10 Fun Things To Do Near Orem, Utah (That Locals Actually Love)
If you’re planning a trip to
Orem, Utah, or maybe you just moved here and are wondering what to do this weekend, you’re in luck. Orem sits right in the heart of
Utah County, tucked between the shores of
Utah Lake and the base of the Wasatch Mountains. That means you get a little bit of everything: lakes, mountains, city life, and small-town charm.
Whether you’re visiting from out of state or exploring your own backyard, here are
10 fun things to do in and around Orem, Utah that are perfect for couples, families, solo travelers, and everyone in between.
1. Stroll, Bike, or Run the Scenic Provo River Parkway Trail
One of the best things about Orem is how quickly you can get from town into nature. The
Provo River Parkway Trail is a paved path that runs about 15 miles from Utah Lake up
Provo Canyon toward
Bridal Veil Falls, and it passes right through Orem’s backyard.
You’ll see:
- Shady cottonwood trees along the river
- Fly fishers casting in the water
- Families out with strollers and bikes
If you’re staying in Orem, you can hop on the trail near the
University Parkway area and head either toward Utah Lake for wide-open views, or up-canyon for cooler air and mountain scenery.
Tip: Early mornings and evenings in summer are perfect, since mid-day sun can be pretty intense.
2. Hike (or Just Admire) Iconic Mount Timpanogos
You can’t miss it—literally.
Mount Timpanogos rises above Orem like a giant stone wall. Locals just call it “Timp,” and it’s one of the most loved mountains in Utah.
If you’re an experienced hiker and well prepared, the summit hike is long but unforgettable, with views stretching across Utah Valley. But you don’t have to climb all the way to the top to enjoy it.
Great options near Orem include:
Always bring plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a light jacket. Even in summer, it can be much cooler up high. If hiking isn’t your thing, just driving into
American Fork Canyon and gazing up at Timp is worth it.
3. Visit the Stunning Timpanogos Cave National Monument
A lot of visitors are surprised to learn there’s a
national monument just up the road from Orem.
Timpanogos Cave sits in American Fork Canyon, about a 25–30 minute drive from Orem.
Here’s the twist: to tour the cave, you first hike a steep, paved trail about 1.5 miles one way, gaining roughly 1,100 feet of elevation. It’s not super long, but it is uphill the whole way. Once you reach the entrance, a ranger leads you through cool, narrow passages filled with:
- Colorful cave formations
- Stalactites and stalagmites
- Otherworldly rock shapes that look straight out of a fantasy movie
Because it’s a protected area, you’ll need to reserve tickets in advance, especially in summer. Inside the cave it’s chilly—around the 40s (°F)—so bring a light jacket even on a hot July day.
4. Cool Off at Utah Lake State Park
Just a short drive southwest of Orem,
Utah Lake State Park offers a big, open change of scenery from the mountains. The lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the West, and it’s a favorite spot for:
- Boating
- Jet skiing
- Paddleboarding
- Fishing
There are plenty of grassy areas and picnic tables, perfect for a low-key afternoon with friends or kids. On a calm evening, the sunsets over the lake can be spectacular, with the mountains glowing behind you.
If you’re renting a car in Orem, it’s an easy half-day trip. Just toss a cooler, some camp chairs, and maybe a fishing pole in the trunk, and you’re set.
5. Catch a Show at the SCERA Center for the Arts
Looking for something to do in Orem at night? The
SCERA Center for the Arts is a longtime local favorite for plays, concerts, and community events.
There are two main spots:
- SCERA Center (indoors) – movies, small plays, art exhibits.
- SCERA Shell Outdoor Theatre – summer musicals, concerts, and family shows under the stars.
On warm summer nights, locals bring blankets and lawn chairs to the outdoor shell, grab some popcorn, and settle in for a show. It has that classic small-town, community-theater vibe, but the performances are often surprisingly polished.
If you enjoy live entertainment and want to experience a slice of real Orem culture, check their schedule before your trip and try to catch a show.
6. Explore BYU’s Free Museums in Nearby Provo
Just a few minutes south of Orem, you’ll find
Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo. Even if you’re not a student, the campus is open to visitors, and it’s home to two excellent (and free) museums:
- BYU Museum of Art (MOA) – rotating exhibits, from classic paintings to modern installations.
- BYU Museum of Paleontology – dinosaur bones, fossils, and great displays for kids and science lovers.
These museums make a perfect rainy-day plan or a break from the sun. You can easily visit both in a single afternoon, then grab a bite to eat at one of Provo’s nearby restaurants.
Example: I once ducked into the MOA just to “kill 30 minutes” and ended up wandering there for over two hours. It’s much bigger and more impressive than it looks from the outside.
7. Hike or Picnic at Rock Canyon
If you like easy access to the outdoors but don’t want a long drive,
Rock Canyon in Provo is only about 10–15 minutes from Orem. The trailhead leads into a steep-sided canyon filled with:
- Rock climbers scaling the cliffs
- Well-maintained hiking paths
- Great photo spots with views back over Utah Valley
You can hike as far or as little as you like. Even a 30–45 minute walk in and out gives you that rugged canyon feel without committing to a full-day hike.
There are picnic tables near the base, so you can bring a lunch and enjoy the view without going far.
8. Wander the Shops and Eateries at University Place
Sometimes, the best thing to do in Orem is simple: walk, shop, eat, repeat.
University Place (locals still call it “the mall”) has been transformed in recent years into a full urban-style center with:
- Shops and national brands
- Local restaurants and dessert spots
- A large green park with splash pads and play areas for kids
- Seasonal events, markets, and outdoor concerts
If you’re traveling with kids, the outdoor play areas are a lifesaver. If you’re traveling as a couple or solo, it’s an easy place to stretch your legs, grab coffee, and people-watch.
It’s also a good “home base” for visitors, since it’s right in Orem and close to hotels, I‑15, and other attractions.
9. Drive Up Provo Canyon to Bridal Veil Falls
When people talk about
scenic drives near Orem,
Provo Canyon is usually at the top of the list. From Orem, you can reach the mouth of the canyon in about 10 minutes, then follow the highway up along the Provo River.
One of the highlights is
Bridal Veil Falls, a beautiful double waterfall that’s easy to access:
- Park near the falls
- Walk a short, paved path
- Get close enough to feel the mist on a hot day
Families often bring snacks and let kids wade in the shallow water near the base (just watch footing—rocks can be slippery). You can also connect to the Provo River Parkway Trail here if you want to walk or bike farther.
In fall, the canyon lights up with bright red, orange, and yellow leaves, making this drive especially stunning.
10. Sample Local Food and Treats Around Orem & Provo
Exploring a new place through its food is always fun, and Orem has plenty of tasty stops. While this isn’t a single “thing to do,” think of it as a food tour across Orem and neighboring Provo.
Some ideas locals rave about:
If you like trying regional quirks, keep an eye out for soda shops offering wild “dirty soda” combinations—think flavored syrups mixed with your favorite soft drink, often with cream or coconut added. It sounds strange, but many visitors end up hooked.
Ask locals or your hotel front desk for their favorite spots. You’ll usually get passionate recommendations.
Planning Your Trip to Orem, Utah
Here are a few quick tips to make your visit smoother:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for hiking and lake days. Fall is amazing for canyon drives. Winter brings snow sports in nearby canyons.
- Getting around: Having a car makes exploring Orem and Utah County much easier, especially for canyons and the lake.
- Altitude: Orem sits around 4,700 feet above sea level. Drink plenty of water and take it easy your first day if you’re coming from lower elevations.
With mountains to the east, a lake to the west, and plenty of things to do in between,
Orem, Utah is a great base for exploring Utah County and the rest of the
Wasatch Front.
What Would You Add to This Orem Bucket List?
Have you been to Orem or nearby Provo before?
- Did you hike Mount Timpanogos or visit Timpanogos Cave?
- Do you have a favorite local restaurant, dessert shop, or hidden viewpoint?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments below—your ideas can help other travelers plan their own Utah adventure.
And if you found this guide to things to do near Orem helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are thinking about visiting Utah. The more we share real experiences, the easier it is for everyone to explore like a local, even on their first trip.
Comments
Post a Comment