10 Fun Things To Do Near Roy, Utah (Weber County Travel Guide)

Looking for things to do in and around Roy, Utah? Whether you’re driving through on I‑15, visiting family at Hill Air Force Base, or just exploring northern Utah, this small Weber County city is a surprisingly great base for adventure. I’ve spent time wandering Roy and its neighbors like Ogden, and I’m always amazed at how many options sit within a 20–30 minute drive. From mountain trails to classic diners, you can easily fill a weekend (or more). Below are 10 fun things to do near Roy, Utah, all within a short drive.

1. Catch a Game or Festival at the Weber County Fairgrounds

Just up the road in Ogden, the Golden Spike Event Center / Weber County Fairgrounds is where a lot of the local action happens. On any given weekend, you might find:

Rodeos and horse shows
Car and truck shows
County fairs and holiday events
Trade shows and craft markets

It’s only about 15–20 minutes from Roy depending on traffic, and parking is usually easy. If you’re traveling with kids, the fair and rodeo events are a huge hit. Think corn dogs, rodeo clowns, and the kind of people‑watching you just don’t get at a mall. Travel tip: Check their event calendar before your trip. You might time your visit with a big rodeo or the Weber County Fair in late summer.

2. Step Back in Time at Historic 25th Street in Ogden

Around 15 minutes from Roy, Historic 25th Street in downtown Ogden is one of the most interesting places in northern Utah. Years ago, it was a rough railroad street filled with saloons and gambling. Now, it’s full of:

Local restaurants and coffee shops
Boutiques and antique stores
Art galleries and murals
Events like farmer’s markets and outdoor concerts

Walk the three blocks of 25th Street and you’ll see old brick buildings, vintage signs, and a mix of locals, students, and visitors. It’s an easy place to park the car, stretch your legs, and grab lunch. Try this: Go in the late afternoon. Wander the shops, take photos of the old train depot, then stay for dinner. The mountain views at sunset are worth it.

3. Visit Hill Aerospace Museum (Free & Family-Friendly)

One of the best free things to do near Roy is the Hill Aerospace Museum at Hill Air Force Base, just a short drive south in Roy/Clearfield area (about 10–15 minutes depending on your starting point in town). You’ll find:

Over 70 aircraft and missiles on display
Fighter jets, bombers, and helicopters
Indoor and outdoor exhibits
Kid‑friendly displays about aviation history

Even if you’re not a huge aviation fan, seeing giant planes up close is impressive. Walking under the wings of a massive bomber feels a bit like standing next to a flying building. Good to know: Admission is free, but they accept donations. It’s a great rainy‑day or hot‑afternoon option, since much of the museum is indoors.

4. Hike, Bike, or Picnic at Ogden Canyon & Waterfall Canyon

If you’re staying in Roy, you’re only about 25–30 minutes away from some beautiful canyon scenery. Head east toward Ogden Canyon, and you’ll find a mix of hikes and scenic stops. One popular choice is Waterfall Canyon:

Trail length: about 2.5–3 miles round trip
Elevation gain: it’s a bit steep, so bring water
Reward: a 200‑foot waterfall at the end

The trail starts from the east benches of Ogden and gives you great views over the city and Weber Valley. On hot summer days, the spray from the waterfall feels amazing. If you don’t feel like hiking, just driving through Ogden Canyon along the river, stopping at a pull‑out for photos or a quick picnic, is still worth the trip. Safety tip: Wear good shoes. Parts of the trail are rocky and dusty, especially in late summer.

5. Relax by the Water at Pineview Reservoir

Want a lake day without driving hours? About 30–40 minutes from Roy, Pineview Reservoir sits above Ogden in the mountains near Huntsville. Here you can:

Swim at sandy beaches like Cemetery Point or Anderson Cove
Paddleboard or kayak on calm water
Fish from shore or by boat
Have a lakeside picnic with mountain views

In the summer, the water feels great after a hot day in the valley. On weekends it can get busy, so going earlier in the day or on weekdays is usually more peaceful. Local tip: Some areas have day‑use fees, so bring cash or a card. Also, parking fills up fast on holiday weekends—arrive before late morning if you can.

6. Hit the Slopes or Trails at Snowbasin Resort

If you visit Roy in winter, you’re less than an hour away from world‑class skiing at Snowbasin Resort. Even if you don’t ski, it’s beautiful year‑round. In winter, you can:

Ski or snowboard on long, wide runs
Take lessons if you’re new to snow sports
Warm up in the gorgeous lodges with a hot chocolate

In summer and fall, you can:

Hike or mountain bike on scenic trails
Ride gondolas on certain days
Enjoy mountain-top views and fresh air

From Roy, it usually takes around 40–50 minutes to reach Snowbasin depending on conditions. The drive itself, especially in fall when the leaves change, is worth the trip.

7. Explore Roy’s Local Parks and the Rail Trail

You don’t have to leave Roy to enjoy the outdoors. The city has several parks that are great for a quick walk, playing with kids, or just getting some fresh air. Popular spots include:

Roy West Park – ball fields, playground, open space
Emma Russell Park – walking paths, trees, and places to relax
Midland Trail / Rail Trail access – paved paths for biking and jogging

The Weber River and regional trails aren’t far either. If you like to walk or run, you’ll appreciate having flat, paved options with views of the Wasatch Mountains in the distance. Simple idea: Grab a coffee or soda from a local spot in Roy, then take a slow walk at sunset. The mountains lighting up to the east make even an ordinary walk feel special.

8. Discover Local Flavor: Diners, Drive‑Ins & Ice Cream in Roy

Roy has that classic “small city by the freeway” feel, and with it comes some fun local eats. While it’s not a big tourist town, you’ll find:

Family‑run diners serving burgers and fries
Mexican restaurants with big portions and friendly staff
Ice cream and shake spots that hit the spot on hot days

Part of the charm of traveling through small Utah cities is discovering your own favorite place. Ask a local, “Where do you like to eat around here?” and you’ll usually get a proud, specific answer. Travel tip: Try a local specialty shake or fry sauce (Utah’s famous dip for French fries). It’s a simple thing, but it’s part of the local food culture.

9. Explore Union Station Museums in Ogden

At the end of Historic 25th Street in Ogden, about 15 minutes from Roy, you’ll find Union Station. This old train depot now houses several small museums under one roof:

Utah State Railroad Museum
John M. Browning Firearms Museum
Classic car displays and rotating exhibits

Even if you just walk through the main lobby, you’ll feel the history. High ceilings, vintage rail signs, and old photos give you a sense of what travel was like when trains ruled the West. Why go: It’s an easy add‑on to a visit to Historic 25th Street. Great for families, history lovers, and anyone who likes trains, cars, or the Old West vibe.

10. Take a Scenic Drive Through the Wasatch Front

One of the most underrated things to do near Roy is simply drive. From Roy, you’re in a perfect spot to explore the Wasatch Front:

Drive north toward Brigham City for wide valley views
Head east toward Ogden Canyon and Huntsville
Go south toward Layton and Farmington for more city stops and shopping

Along the way you’ll see farm fields, the Great Salt Lake in the distance, and rugged mountains rising right out of the valley floor. On clear days, the views are impressive, especially in late afternoon light. Idea for couples or solo travelers: Pick up drinks and snacks in Roy, queue up a playlist, and just go for a relaxed drive with a few random stops. Sometimes that’s when the best travel memories happen.

Final Thoughts: Roy, Utah Is a Great Base for Exploring Weber County

Roy itself is a quiet, lived‑in community, but that’s exactly what makes it such a good base. Within about a 30–45 minute drive, you’ve got:

Mountains, lakes, and canyons
Museums and historic streets
Family‑friendly attractions and local events

If you’re planning a trip to northern Utah, don’t overlook Roy and the rest of Weber County. It’s a comfortable place to stay while you explore the wider Ogden area and the beautiful Wasatch Mountains.

What Would You Add to This Roy, Utah Bucket List?

Have you spent time in Roy or elsewhere in Weber County?

Do you have a favorite restaurant or park in Roy?
Is there a hike or hidden spot nearby that more visitors should know about?

Share your tips and experiences in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this list of things to do near Roy, Utah helpful, please share it with friends or family planning a trip through northern Utah!

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