SALT LAKE CITY — Washington Post travel reporter Andrea Sachs visited Provo. In addition to learning about the lifestyle and culture the city has to offer, Sachs visited places like Rockwell Ice Cream Co., the Soap Factory and Pioneer Book.
Sachs attributed the distinct culture found in Provo can be attributed to current and former students of Brigham Young University.
She called the area a "mountainous region that attracts outdoorsy types," saying nature attractions include the Provo River, Utah Lake and the Wasatch Mountains.
"Bring a date or go solo," Sachs wrote. "Mother Nature doesn't care about your relationship status."
Sachs wrote that the diversity of eating places is "partially influenced by the Mormon tradition of international missionary work," crediting the array of cuisines to "expanded palates" of returned missionaries.
The article gave recommendations for places to eat, shop, visit and stay in Provo.
- Provo Canyon Scenic Byway — Sachs wrote this "local fave" includes a scenic drive from Provo to Heber City with plenty of stops on the way for additional outdoor adventures.
- Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum — Located on the BYU campus, Sachs wrote of Shasta the liger on display at the museum.
- Hruska's Kolaches — Sachs learned how quickly the "Czech-Tex" pastries fly off the shelves, writing that "empty trays mocked patrons for not arriving earlier." I wrote about the Salt Lake City Hruska's Kolaches being featured on Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives" in January.
- Black Sheep Cafe — Combining Native American and Southwestern dishes, Sachs wrote that this food spot is "the rare establishment to have a full bar."
- Provo Downtown Historic District — Sachs wrote about stops on Provo's Downtown Historic District including Provo Town Square, Startup's Candy and the Provo City Center Temple.
- Good Move Cafe — The only board game restaurant in Utah, according to Sachs, has more than 1,000 games and invites guests to snack, eat and game at the same time.
- Shade Home and Garden — This "pastoral escape from the city" includes a greenhouse that dubs as a goga studio (a yoga activity that includes goats) in the cooler months, a barn and planters, according to Sachs.
- Shops at Riverwoods — Recognizing more common store names, Sachs' recommended venturing into unfamiliar stores such as Lime Ricki and Heirloom Art & Co.
- Aspenwood Manor — This family-owned and Airbnb-inspired hotel provides 20 luxury rooms named after destinations significant to the family.
- Sundance Mountain Resort — Sachs deemed this the "year-round playground," featuring hiking, skiing, zip lines, an art studio and store.
Read more: Visit The Washington Post to read the entire piece.