Travel Guide to Brigham Young University

Nestled in the picturesque Utah Valley, Brigham Young University (BYU) offers a unique blend of academic excellence and natural beauty. This renowned institution, located in Provo, Utah, attracts visitors from around the globe who are eager to explore its vibrant campus and surrounding attractions.

Whether you’re a prospective student, a sports enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, BYU provides a wealth of experiences to discover. From its state-of-the-art facilities to its rich cultural heritage, there’s something for everyone at this distinguished university.

Join us as we guide you through the must-see spots, hidden gems, and local favorites that make BYU a destination worth exploring. Prepare to be inspired by the stunning landscapes, engaging activities, and warm community that define the essence of Brigham Young University.

Key Facts about Brigham Young University

• Address: Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
• Date Established: October 16, 1875
• Campus Size: Approximately 560 acres
• Notable Alumni: Mitt Romney (U.S. Senator and former presidential candidate), Stephenie Meyer (Author of the Twilight series), Steve Young (NFL Hall of Fame quarterback)
• Mascot: Cosmo the Cougar
• Other Relevant Information: BYU is owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and has a strong emphasis on undergraduate education with a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1.

Unique and Interesting Information about Brigham Young University Campus

• Historical Significance: Founded in 1875, Brigham Young University (BYU) is named after the second president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young.
• Academic Excellence: BYU is renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in business, engineering, and law, consistently ranking among the top universities in the United States.
• Unique Honor Code: The university enforces a strict honor code that includes standards for dress, grooming, and behavior, reflecting its religious affiliation.
• Beautiful Campus: Nestled at the base of the Wasatch Mountains in Provo, Utah, BYU’s campus offers stunning natural scenery and numerous outdoor recreational opportunities.
• Strong Athletic Programs: BYU boasts competitive sports teams, particularly in football and basketball, with a passionate fan base and a rich history of athletic achievements.
• Innovative Research: The university is a hub for groundbreaking research, with state-of-the-art facilities and numerous opportunities for student involvement in various fields of study.

Points of Interest on Brigham Young University Campus

• BYU Museum of Art – 492 E Campus Dr, Provo, UT 84602
  
  This state-of-the-art museum is one of the largest and most attended art museums in the Mountain West, featuring diverse exhibits ranging from classical to contemporary art.
• Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum – 645 E 1430 N, Provo, UT 84602
  
  A fascinating museum that offers a wide range of biological exhibits, including taxidermy displays and interactive educational programs, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
• BYU Creamery – 1209 N 900 E, Provo, UT 84604
  
  A beloved spot for students and visitors alike, known for its delicious ice cream and dairy products made right on campus.
• Bridal Veil Falls – Provo Canyon Rd, Provo, UT 84604
  
  A stunning natural waterfall located just a short drive from campus, offering picturesque views and hiking trails suitable for all ages.
• Provo City Center Temple – 50 S University Ave, Provo, UT 84601
  
  An architectural marvel and a significant historical site, this beautifully restored building serves as a temple for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
• Sundance Mountain Resort – 8841 N Alpine Loop Rd, Sundance, UT 84604
  
  Founded by Robert Redford, this resort offers year-round outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, along with cultural events and fine dining.

How to Travel to Brigham Young University Campus

• By Air:
  • Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which is approximately 45 miles north of Provo.
  • Rent a car or use shuttle services from the airport to reach BYU campus.
• By Train:
  • Take the Amtrak California Zephyr route to Provo Station.
  • Use local transportation or taxis from the station to the campus.
• By Car:
  • Drive via Interstate 15 (I-15) which passes through Provo.
  • Follow signs to the BYU campus from the freeway exits.
• Public Transportation:
  • Use the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) buses that serve the Provo area.
  • Take the FrontRunner commuter train to Provo Central Station and transfer to a bus or taxi.
• Other Ways:
  • Carpool with other students or visitors to share travel costs.
  • Use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft for direct transportation to the campus.

What to See

• BYU Museum of Art – Located at 492 E. Campus Dr., the Museum of Art is one of the largest and most attended art museums in the Mountain West. It offers a variety of exhibitions and collections that showcase both classical and contemporary art, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts. More info.
• Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum – Situated at 645 E. 1430 N., this museum features extensive displays of plants and animals, including a fascinating collection of taxidermy. It’s a great spot for families and anyone interested in natural history. More info.
• Ernest L. Wilkinson Student Center – Known as the central hub of campus life, this building houses dining options, a bookstore, and various student services. It’s a vibrant place to experience the daily life of BYU students. More info.
• BYU Museum of Paleontology – Located at 1683 N. Canyon Rd., this museum offers hands-on learning experiences with real fossils and live paleontologists at work. It’s perfect for those interested in the prehistoric past. More info.
• BYU Creamery – Found at 1209 N. 900 E., this campus favorite offers delicious ice cream and dairy products. It’s a great place to take a break and enjoy a treat while exploring the campus. More info.

Where to Eat

• Communal
  Address: 102 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84601
  Why Visit: Communal offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The cozy atmosphere and creative dishes make it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
• Black Sheep Cafe
  Address: 19 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84601
  Why Visit: Known for its unique blend of Native American and Southwestern cuisine, Black Sheep Cafe provides a distinctive dining experience with dishes like Navajo tacos and green chile pork.
• Brick Oven
  Address: 111 E 800 N, Provo, UT 84606
  Why Visit: A Provo staple, Brick Oven is famous for its delicious pizza and pasta. The family-friendly environment and extensive menu make it a great choice for groups and families.
• Shirley’s Bakery & Cafe
  Address: 1620 N Freedom Blvd, Provo, UT 84604
  Why Visit: This charming bakery and cafe is perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. Visitors rave about the freshly baked goods and the warm, inviting atmosphere.
• MOA Café
  Address: 452 MOA, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602
  Why Visit: Located within the BYU Museum of Art, MOA Café offers a convenient and delightful dining option for museum visitors. The menu features a variety of fresh, healthy options.

Where to Stay Near Brigham Young University Campus

• Hyatt Place Provo
  Address: 180 W 100th N, Provo, UT 84601
  Book here
  Why stay: Modern amenities, convenient location within 1.1 miles from BYU, and excellent dining options nearby.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Provo
  Address: 1580 N Freedom Blvd, Provo, UT 84604
  Book here
  Why stay: Spacious suites, complimentary breakfast, and close proximity to BYU, perfect for extended stays.
• Best Western Plus Provo University Inn
  Address: 1600 N Freedom Blvd, Provo, UT 84604
  Book here
  Why stay: Conveniently located near BYU, great for attending university events, with comfortable rooms and amenities.
• Provo Marriott Hotel & Conference Center
  Address: 101 W 100 N, Provo, UT 84601
  Book here
  Why stay: Ideal for business travelers and visitors attending conferences, with luxurious accommodations and facilities.
• Residence Inn by Marriott Provo South University
  Address: 1290 S University Ave, Provo, UT 84601
  Book here
  Why stay: Offers extended stay options with full kitchens, close to BYU, and great for families or longer visits.

Conclusion

Brigham Young University offers a unique blend of academic excellence, spiritual growth, and stunning natural surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you are a prospective student, a sports enthusiast, or simply looking to explore a vibrant campus, BYU provides an enriching experience that is both educational and inspiring.

To make the most of your visit, be sure to take advantage of the detailed lodging recommendations provided above. Booking your stay through these options will ensure you have a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore all that BYU and its surrounding areas have to offer.

Additional Details About Visiting Brigham Young University Campus

• Parking: Visitor parking is available near the Museum of Art and east of the Wilkinson Center. For more details, you can check the BYU Traffic Office website or contact them directly at (801) 422-3906. More information can be found here.
• Visitor Center: The BYU Visitor Center, located at 1200 N University Ave, Provo, UT 84604, offers campus tours and information about the university. It’s a great starting point for new visitors to get acquainted with the campus.
• LaVell Edwards Stadium: Home to the BYU Cougars football team, LaVell Edwards Stadium is located at 1700 N Canyon Rd, Provo, UT 84604. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 63,000 and hosts various sporting events throughout the year.
• Marriott Center: This multi-purpose arena is primarily used for basketball games and other large events. It is located at 701 E University Pkwy, Provo, UT 84602, and can seat around 19,000 spectators.
• BYU Museum of Art: One of the largest and best-attended art museums in the Mountain West, the BYU Museum of Art is located at North Campus Drive, Provo, UT 84602. It offers a variety of exhibitions and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Joe Hughes is the founder of CollegeNetWorth.com, a comprehensive resource on college athletes' earnings potential in the NIL era. Combining his passion for sports with expertise in collegiate athletics, Joe provides valuable insights for athletes, fans, and institutions navigating this new landscape.

 

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