Spend a Perfect Weekend in Provo with These 8 Ideas

Only 45 minutes from the capital of Salt Lake City, Provo is one of Utah’s fastest growing communities. In fact, it is the third largest city in the state and often recognized as the best place to live in the United States. Provo is home to the Brigham Young University. The town also has some of the best natural sights in the state. If you are looking to spend a perfect weekend in Provo, here are a few can’t-miss spots in the area.

Browse the Quaint Shops at Riverwoods

The weekend is the perfect time to explore The Shops at Riverwoods. In this 50,000 square foot shopping complex, you can find many national retailers, along with local boutiques and specialty shops. The Shops also houses the entertainment complex known as Provo Beach. The open-air shopping complex is a great way to unwind at the end of the week. You have several choices for dining, including several breakfast spots to fine-dining options. The Carmike 12 Theater is also located on site to catch up on the latest flicks. The Shops enhance the village streetscape environment with cobblestone pathways, lamp-posts, and a natural stream.

Museum of Peoples and Cultures

You can find many different archaeological, anthropological, and ethnographic artifacts at the Museum of Peoples and Culture. Located in the Brigham Young University, the museum showcases culture from both the past with a look into the future as well. You can spend a whole day exploring the collections of exhibits and activities. This museum also plays host to many programs and events throughout the year. While the museum is on the campus of BYU, it is open to everyone. If you want to explore other cultures, this is the place for you.

Bridal Veil Falls

At the southern end of the Provo Canyon, you can find the 600-foot tall waterfall known as Bridal Veil Falls. You can easily reach this spectacular sight by car from US Route 189. This natural wonder has been a popular spot since the 1960s when an aerial tramway connected the region. The tramway was once dubbed “The World’s Steepest Tramway.” Unfortunately, an avalanche destroyed the tram in 1996. Bridal Veil Fall State Park is only 3.5 miles from Provo Canyon. There are plenty of hills, hiking trails, and picnic tables for you to sit back and relax in the recreational area. For those wanting to get an up-close look at the falls, you just need to follow the scenic walkway that winds past the waterfall area. Winter time does not stop any of the fun. The Bridal Veils area attracts many ice climbers that want to test their luck on the mountaintops.

Provo Canyon

The Wasatch Mountains are the home of Provo Canyon. For the more adventurous explorer, this is the outdoor park for you. You can take part in many outdoor activities from rock climbing to biking to hiking trails. The Sundance Mountain Resort is one of the main attractions, along with the Deer Creek Reserve and Provo River.

If you want to hit the water, the lake is available throughout the year for boating, swimming, fishing, and ice fishing events. In fact, the 2002 Winter Olympics used Solider Hollow as the venue for biathlon and cross-country skiing events. The Provo Canyon Scenic Drive is the best way to view the canyon without working up a sweat. You can get in the car and explore the scenic landscape from Provo to the Heber Valley area. For those wanting to experience the ambiance at night, there are plenty of RV and camping areas located throughout the canyon.

Covey Center for the Arts

In downtown Provo, on the historic Center Street, you will find the Covey Center for the Arts. This spot is the perfect place to catch a live performance, view local art exhibits, or take a dance class. They offer over three galleries featuring artists from all over the Utah area. The Covey Center also has a 90-seat theater for events and special performances during the year. The schedule changes throughout the day, so make sure to check before you head out.

Provo River Parkway Trail

Utah has many trail systems throughout the state. The Provo River Parkway Trail is one of those systems. This trail starts in the Utah Lake State Park and ends at Vivian Park in the Provo Canyon. The trailway is over 15 miles long, and you can experience by foot or bike. The trail makes its way through the Provo neighborhoods, tree-lined wilderness areas, and local parks. It follows the path of the Provo River which winds down the Provo Canyon. If you are on US 89, you can find an access point to park your car and hit the path. This path is a popular spot to get a little exercise while you enjoy the natural beauty of the canyon area.

Provo Pioneer Village

Looking for a peek at the past? The Provo Pioneer Village is the place for you. You can see how the early settlers of the area lived in this historical reenactment village. The Village takes you through the early history of the area with a look at the town’s founding by the first Mormon pioneers. You can see their collection of exhibitions and preserved buildings, including a school, granary, pioneer homes, a general store, and a blacksmith shop. The Provo Pioneer Village is opened during the summer months. In the winter time, you can still explore but will need an appointment ahead of time.

East Bay Golf Club

Many weekend warriors love to hit the links. Provo has its own prestigious golf course at the East Bay Golf Club. There are various amenities for all skill levels, including a championship golf course, executive par 3 course, a driving range, and clubhouse. Instructors are on-site for private lessons. The golf course is the site of many workshops and tournaments in the area. If you don’t own your own driver or putter, have no fear. You can rent equipment from the golf course to use as you tee up this summer.