We've done Yellowstone and Grand Canyon/Mesa Verde both from SLC. Rented in Eugene and did Oregon Sand Dunes and Loon Lake. Last Thanksgiving we rented in SLC and went to Salem, OR and back for Thanksgiving.

All the trips have been great! The novelty is fun. Food is better than eating out. Driving obviously more comfortable. No stopping for bathroom breaks.
Not cheaper than a motel. "Running" somewhere quick is a little more inconvenient and expensive given the gas mileage.