your trip with Bryce Canyon.

Zion Mountain Ranch – Zion Mountain Ranch is a nice, peaceful property, just minutes from Zion’s East Entrance. The cabins are cozy, with wood interiors and big porches that look out toward the red cliffs.
PRO TIP: Have dinner at their on-site restaurant, Cordwood, known for using local ingredients and produce grown on their own farm.

Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge – Best Western East Zion Thunderbird Lodge is right off Highway 89 in Mount Carmel Junction. This long-time traveler favorite offers comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and an on-site restaurant.
PRO TIP: Try their homemade pies at the Thunderbird Restaurant next door — they’ve been serving them for over 50 years.

Thunderbird Restaurant – Classic roadside diner attached to the Best Western. Expect American comfort food, big breakfasts, and fresh desserts.

Cordwood at Zion Mountain Ranch – Farm-to-table restaurant at Zion Mountain Ranch, serving elevated Western-style meals with locally sourced ingredients.