Things To Do
in West Point

West Point, Utah is a quiet suburban city in Davis County just north of the Salt Lake Valley. It sits near the southern shore of the Great Salt Lake, offering expansive lake views, open spaces, and abundant wildlife. The community is family-friendly with parks, a marina, and easy access to the Wasatch Front’s outdoor recreation.

Visitors typically use West Point as a peaceful base to explore nearby Layton, Syracuse, and Ogden while enjoying convenient drives to the broader Utah sights.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore the United States Military Academy
morning
:

Begin your visit with a guided tour of the US Military Academy at West Point, learning about its rich history and traditions. Visit the iconic Cadet Chapel and the West Point Museum to immerse yourself in military heritage. Enjoy the scenic views of the Hudson River from the academy grounds.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at Trophy Point, overlooking the Hudson River, where you can relax and take in the picturesque surroundings. Explore the surrounding academy grounds on foot, visiting the parade grounds and the historic Trophy Point. Stop by the West Point Visitors Center to grab some souvenirs and informative materials.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant offering American cuisine to experience the town's hospitality. Take a leisurely stroll along the Hudson River waterfront as the sun sets. Reflect on the day's experiences and prepare for more exploration tomorrow.

day 2
Discover Historic Sites and Museums
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Fort Putnam ruins, exploring the remains of the Revolutionary War fortifications. Walk the scenic trails around the fort for panoramic views of the Hudson Valley. Capture photographs of the picturesque landscape and historic architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the West Point Cemetery to pay respects to notable military figures and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Head to the West Point Foundry Preserve to learn about the area's industrial past and its impact on the American military. Have lunch at a nearby cafe specializing in local fare.

evening
:

Attend a lecture or presentation at the West Point Center for the Arts, if available, to deepen your understanding of local culture. Enjoy dinner at a cozy eatery featuring regional ingredients. Take an evening walk through the historic downtown district, appreciating its charm and quiet ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant$12-25
Coffee$2-5
🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel$100-180
🛒Monthly groceries$250-400

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere
  • Proximity to Great Salt Lake and mountains
  • Good access to outdoor recreation and nearby cities
  • Limited nightlife within West Point
  • Smaller selection of dining options compared to larger cities
  • Seasonal weather can impact outdoor plans

Places to Visit in West Point

Visit one of these nice places.

Great Salt Lake Horizon at Sunrise

Wide open sky meeting the shimmering flats; best tones appear at first light.

West Point City Park Pier and Lake View

A quiet lakeside spot ideal for reflections, ducks, and sunset silhouettes.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail Vista Points

Elevated overlooks with sweeping valley and lake views; ideal for golden-hour shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in West Point

West Point and the surrounding Davis County area showcase a classic Utah-influenced, family-friendly dining scene with hearty comfort food and farm-to-table options.

West Point Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Funeral Potatoes

Creamy potato casserole with cheese, onions, and a crunchy topping; a staple at Utah potlucks and local diners.

Must-Try!

Fry Sauce with Fries

A Utah staple—creamy, tangy sauce for dipping fries and burgers.

Beef Pot Roast with Root Vegetables

Slow-cooked roast with potatoes and carrots, common in family-run eateries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Davis County Farmers Market

Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, and food trucks on weekends.

Layton Farmers Market

Weekly market with fresh produce, prepared foods, and crafts in the Layton area.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region experiences four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and dry, winters are cold with occasional snow, and spring and fall bring milder temperatures with variable weather patterns.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Religious and Community Norms

Respect local customs and modesty; family-oriented spaces are common; observe quiet hours in residential areas.

Greetings and Interactions

A friendly, respectful tone is typical; initiative to say hello is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety: stay hydrated in heat, be cautious around the Great Salt Lake shoreline due to mud flats and unstable edges, and keep valuables secure in public spaces. Wildlife and weather conditions can change quickly; heed local advisories and carry basic emergency supplies when venturing into backcountry areas.

Tipping in West Point

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping at restaurants is customary (about 15–20% of the pre-tax total); tip bartenders and for table service accordingly; rounding up is common for small purchases.

Payment Methods

Major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; mobile wallets and contactless payments are common; cash is always an option.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild days with blooming willows and wildflowers; carry light layers and be prepared for sudden showers.

Summer

Warm to hot days; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.

Fall

Crisp air and colorful foliage; comfortable hiking conditions but can be windy.

Winter

Cold with snow in the mountains; warm layers, proper footwear, and be mindful of icy roads.

Nightlife Guide

West Point at Night

West Point itself has limited nightlife due to its residential nature. Nearby Layton and Ogden offer bars, breweries, and live music on weekends, with most venues winding down by midnight. Family-friendly establishments are common, and many locals enjoy outdoor recreation in the evenings before winding down.

Hiking in West Point

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bonneville Shoreline Trail (Davis County sections)

Ranging from urban paths to hillside climbs with valley views.

Antelope Island State Park Trails

Scenic trails across open prairie with views of the lake and wildlife.

Mueller Park Trail (nearby)

Forested canyon trail with shade and viewpoints.

Airports

How to reach West Point by plane.

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC)

Major hub about 30–40 miles southwest; accessible by car or public transit.

Ogden-Hinckley Airport (OGD)

Smaller regional airport offering general aviation and some commercial flights; closer to West Point.

Getting Around

Walkability

West Point is primarily car-dependent, with a few walkable corridors near parks and the lake. For dining and entertainment, it's common to drive to neighboring Layton or Ogden. Some sidewalks and bike lanes exist along main routes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many residents are families seeking a suburban lifestyle and good schools.

Working Professionals

Commuters to Layton, Ogden, or Salt Lake Valley for work.

Retirees

A portion of retirees enjoy the slower pace and local amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Very popular in high school and community leagues across Davis County.

Basketball

Common in schools and community centers, with local pickup games in parks.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Nearby Wasatch resorts provide winter sports opportunities nearby.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate; commuter hours can see additional delays around I-15 corridors in the Davis County area. Public transit options exist via UTA buses and nearby Frontrunner/Trains in neighboring cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting West Point.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer salads, veggie burgers, and veggie entrées; look for daily veggie specials and ask for modifications.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services are available in nearby Layton and Ogden, including Davis Hospital and Medical Center (Layton) and Ogden Regional Medical Center, plus clinics and urgent care facilities within a short drive.

Discover United States

Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

United States Travel Guide