Orem, Utah, might fly under the radar, but as of March 13, 2025, this spot just 45 miles south of Salt Lake City is a goldmine for college students looking to kick back, hang out, or burn off some steam. Whether you’re at Utah Valley University (UVU) or just vibing nearby, Orem’s got a lineup of attractions that fit your broke-but-fun college lifestyle. From active adventures to chill nights, here’s the ultimate list of must-hit spots in Orem that’ll keep your wallet and your crew happy.
1. Hang Time Adventure Park
Stressed from midterms? Bounce it out at Hang Time Adventure Park, Orem’s massive indoor trampoline spot. With 40,000 square feet of trampolines, dodgeball courts, foam pits, and slamball hoops, it’s a high-energy escape. Student discounts keep it cheap, making it a no-brainer for a group hang or a solo bounce sesh.
2. SCERA Theater
For a low-key night that’s not just scrolling TikTok, hit up the SCERA Theater at the SCERA Center for the Arts. They’ve got live shows, movies, and summer outdoor screenings at the SCERA Shell—all at student-friendly prices. Bring your own snacks (because, budget), grab a lawn chair, and soak in the chill vibes.
3. Club Pickleball USA
Pickleball’s blowing up, and Club Pickleball USA is Orem’s spot to get in on it. This indoor facility has courts for all levels—perfect for a casual game with friends or a competitive showdown. It’s affordable, active, and a clutch way to switch up your routine without breaking the bank.
4. Hale Center Theater Orem
If you’re into theater but want something cozy, Hale Center Theater’s got you. Their “theater-in-the-round” setup means every seat’s a vibe, with musicals and plays that won’t bore you to death. Snag a student ticket and enjoy a night out that feels fancy but fits your budget.
5. Murdock Canal Trail
Need some fresh air? The Murdock Canal Trail is a 17-mile paved path that’s free and perfect for biking, jogging, or just wandering. It’s got desert views and a chill pace—ideal for clearing your head after too many hours staring at a laptop screen.
6. Nickel City
Arcade vibes on a dime? Nickel City’s your spot. This retro gaming haven runs on nickels (yes, really), with classic and modern games plus VR setups. It’s cheap, it’s fun, and it’s a solid way to kill a few hours with friends without spending your whole paycheck.
7. Classic Skating & Fun Center
Rollerblades, arcade games, and a bounce house—Classic Skating & Fun Center is a throwback that’s still a blast. It’s got student-night deals, so you can skate, play, or just vibe out for next to nothing. Perfect for a goofy group outing or a nostalgia fix.
8. Red Giant Experiences
For a wild time that’s way off the usual college grind, Red Giant Experiences is your spot. They’ve got axe throwing to channel your inner lumberjack, rage rooms to smash stuff and let off steam, splatter rooms for messy paint-throwing chaos, and escape rooms to test your brain with friends. It’s affordable, intense, and a perfect way to shake up your weekend without blowing your budget.
Orem’s got the perfect mix of cheap thrills and chill hangs for college students. Whether you’re bouncing at Hang Time, skating at Classic, or cracking codes at Red Giant, these spots deliver fun that won’t drain your bank account. Skip the boring weekends and hit up these Orem gems for a vibe that’s all your own!
