Estimated read time: 6-7 minutes
Winter's not over until March, and if this year's anything like last year, there could be snow on the ground until May. For some, that's great news. The promise of endless ski days, fresh powder and snowy exploration sounds like heaven. But, if you're someone who avoids the cold, this winter could be a long one.
Fortunately, for those who prefer to stay away from the snow, there are a lot of fun indoor spots in Utah Valley to check out. Here are just seven of them — and many are free!
BYU museums
You could honestly spend the entire winter season hibernating in BYU museums and barely scratch the surface of what's there. The best part is you can take the family for free. Here are just a few you might find interesting:
- Bean Life Science Museum — Live animal shows, animal artwork, insect displays, a play area and a large selection of exotic taxidermied animals.
- Museum of Paleontology — Dinosaur bones, displays, fossils and more.
- Museum of Peoples and Cultures — Children's scavenger hunts, cultural exhibits and displays and more.
- Museum of Art - Paintings, sculptures, traveling exhibitions and more.
- Education in Zion Gallery - Education displays, historical artifacts and emphasis on spiritual and secular learning in Utah.
- BYU Legacy Hall - BYU sports history, memorabilia and other sports-related fanaticism.
Some of the museums are larger than others, so plan ahead, especially if taking the littles. Also, be mindful of parking. Many BYU parking lots will require a parking permit, which can obtained from the museum.
Lehi Cabela's
The thing about Cabela's is that it's way more than just a gear and outfitter store — especially at the Lehi location. The store is massive and full of interesting things to do. Some of these include an aquarium, archery range, bait shop, taxidermy animal displays, a shooting gallery and even a museum.
The store is also dog-friendly, so bring your pup and meet new ones as you walk the aisles!
Springville Art Museum
If you haven't made the trip to the Springville Art Museum, you're missing out. "Dedicated as a "Sanctuary of Beauty and a Temple of Contemplation" by David O. McKay, the museum houses more than 2,600 works, according to the website. Inside you'll find permanent collections including Utah art, 20th century Soviet Realist art and American art.
Not only does the museum feature thoughtful art, but they also have a calendar of events you can plan on attending. For example, on February 6, your children ages 2-4 can join a gallery hunt, art projects and hands-on learning at the Guppy Group event.
Thanksgiving Point
An obvious choice, Thanksgiving Point has a lot of fun indoor activities for escaping the cold. Some of these include the Mammoth Screen, the Mountain America Museum of Ancient Life, the Museum of Natural Curiosity, a carousel and more.
One of the most popular activities is the Butterfly Biosphere. More than 1,000 live butterflies live in the exhibit, and they come from all over the world. It's recommended that you purchase tickets in advance.
For the adults still making Valentine's Day plans, consider attending the Valentine Dinner Dance at Thanksgiving Point. Attendees can expect a three-course dinner, dancing, live music and infectious energy. You can attend either February 10 or 14, but be sure to purchase tickets soon!
Megaplex Theatres
When the first Megaplex Theatre opened at Jordan Commons in 1999, it was revolutionary. The screens, seats, prices and concessions were all top-tier and an excellent value. Now, 25 years and many, many more theaters later, the same holds true.
Since 1999, the Larry H. Miller group has continued to step up its movie-watching game. Get out of the snow and cold weather and enjoy a movie experience near you. Megaplex Theatres offer with multiple premium screens including several IMAX venues, top-of-the-line sound systems, luxury seating and even Cheeto-flavored popcorn.
Tickets are priced below the national average, and on Tuesdays, tickets are only $5.95. That's a deal pretty much unheard of anywhere else in the country. So, if you're looking for a comfortable, butter-laced way to spend a few hours and escape the cold, it's tough to beat the Megaplex Theatres at Geneva and Thanksgiving Point.
Provo Beach Resort
Surfing in Utah? In winter? You betcha. If you feel the need to show off your post-Christmas bod, or shoot your kids with lasers, look no further than the Provo Beach Resort. There are so many activities you could spend all day and still not do it all.
Just a few activities include Flow Rider surfing, laser tag, a ropes course, bowling, a carousel, a mega-sized playground, miniature croquet, toddler town, an arcade and more.
As Google reviewer Travis T. said, "Had a great day with the kids for my daughter's birthday — we just spent all day here and my son wants to come back for his birthday as well. What can I say — It looks like the people here listened to the reviews because they reinstated the unlimited bowling, unlimited laser tag, and of course, there was an unlimited ropes course as well. Where else can you find a great deal like this?"
The Provo Beach Resort is located in the Shops at the Riverwoods.
Airborne Lindon
There's a whole lot more to Airborne in Lindon than just a trampoline park. There are obstacle courses, foam pits, slides, jungle gyms and more that you and your kids will enjoy.
Google reviewer Andrea B. gave the Lindon location a five-star review and said, "WOW the new kid's area is out of this world amazing! We loved going on a Saturday night when they turned off the lights. I was able to get some work done while my kids stayed active and safe. We dined on-site at their snack bar and were blown away by the fresh pizza and cream cheese-stuffed churros. … Highly recommend! It's our new favorite place to hang out on the weekends!"
If your kids are full of energy and you just need a break, head to Airborne Lindon and take a breather. Of course, it's also a great place for adults to get a cardio workout in without running outside!
Curious about what local events are being held around the valley? Check out the Utah Valley Chamber of Commerce events calendar for more activities.
