Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Pleasant Grove, UT

  • Published 2022/09/06

Less than an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City, Pleasant Grove is a charming small town in Utah County, Utah.

Formerly named Battle Creek, this thriving community later became Pleasant Grove after early Mormon settlers discovered a small grove of trees.

Since its establishment in the 1850s, Pleasant Grove has become more than just a stopover when traveling to the Beehive State.

It may be a small town, but it boasts many exciting attractions and dazzling scenery to attract any visitor.

Whether you’re an adventure seeker, foodie, or nature-driven traveler, you’ll find many reasons why this quaint town should be your next destination.

Here are the best things to do in Pleasant Grove, Utah:

Bask in the Beauty and History of Battle Creek Falls

Beautiful view of Battle Creek Falls

Vezzani Photography / Shutterstock.com

No visit to Pleasant Grove is complete without a hike to Battle Creek Falls.

This out-and-back trail is a relatively easy route that leads to a breathtaking 50-foot waterfall with a view of Utah Lake.

Backpackers, cyclists, and families bring their children and dogs along on a typical weekend excursion.

A small river flowing from Battle Creek Falls

Vezzani Photography / Shutterstock.com

Besides its natural beauty, Battle Creek is a place steeped in history.

The first battle between Native Americans and Mormon settlers occurred in Battle Creek in February 1849.

While the town of Battle Creek is now Pleasant Grove, the canyon where the fighting happened still carries its name to this day.

Those interested in hiking here may find the trailhead at Kiwanis Park on the eastern side of town.

Battle Creek hiking trail

Vezzani Photography / Shutterstock.com

Live Out Your Medieval Fantasies at Evermore Park

Live in a fantastical story or build your own in Evermore Park, a mythical theme park nestled off I-15.

This place offers visitors an immersive and theatrical experience instead of traditional amusement rides.

Come in costume, interact with characters, go on quests, shoot arrows, throw axes, and more.

After a long day traversing the whimsical buildings and gardens, you can also dig into themed food and drinks.

Evermore Park’s events and activities vary from Renaissance fairs and haunted festivals to magical winter celebrations.

Give this unique and immersive theme park a visit and let your imagination run wild.

Feed Your Need for Speed at the Grid

The Grid is a state-of-the-art indoor race track and entertainment hub just a few steps away from Evermore Park.

Its main attraction is its half-mile race track, the second longest in the US and one of the longest in the world.

The track has multiple elevation changes, sharp banking turns, and even animated lights, making it an indoor kart racing experience unlike any other.

Notably, the Grid carries some of the most top-rated arcade games.

Find basic shooters like Jurassic Park and the Walking Dead or iconic games like Centipede or Pinball.

If you’re planning to celebrate with friends, family, or colleagues, you’ll be happy to know that the Grid also hosts team-building events and birthday parties.

You will have a blast at this world-class amusement center between high-speed race tracks and immersive arcade games.

Savor the Best American Comfort Food at Chubby’s Café

If you’re craving traditional American fare, look no further than Chubby’s Café on State Street.

Founded in 2010, this homegrown eatery has become a must-visit in Pleasant Grove.

The all-American menu includes burgers, sandwiches, salads, and classic side dishes like fries and mashed potatoes.

They also offer a variety of shakes and floats for anyone wanting extra indulgence.

Besides the delectable food, Chubby’s features outstanding customer service.

Locals and tourists rave about the burger joint’s friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere, claiming it as the ideal place to chill and hang out.

Do the food choices at Chubby’s Cafe overwhelm you?

Start with the famous Pastrami Burger, which USA Today voted one of the Best Pastrami Burgers in Utah.

Take a Scenic Hike to the Summit of Big Baldy

Big Baldy stands east of Pleasant Grove, a mountain peak part of the Mount Timpanogos wilderness area.

While a somewhat challenging climb, the hike rewards visitors with a stunning view of Utah Valley.

It’s an excellent option for those looking for a workout while soaking in all that nature offers.

The Big Baldy trail is home to gorgeous wildflowers, maple, and small oak trees, a break from the typical desert flora in Wasatch County.

Plenty of hikers also frequent the trail, making it easy to follow.

You can go all the way to the summit and back in a few hours or choose to explore the numerous side trails.

Remember to carry water and snacks and take a break once in a while to enjoy the view from Big Baldy.

Bring Out Your Inner Explorer at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center

Discover the wonders of space exploration at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center in the heart of Pleasant Grove.

This 4,000-square foot institution gets its name from Christa McAuliffe, a teacher and astronaut who perished in the 1986 Challenger disaster.

The space center aims to educate students and guests about astronomy, science, and engineering.

It features four different space flight simulators and a dome planetarium.

Take a quick solar system tour, learn about constellations and black holes, or go on a simulated space mission.

Any budding scientist or astronaut would love the trip with a range of fun interactive activities and cutting-edge technology.

The space center even hosts birthdays, graduation parties, and team-building events.

All you have to do is make a reservation for a truly out-of-this-world celebration at the Christa McAuliffe Space Center.

Enjoy a Nice Family Day at Discovery (Manila) Park

There’s something for everyone at Discovery (Manila) Park.

This massive park in the northeastern area of Pleasant Grove offers numerous sports facilities and kid-friendly amenities.

It features four baseball diamonds, six tennis courts, a soccer field, and a walking path.

Likewise, it has a newly rebuilt playground with wooden castles, mazes, sandpits, and swings guaranteed to give children a terrific time.

Play tennis, go for a walk or jog, have a picnic, or play a fun game of tag and hide and seek.

With plenty of amenities for the young and young at heart, Discovery (Manila) Park is truly the ideal place to spend a day with family and friends.

Have a Taste of Farm Life at Hee Haw Farms

Hee Haw Farms is the ultimate fall destination.

Located on the western side of Pleasant Grove, this family-owned farm draws crowds for its seasonal activities.

You can watch a giant pumpkin drop and pick jack o’ lanterns.

Otherwise, let your kids feed goats, chickens, cows, and other animals at the petting farm.

There’s also a pumpkin patch, corn maze, slides, and hayrides for some wholesome family fun.

While autumn is the ideal time to visit the farm, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it at other times of the year.

Hee Haw Farms also holds Easter egg hunts and other games and activities to celebrate springtime.

With lots of fun and family-friendly outdoor activities, mark your calendar and plan a trip for the coming season.

Shop for Unique Items at GingerElla’s

If you’re into vintage collectibles and handmade goods, drop by GingerElla’s.

Located two streets from the Christa McAuliffe Space Center, this store offers unique pieces perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Indulge in a little retail therapy and shop for antiques, craft supplies, and home decor.

They have everything from air plants and scented candles to old-fashioned typewriters, so they’ll spoil you for choice.

GingerElla’s sells products from various local vendors, so buying items means supporting small businesses and helping local crafters and makers.

Besides, GingerElla’s also holds arts and crafts classes for kids and seasonal events in the local community.

Feel the Rush at Premier Throwing

Axe throwing has become all the rage in the past couple of years.

Where better to try it than Premier Throwing’s flagship location in Pleasant Grove?

The 65,000-square-foot building on West 700 South features eight throwing lanes, two pool tables, a lobby, and several gathering areas.

Experienced instructors will conduct a safety briefing and teach tips and tricks before you get into the hatchet-hurling action.

Have fun and let off steam as you try to hit the target with different throws and techniques.

Axe throwing is perfect for almost any occasion, from bachelor parties and family reunions to team-building exercises.

Try something new today and book a session at Premier Throwing.

You’re guaranteed to have fun, novel, and memorable experience.

Catch the Latest Blockbuster at Water Gardens Cinema 6

Even with video streaming on the rise, there’s nothing quite like watching a film on the big screen.

You can catch the latest box-office hits at the best prices at Water Gardens Cinema 6.

This movie theater on Water Garden Drive offers affordable tickets, including popcorn and a small drink.

Other snacks and refreshments at the concessionaire are also much cheaper than at your average theater.

The theater doesn’t screen R-rated movies, so there’s no reason not to bring your kids to this family-friendly cinema.

Water Gardens Cinema 6 offers guests entertainment and comfort, so you can truly sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Spend a Day Outdoors at Harvey Park

Harvey Park is a relatively new park with ample green spaces, sports facilities, and a playground and splash pad for kids.

Tucked right next to Deerfield Elementary School, this park encompasses 12.9 acres, one of the largest parks in Pleasant Grove.

You’ll find well-maintained tennis and basketball courts, a baseball field, six pickleball courts, and lots of open space.

The space-themed playground is also a hit with kids, with many climbing surfaces and unique structures waiting for you to explore them.

After a long day of playing, take a break at one of the picnic tables or shaded pavilions and treat yourself to a smoothie or shaved ice.

There’s no better way to cool down after enjoying a day outdoors at Harvey Park.

Put Your Mind to the Test at the Escape Date

Find clues and solve puzzles as you race against the clock at The Escape Date on South 100 East.

Each escape room features imaginative themes and stories designed to test your senses and critical thinking skills.

Find a magical object, track down missing persons, or uncover a secret candy recipe.

Whatever escape room you choose, you’ll have a fun and immersive experience that’s one for the books.

The Escape Date accommodates two to eight persons, so you can enjoy a private experience on a date or with a group of friends.

Book a room today, and put your thinking cap on.

Play at the Pleasant Grove Recreation Center

The Pleasant Grove Recreation Center offers visitors a space for leisure activities.

You can join basketball or volleyball leagues or attend dance and other fitness classes.

The well-appointed gym also helps you achieve your goals, whether you’re just getting back into the fitness flow or a committed athlete keeping fit.

If you’re not into sports, you can find plenty of other ways to keep active and entertained.

Why not join a cooking class and channel your inner Master Chef?

Otherwise, join a fishing club and forge new friendships.

The Pleasant Grove Recreation Center even offers babysitting and lifeguard training for people looking to develop essential life skills.

Savor the Summer at Strawberry Days

From the 1920s to 1950s, Pleasant Grove was a major strawberry producer.

During those years, the city quickly earned the moniker “Utah’s Strawberry City.”

To celebrate its strawberry abundance, Pleasant Grove started a local strawberry festival in 1920 that still runs to this day.

Strawberry Days has taken place every June for over a hundred years, making it Utah’s longest-running festival.

Feast on fresh and deliciously sweet strawberries as you enjoy the fairs, concerts, carnival, parade, and even an old-fashioned rodeo.

Packed with activities against the majestic Wasatch Range, don’t miss this week-long event in Pleasant Grove.

Other Things to Do Nearby

Are you itching to see more of the Great West?

After your trip to Pleasant Grove, explore these other nearby destinations.

Visit the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple

Stunning view of Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple

Josh Ausborne / Shutterstock.com

Located in neighboring American Fork, Utah, the Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple is a magnificent structure that melds with its stunning mountain backdrop.

The entire property comprises 17 acres, including manicured lawns and landscaped gardens with many trees, bushes, and flowers.

Colorful flowers at Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple

Nancy A. Kirkpatrick / Shutterstock.com

Visitors can enjoy the grounds, stroll through a winding pathway, and take in the peaceful respite of the temple.

Likewise, architecture buffs will marvel at how the sacred building, made of Sierra white granite, changes color throughout the day.

The temple also lights up at night, a beautiful sight and an absolute must-see in Utah County.

This place is only eight minutes from Pleasant Grove.

Arched corridor at Mount Timpanogos Utah Temple

Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock.com

Go Caving at the Timpanogos Cave National Monument

Man walking through a natural rock arch at Timpanogos Cave National Monument

IrinaK / Shutterstock.com

How about exploring the splendid cave systems of the Timpanogos Cave National Monument?

Part of Utah’s Wasatch Range, the region comprises three spectacular caves, which you can access through guided tours during the summer.

While the hike can get hot and strenuous, park rangers can help you navigate the rough terrain.

Interior view of Timpanogos Cave National Monument

IrinaK / Shutterstock.com

Prepare to climb, twist, and crawl your way while discovering dazzling rock formations.

You might even catch sight of bats and other cave dwellers who consider the Timpanogos Cave their natural home.

You can find the caves in American Fork, 11 minutes from Pleasant Grove.

Hiking trail at Timpanogos Cave National Monument

IrinaK / Shutterstock.com

Final Thoughts

Utah is a top travel spot for many reasons.

Its gorgeous natural wonders and rich historical culture are just some of the things that make this region a place of interest for tourists.

Make the most of your trip to the Beehive State and check out these best things to do in Pleasant Grove.

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