Last year our family went to Disneyland in late February. Not only was it one of the best family vacations we’ve had, but it is something we hope to establish as a family tradition for years to come.

As I looked through some of my “smart phone” pictures from that trip (the one above taken at the famous “Pier” in Huntington Beach), I thought I’d share a few of the reasons this trip was so amazing and at the same time ask the question:

Can you have vacations like this one in Utah Valley?

3 Reasons Our California Vacation in February was FABULOUS!

(and how you can make Utah Valley vacations just as good)

1. We went in FEBRUARY!

A good family vacation is all about TIMING. If you want to go to the Canyons Ski Resort during the Christmas break, be prepared to wait in lines most of the day. However, go on a Wednesday or Thursday in mid-January and chances are you’ll hardly wait in line at all.

Our Disneyland trip was perfect because the longest we waited in ANY line was 15 minutes. I haven’t been to Disneyland for a long time, but I’ve heard this was pretty remarkable. Based on the wait time, we hit every ride and attraction we wanted to in two fun-filled days.

2. We got advice from the locals!

Have you ever heard the new social media slogan that “Facebook is the New Google“? In this case, it sure was. Instead of going to Google to search the “best place to eat near Disneyland” only to find some overrated, SEO link-baited crap, I asked some of my Facebook friends who grew up in that area. Not only did they give me the best places to go, but they also gave me tips and tricks that saved us tons of time and money. Thanks Facebook friends!

You can use this same strategy when looking for a fun, cost-effective family activity in Utah County. Ask around on Facebook. Check Pinterest. Taking the time before you head out on your family activity can make all the difference.

3. We had a schedule but were FLEXIBLE!

The picture I shared was on our 3rd of 4 days in California. What we did this day wasn’t really planned. However, the weather took a change for the worst so we changed our plan. Instead of going into one of the theme parks only to get rained on, we took our Utah-County-conditioned bodies to the beach! We found it secluded for obvious reasons; it didn’t stop our kids from running in the water, making a sand castle, and having a great time.

When you’re looking for a fun family adventure in Provo, Orem, or Springville, Utah, have a list of things that you could do and be flexible. One of our favorite things to do in Springville is eat wings at the Trolley. Make sure you check that place out if you haven’t already.

In Conclusion

Our answer to our own question is yes, you can find an unlimited amount of great things to do in Utah Valley. Do some research, ask around, and be ready to be flexible and you’ll find the “hidden treasures in Happy Valley” – just make sure to share them with us 🙂

What are some of your best family activities in Utah County?