Provo

There are a number of interesting historical buildings, including the County Courthouse (151 S University Ave) and the Provo City Center Temple (50 S University Ave), a restoration of the old Provo Tabernacle which burned down in December 2010. A self-guided tour booklet our historical houses and other buildings is available at the Provo City Library (550 N University Ave; ask at the first-floor reference desk) or at the Utah Valley Visitors Center (111 S University Ave).

Small extension of the Museo de Historia del Mormonismo en Mexico. Covers history of the Mormons in Mexico, mostly through replicas of period newspapers in Spanish and English, but a few relics are included. Worth it to see the old church relics and original copies of the Book of Mormon in Spanish, but otherwise probably only interesting for those particularly interested in Mormons and Mexico. Not recommended for children.

Large collection of pioneer artifacts and history. Museum run by the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers (DUP). Recreated Pioneer Village next door run by the Sons of Utah Pioneers (SUP) (Jun-Aug: M 5-8PM, Tu-F 4-7PM, Sa 1-4PM).

Small museum that chronicles the history and methods of the Utah State Hospital (a mental health hospital operating since 1885). The buildings elsewhere on the hospital campus are notable for their architecture, including a "castle" built in the 1930s by the Works Progress Administration (you must receive permission to visit the castle; ask at the museum for information about how to do that).

Hiking, camping, and skiing are just some of the popular activities in the beautiful Wasatch Range located just east of the city. There is also a popular scenic drive called the Alpine Loop (May-Oct, free) that circles Mount Timpanogos via Provo Canyon (US-189) and American Fork Canyon (Highway 94).

The Mormon temple, dedicated in 1969, is located on top of a hill overlooking Provo. Because of its unique shape, the temple is sometimes called a "rocket ship." The spire was painted white (it had been a golden color) and the statue of Moroni added in the 2000s. Only Mormons who hold a permit known as a "temple recommend" are allowed inside the temple, but the beautifully tended grounds with their seasonal flowers and fountains are open to all. Make sure to walk around the back side of the temple for more flowers and a lovely view of Utah Valley.

The Mormon temple, dedicated in March 2016, is located in downtown Provo. The site used to house the Provo Tabernacle, a combined meeting house and community center built in 1898, but a 2010 fire destroyed the interior and roof, with only the outer walls left standing. The LDS Church chose to preserve the outer walls, restore the original exterior, and convert the interior into the city's second temple. As with all LDS temples, only church members with "temple recommends" are allowed inside the temple, but the surrounding grounds are open to all.

Large festival held every year around the 4th of July. Features the Stadium of Fire, Grand Parade, Balloon Fest, Freedom Days (vendor stalls and carnival rides), Colonial Days, and other activities and events.

BYU hosts many plays, concerts, and other performances each year. There's something going on most nights of the week. Performances are generally held at the Harris Fine Arts Center. Check the website for scheduling and tickets.

After more than a decade as a member of the mid-major West Coast Conference and an independent (i.e., not affiliated with any conference) in football, BYU has joined the so-called "Power Five conferences" of college football with its 2023 arrival in the Big 12 Conference. A few of its teams in niche sports compete outside the Big 12. There's always a sports team playing. Check the website for scheduling and tickets. Home basketball games are played at the Marriott Center (1497 N 450 E); home football games are played at LaVell Edwards Stadium (1700 N Canyon Rd). The BYU Legacy Hall (athletics museum and hall of fame) is housed in the Student Athlete Building (1060 N 150 E, M-Sa 7AM-9PM, +1 801-422-2118, free).

Planetarium offering shows for the public. Reservations may be made online. (Campus map).

Shows foreign and classic films four days per week in a large auditorium. Tickets not required. See website for weekly schedule (showing times usually provided two weeks in advance). (Campus map).

Interactive live comedy show downtown since 1999. Schedule of shows and tickets available at their website. Some shows not open for reservation. Family appropriate.

Plays, concerts, events, and an art gallery downtown. Check the website for the schedule and tickets.

Bowling alley and game center, including traditional arcade games and billiards. Attached to the alley is Costa Vida, a Mexican restaurant.

Public golf course in the wetlands of south Provo close to Utah Lake.

A giant concrete Y towers over Provo from "Y Mountain." The zigzagging hike to the Y is relatively easy and takes most people about 45 minutes each way (although if those recently at lower elevations may wish to plan on more time). Once at the Y, you have a lovely view over Utah Valley and Utah Lake. (Another trail leads south from the Y to the peak of Y Mountain.) The hike itself is exposed with little shade, so plan accordingly when hot. The trail is particularly popular with BYU students. Facilities available at trailhead.

A rugged canyon popular with students, families, hikers, and rock climbers alike. The main trail is very easy, but leads off to other more difficult trails, such as one to the top of Squaw Peak. The mouth of the canyon also connects to Bonneville Shore Trail, which follows the base of the Wasatch Mountains.

Largest waterpark in Utah with waterslides, a wave pool, and other water attractions.

Located directly west of Provo. Utah Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Utah. Popular fishing, boating, parasailing, and camping destination. The Utah Lake Marina is a lovely place at sunset and borders on a marsh with wild birds. Two long jetties reach out into the lake, giving a spectacular view of the valley. Caution: Utah Lake is shallow and very biologically active, meaning that it can sometimes be smelly and algae heavy and often washes up dead fish. Boaters should be wary of windy conditions, as wind can stir up high waves due to the shallow waters. Entrance to the state park is supposedly $9/vehicle or $2/person or bike, but the entrance booth is often closed and sightseers can usually walk in free, particularly during the off season.

Utah Valley's symphony since 1959. Usually gives concerts on Wednesdays and Thursdays at the Covey Center for the Arts. Check the website for scheduling; tickets can be purchased through the Covey Center.

Located to the north of Provo, Mount Timpanogos is a very prominent and well-known landmark across the Wasatch Range. It rises to an impressive elevation of 11,752 ft (3,582 m). It is the location of one of the few permanent snowfields in Utah, and is also the location of several breathtaking, scenic, and popular hikes.

At Sundance or alternatively just look at the various art on display.

A good place is at Nunn's Park right across from Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon.

One of Provo's gems. The venue is a mandatory stop for artists from Utah's (surprisingly healthy) local-music scene, and touring artists often sidestep Salt Lake City clubs to play here. A full calendar of shows is available on the venue's website.

This is a great way to see the city in a spookier way. It's a glimpse into Provo's slightly darker history. Think of it more as a fun bike ride to historical places and hearing good ghost stories. It makes a great date night or activity for anyone. The tours are seasonal (March through November) and only happen on Friday and Saturday night. They also rent bikes. Visit website for tour dates and to buy tickets. $10-16