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Nothing is worse than putting in a full work week only to be bored on the weekend. With the colder weather starting to settle in, spending time hiking or swimming isn't normally an option.
Fortunately, there's no shortage of fun and unique things to do in Utah Valley. Trying something new and experiencing just a fraction of what Happy Valley has to offer is a great way to enjoy your free time. Here are a few ideas.
Plant a bonsai tree
Bonsai tree plants are not only unique, but they can be incredibly beautiful. Planting the small tree is an art form, and one supplier in Pleasant Grove can help you learn the craft.
Bonsai Bai Me offers a class called the Bonsai Bai Me Experience, where a plant professional helps you repot a small bonsai tree into the pot of your choice. They then teach you how to trim it properly, and allow you to decorate the base. Participants can choose between rocks, moss, pebbles and more to make a beautiful creation.
"We really enjoyed the whole experience. From picking the plant and the pot, to learning how to properly plant it and care for it, then decorate it. Our guide walked us through each step," one Google reviewer said.
Be sure to book your time in advance. There are several slots available nearly every day of the week.
Rock hounding
Whether you have a love for geology or have kids who love exploring, rockhounding in Utah County is a unique and fun way to spend a day. There are several sites throughout the valley.
For example, you can find a whole host of various plant fossils near Utah Lake. A little further south, you can find quartzite ashlar blocks and boulders at the West Mountain Community Pit. Some sites may charge you to take home findings, but many are free.
Take a look at this map from the Utah Geological Survey to find sites by location, rock descriptions and even fossils.
Afternoon tea at Taste 117
No need to travel across the pond to London for a spot of afternoon tea! Taste 117, located in Provo, offers a delicious package of scones, tea sandwiches, desserts and a beverage of choice. Many reviewers rave about not only the food, but the European atmosphere.
One Google reviewer said, "We had afternoon tea service and it was sooo good! All of the tea bites were delicious. Great variety as well. Each one impeccably executed and totally delicious!"
Reservations are required, so reserve your spot at least six hours in advance.
International cinema at BYU
For a taste of culture in Happy Valley, check out BYU's International Cinema. Located on campus, the theater shows films several nights a week. Some past screenings include, "My Neighbor Totoro," "Banel and Adama," "Saint Omer," and "Return to Dust."
Admission is free, just be sure to park in the appropriate visitor lots. You can find a schedule of the upcoming films showing on the International Cinema website.
Krishna Temple
The Festival Of Colors happens once a year, but the Spanish Fork Krishna Temple is open year-round.
The public is welcome to tour its beautiful halls every day of the week, beginning at 10 a.m. The building features a 50-foot dome, 108 spires, marble statues of the deities and more.
In addition to the temple tour, you can take an animal tour to learn about the llamas. Guests will learn how to groom and feed them, and can even take them for a walk!
For those wanting an authentic food experience, Govinda's Vegetarian Buffet & Salad Bar is onsite and open daily from noon to 6 p.m.
Visit the Krishna Temple website for more information on tours and events.
Swing dancing and salsa dancing
Utah Valley residents flip for weekly dance nights at Arlington Halls. Several days of the week, adults can come and learn that night's specific dance style, and then stay for hours to jive the night away!
Wednesday and Saturday nights are country dance nights, with lessons starting at 8:30 p.m. Latin dancing is on Monday and Thursday nights, with lessons starting at 9:00 p.m.
Google reviewers all rave about the beautiful venue, inexpensive admission prices and the fun atmosphere.
Find more activities in Utah Valley
These are just a handful of the memorable experiences you can have in Utah Valley. Find more events and unique places to explore on the Utah Valley Chamber website.
