Majestic View Lodge

Southwestern-themed decor is packed into every inch of the cozy reception building that was constructed using logs from the historic 1988 Yellowstone fire, and the history of the area’s settlers is documented outside the entrance on a large plaque. Comfy brown leather furniture in the lobby lounge is surrounded by taxidermied animals -- including grizzly bears -- and potted plants, while views of the sweeping landscape can be had from A-frame windows. This well-maintained, mid-range hotel is farther than most properties from Zion National Park, but the hillside location provides stunning mountain and cliff views in three directions. Arranged on the property are two lodge-style buildings with red log beams and green rooftops. The smaller Deer Building is quieter than the main lodge and has views of the Virgin River. There aren’t any elevators here, so guests have to climb the stairs to the second floor. The competitive prices and location near the Zion National Park’s entrance appeals mainly to tourists, including those with kids. 

Located on the fringes of Springdale, this hotel is close to the banks of Virgin River on Zion Park Boulevard, which weaves through the untouched valley. There are a few residences in the immediate area, but there’s nothing within walking distance. This hotel is well-suited for tourists visiting Zion National Park, since it’s about three miles from the park's entrance (an eight-minute drive, depending on traffic), and there's a free seasonal shuttle that stops at the property. Springdale town (also reachable by free shuttle service) is home to many quaint cafes, restaurants, galleries, and gift shops -- the center of town is five minutes away by car. St. George, UT, is a 45-minute drive from the property, and Bryce Canyon National Park is two hours northeast. Many guests add a two-and-a-half-hour drive to the Grand Canyon to their Zion area trip, and the closest major airport is in Las Vegas, a three-hour drive from the hotel. Parking at the lodge is free and easy. 

There’s a pleasantly rustic vibe in rooms thanks to iron bed frames, original metal artwork, raw wooden furniture, and neutral plaid furnishings. French doors lead to balconies or patios that overlook the beautiful desert landscape, but some rooms face the main road and traffic noises can be heard. One-bedroom Deluxe Suites (with 750 square feet -- or 70 square meters -- of space) have living rooms and kitchenettes -- offering mini-fridges, microwaves, wet bars, and dining tables. Some also have sofa beds. King and Queen Rooms are smaller, but still offer a generous 400 square feet of space (37 square meters). ADA accessible rooms feature bathrooms with shower chairs and support bars. Clean bathrooms have brown accents, hairdryers, and shower/tub combos. Suites have whirlpool tubs and showers. Every room includes a coffeemaker, mini-fridge, 36-inch flat-screen TV, air-conditioning, iron, and free Wi-Fi. Rollaways beds can be requested for a fee. 

The Majestic View Lodge fully immerses guests in the desert Southwest experience with a free Wildlife Museum that features taxidermied animals -- including a polar bear -- posed in front of scenic backdrops and information about Native American culture. Souvenirs are for sale in a nicely-stocked gift shop. Outside is a large freeform pool and hot tub that have views of the surrounding mountains. The pool closes in the low season but the hot tub is open year round. Meeting spaces are also available, but overall this hotel appeals more to tourists than to business travelers. Coin-operated laundry machines and an ice dispenser are in the hotel's laundry room. There’s plenty of seating in the lodge-style Arkansas Al’s Steakhouse set with A-frame windows that overlook the beautiful scenery -- breakfast isn't included, though is reasonably priced, and reviews for the restaurant's other meals are mixed. The town of Springdale has plenty of excellent eateries worth exploring. Antler chandeliers hang in the pub, which serves beer and wine and has a soda machine. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Parking is also free.