If nature adventure is all on your mind for your next vacation then you know there’s no better place than Utah County. Bestowed with a fascinating topography featuring spellbinding waterfalls, rugged terrains, alpine mountains, dense forest and, of course, its many translucent lakes. Try its many hiking trails from beginner’s level to expert where you’ll always be rewarded with some spectacular vistas. If you want to explore in style, hopping on an RV rental would be a nice touch to your trip.
But the county is also an ideal place to spend your holiday with your kids. From the kids’ park to museums dedicated to prehistoric animals, your children will be pampered with all kinds of educational activities done in a fun and interesting way. To complete the experience, consider staying in one of the family resorts in Utah. You can also take a bunch of friends and head to a secluded island to enjoy some quiet time. To make things simpler, we have compiled a list of top things to do in Utah County. Check them out below.
1. Visit the historic Provo City Center Temple
Originally constructed as the Provo Tabernacle in 1883, the Provo City Center Temple’s transformation into a temple after a devastating fire in 2010 is a remarkable story of resilience and faith. The temple boasts a striking blend of Gothic and Victorian architectural styles. Visitors can appreciate the intricate craftsmanship and detailing, including stunning stained glass windows and meticulously carved stonework.
As a sacred place for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it also provides a unique insight into the beliefs and practices of the LDS Church.
Provo City Center Temple
Address: 50 S University Ave, Provo, UT 84601, United States
Website: Provo City Center Temple
2. Hike Rock Canyon
Rock Canyon is a popular natural attraction located in Provo, Utah. This scenic canyon is known for its stunning rock formations, rugged landscape, and outdoor recreational opportunities. It’s situated in the Wasatch Mountains and is easily accessible from the city.
One of its primary draws is its extensive trail system. Hikers, trail runners, and nature enthusiasts can explore a variety of well-marked trails, catering to different skill levels. The trails vary in length and difficulty, providing options for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Some of the most popular trails lead to beautiful sights such as the Rock Canyon Waterfall and viewpoints that offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding area.
Rock Canyon
Address: Rock Canyon Trail, Provo, UT 84604, United States
Website: Rock Canyon
3. Hike the rugged Mount Timpanogos
There are mainly two trails that you can hike if Mount Timpanogos is on your hiking radar. Whether you prefer Timpooneke Trail or the Mount Timpanogos Trail which is accessible from Provo Canyon, both trails will lead to spectacular vistas but the former is the most popular among adventurers. Dubbed as Timp, Mount Timpanogos has always been a favorite among hikers. This 300 million-year-old mountain measures about 11,752 ft (3,582 m) above sea level, and is made up of dolomite and limestone. Beginners can start their hiking trail at the Timpooneke campground which leads to a large valley made up of the Grand Staircase. On your way to enjoying the rejuvenating views of the surroundings which are composed of green forests, spellbinding waterfalls, and meadows with vibrant flowers. The area’s fauna consists of deer and moose which might be seen on your way while hiking.
Mount Timpanogos
Address: Utah County, Utah, U.S.
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4. Camp with friends at Utah Lake State Park
Get into the adventure spirit by camping at Utah’s largest freshwater lake located at the west end of Provo Center Street. Simply take a bunch of friends with you and choose your preferred camping spot at the park with facilities (restroom, unisex shower stalls, running water and electricity) included. But be sure to bring your mosquito repellent along with you. There is also a myriad of activities that you can try with your friends from paddleboarding to swimming and fishing-where you can actually find different kinds of species, think catfish, walleye, white bass, and panfish.
Utah Lake State Park
Address: 4400 W Center St, Provo, UT 84601, United States
Website: Utah Lake State Park
Opening hours: 5am - 10pm (daily)
Price: 2 USD
Utah Tour Guide
Stephanie Eley
I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com
Tours by Stephanie
5. Venture to Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Combine a hike to Mount Timpanogos and take an hour of guided cave tour at the Timpanogos Cave National Monument which is an impressive cave system. As you make your way to the caves, you will find the diverse ecosystem of the region which makes this attraction quite alluring for adventure-seekers. Its thriving wildlife consists of mammals, a range of different bird species, reptilians, and fishes. And the caves are decked up with incredible helictites. The on-site guides will provide insightful information about the formation of caves, and the conservation initiatives of the area.
Timpanogos Cave National Monument
Address: 2038 Alpine Loop Rd, American Fork, UT 84003, United States
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 12 USD
6. Explore Uinta National Forest
If a combination of solitude and adventure is what you’re after then hike the Uinta National Forest and find yourself right in the middle of the wilderness. Located in close proximity of Provo and Ute Indian reservation, this place provides a perfect buffer from the hustle and bustle of modern society.
One of the best places to visit in Utah County, this site is a popular hiking attraction consisting of over 400 hiking and mountain biking trails for different levels of challenges. Besides, there are a number of easily accessible campsites and fishing areas. If you wish to take great photographs then visit during the fall season where the landscape changes into a kaleidoscope of colors.
Uinta National Forest
Address: 2460 S Highway 40, Heber City, UT 84032-3651
Website: Uinta National Forest
7. Bring your family to Thanksgiving Point
Posted by Thanksgiving Point on Wednesday, 5 August 2015
One of its kind, Thanksgiving Point is a community gathering place where family and friends can come together to spend quality time. Conveniently located close to the south of Salt Lake City, this place inspires beauty, innovation, and learning. It is a true haven for children, where they can find interesting exhibitions that showcase over 50 gigantic dinosaurs, flying reptilians, and theme-based galleries. There’s also a wide emporium which includes a gift shop, the Harvest Restaurant which serves excellent food made with organic ingredients, and of course, the quaint ice cream shop. But the real showstopper is the theme gardens which house different varieties of flowers from beautiful roses to tulips. There’s also a butterfly garden which has been recently added in the collection.
Thanksgiving Point
Address: 3003 N Thanksgiving Way, Lehi, UT 84043, United States
Website: Thanksgiving Point
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm (closed on Sun)
8. Practice golfing at Fox Hollow Golf Course
Touted for its well-manicured fairways adorned with luscious trees and many bodies of water, the 18-hole Fox hollow Golf Course is featured among the best in Utah Valley. You can improve your game by chipping and putting from every angle, thanks to the two large putting and chipping greens that come with different elevations, tiers, and obstacles. With its scenic surroundings along with the Wasatch Mountains in the background, the Hollow Golf Club provides a spacious banquet room for many events including weddings.
Fox Hollow Golf Course
Address: 400 N 200 E, American Fork, UT 84003, United States
Website: Fox Hollow Golf Course
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 6am - 10pm; Sun: 6am - 6pm
9. Take some incredible photographs at Bridal Veil Falls
It takes a short walk down the Provo River Parkway Trail to get to the most scenic waterfalls in the vicinity of Salt Lake City. Coming here, you won’t be able to take your eyes off from the breathtaking Bridal Veil Falls. Its dramatic geological features, including the tumbling 185m-waterfall (607 ft), make it one of the best spots to take some incredible pictures. The site was once equipped with an aerial tramway to the waterfall, the Eagle’s Nest Lodge and a restaurant that were all destroyed due to an avalanche and fire incident. But you can still find facilities such as picnic tables, barbecue grills and parking lots.
Bridal Veil Falls
Address: Provo, UT 84604
10. Admire the world of plants at Ashton Gardens
Ashton Gardens at Thanksgiving Point is one of the few places where visitors get a whole new perspective of the plant kingdom. It’s a green space adorned with a myriad of stately gardens, and artificial waterfalls. Stroll along the alleys of luscious plants and learn about the different plant species. A fun way to explore the entire place is by gliding on a Segway.
Ashton Gardens
Address: 3900 N. Garden Drive, Lehi, Utah 84043
Website: Ashton Gardens
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm (closed on Sun)
11. Go on a fishing trip to Utah Lake
Right in the middle of the rugged landscape of the Utah Valley, find the pristine Utah Lake nestled close to Provo. This shallow freshwater lake is home to about 13 fish species including panfish, walleye, sunfish and catfish, just to name a few. It’s not difficult to understand why it has become a popular attraction among fishing enthusiasts
In case you’re not into fishing then there are plenty of water activities to do-from canoeing to boat cruising, though swimmers should be cautious with the toxic algae that are present in the water. All these makes the lake a great destination for exciting family activities in Utah County.
Utah Lake
Address: West of Provo, about 48 miles south of Salt Lake City
Website: Utah Lake
Opening hours: Summer: 6am - 10pm (daily); Winter: 8am - 5pm (daily)
12. Learn about science at Bean Life Science Museum
When it comes to visiting a place like the Bean Life Science Museum, you know you can spend your entire day with your children there without any disappointment. A world of its own, this attraction in Utah County is found at the Brigham Young University in Provo. It’s a place where you’ll get to learn about extinct predators and wild creatures such as the big cats. Your small ones will find the animal habitats section quite interesting, where they can enjoy themselves in the play area.
Bean Life Science Museum
Address: MLBM, Provo, UT 84602
Website: Bean Life Science Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 9pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun)
13. Hike to Fifth Water Hot Springs
You don’t have to be an advanced hiker to enjoy the 4-mile (6 km) rugged hiking trail to the Fifth Water Hot Springs. Beginners to advanced hikers enjoy the red-colored track abound with amazing floral and fauna. The best time to enjoy this less challenging trail is during the winter season where you can make the most of the hot springs and waterfalls which are of course the main highlights. And the good part is that you can bring your four-legged friend along with you provided that it is kept on leash.
Fifth Water Hot Springs
Address: Diamond Fork Rd, Springville, UT 84663, United States
14. Watch a soccer match at North Lake Park
Bestowed with an unparalleled view of Utah Lake and the majestic Lake Mountains, North Lake Park is perched on the Lake Banks. Soak up the fresh air and enjoy the serene environment of the park. It includes facilities like four full-size soccer fields where you can either enjoy playing or watching a soccer match, and there are restrooms, a picnic park, and hiking trails as well. Other activities you can enjoy are kite flying, frisbee, or simply contemplate the incredible view of the surroundings.
North Lake Park
Address: 500 W 2000 S, Lehi, UT 84043, United States
Website: North Lake Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
15. Climb the majestic Lone Peak on the Wasatch Mountains
Thrill-seekers won’t get enough of the majestic Lone Peak which is featured as one of the best alpine peaks in Wasatch, Salt Lake. There are many hallmarks of this climb, from its exquisite face climbing, vertical granite, and amazing ascent, reaching its summit makes every effort worth it. Those who wish to test their physical aptitude, this is the best way to do, and reward is the surreal vista. One of the accessible ways to reach the mountain is by taking Jacob’s Ladder Trail. It is recommended to bring your water since water isn’t available with the presence of snow (until late July).
16. Spend your weekend hiking the Battle Creek Trail
For a weekend adventure with your family, the Battle Creek Trail is your best bet if you’re not after a strenuous hiking trail. Nestled in the foothills of Mount Timpanogos, this trail is classified as moderate and children can also enjoy the wild terrain. The trailhead is at the Kiwanis Park in Pleasant Grove, where you’ll begin with a smooth gravel pathway leading to the canyon. It would normally take up to an hour for the roundtrip which is about 1.6 miles (2.5 km). Getting there you can enjoy the soothing water by standing right under the waterfall.
Battle Creek Trail
Address: Utah, USA
Website: Battle Creek Trail
17. Trek along the Stewart Falls Trail
Besides the Battle Creek Trail, the Stewart Falls Trail is another good option to spend a family getaway on weekends. This 3-mile (4-km) trail is most recommended between May to October. The track is less challenging and you can also bring your four-legged friend along with you. The trail is pretty much easier to follow, thanks to the markings. You can access the track by starting at the Aspen Grove where the meandering path will lead you to beautiful viewpoints. Have fun with the refreshing water as you reach the Falls.
Stewart Falls Trail
Address: Utah 84604, USA
Website: Stewart Falls Trail
18. Check out the artwork at Brigham Young University Museum of Art
Are you looking for creative inspiration while visiting Utah County? If yes then Brigham Young University Museum has some good surprises for you. This four-story complex is designed in a sleek and modern interior displaying some great artworks done by talented artists, but there’s also thought-provoking exhibitions which will surely tease your mind. In total, there are 10 exhibition galleries, a gift shop, and an art sculpture garden where you’ll find some intricate sculptures. Just nearby, there is a reflection pool. After touring the museum, you can chill at the on-site cafe set in a cozy environment.
Brigham Young University Museum of Art
Address: Campus Dr, Provo, UT 84602, United States
Website: Brigham Young University Museum of Art
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sun)
19. Have a picnic day at Tibble Fork Reservoir
While there are many scenic attractions in Utah County, but few can match places like Tibble Fork Reservoir. Known for its serene environment and awe-inspiring lake and mountain view, this reservoir makes it a perfect retreat for families with children. You can indulge in a boatload of nature activities such as hiking, biking, or fishing; however, most of the visitors prefer to enjoy a pleasant picnic day. There are also convenient on-site facilities-bathrooms, picnic tables, and parking which obviously provides comfort.
Tibble Fork Reservoir
Address: American Fork, UT 84003
Website: Tibble Fork Reservoir
20. Marvel at the panoramic views from Y Mountain
The iconic hillside attraction of the Y Mountain has no doubt attracted many students as well as local hikers to take the off-beaten path to enjoy the breathtaking cityscape of Provo and Orem.
The rugged terrain unquestionably make the climb a unique thing to do in Utah County. Though the hiking trail is pretty challenging, many prefer to take this trail because of its fresh air and wildflowers. Others prefer to do downhill ski or paragliding to get a dose of adrenaline.
Y Mountain
Address: Y Mountain, Provo, UT 84604, USA
21. Learn about prehistoric animals at the Museum of Ancient Life
Not sure how to explain to your kids about dinosaurs and their extinction? Then take them to the Museum of Ancient Life at Thanksgiving Point, where prehistory is taught in an interesting way. As you tour the large dinosaur exhibitions you’ll end up seeing some of the longest and tallest dinosaurs like the Barosaurus which dates about 150 million years. And in order to step on the shoes of paleontologist kids can play at the Junior Paleo Lab to cast their own fossil. There’s also a 3D movie about Mammouth where children can enjoy watching with some popcorn.
Museum of Ancient Life
Address: 3003 N Thanksgiving Way, Lehi, UT 84043
Website: Museum of Ancient Life
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm (closed on Sun)
22. Try indoor surfing at Provo Beach
Posted by Provo Beach on Friday, 2 December 2016
The best place to spend a day with your children is hands down Provo Beach, an affordable family fun center where there is a wide range of interesting activities for children. There is always friendly staff to help guide you. Some of the activities are indoor surfing, laser tag, bowling, arcade games, and indoor ropes course. For special treats, there is an ice cream parlor that features a range of flavors from vanilla to chocolate and strawberry. Head to the Pier Cafe to try their delicious sandwiches with pickles.
Provo Beach
Address: 4801 N University Ave #210, Provo, UT 84604, United States
Website: Provo Beach
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 10pm; Fri: 11am - 11pm; Sat: 10am - 11pm (closed on Sun)
23. Learn about the natural world at the Museum of Natural Curiosity
A wonderful way to learn about rainforests or insects and even history is by visiting the Museum of Natural Curiosity at Thanksgiving Point. This is an ideal family hanging spot, where children can learn a lot by visiting the numerous interactive exhibition rooms including four galleries dedicated to themes like the rainforest, waterworks, kidopolis and discovery garden. Children will have plenty of chances to play at the Archimedes Playground, or even at the magic shop. Those who are fascinated by adventure and history can join the American Adventure section to step into the shoes of English settlers back in colonial times.
Museum of Natural Curiosity
Address: 3605 Garden Drive, Lehi, UT 84043
Website: Museum of Natural Curiosity
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 8pm (closed on Sun)
24. Hang out with your kids at Discovery Park
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Pleasant Grove City is grateful for the community effort to rebuild Discovery Park! We are anxious to open the park for...
Posted by Rediscover Discovery Park on Friday, May 24, 2019
What makes Discovery Park different from other children-friendly parks in the county is its gigantic wooden playground built to provide maximum fun and comfort to children. Located in Pleasant Grove, the park is equipped with tennis courts, picnic tables, soccer fields, and a discovery park where young kids can learn about science and prehistoric animals like dinosaurs, in a fun and interesting way.
Discovery Park
Address: 1511 N 100 E, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062, United States
Opening hours: Sun - Fri: 5am - 10pm; Sat: 7am - 7pm
25. Discover a collection of prehistoric fossils at BYU Museum of Paleontology
Ever wondered how a dinosaur fossil looks like? The BYU Museum of Paleontology has a huge collection of dinosaur fossils collected by Dr. James and his crew. By visiting the musuem, you will get an up-close view of the different prehistoric fossils collected across Utah, Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. Don’t forget to take your embroidered patch after completing some fun activities with your friends before leaving the museum.
BYU Museum of Paleontology
Address: 84602-3300, 1683 N Canyon Rd, Provo, UT 84604, United States
Website: BYU Museum of Paleontology
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
26. Admire art masterpieces at Springville Museum
Standing majestically in a pleasant neighborhood in Springville, think stucco walls, and terracotta roofs, Springville Museum is recognized as the oldest museum for visual fine arts in the state. One particularity about the museum is its beautiful Spanish colonial architecture which was constructed in the 20th-century as a sanctuary of beauty and meditation. Today, it has been converted into a museum to showcase several exhibitions including All-State Utah High School Art Show, the Quilt Show, and the Spiritual and Religious Show. Its art galleries are based on three concepts notably Utah, Soviet Russian, and American art.
Springville Museum
Address: 126 E 400 S, Springville, UT 84663, United States
Website: Springville Museum
Opening hours: Tue: 10am - 5pm; Wed: 10am - 9pm; Thu - Sat: 10am - 5pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
27. Have a family fun day at Seven Peaks Fun Center
Get in the Halloween spirit by battling it out against the undead with some of our Zombie games throughout the arcade! ? ?
Posted by Seven Peaks Fun Center on Friday, 26 October 2018
A children’s paradise, Seven Peaks Fun Center is a family fun plex loaded with some exciting fun activities for both kids and adults. This is a perfect place to bond with your family with activities such as laser tag, rock climbing, bumper boats, roller coaster, you name it. Spare a whole day to make the most out of this popular attraction. Some of its highlights are the lofty lighthouse ride, airplane ride, and the kiddie cars for children.
Seven Peaks Fun Center
Address: 1320 North 300 West Street, Lehi, UT 84043, United States
Website: Seven Peaks Fun Center
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 4pm - 8pm; Fri: 4pm - 9pm; Sat: 12am - 9pm (closed on Sun)
28. Play ice hockey at Peaks Ice Arena
Whether you wish to try playing ice hockey with some friends or watch a game, then head to Peaks Ice Arena which is 43 miles (69 km) south of Salt Lake City. The indoor ice hockey venue was built to serve the 2002 Winter Olympics and has been home to the renowned BYU Cougars men’s ice hockey team. Those who consider themselves rookies can take part in the Learn-to-Skate USA program which is geared towards training beginners of all ages.
Peaks Ice Arena
Address: 100 N Seven Peaks Blvd, Provo, UT 84606, United States
Website: Peaks Ice Arena
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 6am - 9pm; Fri: 6pm - 12am; Sat: 6am - 9pm (closed on Sun)
29. Watch a puppet show at SCERA Center for the Arts
Our resident decorator extraordinaire Shawn Mortensen has the building decked out for fall and Halloween! A huge wreath...
Posted by SCERA on Thursday, 10 October 2019
SCERA was created as a community gathering venue for family, friends, and neighbors to have a good time together enjoying family-friendly entertainment. Many of the locals in Utah County enjoy and support the work of local talents. This is a place to enjoy a theatre show, art exhibitions, and puppet shows. There are events like the Sunday firesides that are organized. Families can enjoy themselves playing at the giant chessboard as well. From drama to music and dance show, there’s always something interesting going on. Make sure to book your tickets in advance because of limited seats.
SCERA Center for the Arts
Address: 745 State St, Orem, UT 84058, United States
Website: SCERA Center for the Arts
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 12pm - 6pm (closed on Sun)
30. Hike the Box Elder Trail
The Box Elder Peak with an elevation of 11,101 ft (3383 meters) is reserved for experienced hikers who will likely enjoy the rugged and wild terrains that lead to some breathtaking view of the Alpine region. Nestled in between Mount Timpanogos and Lone Peak, the Box Elder trail can be accessed via several routes but the most popular is by taking the Dry Creek Trail which begins from the Granite Flats Campground. For more adventure, you can combine horse riding and camping together to get the best out of your experience.
31. Venture into the fantasy realm of Evermore Park
Escape the crude world and settle in the Evermore realm of fantasies; the doorway to mysteries and adventures. This creative and kid-friendly park invites everyone to meet playful and mythical characters such as dwarfs, fairies, elves, goblins, dragons and fearless warriors. Book in advance for the upcoming events and celebrations at the park, where you’ll get the chance to mingle with weird characters, and savor some local dishes. You can also play adventure cards, or turn into your favorite mythical character.
Evermore Park
Address: 382 S Evermore Ln, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062, United States
Website: Evermore Park
Opening hours: Mon: 6pm - 10pm; Wed - Thu: 6pm - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 6pm - 11pm (closed on Sun & Tue)
Price: 29 USD
32. Retreat to Sundance Mountain Resort
Sundance Mountain Resort beckons discerning guests to laze out in a completely secluded place where comfort and convenience work together perfectly. There’s a myriad of activities that the resort organizes from scenic zip tours to skiing and snowboarding. To spend an overnight stay, find the rustic-chic lodges fitted with convenient amenities and offer spectacular views of the Alpine surroundings. The resort offers many dining options as well. Whether you prefer to tuck in comfort food or enjoy some healthy meal, there’s always something for everyone. There is an on-site spa treatment room where you can revive your whole body, mind, and spirit.
Sundance Mountain Resort
Address: 8841 Alpine Loop Scenic Byway, Sundance, UT 84604, United States
Website: Sundance Mountain Resort
Opening hours: 9:30am - 4:30pm (daily)
Combine adventure and fun in Utah County
The land of adventure, vacation, and fun, Utah County has it all. For your up-coming vacation, consider our full list of the top things to do in this beautiful county in Utah. Use our guide above and start planning an unforgettable trip to this fascinating destination.
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