Things to Do in Orem: The Complete 2026 Local’s Guide

Looking for the best things to do in orem? Orem, Utah sits right between Provo and the Wasatch Mountains. It is one of the best places in Utah Valley for families, arts lovers, and outdoor fans. Best of all, many of the top spots in town are completely free.

Whether you want to explore massive parks, watch live theater, or hike mountain trails, Orem has plenty to offer. This guide breaks down the best attractions, free spots, kid activities, and local tips for your visit in 2026.

What Is Orem Utah Known For?

Orem is known as the family and cultural hub of Utah Valley. It is famous for its lively performing arts scene, including the outdoor SCERA Shell Theatre and Hale Center Theater. Orem is also known for Utah County’s first all-abilities playground, the stained glass window Roots of Knowledge composed of approximately 43,000 pieces (with some sources citing up to 60,000 pieces), and easy access to Wasatch Mountain trails.

The city offers a great mix of three main things:

• Arts & Culture: Top-tier local theater, outdoor summer shows, and free art museums.
• Parks & Recreation: Inclusive playgrounds, splash pads, disc golf, and paved trail systems.
• Shopping & Dining: University Place mall, local State Street restaurants, and seasonal events.

Top 10 Things to Do in Orem

If you are planning your first trip, start with these top attractions. They offer a mix of indoor culture, outdoor fun, and family activities.

1. Explore the All Together Playground

Located at City Center Park (293 E Center Street), this community-built space was built by 4,100 local volunteers. It is fully accessible for children of all abilities. The playground features wide ramps, sensory play stations, soft ground surfaces, and a secure fence around the entire area.

2. Catch a Show at SCERA Shell Outdoor Theatre

In the summer, locals bring blankets and lawn chairs to Scera Park to watch musicals and concerts under the stars. The outdoor amphitheater gives you stunning views of Mount Timpanogos as the sun sets behind the stage.

3. Visit Roots of Knowledge at UVU

Located inside the Fulton Library at Utah Valley University, this massive stained glass display features 80 panorama windows. Spanning nearly 200 feet (some sources cite 154 feet), it uses approximately 43,000 pieces of stained glass (some sources cite up to 60,000 pieces) to tell the story of human knowledge and history, from ancient times to the modern day.

4. Shop and Dine at University Place & The Orchard

University Place is much more than a standard shopping mall. Outside, you will find The Orchard, a green space with water fountains, outdoor seating, yard games, and free summer concerts.

5. Hike the Cascade Drive Trailhead

Head to the eastern edge of Orem to access foothill trails. These paths offer great views of the entire valley and Utah Lake. You can take an easy stroll along the bench or connect to steeper mountain hikes.

6. Relax at Nielsen’s Grove Park

This historic park is often cited as the oldest park in Utah (per Orem City). It has a duck pond with a bridge, a walking path, green lawns, shade trees, and a quiet playground. It is a favorite spot for family photos and picnics.

7. Experience Live Theater at Hale Center Theater

Hale Center Theater Orem, located at 225 W 400 North, presents high-quality musical theater in a cozy setting. Small production spaces mean every seat is close to the stage. Shows run year-round and sell out quickly.

8. Challenge Yourself at Red Giant Escape Rooms

If you need an indoor activity, head to Red Giant Escape Rooms at 1668 S State St. You can solve puzzles, decode clues, and work with your team to escape themed rooms like pirate ships and hidden tombs.

9. Play at Nickel City Arcade

Nickel City is a classic arcade at University Place that uses real nickels for game play. It features retro pinball machines, modern ticket games, and a snack bar. It is a budget-friendly option for kids and teens.

10. Stroll the Murdock Canal Trail

This paved, multi-use trail runs through Orem. It is completely separated from car traffic, making it ideal for road biking, riding scooters, pushing strollers, or going for a jog.

Free Things to Do in Orem

You do not need to spend a lot of money to enjoy your time in Orem. The city is full of free public parks, cultural exhibits, and community events.

Free Things to Do in Orem:

• Play at All Together Playground (City Center Park)
• Walk the gardens and pond loop at Nielsen’s Grove Park
• See the Roots of Knowledge stained glass display at UVU
• Browse rotating art exhibits at the UVU Museum of Art at Lakemount
• Walk, run, or bike along the paved Murdock Canal Trail
• Play a round of disc golf at Scera Park
• Cool off at Palisade Park or Hillcrest Park splash pads (Summer)
• Watch free outdoor movies at SCERA Shell (Summer)
• Visit Orem’s Sunset Farmers Market on Wednesday nights (Summer)
• Attend free concerts and festivals at The Orchard at University Place

Free Parks and Playgrounds

• City Center Park (Center Street & 300 E): Home to the All Together Playground, ball fields, picnic covered areas, and a paved walking loop.
• Nielsen’s Grove Park (1350 W 800 N): Features a central duck pond, walking paths, historic gardens, and quiet picnic spots.
• Hillcrest Park: Includes a popular summer splash pad, pickleball courts, ping-pong tables, and shaded seating.
• Palisade Park: Offers a splash pad with a Mount Timpanogos waterfall design, a large playground, and mountain views.
• Scera Park: Features a free 9-hole disc golf course, mature shade trees, and open grassy fields.

Free Cultural Experiences

• Roots of Knowledge: Open during UVU Fulton Library hours. Admission is free, and visitor parking is available on campus.
• UVU Museum of Art at Lakemount: Features rotating modern art exhibits and quiet gallery spaces.
• Orem Heritage Museum: Houses artifacts and exhibits detailing the history of Orem from its farming roots to the present day.
• Orem Public Library (56 N State St): Offers free community events, film screenings, and makerspace workshops.

Best Things to Do in Orem with Kids

Orem is built for families. Outings are simple because facilities include family restrooms, paved stroller paths, and fenced playgrounds.

Toddlers and Young Kids (Ages 2–7)

• All Together Playground: Fully fenced with soft flooring and dedicated low-profile swings for toddlers.
• Hillcrest Park Splash Pad: Low-pressure water sprayers and shaded seating areas give young kids a safe spot to cool down.
• Orem Public Library Storytimes: Free indoor reading sessions, puppet shows, and music groups run weekly.

Older Kids (Ages 8–12)

• Nickel City Arcade: Affordable arcade games let kids win tickets for prizes without spending much money.
• Scera Park Disc Golf: Bring your own discs for a free 9-hole game across flat grass fields.
• Classic Skating & Fun Center: Offers roller-skating sessions, bounce houses, laser tag, and a large arcade.

Teens (Ages 13+)

• Red Giant Escape Rooms: High-energy team puzzles designed for friend groups or families.
• Hang Time Adventure Park: An indoor wall-to-wall trampoline park featuring dodgeball courts and ninja warrior courses.
• University Place Hangout: Teens can shop, eat at the food court, or play yard games outside at The Orchard.

Outdoor Activities & Parks in Orem

Orem sits right up against the foothills of the Wasatch Range, offering quick access to mountain trails and urban green spaces.

Cascade Drive Trailhead Quick Facts:

• Trailhead Location: Cascade Dr (Eastern Orem, off 1300 E)
• Trail Type: Dirt surface with paved connector options
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Distance: 1 to 5+ miles (network of connecting paths)
• Elevation Gain: 200 to 800 feet
• Best For: Morning walks, mountain views, sunset photos
• Parking: Small free parking lot at the trailhead

Dry Canyon Trailhead

Located at the eastern end of Dry Canyon Road, this trail is steeper and more rugged than Cascade Drive. It rises quickly up the mountain face, giving hikers a solid workout and wide views of Utah Lake. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water, as there is little shade on the lower sections.

Murdock Canal Trail

This paved trail connects several cities across Utah Valley. It follows the old canal route and stays mostly flat, making it ideal for distance running, road cycling, or pushing a stroller. You can access the trail from major cross streets like 1100 E or 800 E.

Nearby Outdoor Destinations (5–15 Minutes Away)

• Utah Lake State Park: Located just west in Provo, offering boat ramps, fishing spots, and sunset views over the water.
• Bridal Veil Falls: Located a short drive up Provo Canyon. A paved, flat path leads straight to the base of a 607-foot waterfall.
• Sundance Mountain Resort: Drive 20 minutes up Provo Canyon for summer scenic chairlift rides, mountain biking, or winter skiing.

Indoor Activities for Year-Round Entertainment

When winter snow arrives or summer heat peaks, Orem has plenty of indoor options to keep you entertained.

Theater and Museums

• SCERA Center for the Arts (745 S State St): The indoor venue hosts plays, musical concerts, youth programs, and daily movie screenings.
• Hale Center Theater Orem: Professional theater in an intimate setting at 225 W 400 North. Check showtimes and reserve tickets online early.
• Roots of Knowledge at UVU: The entire display is indoors inside the library, making it an ideal choice for a rainy day.

Active Indoor Fun

• Hang Time Adventure Park: Great for kids who need to burn off energy on indoor trampolines and obstacle courses.
• Red Giant Escape Rooms & Escapes in Time: Located side-by-side on State Street, offering multiple room themes for groups.
• Classic Skating & Fun Center: Traditional roller-skating rink with open skate sessions and laser tag arenas.

Seasonal Events & What’s Happening in 2026

Orem’s community calendar changes throughout the year. Here is what to look out for during each season.

Summer (June – August)

• SCERA Shell Musicals: Evening musical productions run outdoors on the hill. Bring a blanket and enjoy local theater.
• Orem’s Sunset Farmers Market: Held every Wednesday evening from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM at City Center Park (293 E Center Street). Shop for local fruit, baked goods, and handmade crafts.
• SCERA Free Outdoor Movies: Catch family movies under the stars at Scera Park on select nights.
• Oremfest (June): The city’s annual summer festival features a parade, carnival rides, live music, and food trucks at City Center Park.

Fall (September – November)

• SCERA Indoor Mainstage Season: Shows move indoors to the main stage for fall plays and musicals.
• Fall Trail Hikes: Temperatures cool down, making September and October peak months for hiking Cascade Drive and Dry Canyon.

Winter & Spring (December – May)

• Holiday Theater Shows: Both Hale Center and SCERA host popular Christmas productions in December.
• The Orchard Winter Lights: University Place decorates its outdoor space with holiday light displays.
• UVU Museum Open Studio: Free monthly art workshops held inside the UVU Museum of Art.

Dining & Shopping: Activity Zones

Instead of driving across town for food, match your meals with where you are spending your day.

1. University Place Zone

Combine shopping, play, and dining in one location.

• Activities: The Orchard playground, water fountains, and indoor shopping.
• Where to Eat: Sit down at Tucanos Brazilian Grill for an all-you-can-eat meal, grab fresh pastries at Kneaders Bakery & Cafe, or visit the central food court for quick bites.

2. State Street Corridor

This major road runs north to south through Orem and serves as the town’s primary restaurant row.

• Activities: Near SCERA Theater, Red Giant Escape Rooms, and Classic Skating.
• Where to Eat: Try Haveli Modern Cuisine for North Indian dishes, Asado for South American grilled meats, or Dumpling Bao inside the Asian Market (266 N State St) for authentic handmade bao and dumplings.

3. UVU Campus Zone

Perfect for meals before or after visiting the Roots of Knowledge exhibit.

• Activities: Fulton Library, UVU Museum of Art, and UCCU Center events.
• Where to Eat: Fast-casual spots lining University Parkway, including local taco shops, burger joints, and smoothie bars.

Sample Itineraries: How to Spend Your Time

One-Day Itinerary: The Best of Orem

• Morning: Start at UVU’s Fulton Library to view the Roots of Knowledge stained glass installation. Grab coffee at a nearby cafe on University Parkway.
• Midday: Head over to City Center Park (293 E Center Street). Let the kids run wild at the All Together Playground, or take a walk around the park perimeter. Grab lunch at a local restaurant on State Street.
• Afternoon: Drive up to the Cascade Drive Trailhead for a light walk with valley views, or stay cool indoors by exploring the shops and fountain area at University Place.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at Tucanos Brazilian Grill. Wrap up your night with a show at the SCERA Shell Outdoor Theatre (summer) or Hale Center Theater (year-round).

Free Day Budget (1 Person):

• Roots of Knowledge Visit: $0.00
• All Together Playground: $0.00
• Nielsen’s Grove Park Walk: $0.00
• Picnic Lunch (Grocery estimate): $8.00
• Murdock Canal Bike Ride: $0.00
• Sunset Farmers Market Visit: $0.00
• Estimated total: $8.00 (food costs vary)

Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

• Dreamwalk Park: A newer immersive art experience at University Place featuring nearly half-mile-long sci-fi art installations with animatronics, projection mapping, cinematic sound, and The Cloud Portal (world’s largest indoor cloud ceiling with almost 100,000 LEDs). Open Monday–Friday 12pm–9pm, Saturday 9:30am–9pm.
• Orem Library Makerspace: The public library hosts free workshops on 3D printing, craft design, and art projects.
• The Orchard Fountains: On hot summer afternoons, the water fountains at University Place run water features for kids.
• Best Sunset Photo Spot: Park at the Cascade Drive Trailhead 30 minutes before sunset. The elevated view overlooks Orem, Provo, and Utah Lake.
• Parking Tip: When visiting City Center Park during peak summer hours, skip the small front lot and park in the main Orem Public Library lot off State Street.

Practical Information: Getting Around & Logistics

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some fun things to do in Orem?

Top fun activities include playing at the All Together Playground, seeing a show at SCERA Shell Outdoor Theatre, viewing the Roots of Knowledge display at UVU, escaping rooms at Red Giant, and hiking near Cascade Drive.

What are some free things to do in Orem?

Free choices include the All Together Playground, Roots of Knowledge at UVU, Nielsen’s Grove Park, Murdock Canal Trail, Scera Park disc golf, and free summer concerts at The Orchard at University Place.

What is the number one attraction in Orem Utah?

The All Together Playground at City Center Park is often considered Orem’s top signature attraction. It is Utah County’s first all-abilities, fully accessible playground built entirely by community volunteers.

What are the best things to do in Orem with kids?

Kids enjoy the All Together Playground, the Palisade and Hillcrest park splash pads, Nickel City arcade, Nielsen’s Grove duck pond, and trampolines at Hang Time Adventure Park.

How many days do you need in Orem Utah?

One full day is enough to see Orem’s top highlights. Two days allows for a relaxed pace with outdoor hiking, shopping, and an evening theater show.

What is there to do in Orem at night?

Evening options include seeing a musical at Hale Center Theater or SCERA Shell, solving puzzles at an escape room, eating along State Street, or visiting The Orchard at University Place.

Next Step for Your Visit

To get the most out of your trip, check the official SCERA website (scera.org) or Orem City calendar (orem.gov) before heading out. Lock in your theater tickets or escape room reservations early, pack your water bottle, and start your day at the All Together Playground!

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