Things to do in Provo, UT

Ute Indians originally populated this picturesque site, nestled in a protected area between Utah Lake and the rugged Wasatch Mountains. In the early 1800s, fur traders worked and explored in the area, as they did throughout the West. One of them, Etienne Provost, established a trading post and gave his name to the river and the subsequent town. In the mid-19th century, Mormon settlers established themselves in the area and helped the city grow into Utah's second largest. They also founded the Brigham Young Academy, which later become BYU, the largest church-affiliated university in the country. Even today, the Mormon influence on Provo remains substantial, and a conservative yet friendly demeanor characterizes the town. As a result, many businesses aren't open on Sundays, and alcohol is sometimes hard to come by. Still, the town is welcoming and prosperous, home to cosmetics company Nu Skin Enterprises and an array of technology businesses.

Ute Indians originally populated this picturesque site, nestled in a protected area between Utah Lake and the rugged Wasatch Mountains. In the early 1800s, fur traders worked and explored in the area, as they did throughout the West. One of them, Etienne Provost, established a trading post and gave his name to the river and the subsequent town. In the mid-19th century, Mormon settlers established themselves in the area and helped the city grow into Utah's second largest. They also founded the Brigham Young Academy, which later become BYU, the largest church-affiliated university in the country. Even today, the Mormon influence on Provo remains substantial, and a conservative yet friendly demeanor characterizes the town. As a result, many businesses aren't open on Sundays, and alcohol is sometimes hard to come by. Still, the town is welcoming and prosperous, home to cosmetics company Nu Skin Enterprises and an array of technology businesses.