Virgin Trading Post - Fort Zion

Virgin Trading Post is part ice cream shop, part petting zoo, part general store. It's hard to put in one category. You'll find everything from hand-dipped sundaes to friendly alpacas wandering the property.

The Petting Zoo

The petting zoo costs $2 to enter. You can feed carrots to goats, donkeys, and llamas. Kids burn off energy in the little play town out back.

The Trading Post & Ice Cream Counter

The trading post stocks the usual road trip essentials. You'll also find rocks, minerals, jewelry, and souvenirs. Prices vary depending on what catches your eye.

The ice cream counter serves up classic treats. They hit the spot after a hot day exploring southern Utah's red rocks.

Why It Works

It's exactly the kind of quirky roadside stop that makes a family road trip memorable.

What to expect:

• Kids love the animals (those lambs are particularly cute)

• Adults appreciate the air conditioning

• Everyone leaves with sticky fingers and stories to tell

Virgin Trading Post sits right on the way between adventures. It's a natural pit stop whether you're heading to or from Zion's main canyon.

The Vibe

The whole operation has a delightfully chaotic Wild West theme that somehow works. Don't expect polished perfection. Instead, expect character, friendly animals, and authentic roadside Americana that's getting harder to find.