5 Fun Summer Activities to do in Utah

Queue that High School Musical song “Summer, Summer, Summer” because it is almost time to close those laptops and open up those beach towels. The last day of finals this year is May 1, and after that, it is summer break! If you are staying in Utah for the summer, whether that be for classes, jobs, or because you are from here, here is a list of five fun activities to cross off your bucket list this summer.

Tulip Festival

Every spring, Utah’s landscape bursts into bloom with the Tulip Festival. Held annually at Thanksgiving Point’s Ashton Gardens, the event showcases over 280,000 tulips in a rainbow of colors, creating a picture-perfect paradise for visitors to walk and frolic through. The event has live music, food vendors, and workshops. The festival runs from April 10  to May 18 and costs $29 over the weekend to attend. 

Tubing Down the Provo River

Trying to beat the Utah summer heat? Tubing down the Provo River is a great way to do so. While tubing down the river and floating along the cool, clear waters, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery and towering mountains. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling ride over gentle rapids or a leisurely journey soaking up the sun, tubing down the Provo River is just for you. Students can rent paddle boards from OA at the Student Life Center or buy a tube from the local store, both options offering a great time!

Sand Hollow National Park

If you need a destination with lots of fun activities to do, Sand Hollow National Park is the perfect place for you. Whether you are cooling off with friends in the reservoir, riding up the sandy dunes on an ATV, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery, Sand Hollow has it all. Located about five hours from the University of Utah, you can take a long weekend trip there and still have plenty of time for all the fun activities. You can camp in the park for $35 at the Sandpit Campground. To learn more about Sand Hollow National Park, visit here. 

Vernal, Utah

Did you know that there are dinosaur bones in Utah? In Vernal, Utah, visit the Dinosaur National Monument, which is surrounded by ancient fossils and towering rock formations. If dinosaurs are not your thing, you can also whitewater raft down the Green River, getting an adrenaline rush that is perfect to wake you up for the summer. If hiking is more your thing, you can explore the Red Fleet State Park, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding red rock cliffs.

Moab

If you want to go to the ultimate desert playground, then Moab is for you. Home of two National Parks, Arches and Canyonlands, this is the perfect bucket list destination. You can do anything from ATV, dirtbike, hike, and even whitewater rafting in the Colorado River. Did I mention there are also tons of great climbing spots? Moab is a one-stop shop for countless activities and is truly an outdoor enthusiast paradise. Only four hours away from the university, Moab is great for a 3-day weekend!