History
Provo was founded and settled in 1849, making it one of the oldest cities in Utah. It has a rich history steeped in Mormon culture, most of which can still be seen today through its traditional architecture and neighborhood layout. The city's residents are known for their friendly and welcoming demeanor as well as their connection to nature. During the late 1800s, Provo was an important hub for natural resources like timber, mining, and livestock. With the arrival of the railroad in 1890, it became a major transportation center in the area. Today, Provo continues to serve as a residential and business center for many Utahns and is home to several universities and colleges.
Things To Do
Splash Summit Waterpark
One of the most popular attractions in Provo is the Splash Summit Waterpark. This family-friendly destination offers a variety of water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers that everyone can enjoy. It's a great spot to cool off during the hot summer months or have some fun with friends and family.
Provo Canyon Experiences
Provo Canyon begins just north of Provo and is a resource for a variety of outdoor activities and adventures.
Bridal Veil Falls
Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of Bridal Veil Falls located in Provo Canyon. It's a majestic 600-foot waterfall that can be viewed from several different vantage points or even experienced up close via one of its many hiking trails.
Sundance Ski Resort
For those looking for a winter adventure, Sundance Ski Resort is the perfect spot. Located just outside of Provo, it offers over 2,000 acres of terrain with slopes for all skill levels. It also boasts some of the best snowboarding and mogul skiing in the state. Diverse summer activities are also available at Sundance which is named for a character played in the movie Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, by actor Robert Redford.
Tubing on the Provo River
If you're looking for a more relaxed activity, tubing down the Provo River is the perfect way to spend an afternoon. You can float your way through some of the most beautiful scenery in Utah as you make your way downstream. Don't forget to bring along a picnic lunch and stop to enjoy the views along the way!
Rafting
For a more adventurous experience, you can try your hand at whitewater rafting on the Provo River. There are several companies that offer guided tours and instruction for first-timers as well as experienced rafters. The rapids here range from Class I to III, so there's something for everyone.
Fishing
The Provo River is known for its excellent trout fishing and you can even try your hand at fly-fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, you'll find plenty of opportunities to catch some fish in this beautiful river. Whether you're looking for the perfect spot to spend a relaxing afternoon or hoping to land your next big catch, the Provo River is sure to provide it.
Utah County / Utah Valley Experiences
Provo is situated in Utah County which is also commonly referred to as Utah Valley. Other Utah Valley communities include Orem, Pleasant Grove, American Fork, Lehi, Springville, Payson, and Spanish Fork. Within this large valley are several notable attractions.
Utah Lake
Utah Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the state and a great place to spend a day outdoors. Visitors can kayak or paddleboard on the lake's calm waters, go fishing for bass and catfish or take a leisurely stroll along its shoreline. During the summer months, it hosts several live concerts and festivals that are perfect for a night out.
Timpanogos Cave
For a unique experience, visit the Timpanogos Cave. The cave consists of three separate limestone caves filled with stunning stalagmites and stalactites that can be explored by guided tour groups. Located only 20 miles north of Provo, Timpanogos Cave is a 1.5-mile roundtrip hike up American Fork Canyon.
Mount Timpanogos
Rising from the Utah Valley floor to heights over 11,000’ is Mount Timpanogos, which offers a variety of hiking trails. Most notably the trail on the backside leads a steep ascent to the glaciers and peaks at the top of this mountain.
Brigham Young University
No visit to Provo would be complete without a trip to Brigham Young University. The university is home to some of the best educational facilities in the nation, as well as world-renowned research centers and impressive athletic teams. Visitors can explore its sprawling campus, catch a sporting event or take in one of its many cultural events and performances.