Coffee, Art & Sweets: An Afternoon in Downtown Provo
Downtown Provo has a quiet rhythm that rewards curiosity—a mix of cozy cafés, creative storefronts, and sweet spots that are all just a few steps apart.
This is the first in a growing series of walkable guides through Provo, and today’s route is perfect for a slow afternoon of sipping, exploring, and indulging in small, local joys. Let’s wander together.
Start at Java Junkie
📍 16 W Center St.
Kick things off at Java Junkie, a welcoming coffee shop with affordable drinks and some of the kindest baristas around. Whether you go for a seasonal latte or your usual favorite, it’s the perfect way to ease into a laid-back afternoon.
Explore Collective Underground
📍 26 W Center St.
Just steps away, Collective Underground blends boutique curation with thrift-shop charm. This shop is full of one-of-a-kind fashion and home decor finds. I especially love their wall of mirrors; it always catches the light in the most unexpected ways. Plus, shopping here supports local creatives.
Stop for a Scoop at Rockwell Ice Cream
📍 43 N University Ave. (1-minute walk from Collective)
Dessert is always a good idea. Rockwell Ice Cream is a local favorite for a reason—their flavors are bold and thoughtfully made. I always find myself surprised by how much I love the honeycomb, but you really can’t go wrong. The G.O.A.T. (goat cheese with blackberry lemon jam and rosemary almonds) is a must-try, too. Not sure which to pick? Order a flight of four and make it a mini tasting adventure.
Pause at The Tiny Gallery
📍 35 N University Ave.
Tucked nearby, The Tiny Gallery by Tiny Art Show is filled with small works of art—tiny paintings, sculptures, and postcards created by local artists. The exhibits rotate monthly, so there’s always something new to discover. Be sure to follow them on Instagram and TikTok to see what’s currently on display.
📍 45 N University Ave.
Still have room for a little more sweetness? Just a few steps away from the tiny gallery is Momo’s Cheesecakes. These single-serve treats come in flavors like Oreo, salted caramel, and passion fruit—and they’re easy to carry but hard to forget. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your walk.
Provo is full of these little surprises, and this is just the beginning. More walkable routes and local gems are coming soon. Whether you’re here for a day or rediscovering your own city, I hope this guide invites you to slow down and see it differently.
You can find the full walking route on this Google Maps list. Feel free to save and share it.
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