Fall in Utah Valley doesn't have to cost a fortune. From giant pumpkins to canyon drives painted gold and red, here are 10 ways your family can soak up the season without spending more than a few bucks.
1. $5 Tuesdays at Thanksgiving Point, Lehi
Cost: $5 per person, per venue
When: Tuesdays in September (Sept. 22 and 29 are still ahead)
Every Tuesday in September, Thanksgiving Point venues like Ashton Gardens, the Butterfly Biosphere, Curiosity Farms, the Museum of Ancient Life, and the Museum of Natural Curiosity drop to $5 admission. It's an easy way to catch the gardens as they shift into fall color. You'll need a free Thanksgiving Point account to grab the deal.
2. Drive the Nebo Loop
Cost: Free
When: Late September through October for peak color
Located near Payson, Utah, the Nebo Loop Scenic Byway winds through Payson Canyon and around Mount Nebo. It's perfect for a fall adventure and arguably even more dramatic than the Alpine Loop once the leaves turn. Bonus idea: pack a picnic and stop along the way!
3. Big Jack's World at the Outlets at Traverse Mountain, Lehi
Cost: Free
When: September 5 through October 31
Wander past a 20-foot pumpkin, photo-worthy fall displays, and a spooky graveyard scene. Stop by Guest Services for the free scavenger hunt, where kids search for hidden figures for a small prize at the end.
4. Drive the Alpine Loop
Cost: Free to drive through
When: Late September through mid-October for peak color
Nothing quite says fall like this scenic drive. The Alpine Loop winds between American Fork Canyon and Provo Canyon with fall color peaks across Mount Timpanogos. Bonus idea: buy a sucker or a latte at the Sundance Resort deli to enjoy on your drive.
5. Jaker's Jack-O-Lanterns, Springville
Cost: $7 admission
When: October
Just $7 gets you into this glowing pumpkin display and plenty of family fun, one of Utah Valley's favorite nighttime fall traditions.
6. Sweet Berry Farm Pumpkin Patch, Cedar Fort
Cost: $7 per person (kids 2 and under free), or a $30 pass for up to five people
When: Fall season
Admission gets you into the pumpkin patch and farm activities, and the family pass makes it an easy pick for bigger groups.
7. Springville Museum of Art
Cost: Free (donations welcome)
When: Year-round
A great rainy fall-day stop, with rotating exhibits and a permanent collection of Utah art right in Springville.
8. Provo Farmers Market
Cost: Free to attend
When: Saturdays through October 31 at Pioneer Park (hours shift to 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in October)
A relaxed way to pick up the last of the season's produce, fresh baked goods, and local crafts.
9. Hike to Battle Creek Falls, Pleasant Grove
Cost: Free
When: September through October
This short, family-friendly hike leads to a waterfall tucked into the canyon above Pleasant Grove, with fall color along the way and views back over Utah Valley.
10. Bridal Veil Falls, Provo Canyon
Cost: Free
When: September through October is prime time
Maples turn on the canyon slopes, and the crowds are thinner than summer. Bridal Veil Falls is in the middle of a multi-year reconstruction project, so check current parking and trail access with Utah County before you go.
More Fall Fun in Utah Valley
Looking for more ways to enjoy the season? Check out these guides:
- Utah Valley Events Calendar: see what is happening this weekend, from festivals to concerts
- 19 Fall Activities near Provo: our full list of seasonal favorites
- Fall Festivals in Utah County: harvest days, heritage celebrations and more
- Top Fall Farms for Pumpkin Patches: corn mazes, hayrides and pumpkins to pick
- Halloween Activities and Events: trick or treat events, haunts and family friendly spooky fun
- 6 Scenic Drives to See Fall Colors: the best routes for leaf peeping
- 13 Fall Hikes near Provo: trails that shine in autumn
- 55+ Fall Date Ideas: for when the grandparents take the kids
- 101 Things to Do for Fall Break: ideas to fill every day off school
- 100+ Free or Cheap Things to Do: more budget friendly fun all year
