We Want Orem or Nothing!

Planning to visit Orem, Utah? Here are some fun facts that you need to know before packing your bags!

Orem is the fifth largest city in Utah by size. It has a total land area of 18.5 square miles. This city’s 2019 population was estimated at 97,000+. It is part of Utah county, which is in the northern part of the state. The city is situated in the high desert with an elevation of 4756 feet and is 45 miles south of Salt Lake City.

Name Origin

Walter C. Orem was the builder of the Salt Lake and Utah Railroad. Interestingly, he never lived here. In 1914, the town wanted to earn some favors from Orem’s company and decided to name it after Mr. Orem.

Education

Orem is part of the Alpine School District. The city has three high schools, three junior high schools and fourteen elementary schools. Utah Valley University is located along West University Parkway. Previously, it was known as the Utah Valley State College. It got its university status in 2008.

Center of Arts and Culture

Arts and Culture is very much alive in this city. SCERA Center for the Arts is definitely a stopover you should not miss when in Orem. The center offers programs such as art exhibits, classic cinema, arts education programs for the youth and feature films, to name a few. The Orem Heritage Museum is also under SCERA. This museum displays exhibits that tell the history of Orem. Meanwhile, The SCERA Shell Outdoor Theatre is an extraordinary outdoor venue for entertainment. Summer nights are best experienced here. This outdoor theatre has a capacity of more than 4,000 audience members. In addition, this open grassy slope is located in Orem’s SCERA Park with a beautiful view of the Wasatch Mountains.

Shopping and Dining

This city is home to the oldest and largest shopping center in Utah county. University Place (formerly University Mall) was established in 1973. It is located along East University Parkway. Nearby, you can find restaurants that offer different types of cuisine. In addition, you may also find lots of convenience stores around the mall.

Indoor Skating

Classic Skating & Fun Center is located along State Street. It is an indoor play center perfect for family fun time and even birthday parties. Classic skating, laser tag, disco skating, and arcade are some of its attractions. They also have party rooms that serve as private party venues.

How to Get There