Our Thanksgiving Point guide covers practical planning for Thanksgiving Point Utah — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.
As independent US travel authorities, our team has explored countless destinations, but few offer the unique blend of education, recreation, and natural beauty found at Thanksgiving Point Utah. This sprawling 100-acre non-profit complex in Lehi is a true gem, providing diverse attractions that range from world-class dinosaur and natural history museums to expansive botanical gardens and a working farm. It's a place where curiosity is sparked, and memories are made, offering engaging experiences for every age and interest.
Why Visit Thanksgiving Point
Thanksgiving Point isn't just another attraction; it's a destination designed to inspire and entertain. We find its appeal lies in its incredible diversity, making it ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Imagine wandering through 55 acres of meticulously curated themed gardens, stepping back in time among colossal dinosaur skeletons, or getting hands-on with science in an interactive children's museum.
The complex offers a refreshing escape from the ordinary, providing a rich tapestry of experiences that seamlessly blend learning with leisure. Whether you're captivated by prehistoric life, enchanted by vibrant floral displays, or eager to connect with farm animals, Thanksgiving Point delivers. It’s a place where you can easily spend a full day, or even a weekend, discovering something new around every corner.
Who It's Best For
Our team confidently recommends Thanksgiving Point for a wide array of visitors. It truly shines as a family-friendly destination, with attractions like the Museum of Ancient Life and the Museum of Natural Curiosity specifically designed to engage children from toddlers to teens.
However, it's far from being exclusively for kids. Adults without children will find immense enjoyment in the tranquility and beauty of Ashton Gardens, particularly during the vibrant Tulip Festival or the enchanting Luminaria light display. Garden lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful stroll will appreciate the diverse botanical collections. The complex also caters to those interested in natural history, agriculture, and even golf, with its own championship course. We believe its multi-faceted nature ensures that everyone, regardless of age or interest, will find something to love here.
Getting There & Parking
Understanding how to get to Thanksgiving Point is straightforward, as it's conveniently located in Lehi, Utah, just off Interstate 15. If you're coming from Provo, it's about a 25-minute drive north. Simply take Exit 284 (Thanksgiving Point exit) and follow the clear signage to the various venues.
For those driving, parking is both free and abundant at all Thanksgiving Point venues, a significant convenience that we always appreciate. For special events like the Tulip Festival, preferred parking is available near the entrance for an $8 fee per vehicle, payable electronically via QR code. While driving is often the most practical option, especially for families, the Lehi FrontRunner station is about three miles away. From there, you could use a ride-share service to reach the complex. We always recommend carpooling for major events to help manage traffic flow.
Top Things to Do
When considering things to do at Thanksgiving Point, the sheer variety can be overwhelming in the best possible way. Our team suggests prioritizing based on your interests, as each venue offers a distinct experience. Here are the highlights:
- Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life: This is one of the largest dinosaur museums in the world, boasting over 60 complete dinosaur skeletons and hundreds of interactive exhibits. It covers Earth's history from the Precambrian through the Ice Age, with a strong emphasis on Utah's prehistoric inhabitants. Don't miss the massive sauropod skeletons and the engaging fossil dig activity for kids. Plan for 2-3 hours here.
- Ashton Gardens: Spanning 55 acres, these gardens are among the largest publicly accessible gardens in the Western U.S. They feature 15 distinct themed rooms, including a waterfall garden, fragrance garden, and a rose garden, all connected by scenic walking paths. The gardens are stunning year-round, but peak during the Tulip Festival (April 6 - May 16, 2026), when over a million flowers bloom, and in summer for the Imaginaria festival (June 1 - August 22, 2026), which transforms the gardens with giant American landmarks and interactive play zones.
- Museum of Natural Curiosity: This hands-on children's museum offers over 400 interactive exhibits across multiple themed areas. Explore the Rainforest with a canopy walk, experiment in Water Works, or immerse yourselves in the outdoor Kidopolis mini-city. This museum is designed to engage both children and adults.
- Butterfly Biosphere: Step into Utah's first insectarium, a magical conservatory filled with hundreds of exotic butterflies fluttering freely. It’s a quick, enchanting stop, particularly for younger children.
- Farm Country: This working farm provides a genuine agricultural experience where visitors can meet animals, enjoy a wagon ride, and learn about where food comes from. It's especially popular with younger children.
- Mountain America Jurassic Jungle: Located within the Museum of Ancient Life, this prehistoric-themed adventure space allows kids to climb, crawl, and slide.
- The Carousel: A classic attraction offering delightful rides for all ages.
Beyond the main complex, there are also plenty of things to do in Lehi itself. We recommend exploring the nearby Outlets at Traverse Mountain for some retail therapy. History buffs might appreciate a visit to the iconic Lehi Roller Mills, famously featured in the movie Footloose. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Murdock Canal Trail offers miles of paved paths for walking and biking, and Utah Lake State Park is a short drive away for water activities. If you're visiting in late June, don't miss the historic Lehi Round-Up Rodeo, a community tradition since 1937, running June 24-27, 2026.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Thanksgiving Point largely depends on your interests, as each season brings its own unique charm and events. Our team has a few recommendations:
- Spring (April-May): This is arguably one of the most popular times, thanks to the breathtaking Tulip Festival in Ashton Gardens, running from April 6 to May 16, 2026. Over a million flowers, including 400,000 tulips, create an unforgettable display. The Baby Animal Festival also takes place in May (May 1-30, 2026) at Farm Country, which is a huge hit with families.
- Summer (June-August): Summer brings the vibrant Imaginaria festival to Ashton Gardens (June 1 - August 22, 2026), featuring giant American landmarks, inflatables, and hands-on activities. It's also a great time for the Outdoor Movie Series (June 26 - August 21, 2026) and the Utah Symphony Concert (June 23, 2026) in the gardens. Expect larger crowds, especially on weekends.
- Fall (September-October): The Garden of Quilts festival takes place in September (September 16-19, 2026), showcasing over 500 quilts throughout Ashton Gardens. The autumn foliage also adds a beautiful backdrop to the gardens.
- Winter (November-January): The Luminaria winter light display transforms Ashton Gardens into a magical walk-through experience from November 13, 2025, to January 10, 2026. This is a prime time for holiday spirit, though some outdoor attractions may have reduced hours or be less vibrant.
For fewer crowds, we recommend visiting on weekday mornings or late afternoons, especially during peak seasons. Also, keep an eye out for "$5 Tuesdays" in February and September, offering discounted admission to individual venues.
Where to Stay Nearby
For those looking for Thanksgiving Point lodging, Lehi offers a range of excellent options, many within a very short distance of the complex. Our team has identified several highly-rated hotels that provide comfort and convenience for your visit:
- Hilton Garden Inn Lehi: A highly-rated 3-star hotel just a 13-minute walk from Thanksgiving Point, featuring an indoor pool and complimentary WiFi.
- Courtyard Lehi at Thanksgiving Point: Another excellent choice, often praised by travelers, located approximately 1 km from Thanksgiving Point.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Lehi/Thanksgiving Point: This hotel offers extended-stay amenities and is well-regarded by guests.
- Holiday Inn Express and Suites-Lehi - Thanksgiving Point by IHG: A popular option known for its convenience and good service.
- Hyatt Place Salt Lake City/Lehi: A well-reviewed hotel offering a comfortable stay near the attractions.
- Staybridge Suites Lehi - Traverse Ridge Center by IHG: Located very close to Thanksgiving Point, offering suite-style accommodations.
- Hampton Inn Lehi-Thanksgiving Point: Consistently receives high ratings from travelers.
- SpringHill Suites Lehi at Thanksgiving Point: Offers spacious suites, ideal for families.
These Thanksgiving Point lodging options provide easy access to the complex, often within walking distance or a very short drive, allowing you to maximize your time exploring. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak festival times, to secure your preferred accommodation.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To fully appreciate the breadth of experiences at Thanksgiving Point, our team recommends dedicating at least two days. Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your visit:
Day 1: Dinosaurs, Gardens, and Evening Lights
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life
Start your day by diving into prehistory. Explore one of the world's largest dinosaur museums, marveling at complete skeletons and engaging with interactive exhibits. Allow ample time for the fossil dig and marine reptile displays. - Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): On-site Dining
Grab a quick bite at one of Thanksgiving Point's casual eateries, such as the Tower Deli or Curiosity Café. - Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Ashton Gardens
Spend your afternoon strolling through the magnificent 55-acre Ashton Gardens. Discover the themed garden rooms, the grand waterfall, and enjoy the seasonal blooms. If visiting between April 6 and May 16, 2026, immerse yourself in the Tulip Festival. - Dinner (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Harvest Restaurant
Enjoy a full-service dining experience with garden views at The Harvest Restaurant, located within the gardens. - Evening (7:00 PM onwards): Seasonal Event or Relaxation
Depending on the season, enjoy an evening event. If it's winter, experience the magical Luminaria light display (until January 10, 2026). In summer (June 1 - August 22, 2026), explore Imaginaria's evening activities or catch an Outdoor Movie Series showing.
Day 2: Curiosity, Critters, and Local Exploration
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Museum of Natural Curiosity & Butterfly Biosphere
Begin your second day with hands-on fun at the Museum of Natural Curiosity, perfect for all ages with its interactive exhibits like the Rainforest and Water Works. Afterward, step into the enchanting Butterfly Biosphere to observe hundreds of exotic butterflies. - Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Lehi Local Eatery
Venture out of Thanksgiving Point for lunch. Explore Lehi's growing food scene; our team suggests trying a local favorite like Nachos Live on Main Street or Melty for gourmet grilled cheese. - Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Farm Country & Local Lehi Attractions
Head to Farm Country to connect with animals and learn about farm life. Then, depending on your interest, visit the Outlets at Traverse Mountain for shopping or explore the historic Lehi Roller Mills. - Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM onwards): Utah Exploration
Consider extending your Utah adventure. We highly recommend exploring other incredible destinations like Zion National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park, both offering breathtaking natural landscapes. For more ideas across the state, check out our guide to Best places in Utah.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thanksgiving Point with kids
Thanksgiving Point is exceptionally kid-friendly, offering five main venues that cater specifically to younger visitors. The Museum of Ancient Life, with its impressive dinosaur skeletons and fossil dig, is a perennial favorite. The Museum of Natural Curiosity provides hundreds of interactive exhibits for hands-on learning and play. The Butterfly Biosphere offers a magical experience with live butterflies, and Farm Country lets children interact with farm animals. During the summer, Imaginaria in Ashton Gardens features inflatables and splash zones, perfect for energetic kids. We find that a membership offers the best value for families planning multiple visits.
Best hotels near Thanksgiving Point
Several excellent hotels are located very close to Thanksgiving Point. Our top recommendations for the best hotels near Thanksgiving Point include the Hilton Garden Inn Lehi, Courtyard Lehi at Thanksgiving Point, Home2 Suites by Hilton Lehi/Thanksgiving Point, and Holiday Inn Express and Suites-Lehi - Thanksgiving Point by IHG. These options offer convenient access to the complex and provide a comfortable base for your visit.
Thanksgiving Point tips
Our top Thanksgiving Point tips for a smooth visit include purchasing tickets online in advance, especially for popular festivals like the Tulip Festival, as admission can be time-ticketed and capacity limited. Consider an All-Access Pass if you plan to visit multiple venues, or a membership if you anticipate returning throughout the year, as it offers unlimited access and discounts. Visit on weekday mornings or late afternoons for smaller crowds. Don't forget about "$5 Tuesdays" in February and September for budget-friendly access to individual venues. Finally, wear comfortable walking shoes, especially for Ashton Gardens, and bring a water bottle.
Where to stay near Thanksgiving Point
For visitors wondering where to stay near Thanksgiving Point, Lehi offers a variety of hotels just minutes away. Options like the Hilton Garden Inn Lehi, Courtyard Lehi at Thanksgiving Point, and Staybridge Suites Lehi - Traverse Ridge Center by IHG are all highly-rated and provide easy access to the complex. Many are located near the I-15 corridor, making it convenient for exploring other parts of Utah Valley or even Salt Lake City.
Thanksgiving Point parking
Thanksgiving Point parking is free and readily available at all venues, which is a major plus for visitors. For large events like the Tulip Festival, preferred parking is an option for an $8 fee, payable via QR code. We advise following parking signs and instructions from attendants, especially during busy times, and carpooling is always a good idea to help alleviate congestion.
Best time to visit Thanksgiving Point
The best time to visit Thanksgiving Point depends on what you want to experience. For stunning floral displays, we recommend spring (April-May) for the Tulip Festival. Summer (June-August) is ideal for families, with the Imaginaria festival offering interactive fun and outdoor activities. Fall (September-October) offers pleasant weather and events like the Garden of Quilts. For a magical holiday experience, visit during Luminaria in winter (November-January). To avoid the largest crowds, weekday mornings are generally the quietest.
Our team’s expert verdict: Thanksgiving Point offers an unparalleled array of attractions that genuinely cater to all ages and interests. It’s a dynamic, engaging destination that stands out in Utah’s travel landscape, far exceeding typical expectations. We consistently find it to be a rewarding experience, whether you're seeking educational enrichment, serene natural beauty, or family-friendly adventure.
Last updated: 2026-07-09 by the Roam States team.