The Best of American Fork: Local Favorites and What’s Coming Soon

Located in the heart of Utah County, American Fork offers a unique blend of rich history, family-friendly amenities, and exciting growth. Whether you’re considering moving to this vibrant community or simply looking to explore what makes it special, this guide covers everything you need to know about local favorites and what’s on the horizon for the city. From top restaurants to exciting new construction plans, American Fork has something for everyone.

Best Restaurants in American Fork: Where to Eat

American Fork is home to a variety of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to fine dining experiences. Here are some of the most popular spots that locals and visitors rave about:

1. Café Zupas

Address: 599 West Main Street, American Fork, UT 84003

Known for its fresh and healthy offerings, Café Zupas is a popular choice for soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts. The menu features a variety of delicious and nutritious options made with high-quality ingredients. Whether you're grabbing a quick bite or sitting down for a relaxing meal, Café Zupas offers a great dining experience for any occasion.

2. JCW's The Burger Boys

Address: 580 East State Road, American Fork, UT 84003

If you're craving a classic American burger, JCW’s is the place to go. Known for its juicy burgers, crispy fries, and milkshakes, JCW's has been a local favorite for years. With a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for casual dining, and the menu offers a variety of delicious options for every burger lover.

3. La Costa Mexican Restaurant

Address: 852 E State St #9718, American Fork, UT 84003

For authentic Mexican cuisine, La Costa is a standout. Known for its flavorful tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas, this cozy spot offers a welcoming atmosphere and delicious traditional dishes. Locals love the generous portions and vibrant flavors, making it a must-visit for any fan of Mexican food.

4. Sol Agave

Address: 749 W 100 N Suite CRA8, American Fork, UT 84003

Sol Agave offers an upscale Mexican dining experience with a modern twist. Known for its flavorful dishes like carne asada and flavorful moles, this restaurant combines traditional Mexican flavors with a sophisticated ambiance. It’s the perfect place for a special night out or a celebratory meal, featuring vibrant flavors and an extensive tequila selection.

5. Nazca Grill

Address: 98 NW State Street, American Fork, UT 84003

Offering a unique Peruvian twist on grilled meats and traditional dishes, Nazca Grill brings authentic flavors to American Fork. Known for its juicy rotisserie chicken and savory empanadas, this restaurant provides a vibrant and casual setting to enjoy bold, flavorful dishes. It’s a great choice for those wanting to try something new while enjoying fresh ingredients.

6. Sushi Garden Bistro

Address: 192 S 500 E, American Fork, UT 84003

Sushi lovers will find their home at Sushi Garden Bistro. The restaurant offers a wide variety of sushi rolls, sashimi, and other traditional Japanese dishes. Known for its fresh ingredients and excellent presentation, it’s the ideal spot for both seasoned sushi enthusiasts and newcomers to Japanese cuisine.

7. Whistle Wok

Address: 193 E 30 N, American Fork, UT

Whistle Wok brings a variety of Asian-inspired dishes to American Fork. Known for its fresh and flavorful take on Chinese and Asian fusion cuisine, Whistle Wok offers everything from savory stir-fries to noodle bowls and delicious rice dishes. The quick-service style and fresh ingredients make it a local favorite for casual dining.

8. Five Guys 

Address: 209 NW State Street, Suite B, American Fork, UT 84003

Five Guys is a nationwide favorite for high-quality, customizable burgers and fries. With generous portions and fresh ingredients, this casual spot is perfect for burger lovers. The peanut oil-fried fries and made-to-order burgers are always a hit, and the atmosphere is fun and laid-back, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

9. Black Bear Diner

Things to Do in American Fork: Activities for All Ages

Whether you're a local or just visiting, American Fork offers plenty of things to do that are fun for the whole family. Here are some highlights of the area:

• Tibble Fork Reservoir: If you love outdoor activities, you won’t want to miss a trip to Tibble Fork Reservoir. This scenic spot is perfect for fishing, boating, hiking, and picnicking. It’s a favorite for those looking to escape into nature.
• American Fork Canyon: Known for its stunning mountain views, American Fork Canyon is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and photography. It’s also home to the famous "Timp Cave" and offers incredible vistas of Mount Timpanogos, one of the most iconic peaks in Utah.
• Pioneer Museum: To learn about the rich history of American Fork, visit the Pioneer Museum. This small yet fascinating museum showcases local artifacts and offers a glimpse into the area’s early days. It’s a must-see for history enthusiasts.
• Evermore Park: Is a unique entertainment venue that combines fantasy, interactive theater, and immersive experiences. It's a fun destination for families or those looking for something different, especially during seasonal events.
• American Fork Library: For those who enjoy quieter activities, the American Fork Library offers a wide selection of books, as well as community events and educational programs. It’s a great resource for both residents and newcomers to the area.
• American Fork Amphitheater: The amphitheater is a great venue for enjoying local performances, live music, and community events. If you’re in the mood for entertainment, keep an eye out for upcoming shows and performances throughout the year.

New and Future Construction in American Fork, UT

American Fork is a growing city in Utah, with several exciting construction projects underway that are enhancing its infrastructure, housing, and community amenities. Whether you're looking for new homes, transportation improvements, or recreational developments, there’s a lot to look forward to in this rapidly expanding area. Here’s a rundown of some of the key projects that are shaping the future of American Fork:

Road and Infrastructure Improvements

1. State Street (US 89) Road Widening

Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) is widening State Street (US 89) from 500 East in American Fork to 220 South in Pleasant Grove. This major project will:

1. Add three lanes of traffic in both directions.
2. Include new turning lanes at most intersections to improve traffic flow.
3. Introduce buffered bicycle lanes along the corridor for cyclist safety.

2. North County Blvd Intersection Improvements

The intersection of North County Blvd at 1000 N / 900 E is undergoing safety improvements. A raised median will be installed to restrict left turns from 1000 North and 900 East onto North County Blvd. Additionally, new crosswalks will be added on the south side of the intersection at 1100 North. These changes are aimed at improving safety for both vehicles and pedestrians.

3. Utah Valley Express (UVX) Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)

While not specific to American Fork alone, the Utah Valley Express (UVX), a bus rapid transit (BRT) line, provides an enhanced public transportation option for residents. The UVX connects Orem to Provo and is part of the region’s overall effort to provide more efficient and sustainable public transit. The American Fork FrontRunner station also ties into the UVX system, making it easier for residents to travel quickly across Utah Valley.

4. Road Resurfacing and Maintenance Projects

To maintain the road network, American Fork will also see several road resurfacing projects, including:

• SR-145 (Pioneer Crossing)
• US-89 (State Street)
• SR-180 (500 East)

These repaving and micro-surfacing efforts will ensure smooth, safe roadways for vehicles, helping to reduce traffic congestion and improve driving conditions.

5. American Fork Canyon and Trail Enhancements

While not a traditional transportation project, trail enhancements around American Fork Canyon, including Art Dye Trail, contribute to the city’s efforts to improve alternative transportation routes for pedestrians and cyclists. These recreational trails can reduce reliance on vehicles for short trips and encourage more sustainable forms of transportation.

These new transportation enhancements aim to make commuting safer and more efficient, whether you're driving, biking, or using public transit. As American Fork continues to grow, these infrastructure upgrades will play a key role in improving the city’s mobility and overall quality of life.

New Housing Developments

American Fork is seeing significant growth in its housing market, with many new residential communities being built to meet the demand for homes. A few of the most notable new developments include:

• D.R. Horton is offering a range of new homes like the Emery-E (3 beds, 3 baths) and the Oliver-E (4 beds, 3 baths), both of which offer modern floor plans ideal for growing families.
• Ivory Homes has several new homes being built, such as the Portland model (4 beds, 2.5 baths), which features spacious living areas perfect for families.
• Woodside Homes is constructing beautiful homes like the Buchanan (2 beds, 2.5 baths) and McKinley (3 beds, 2.5 baths), both offering cozy, efficient spaces for homeowners looking for something fresh and new.

These new homes cater to a wide range of budgets and preferences, from affordable starter homes to larger, luxury residences. As American Fork continues to grow, these new developments provide much-needed housing options for current and future residents.

Community and Beautification Projects

Community and Beautification Projects in American Fork, Utah are part of the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life for its residents by improving public spaces, promoting environmental sustainability, and creating visually appealing areas. These projects aim to make the city a more attractive and welcoming place for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Here are some key community and beautification initiatives in American Fork:

1. Tree Planting and Landscaping Initiatives

One of the primary efforts in American Fork’s beautification projects is the tree planting and landscaping initiatives. The city is committed to preserving green spaces and planting trees in public areas to improve air quality, provide shade, and create aesthetically pleasing environments. The Beautification and Shade Tree Committee plays a key role in organizing tree planting projects along major streets, in parks, and in newly developed areas. These efforts help to enhance the city's natural beauty while supporting environmental sustainability.

2. Downtown Revitalization

American Fork is focusing on revitalizing its downtown area, making it more pedestrian-friendly and appealing to both residents and visitors. The city's Main Street corridor is being improved with new streetscaping elements, such as new signage, benches, and landscaping. These updates are designed to create a more inviting atmosphere for people to enjoy local businesses, public events, and community gatherings.

3. Park and Trail Enhancements

In addition to the Art Dye Trail (a popular trail for hiking and biking), American Fork is enhancing its existing parks and recreational areas. This includes upgrading amenities such as:

• Picnic areas and playgrounds in various parks.
• Walking trails and fitness stations for outdoor exercise.
• Improved park entrances to make them more accessible to families and community groups.

These park enhancements are part of the city's vision to provide more green spaces for residents to enjoy, encourage outdoor activities, and promote community well-being.

4. Public Art Installations

American Fork is also incorporating more public art into its beautification efforts. This includes sculptures, murals, and other artistic displays that reflect the city’s history, culture, and community values. Public art installations serve to beautify public spaces while fostering a sense of pride and identity for residents.

5. Gateway Improvements

As American Fork continues to grow, the city is working on creating a visually attractive gateway to welcome visitors and new residents. This includes improvements to the entry points into the city, particularly along major roads such as State Street and North County Blvd. Landscaping, signage, and decorative features at these gateways create a more appealing entrance into the community.

6. Environmental Sustainability Projects

The city is working on several projects to promote environmental sustainability within the community. These include initiatives to reduce energy consumption, enhance water conservation, and improve waste management systems. For example, rain gardens and stormwater management systems are being introduced to help with water runoff, while the city is also encouraging the use of native plants in landscaping to reduce water usage and support local wildlife.

7. American Fork Canyon Beautification

American Fork Canyon, known for its natural beauty, is also the focus of beautification efforts. The U.S. Forest Service and the city are collaborating to improve the area's infrastructure, including enhancing trails, adding informational signage, and cleaning up scenic areas. These efforts aim to protect the natural environment while making it more accessible and enjoyable for visitors.

These community and beautification projects in American Fork focus on enhancing public spaces, improving the city's visual appeal, and fostering a strong sense of pride and identity among residents. They not only make the city more attractive but also contribute to environmental sustainability, community health, and overall well-being.

Why American Fork is a Great Place to Call Home

With a combination of local favorites, exciting activities, and promising new developments, American Fork is becoming one of the most desirable places to live in Utah. Whether you're looking for an active outdoor lifestyle, a tight-knit community, or a growing city with new opportunities, American Fork has it all.

Ready to Explore American Fork?

If you’re considering making American Fork your home, or if you want to learn more about what’s happening in this thriving area, we’re here to help. Contact us today to discuss available real estate listings or visit our website to explore homes in American Fork and the surrounding areas.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to be part of this exciting community!