15 Unforgettable Summer Activities for Families in Utah

Utah is a state that shines in all seasons, but summer brings a special kind of magic. From cool mountain retreats to red rock adventures, family-friendly festivals to wild waterparks, there’s something for every age and interest. Whether you're a local looking for weekend ideas or planning a summer vacation in the Beehive State, this guide is packed with unique activities to make your summer unforgettable.

1. Lagoon Amusement Park – Farmington, UT

Fun Fact: Lagoon is the oldest operating amusement park in the Western United States, dating back to 1886!
What to Do: Thrill rides, family rides, kiddie rides, Lagoon-A-Beach waterpark, Pioneer Village, and live entertainment.
Why It's Great for Families: There's truly something for everyone—teens can take on Cannibal, little ones will love Bulgy the Whale, and parents can enjoy live shows and shaded picnic areas.

2. Antelope Island State Park – Syracuse, UT

Fun Fact: Antelope Island is home to one of the largest publicly owned bison herds in the U.S.
What to Do: Wildlife spotting (bison, antelope, birds), swimming in the Great Salt Lake, hiking, biking, and stargazing.
Why It's Great for Families: It’s a great intro to Utah’s unique desert landscape without a long drive—plus, floating in the saltwater is always a hit with kids!

3. Snowbird Summer Activities – Snowbird, UT

Fun Fact: Snowbird, known for its skiing, transforms into a summer adventure hub with an alpine slide, mountain coaster, and scenic tram.
What to Do: Ride the aerial tram to the top of Hidden Peak, hike, bike, climb the ropes course, or zip line.
Why It's Great for Families: The variety of activities keeps all ages entertained, and the mountain air offers a cool break from summer heat.

4. Bear Lake – Garden City, UT

Fun Fact: Known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies,” Bear Lake’s vibrant turquoise color comes from limestone deposits.
What to Do: Boating, jet-skiing, swimming, paddleboarding, raspberry shakes in Garden City.
Why It's Great for Families: Shallow beaches are perfect for young kids, while water sports thrill older ones. Don’t miss the Bear Lake Raspberry Days Festival in August!

5. Utah Olympic Park – Park City, UT

Fun Fact: Built for the 2002 Winter Olympics, the park still trains athletes and offers summer fun for the public.
What to Do: Zip lining, alpine slide, ropes courses, museum tours, and watching freestyle aerialists practice.
Why It's Great for Families: It's educational, active, and packed with Olympic-level excitement.

6. Dinosaur National Monument – Vernal, UT

Fun Fact: Over 1,500 dinosaur bones are still embedded in the rock wall at the Quarry Exhibit Hall.
What to Do: Visit the dinosaur quarry, hike the Fossil Discovery Trail, explore petroglyphs, raft the Green River.
Why It's Great for Families: It’s one of the only places where kids can touch real dinosaur fossils still in the ground.

7. Timpanogos Cave National Monument – American Fork, UT

Fun Fact: The cave system is made up of three connected caves filled with stunning rock formations.
What to Do: Take the guided cave tour, hike the steep but scenic 1.5-mile trail to the cave entrance, enjoy ranger-led programs.
Why It's Great for Families: It’s a cool (literally and figuratively) way to learn geology and spark curiosity in nature.

8. Splash Summit Waterpark – Provo, UT

Fun Fact: Formerly known as Seven Peaks, Splash Summit has 15 water attractions and sits at the base of Provo Canyon.
What to Do: Relax on the lazy river, race down slides, splash in the kids’ area, rent a cabana for shade.
Why It's Great for Families: It’s affordable, centrally located, and offers fun for every comfort level.

9. Heber Valley Railroad – Heber City, UT

Fun Fact: Known as the "Heber Creeper," this historic train dates back to 1899 and still runs scenic routes today.
What to Do: Ride themed trains like the Pirate Train, Wizard’s Train, or BBQ Dinner Train through Provo Canyon.
Why It's Great for Families: It's a relaxing, story-filled ride with beautiful mountain views and fun characters on board.

10. Bryce Canyon National Park – Bryce, UT

Fun Fact: Bryce is home to the largest collection of hoodoos (odd-shaped rock spires) in the world.
What to Do: Hike the Queen’s Garden Trail, go horseback riding, attend astronomy programs, and watch the sunset at Inspiration Point.
Why It's Great for Families: Short trails with big views make this a hiker-friendly park for all ages.

11. Cherry Hill Resort – Kaysville, UT

Fun Fact: Originally a cherry farm, it now combines camping, water fun, and mini golf in one place.
What to Do: Water slides, pirate ship pool, rock wall, camping, and themed mini golf.
Why It's Great for Families: It’s a one-stop vacation—stay the night and keep the fun going all weekend.

12. Scales and Tails Utah – Salt Lake City, UT

Fun Fact: This hands-on reptile and bird show has been featured on Animal Planet and local news.
What to Do: Watch live animal shows, interact with reptiles and exotic birds, or even book private family sessions.
Why It's Great for Families: It’s educational, unique, and great for younger kids who love animals.

13. Tuacahn Amphitheatre – Ivins, UT (Near St. George)

Fun Fact: This outdoor theater is carved into a red rock canyon and often features Broadway-quality productions.
What to Do: Watch musicals, explore the Saturday market, hike nearby trails like Snow Canyon.
Why It's Great for Families: Evening shows keep kids engaged, and the surrounding scenery is unforgettable.

14. Cache Valley Fun Park – Logan, UT

Fun Fact: It’s one of the largest indoor fun centers in Northern Utah with over 50,000 square feet of attractions.
What to Do: Bowling, laser tag, roller skating, arcade games, bumper cars.
Why It's Great for Families: Great backup plan for rainy or smoky summer days—indoors but still active.

15. Fifth Water Hot Springs – Spanish Fork, UT

Fun Fact: The hot springs include several pools of different temperatures and a small waterfall.
What to Do: Hike 2.5 miles to the springs, soak in the pools, enjoy a picnic.
Why It's Great for Families: Older kids will love the adventure of hiking to natural hot tubs—just go early to avoid crowds.

Utah is more than just stunning scenery—it's a playground for families. Whether you're exploring caves, riding roller coasters, soaking in hot springs, or watching dinosaurs come to life, these summer activities offer a mix of adventure, education, and pure joy. Pack your bags, load up the car, and make this summer one your family will always remember!