What is Orem known for? Is it a great holiday destination? Check out some of these incredible things to do in Orem, Utah, if you want to plan a worthy trip to the city.
Are you planning your next holiday and thinking of visiting Orem, Utah? Well, this city in Utah County is the best place to be if you want to experience excellent hometown community living.
There are plenty of amazing things to do in Orem, Utah, both indoors and outdoors. In fact, Orem is a fantastic place to be for both summer and winter activities. Indoor spots like the SCERA Center for the Arts and Roots of Knowledge at Utah Valley University give way to exciting outdoor recreation at the city’s parks, pools, and walking and hiking trails.
Family trips are about to get even more exciting since Orem has numerous fun places and things for kids, too, such as the indoor water park Provo Beach. Top attractions will leave everyone yearning for more as you visit this fifth-largest city in Utah.
Here are the top fun and best things to do in Orem, Utah.
This hotel offers an indoor pool and hot tub. The accommodations at this Orem Holiday Inn Express include a refrigerator and cable TV. A work desk and coffee maker are also provided. A continental breakfast is served every morning at Holiday Inn Express Orem North Provo.
The Hampton Inn & Suites Orem/Provo hotel is located in Utah, USA. Free WiFi access is available throughout the hotel. All rooms at the hotel include a desk and a TV with cable channels. Each room includes a coffee machine and all suites feature a kitchenette with a microwave and fridge. A fitness centre is provided to guests at the Hampton Inn & Suites Orem/Provo Hotel. There is also an indoor pool on site.
The Comfort Inn and Suites is a pet-friendly hotel located in Provo - Utah, just 8 km from Brigham-Young University. Guests can access the heated indoor pool and hot tub. Free Wi-Fi access is provided throughout the property. Each room includes a work desk and ironing facilities. A microwave and coffee maker are also included. Hotel services include laundry facilities and a gym with cardio equipment and weights.
TL;DR
- Most significant landmark – Roots of Knowledge
- Best park – Nielsen’s Grove Park
- Best free activity – Provo River Parkway Trail
- Best activity for kids – All-Together Playground
- Best activity for adults – SCERA Center for the Arts
- Best food – 5-Star Barbecue Company
- Best nightlife – Chili’s Grill and Bar
- Best all-around accommodation – Orem Apartment
Fun & Best Things to Do in Orem, Utah
1. Have Fun with the Kids at Provo Beach
Address: 4801 N University Ave #210, Provo, UT 84604
Are you looking for things to do in Orem, Utah, with kids? Provo Beach is a fun place to be as a family. Imagine 50,000 square feet of indoor fun, including where you can let the kids run loose. And you won’t have to worry about the weather cutting your day short.
At Provo Beach, there are numerous fun activities for the whole family. The different fun activities include a ropes course, flow rider, laser tag, arcade, bowling, miniature croquet, carousel, toddler town, water activities, and a mega playground.
And after a fun day full of activities at Provo Beach, pass by Ike’s Creamery for some delicious ice cream. All your favorites are available, including sundaes and whip floats.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Hurricane, Utah
2. Kids Will Love the All-Together Playground
Address: 200-298 100 N, Orem, UT 84057
The All-Together Playground is another amazing, fun place to visit with kids. A team of 4,000 volunteers put together this amazing place. They were under the supervision of qualified playground construction experts.
All-Together Playground is a special place because it’s the first all-abilities playground in Utah. The playground was set up in 2006 and is open to all kids. The facility considers children with disabilities who have difficulty with standard rides, swings, and games.
This is a perfect place for kids of all ages and abilities to come together and have lots of fun. The entire design of the playground is geared toward healthy child development. Given its 19,000 square feet size, there’s ample room for all to play.
3. Visit the SCERA Center for the Arts
Address: 745 S State Street, Orem, UT 84058
SCERA Center for the Arts dates back to the Great Depression. At that tough time, 3,000 residents in Orem were finding it difficult to keep going on and not give up. This led to the formation of the center for arts, where residents would gather and indulge as a community.
This amazing place has been open since then and continues to enrich the lives of Orem residents. Visitors are also welcome to enjoy the fantastic performances and programs. Many Orem residents still volunteer at the SCERA Center for Arts, which keeps the spirit of volunteerism alive in the city.
Stage productions frequently occur at the center, thanks to over 500 volunteer cast members. There are also opportunities to enjoy community educational programs and talent shows. Orem, UT continues to attract many people who enjoy all the different productions.
See Related: Things to do in Park City, Utah
4. Do Some Shopping at the University Place Mall
Address: 575 E University Pkwy, Orem, UT 84097
Shopping is a great activity to do in any city you visit. So, add visiting University Place to your list of fun things to do in Orem, Utah. This is the best place in Utah to shop, dine and even watch a movie with the family.
University Place Mall has been around for almost 50 years and has undergone much growth and transformation. Many residents of Orem now work at this mall and frequent it for different activities. There are about 150 stores and restaurants that you can explore at the mall.
It is also a great place to take the kids since it has the largest outdoor park. The Orchard is a great community gathering spot with many covered seating spots. There are also 3 shaded pavilions and a choreographed water show fountain.
See Related: Best Parks in Utah
5. Experience Live Escape Room Adventure at Escapes in Time
Address: 768 S 400 E, Orem, UT 84097
Do you enjoy fun and thrilling activities like finding your way out of escape rooms? Well, add a visit to Escapes in Time to your list of fun things to do in Orem. In fact, bring the kids along since this is a family-friendly escape adventure.
Escapes in Time offers fun escape games for groups of people ranging from 2 to a maximum of 14. You get into a themed room and have a set duration of one hour to find your way out. Usually, the escape room has hints, clues, and puzzles to solve and codes to crack.
The good news is no one is completely locked in a room. You can always exit via the entry door, which Escapes in Time staff never lock. However, it’s all about having fun and learning to communicate with one another. However, given the high number of visitors, it’s better to call and reserve a spot before heading to Escapes in Time.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to Do in Moab, Utah
6. Explore Nature at the Provo River Parkway Trail
Address: 4400 West Center Street, Provo, UT 84604
Well, it’s not all about indoor fun. There are also plenty of outdoor activities that you can enjoy while visiting Orem. The Provo River Parkway System is one such place where you can connect with nature, and it’s one of the best free things to do in the city.
This trail begins at Utah Lake State Park and continues through Provo City. The Provo City Parkway system is parallel to Provo River and meanders through Provo Canyon. Wear your hiking shoes or hire a bike for this fun outdoor experience.
Kids will also love horseback riding and skating, which are permitted at the park. Also, you can enjoy the Bridal Veil Falls towards the north, which offers spectacular views.
The trail has essential amenities such as picnic areas, water, and restrooms. And you can enjoy all that the system offers by booking a tour of the place. You might even get to enjoy activities beyond Orem.
See Related: Where To Stay In Moab, Utah: Best Areas & Places
7. Relax at Nielsen’s Grove Park
Address: 2000 Sandhill Rd, Orem, UT 84058
Did you know that the oldest park in Utah was created in 1880? Yes, Nielsen’s Grove Park is the oldest in the state of Utah and was the brainchild of Jorgen Nielsen. He was a Danish immigrant who thought the area could use a park and set it up with only one water feature.
This pleasant grove park was added to Orem city’s green space in 2003. This has led to the addition of different features perfect for visitors. There is a pond with ducks, a pool, a carousel swing, a playground, picnic pavilions, walkways, and gardens.
See Related: Best & Fun Things to Do in Ogden, Utah
8. Enjoy Hiking at Mt. Timpanogos
Address: UT-92, Provo, UT 84604
While in Orem, you can also enjoy some great hiking trails from nearby mountains. For instance, try a hike up Mt. Timpanogos, which is just 43 km (26.7 miles) from Orem. This is a tough undertaking, but the rewards are well worth the effort, as it presents so much fun. However, ensure you train well and have 7 to 10 hours to scale the mountain.
The Timpooneke Trail is the most popular since it takes you through the Aspen Forest. This opens up to sprawling green meadows that saddle the mountain.
Bring along your four-legged friend for an adventure since dogs are allowed. However, you can’t camp in the area, meaning you must come back after the hike.
See Related: Fun & Best Things to do in Kanab, Utah
9. Roots of Knowledge at Utah Valley University
Address: 800 W University Pkwy, Orem, UT 84058
As you explore more things to do in this charming city, get to know the Roots of Knowledge at UVU. The Ira Fulton Library represents humanity’s quest for knowledge through stained-glass windows. This display comprises 80 individual window panes, each 200 feet long and 10 feet tall.
Here, you can enjoy a glimpse of the modern adaption of the art of stained-glass windows. Each window accurately represents the quest for knowledge that human beings have had for centuries. There’s a representation of world history, the Mayan Calendar, and the evolution of the printing press.
The amazing display set up at the university was achieved by brilliant minds. This comprised 26 UVU faculty members, 350 students, and 40 artists. Kids will love the representation of historical figures like Joan of Arc and the Kangxi Empire.
10. Marvel at the Impressive Orem Heritage Museum
Address: 777 State Street, Orem, UT 84058
Orem Heritage Museum is home to an impressive collection of over 2,000 pieces, each with a great story. A visit to the Orem Heritage Museum is great for school and church groups, scout troops, senior center and assisted living facilities, clubs and organizations, and families and individuals.
On display are WWI to Korean War exhibits featuring uniforms, equipment, and weapons; Indian petroglyphs and arrowheads; early Orem school, churches, and railroad exhibits; a WWII Orem prisoner of war camp exhibit; a blacksmith shop and agricultural display; historical videos of early Orem settlers, and much more.
Interested individuals can schedule group tours outside of their normal operating hours.
See Related: Things to Do in St. George, Utah
11. 5-Star BBW Company
Address: 70 Geneva Rd, Orem, UT 84057
When looking for a sweet taste of the city’s cuisine, look no further than the 5-Star BBQ Company. This hidden gem is known for its outstanding barbecue, and it’s also one of the most popular places to eat in Orem. The restaurant has a casual atmosphere, and the menu features all of your favorite comfort food dishes.
The 5-Star BBQ Company is open for lunch and dinner, and it’s located just off University Parkway. Be sure to try the brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and chicken when you visit. And don’t forget to order a side of their famous baked beans.
12. Nightlife in Orem
Address: 3200 E Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd, Salt Lake City, UT 84121
Besides hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities, Orem is also home to a vibrant nightlife entertainment scene. There are plenty of places to go for a drink or to dance the night away in Salt Lake City.
If you’re looking for a laid-back place to have a few drinks, check out one of Orem’s many brewpubs. One of the local favorites is Chili’s Grill and Bar, which serves some of the most mouthwatering dishes in town. Whether you’re yearning for the yummy taste of fajitas, chicken & seafood, or ribs & steaks, your appetite is sorted – the beers here will crown your night.
Other local options are Callie’s Cafe & Sports Bar, Bout Time Pub & Grub, and WINGERS.
Movie theaters also provide entertainment when looking for things to do at night in Orem. Cinemark at University Mall is the most popular theater in town for night revelers and features all the latest blockbusters. But you can also try SCERA Center for the Arts for an early evening play.
If you want an even better night experience, you can visit any of the neighboring cities like Salt Lake City or Park City, which offers more incredible nightlife opportunities. You can never get bored here.
FAQ
What is Orem, Utah, known for?
Orem city is located 45 miles south of Salt Lake City and is home to the famous Utah Valley University. The university’s features are where you can find the exquisite Roots of Knowledge exhibit. The city is also known for numerous outdoor activities, playgrounds for kids, and incredible dining spots.
Does Orem, Utah, have amazing views?
Outdoor activities are a fun way to appreciate the stunning beauty of Orem. The natural beauty of Nielsen’s Grove Park and the Provo River Parkway Trail provides an inviting atmosphere that attracts many visitors looking for a fun and relaxing vacation.
How long is Provo Canyon Parkway?
The Provo Canyon Parkway is 6 miles long. It’s part of the Provo River Parkway, that’s 14 miles long and a great place to explore while exploring and enjoying the Provo River Parkway System.
What is the best thing to do with kids in Orem, Utah?
Kids will certainly love the endless amount of fun and activities available at the 50,000-square-foot facility of Provo Beach. Families can indulge in water activities such as the Flow Rider, as well as completely dry activities like laser tag, the ropes course, bowling, miniature croquet, toddler town, and an arcade.