Things To Do
in Provo
Provo, Utah is a scenic college town nestled in Utah Valley at the base of the Wasatch Range, home to Brigham Young University and a lively student culture. It blends a conservative, family-oriented local culture with outdoor-adventure access — hiking, skiing and fishing are minutes away. Downtown Provo offers an increasingly active food, music and craft-beer scene anchored by local venues and a weekly farmers market.
The city is a convenient base for exploring nearby canyons, Sundance Resort, and Salt Lake City to the north.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Provo City Center Temple, marveling at its stunning architecture and serene surroundings. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of downtown Provo, stopping by local coffee shops to sample some freshly brewed java. The morning sun casts a warm glow on the historic buildings, making it an ideal time for photography.
Visit the Museum of Art at Brigham Young University to immerse yourself in a variety of exhibitions that showcase both local and international artists. Grab lunch at a nearby eatery, where you can enjoy delicious sandwiches or salads made with fresh, local ingredients. After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the BYU campus, admiring the beautiful landscaping and the iconic Tabernacle.
Wrap up your day by dining at one of Provo’s popular restaurants, where you can enjoy a hearty meal with family or friends. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Covey Center for the Arts, where local talent often shares their craft. End your evening with a peaceful walk along the Provo River, enjoying the sound of flowing water and the night sky.
Begin your day with a refreshing breakfast at a lakeside café, soaking in the views of Utah Lake and the surrounding mountains. Afterward, rent a kayak or paddleboard and spend the morning gliding across the water, enjoying the tranquility of the lake. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and fish, as you explore the serene environment.
After your water activities, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the scenic parks around the lake, where you can relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. Post-lunch, take a leisurely hike along the lakeshore trails, offering stunning views and opportunities to capture breathtaking photographs. Spend some time fishing or simply lounging by the water to unwind.
As the sun begins to set, find a cozy spot on the shore to watch the vibrant colors paint the sky. For dinner, indulge in a lakeside restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood and local dishes. End your evening with a relaxing stroll along the waterfront, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of gentle waves.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Regular coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-150 |
| 🚕Local taxi / short rideshare | $8-20 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (pub) | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to outstanding outdoor recreation (hiking, skiing, fishing)
- Friendly, safe, and affordable compared with larger western cities
- Active college-town culture with music, events and youthful energy
- Convenient base for exploring nearby canyons, Sundance and Salt Lake City
- More conservative local culture and restrictions (notable around alcohol and some social norms)
- Smaller nightlife and fine-dining scene compared with major metros
- Seasonal weather can impact travel (winter snow, spring mud)
- Limited direct international flight options (depending on airport)
Places to Visit in Provo
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic view of the white 'Y' on the mountainside with sweeping panoramas of Provo Valley — great at sunrise or golden hour.
Photogenic waterfall right off the canyon road with accessible viewpoints and dramatic seasonal flows in spring and after storms.
Flat, scenic trail along the river with reflections, fall color and easy access to river and canyon vistas; good for long exposures and sunrise shoots.
Wide-open water and dramatic sunsets with silhouetted boats and distant mountains — best in calm conditions for reflections.
Distant alpine views and ridgelines visible from many valley vantage points; great for telephoto shots and star photography at higher elevations.
Colorful street art, historic storefronts and the indie music venue zones offer vibrant urban photo opportunities, especially during events.
Food in Provo
Provo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting casserole of potatoes, cheese and crunchy topping frequently found at local diners and potlucks; try it at family-style restaurants or church-run bake sales.
Must-Try!
A Utah condiment (ketchup + mayo base) served with fries and burgers across the valley — try it at casual burger joints and drive-ins.
Hearty burritos, street tacos and green chile dishes are widely available and a reliable local favorite; look for family-run taquerias downtown and near BYU.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market (spring–fall) in downtown Provo featuring local produce, baked goods, prepared food stalls and artisan vendors — great for snacks and regional specialties.
Look for lunch-time food trucks around the university and downtown events offering tacos, barbecue, sandwiches and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Provo is heavily influenced by the LDS community; be respectful around church buildings and family-oriented events, and be mindful that public alcohol consumption and certain behaviors may be less common.
People are generally friendly and polite; a friendly greeting and a thank-you go a long way. Avoid loud or confrontational behavior in public spaces.
Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites or neighborhoods where modesty is appreciated; casual wear is fine in most places otherwise.
Safety
Tipping in Provo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary: 15–20% in full-service restaurants, $1–2 per drink for bartenders, 10–15% for taxis/rideshares; tip more for exceptional service.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is still useful for small vendors and tips. Peer-to-peer apps (Venmo, Cash App) are used but not universally accepted for businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Variable weather with mild days and chilly nights; snow can linger at higher elevations while lower trails bloom. Expect muddy trails early in the season and rising waterfall flows.
Warm and typically dry with daytime highs often in the 70s–90s°F (20s–30s°C). Ideal for hiking, mountain biking and water activities, but bring sun protection and plenty of water.
Crisp air and colorful foliage in the canyons make this a popular time for outdoor photography and hikes; temperatures cool quickly after sunset.
Cold with regular snow in the mountains; valley temps often drop below freezing. Skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts are available, and winter driving precautions are essential.
Provo at Night
Hiking in Provo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Challenging, iconic alpine hike with spectacular ridgelines and views; popular in summer, requires preparation, good fitness and awareness of weather.
Shorter, accessible hikes with waterfall views and family-friendly trail options right off the canyon road.
Short to moderate hike with canyon walls, rock features and the famous Y overlook above BYU; popular for quick outings and panoramic views.
Flat multi-use trail along the river ideal for walking, cycling and easy nature outings; good for sunrise/sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Provo by plane.
Closest commercial airport to Provo with some domestic flights; convenient for quick access when routes are available and typically much closer than Salt Lake City.
Major international hub about 40–60 minutes north by car (depending on traffic) with many domestic and international connections; common arrival point for most visitors.
Smaller regional airports exist in northern Utah and may offer supplementary services; ground transport from these airports varies.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; this shapes cultural events, community rhythms and many local institutions.
BYU brings a large student population to the city, influencing housing, nightlife, restaurants and seasonal population swings.
Provo has many family-oriented neighborhoods, schools and community resources reflecting a family-focused culture and activities.
The area has growing ethnic diversity including Hispanic/Latino communities and international students, contributing to cultural and culinary variety.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
BYU Cougars sports draw strong local support — football and basketball games create community energy and are a major part of local culture.
Winter sports are extremely popular regionally, with nearby resorts offering alpine and Nordic options.
Road cycling, mountain biking and trail running are widely enjoyed in the valley and canyons throughout spring–fall.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Provo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common at cafés and many restaurants (salads, veggie burgers, bowls). BYU-area eateries and health-focused cafés tend to be more accommodating.
Vegan choices are available but less ubiquitous than in large metro areas; seek out specialty cafés and request simple swaps (no cheese, veggie proteins).
Many restaurants offer gluten-free menus or can adapt dishes; always notify staff about cross-contamination concerns when necessary.
Utah has unique alcohol laws (licensing and service rules vary). Some restaurants and grocery stores have limited selections; inquire ahead if alcohol service is important.