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When you're trying to get to know someone or nurture a relationship, dating is a great way to do it. Unfortunately, no one seems to like doing it.
The Pew Research Center found that nearly half of U.S. adults (and a majority of women) think that it's become much harder in the last 10 years. 67% of daters say their dating lives aren't going well at all.
That may be a depressing statistic, but here's the good news: Utah is the No. 1 dating spot in the country, according to data released by Apartment List. And out of 90 cities, Provo nabbed the No. 1 spot for dating satisfaction among single renters.
Of course, with all the fun activities Utah County provides for couples of all types and ages, it's no surprise. If you're stuck in a dating rut, here's a list of fun and creative date night ideas in Utah Valley.
Make your own soap
Thanks to the pandemic, handwashing hygiene is on trend, which makes this a great option — especially if you're planning on doing some hand-holding.
At The Soap Factory, you can choose from over 400 shapes and 150 essential oils to create customized, healthy, all-natural soap or sanitizers. (A bar of soap usually costs less than $5 to make.) Plus, they say that scent is the strongest tie to memory, so you're guaranteed an unforgettable date.
Try an Instagram scavenger hunt
With so many picture-worthy sites in Utah County, you might want to consider doing an Instagram scavenger hunt. All you need is your phone and a list of eye-catching locations to do a little picture-taking.
Snap a photo at Stewart Falls, the Provo City Center Temple, or the Kissing Point on Center Street.
Go salsa dancing
There's no better way to break the ice and get past the awkward small talk than through dancing. At Salsa Chocolate in Provo, you can enjoy a free Latin dance lesson with a $5 cover charge before 10 pm.
Rock climbing at The Quarry
If you want to get your heart pumping (in more ways than one), give rock climbing at The Quarry a try. According to an article published on Mic.com, adrenaline-boosting activities can actually increase attraction levels between two people.
Pour a candle
At The Wick Lab in Provo you can reserve a time for a date to create a custom candle. Warm wax, dipping wicks and picking scents. It's hard to imagine anything could be more romantic. The cost ranges from $20-$25, depending on your chosen container.
Hang gliding at Flight Park
Here's another great one for the adrenaline junkies out there. Hang gliding at Flight Park State Recreation Area is sure to take your date's breath away. People come from all over the world to visit this site, which is known as one of the best training sites for both paragliding and hang gliding.
Horseback riding through the Alpine Loop
Take a guided horseback tour through the forest while you take in some incredible views of Mt. Timpanogos, Stewart Falls, and the Wasatch Mountains. Sundance Stables offers various tours, including a romantic sunset ride.
Play archery tag
For a larger group date, try something totally new: archery tag! Think of it as dodgeball, but with soft arrows. Who knows? After so much fun, maybe Cupid's arrow will strike your date. To reserve your spot, contact Bouncin Bins Inflatable Rentals.
Try some high adventure fun
If you like rafting, zip lines and spectacular scenery, you'll what to check out High Country Adventure. From tubing in the Provo River to flyfishing or kayaking, they have you covered in one of the prettiest spots in the state. Best of all, it's a short drive up Provo Canyon.
Heart & Seoul Karaoke
If you're in the mood for some musical fun, you can sing your heart out at Heart & Seoul Karaoke in downtown Provo. Reserve a private room with your friends and choose from over 30,000 songs to belt out. For the extra brave singers, you can join the crowd to sing on the front stage during open mic nights on Friday and Saturday.
Chuck an ax
Chances are your image of an ideal date does not include throwing sharp weapons. But that's exactly what you can do at Phat Axe in American Fork. You'll spend $15 per person for a private lane with 60 minutes of ax throwing.
Go for a float
Book a Sunset Sail Cruise on Utah Lake for a unique and memorable date night. It's almost too good to be true. The lake views of the mountain are impressive and adding a sunset only completes the opportunity for a romantic evening away from the hustle and bustle.
Real-life video games
You might not think of video games as the most romantic dating option, but this is not your typical gaming experience. Virtual Experience brings the games to life through virtual reality. One reviewer said, "Best date I've ever been on! It is literally so much fun. We'll be coming back again & again."
Speed things up
Spending time with a special someone can get your heart racing. So it's only appropriate to plan a date at The Grid in Pleasant Grove, where you can check out Utah Valley's best kart racing experience. After you get your fill of high-speed adrenaline, you can relax at an arcade filled with some of the best and most popular games.
Check out other dating options in Utah Valley
When you're talking about the No. 1 spot for dating in the U.S., you can bet there are plenty more options than what's listed here. For dozens more date ideas that are fun, cheap, romantic, adventurous, memorable, or seasonal, visit Explore Utah Valley online.
