Your Summer Bucket List in Utah: Top 20 Summer Experiences
Family-Friendly Adventures Across the State of Utah
Summer in Utah is in full swing, and July brings the heat, adventure, and community vibes all across the state. Whether you’re a thrill seeker, foodie, or planning unforgettable family outings, we’ve curated the ultimate Utah July bucket list to help you soak up every last drop of sunshine.
From Instagram-worthy day trips to local food festivals and family-friendly adventures, this is your go-to guide for what to do, see, and taste in the Beehive State!
For the Thrill Seekers
1. Hike Angels Landing in Zion National Park
One of Utah’s most iconic hikes, Angels Landing offers heart-pounding switchbacks and a narrow, chain-assisted final ascent. The panoramic view of Zion Canyon at the top is unforgettable—and well worth the permit process.
2. Go Whitewater Rafting on the Weber River
Located just 30 minutes from Ogden, the Weber River delivers exciting rapids that are perfect for beginners and families looking for adventure. Local outfitters offer half-day trips complete with gear and guides.
3. Mountain Bike the Wasatch Crest Trail
Stretching from Guardsman Pass to Millcreek Canyon, this ridgeline ride features jaw-dropping views and thrilling downhill sections. It’s a must-do for any mountain biking enthusiast in Northern Utah.
4. Zipline at Sundance Mountain Resort
Take flight above alpine meadows and rugged peaks on one of the longest zip lines in the country. Sundance’s zipline tour combines thrill, scenery, and a taste of Utah’s mountain magic.
For the Foodies
5. Explore the Downtown SLC Farmers Market
Held every Saturday morning at Pioneer Park, this vibrant open-air market features everything from local honey and handmade soaps to artisan breads and fresh produce. The Downtown SLC Farmers Market is the perfect spot to support Utah farmers and small businesses.
6. Tour Utah’s Craft Breweries, Wineries, or Cideries
Summer is the perfect season to sample crisp, locally brewed beers and ciders. Plan a summer tasting tour through Salt Lake City, Ogden, Park City, or Northern Utah and sample local beers, hard ciders, mocktails, and seasonal drinks.
For something new, add Purple Sky Winery in Pleasant View to your July bucket list. This Northern Utah winery offers locally crafted wines, tastings, dining, and scenic views, making it a fun stop for date nights, foodie outings, or anyone curious about Utah’s growing wine scene.
7. Visit a Food Truck Roundup
Head to events like Food Truck Thursdays at Liberty Park or the Food Truck League meetups across Utah County. These gatherings offer everything from gourmet tacos to rolled ice cream and often feature live music and yard games.
8. Try a Local Ice Cream or Shaved Ice Spot
July in Utah is hot, and that means dessert becomes less of a treat and more of a survival strategy. Cool off with locally loved ice cream at Farrs Ice Cream, or try some gelato, frozen custard, or Hawaiian-style shaved ice at a local spot.
Make it a mini summer challenge and try a new dessert spot each week. Your kids will support this plan. Your dentist may have notes.
9. Visit a Utah Peach, Berry, or Cherry Stand
July is a delicious time to enjoy fresh Utah produce. Depending on the harvest schedule, you can find cherries, raspberries, early peaches, melons, and farm-fresh goodies at local fruit stands and farmers’ markets.
Look for roadside stands in places like Brigham City, Perry, Santaquin, Payson, and throughout Utah’s farming communities. Fresh fruit just tastes better when it comes with a scenic drive.
For the Foodies
10. Visit Cowabunga Bay or Lagoon
Cool off at Cowabunga Bay in Draper with splash zones, water slides, and a lazy river, or spend the whole day at Lagoon in Farmington riding rollercoasters, playing games, and catching live entertainment.
11. Attend Your Local city’s 4th of July Celebration
From small-town parades in Heber to massive fireworks shows in Provo, Utah’s Independence Day events bring the community together in patriotic style. Don’t forget the blankets and glow sticks!
12. Float the Provo River
A calm and scenic float down the Provo River is one of summer’s most relaxing and family-friendly water activities. Rentals are available in Heber and Provo Canyon, and most floats take 90 minutes.
13. Pick Fresh Cherries in Santaquin or Brigham City
July is prime time for cherry season in Utah! Head to a local orchard and spend the morning picking juicy, sun-ripened cherries—then grab a fresh-baked pie or cherry jam to take home.
13. Visit Hogle Zoo or Tracy Aviary
For a fun summer outing in Salt Lake City, spend the day visiting Utah’s Hogle Zoo or Tracy Aviary. Both are great for families, animal lovers, and kids who need something more exciting than another afternoon of screen time.
Go earlier in the day to beat the heat, bring water bottles, and plan for snack breaks. Because every parent knows the real zoo animal is the child who skipped lunch.
For the Outdoor Explorers
14. Paddleboard at Jordanelle, Pineview, or Bear Lake
Utah lakes are the place to be in July. Grab a paddleboard, kayak, float tube, or boat and head to popular summer spots like Jordanelle Reservoir, Pineview Reservoir, Bear Lake, Deer Creek, Sand Hollow, or Utah Lake.
Whether you want glassy morning water, a full beach day, or a sunset paddle, this is one of the best ways to enjoy summer in Utah.
15. Chase Waterfalls in Utah
Yes, Utah has waterfalls, and July is a great time to explore them. Add spots like Donut Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Stewart Falls, Lower Calf Creek Falls, or Adams Canyon to your Utah hiking list.
Some are easy, family-friendly hikes, while others require more time and effort. Either way, a waterfall at the end of a summer hike feels like nature’s version of a standing ovation.
16. Explore Goblin Valley State Park
For a quirky Utah day trip that feels like stepping onto another planet, head to Goblin Valley State Park. This red rock wonderland is filled with thousands of strange sandstone formations, also known as hoodoos or “goblins.”
Kids love climbing around the formations, adults love the photo ops, and everyone loves pretending they’re in a sci-fi movie. Visit early in the morning or later in the evening during July to avoid the strongest heat
For the Instagram-Lovers
17. Catch Sunrise at Dead Horse Point
Arrive before dawn and watch the red rocks glow under the rising sun from this iconic overlook near Moab. It’s one of the most stunning and peaceful ways to start your day in Utah.
18. Explore Utah’s Pink Lake and Colorful Murals
The natural pink hue of the lake—caused by halophilic bacteria—creates a surreal, dreamlike backdrop that’s perfect for photographers and social media. Timing varies, so check local conditions before heading out.
19. Discover street art in Ogden or Provo
Wander through alleyways and downtown streets filled with colorful murals and thought-provoking art installations. The Ogden Art Walk and Provo’s Rooftop Concert Series often feature artists and live music too.
20. Take a Scenic Drive Along Mirror Lake Highway
Escape the heat and cruise through the Uintas on one of Utah’s most breathtaking alpine roads. The Mirror Lake Scenic Byway offers stunning lake views, wildlife spotting, picnic pull-offs, and access to hiking trails—ideal for a relaxing day trip or spontaneous adventure.
Make the Most of Your Summer in Utah
July is one of the best months to explore Utah, from the Wasatch Mountains and Northern Utah lakes to Southern Utah red rocks, small-town celebrations, local restaurants, farmers markets, and family-friendly events.
Whether you’re hiking, floating, snacking, road-tripping, paddleboarding, or simply trying to make magical summer memories before school starts again, this Utah July bucket list is your guide to making the most of the season.
For more Utah travel tips, family activities, local events, restaurants, hidden gems, weekend guides, and seasonal bucket lists, follow My Local Utah and keep exploring everything the Beehive State has to offer.
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