NORTHERN UTAH
UtahValley.com; @ExploreUtahValley—Set against the backdrop of the Wasatch Mountains and nestled along the eastern bank of Utah Lake, Provo and the greater Utah Valley offer an unbeatable combination of accessibility, natural beauty, and event-friendly amenities. For meeting and event planners seeking a destination delivering both seamless logistics and unforgettable experiences, Utah Valley hits all the right notes, according to Erin Scott, director of sales for Explore Utah Valley.
Anchored by Provo and Orem, and supported by a constellation of neighboring communities, Utah Valley offers urban comforts with a small-town vibe. The Utah Valley Convention Center sits at the heart of downtown Provo, with hotels, restaurants, and entertainment all within a walkable radius. Just minutes away, the region’s trails, peaks, and lakes create an ideal playground for teambuilding and outdoor recreation.
One of the valley’s biggest draws is its accessibility. The recently expanded Provo Airport (PVU) provides an increasingly convenient gateway to the region, with new nonstop service from American Airlines and other carriers. Located just minutes from downtown Provo, the airport offers a stress-free arrival experience, avoiding the congestion of larger hubs while maintaining close proximity to the convention district.
The Utah Valley Convention Center is a versatile space, offering 83,000 square feet of flexible meeting space across multiple levels. Directly connected to the center is Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference Center, which boasts 329 guest rooms and more than 24,000 square feet of event space, creating a seamless hub for mid-sized to large events. In total, Utah Valley offers 4,000 guest rooms.
For groups seeking a more immersive natural retreat, the legendary Sundance Mountain Resort is just a short drive from downtown Provo. Originally founded by Robert Redford, it offers 95 guest rooms and more than 10,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor meeting space. Tucked into the slopes of Mount Timpanogos, the resort is a haven for creativity and connection, blending high-end hospitality with authentic mountain charm.
Utah Valley shines when it comes to dining, Scott notes. Whether attendees are foodies or just hungry for something local, they’ll find a memorable meal. The Tree Room at Sundance Mountain Resort has earned a Forbes Four-Star rating and was named one of the top fine-dining restaurants in the country by USA Today’s “10Best.” In downtown Provo, Black Sheep Café serves award-winning Native American-Southwest fusion, while Taste 117 invites visitors to indulge in regional chocolate and balsamic tastings. For a taste of the Wild West with a dash of celebrity lore, the historic Owl Bar—once frequented by Butch Cassidy—offers handcrafted cocktails in a saloon-style setting; it was also named one of USA Today’s top hotel bars.
Teambuilding options in Utah Valley are as varied as the landscape. Scott suggests groups raft the Provo River, ride the mountain zipline at Sundance, explore Dreamwalk—an immersive art exhibit in Orem—or take guided hikes in the nearby canyons.
Planners will appreciate Utah Valley’s built-in energy, thanks in part to the presence of two universities just 10 minutes apart: Brigham Young University (BYU) in Provo and Utah Valley University (UVU) in Orem. “These college communities bring energy, diverse dining, and year-round events to the area,” Scott says. “The region is also known for its easy access to outdoor recreation and its family-friendly atmosphere, making it a well-rounded destination for groups of all kinds.”
Utah Valley is a standout choice for meeting attendees interested in bringing their families for a pre- or post-meeting vacation, as it offers a wide variety of activities for all ages. Families can explore the area’s parks, interactive museums, and outdoor attractions. Thanksgiving Point in Lehi is a must-see, featuring the Museum of Natural Curiosity, Museum of Ancient Life, Butterfly Biosphere, Curiosity Farms, and the expansive Ashton Gardens. This one-stop experience is just 20 minutes from Provo, Scott adds.
A few annual events in Utah Valley do impact availability, and planners should take note. BYU and UVU graduations in April and May, BYU home football games in September to mid-November, and the Provo Freedom Festival around July 4th are all major draws. “These draw large crowds and can affect lodging and traffic,” Scott stresses.
