If you’ve got kids in Utah County, you already know the challenge: finding activities that are fun for them, stress-free for you, and ideally… not going to drain your wallet. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Provo is full of hidden gems, adventurous day trips, and unique experiences that your kids will talk about for weeks. These are our favorite places. Some free, some not so free but all fun!

From free parks and hands-on museums to totally unique adventures you won’t find anywhere else, here’s our list of the most fun places for kids in Provo.

1. Sparks Museum & Event Center

Night view of the Sparks Museum & Event Center in Provo, Utah, with its glowing red neon sign and vintage Sinclair gas station display. A family-friendly destination offering interactive exhibits, colorful displays, and spacious areas for kids to explore, learn, and imagine.

Yes, we’re biased, but hear us out. Sparks Museum isn’t just for grown-ups or corporate events; it’s also a wonderland for kids with big imaginations. The combination of fascinating exhibits, colorful displays, and wide-open spaces makes it perfect for curious minds.

We often host family days and interactive events where kids can explore, touch, and even create. The space is large enough for strollers, easy for supervising kids, and full of conversation starters.

“The best part about Sparks Museum? You’ll have as much good, wholesome fun as your kids.”

— Tiffany Burbidge

Why it’s great for kids:

Plenty of room to move around without feeling crowded.
Interactive features and visually exciting displays. Some of the coolest grocery store rides ever.
Cool, quiet indoor space for hot summer days or snowy winter afternoons.

2. Provo Beach

A family favorite with something for every age. Provo Beach offers:

Indoor ropes courses for adventurous climbers.
An indoor surfing wave (yes, in Utah).
Arcade games, laser tag, and bowling.

It’s a pay-as-you-go setup, so you can tailor the cost to your budget. Perfect for those days when you need a variety of options under one roof.

3. Rock Canyon

If you’re looking for places for kids that are free, fun, and cool, Rock Canyon is a winner. The short walking trails near the base are stroller-friendly, and older kids can scramble on the rocks or explore the paths.

Bring a picnic and let the kids watch for birds, chipmunks, or even climbers scaling the canyon walls.

4. BYU Bean Life Science Museum

Entrance of the BYU Bean Life Science Museum in Provo, Utah, featuring large silver “MUSEUM” letters above the glass doors. A family-friendly destination with free admission, it offers fascinating animal exhibits, live reptile shows, and hands-on learning experiences for kids.

Free admission, fascinating exhibits, and plenty of “wow” moments, this natural history museum is a must.
Kids can see everything from massive taxidermy animals to live reptile shows. Exhibits are set up to be engaging for young visitors without being overwhelming.

This place use to be a little creepy… Now it is amazing! The displays are world-class.

5. Pioneer Park Splash Pad

Two key words: “Splash Pad.” On summer days, this is the place to be.
The splash pad is completely free, and there’s a shaded playground nearby for when kids need a break from the water. Bring snacks and let them run wild.

6. Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum’s Live Animal Shows

Technically a part of BYU’s museum collection, these interactive live shows deserve their own special place because they offer an exciting opportunity for kids to meet and learn about snakes, lizards, turtles, and other fascinating creatures. The presenters are exceptionally skilled at answering questions thoughtfully and keeping children engaged throughout the entire experience, making it both educational and entertaining.

7. Bridal Veil Falls

A short, easy walk from the parking lot brings you to one of Provo Canyon’s most famous and breathtaking sights. In the summer months, children and families can enjoy splashing and playing in the shallow pools that form at the base of the falls. During the winter, the scene transforms into a spectacular frozen waterfall, creating a beautiful and serene winter wonderland that is definitely worth seeing. Additionally, the trails that run alongside the world-famous Provo River offer stunning views and peaceful surroundings, making them perfect for leisurely hikes and nature walks throughout the year.

8. Peaks Ice Arena

Hockey players face off at Peaks Ice Arena in Provo, Utah, with a referee in a pink helmet overseeing the play. The arena, once an Olympic venue during the 2002 Winter Games, remains a popular spot for ice sports and community events.

Whether your kids are hockey fans, figure skating dreamers, or just want to try something new, Peaks offers public skating sessions that are perfect for families. Skate rentals are available, and there’s usually a mix of skill levels on the ice. This was also one of the venues for the Winter Olympics. So cool!

9. The Playground at Provo Recreation Center

The Rec Center’s outdoor playground is enormous, colorful, and designed for every age group. Best of all, it’s free to use, even if you’re not paying for the Rec Center’s indoor activities.

10. The Soap Factory

One of Provo’s most unique kids’ places, The Soap Factory lets you and your kids create your own soaps. They pick the molds, colors, and scents, and you get to take home their creations. It’s hands-on, creative, and a perfect rainy-day activity. Great place after playing on the Provo Rec Playground.

11. Provo City Library

Yes, the library is about more than books.
The children’s section is full of interactive play areas, storytime events, and seasonal activities. The library also hosts visiting performers, science shows, and art exhibits for kids.

12. Provo Farmers Market

Held at Pioneer Park during the warmer months, the market is surprisingly kid-friendly. There’s live music, open space to run, and lots of free samples (fruit, bread, and honey). A fun way to introduce kids to local food and community life. This is a local favorite and a great way to also show kids healthy options are good eating.

13. Hiking the Y Trail (Older Kids)

View of the “Y” on Y Mountain in Provo, Utah, with a modern building in the foreground and blooming pink trees, promoting hiking the Y Trail for older kids.

If your kids are a bit older and love a challenge, hiking to the giant Y above Provo is an unforgettable experience. The trail is steep, so bring plenty of water and take breaks. The view at the top is worth it. Ok, I won’t lie, I hate this, but the kids and grandkids love it so…. Followed by a swearword.

14. Classic Skating & Fun Center

A throwback that’s still going strong. Kids can roller skate, play laser tag, or jump in the bounce houses. Parents can join in or hang back with a snack. This is where the stories of tight skate shorts and mullets pay off.

15. Splash Summit Waterpark

Technically in nearby Orem, but a short drive from Provo. It’s Utah’s largest waterpark, with slides, lazy rivers, and kiddie pools. Great for a full day of fun.

16. Thanksgiving Point (Worth the Drive)

About 20 minutes from downtown Provo, Thanksgiving Point has multiple attractions kids love:

Museum of Natural Curiosity
Farm Country
Butterfly Biosphere
It’s not free, but you can pick and choose based on your budget.

17. Indoor Play Cafés

There’s a growing number of kid-friendly cafés in Utah County where you can sip coffee while your kids play in safe, themed indoor playgrounds. Great for winter days.

18. Provo River Trail

This flat, paved trail is perfect for bikes, scooters, and strollers. You can hop on in multiple locations and enjoy shaded sections that feel far from the city. This is also the same trail to hit Bridal Veil Falls.

19. The Dinosaur Museum at BYU

Small but mighty — and free. This museum packs in fascinating fossils and real dinosaur bones without overwhelming young visitors.

20. Ice Cream Stops

Because no list of fun places for kids is complete without a treat:

Rockwell Ice Cream (unique flavors kids love)
Sub Zero Nitrogen Ice Cream (watch the ice cream freeze before your eyes)
Penguin Brothers (cookie ice cream sandwiches)

Tips for Enjoying Provo with Kids

Mix free and paid activities. Start the day with a free museum or park, then splurge on something bigger in the afternoon.
Plan around the weather. Hot day? Splash pad or indoor fun. Cold day? Museums and cafés.
Keep snacks handy. Many kid meltdowns can be avoided with an emergency granola bar.

“The best adventures in Provo aren’t just fun — they’re memories your kids will keep forever.”

— Life

Why Provo Is a Kid-Friendly Goldmine

Provo blends nature, creativity, and community in a way few cities can. In one day, you could:

Watch a waterfall in the morning.
Build your own soap in the afternoon.
End with a sunset skate session.

And when you’re ready for something indoors that’s still exciting, you know where to find us, at Sparks Museum & Event Center, where kids and adults can explore together.

Wrap-Up: Your Go-To List

Here’s your cheat sheet for the most fun places for kids in Provo:

Indoor Adventure: Sparks Museum & Event Center, Provo Beach, The Soap Factory
Outdoor Exploration: Rock Canyon, Bridal Veil Falls, Provo River Trail
Free Favorites: BYU Museums, Provo Library, Pioneer Park Splash Pad
Unique Experiences: Indoor surfing, soap-making, ice skating under Olympic banners

Our Most Fun Places to Take Your Kids in Provo