Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
In case you missed it, love and marriage are two pretty important things in the Beehive state.
It's statistically backed too: 56% of eligible people in Utah are married — the highest rate in the nation. In Utah County, this number jumps to 59%, including a whopping 68% in Lehi.
For the single Utah Valley dwellers looking to join that group, the long days of summer are the perfect chance to go on dates and try to find their soulmate.
Fortunately, there are no shortage of places and activities to help singles (or couples!) get to know each other better while making memories. Here are a few options to explore this summer.
Hop on the Provo River Parkway
The beauty of the Provo River Parkway trail (in addition to its literal beauty) is that you can stay on it as long or as little as you want, which is a must for a first date.
The length of the trail is just over 15 miles, but you can hop on the trail at any point to shorten your time. No need to bring hiking shoes — the whole trail is paved and ready for road bikes or walking.
7 Utah Valley restaurants where you can enjoy authentic global cuisine
The international and authentic food scene in Utah Valley is flourishing with exciting new restaurants coming to the area, plus the old favorites that are always a hit. So, why settle for the familiar when there are so many delicious possibilities waiting to be explored?Get iced coffee, boba, or ice cream
Less formal options than dinner that can provide relief from the hot temps. There are dozens of fun shops you can stop for a refresher. Some include The Coffee Shop in American Fork, Tea Mate in Orem, and Rockwell Ice Cream in Provo.
Hanna Seariac for the Deseret News listed Penguin Brothers, Farr's and Brooker's Founding Flavors as other top ice cream spots in Utah Valley.
Sing and dance
To add some fun and activity, head to Salsa Chocolaté in Provo and dance bachata to Aventura all night long. If you fancy singing instead, let your five-octave vocal range loose at Heart & Seoul Karaoke.
Tube the Provo River
Tubing the Provo River is a Utah County classic, and for a reason. The water is cold, tame, and perfect for those looking to beat the heat without any fuss. This is a relatively short date activity, as it only takes a couple hours to float the entire river. Outfitters like Provo Canyon Adventures and High Country Adventure can help with equipment and shuttle services.
Visit Utah Valley writer Rebecca Hrabar says the 4.5 mile long experience is possible to float on your own, you'll just need two cars: one at the top of the river and one at the end. You also need to bring your own tubes and life jackets. Make sure the tubes are high quality so they don't pop!
Get on a moonlight lift ride at Sundance
For those looking to take their date to the next level — or rekindle romance with your partner — a moonlight lift ride at Sundance is gorgeous and romantic.
You can both simply sit there, hold hands, and enjoy each other's company with the most stunning of backdrops.
You'll want to prepare in advance for this one, as the rides only happen for one or two days a month during the summer. Because it only takes place under a full moon, you'll have a narrow window to secure tickets and head up the canyon.
Come prepared for a cooler night with a light jacket or blanket.
Take a scenic train ride
Same concept, different mode of transportation. Enjoy mellow and scenic views on the Heber Valley Railroad aboard pristinely preserved historical trains.
There are a few different options for train rides throughout Provo Canyon and the Heber area. You can take a two-hour round trip ride on the Heber Creeper throughout the south end of Heber Valley and around Deer Creek Reservoir. For a slightly shorter ride, take the Deer Creek Express to see mountain views as well as Deer Creek Reservoir.
Explore Thanksgiving Point
Though Thanksgiving Point is a great place to take kids, it's a fun place for adults to explore and get to know each other. Wander through the beautiful Ashton Gardens, watch butterflies in the Butterfly Biosphere or grab a bite to eat at one of their restaurants.
June is Rose Month at the gardens, so bring a camera on your date to take some snapshots of the flowers — and a selfie with your date.
Go boating on Utah Lake
After reaching full capacity for the first time in several years, this is the perfect time to explore Utah Lake. Lindon Marina offers rentals for kayaks, canoes and rowboats. If you're so inclined, you can even reserve a romantic sunset sailing excursion with Timpanogos Yacht Club. If you've never been out on Utah Lake in a boat you'll be astounded by the views and the serenity.
More to do in Utah Valley
There's far more to do in Utah Valley than the date ideas listed here. To get to know someone new and enjoy all of Utah Valley's things to do, check your local directory and calendar on the Utah Valley Chamber website.
