❤️ A Romantic Road Trip Through Utah’s National and State Parks
Romantic Roadtrips in Utah
Adventure, Love, and Big Red Rock Vibes all while adventuring in Utah
By the team at Sparks Museum and Event Center – where vintage meets unforgettable
Looking for a romantic getaway that’s more “wow” than wine and roses? Utah's got you. If you're the kind of couple who prefers hiking boots to high heels and sunsets over small talk, this road trip through Utah’s national and state parks is for you.
Here at Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, we believe love should be an adventure. That’s why we’re sharing the ultimate romantic road trip—packed with epic views, stargazing, and red rock magic. Whether you're celebrating your honeymoon, anniversary, or just want to escape real life for a bit, this is your guide to falling in love all over again—Utah style.
🏞️ First Stop: Arches National Park – Moab, Utah
Moab Utah a romantic road trip
Start your love-fueled journey in Moab, home to Arches National Park. There’s something super dreamy about hiking out to Delicate Arch just in time for sunset. It’s like nature’s version of a rom-com moment.
What to do:
Catch golden hour under Delicate Arch
Take goofy pics at Balanced Rock
Grab smoothies and breakfast burritos in town
Romantic Vibe: 10/10
Distance from Provo: 3.5 hours
🌀 Next: Dead Horse Point – Views That’ll Knock You Out
Just a quick drive from Arches, Dead Horse Point State Park brings next-level canyon views—without the crowds. It’s quiet, peaceful, and the kind of place you bring a picnic and just vibe.
Hot tip: Come back after dark. This spot is stargazing goals.
Vibe check: Moody desert views + snuggle weather = yes please
🍎 Third Stop: Capitol Reef – Apples, Pie, and Quiet Trails
Capital Reef makes a great stop on your romantic roadtrip
This park is so underrated. Capitol Reef National Park is all about cool canyons, old orchards, and homemade pie. You can literally pick apples together and share a slice under the trees. Romantic? Um, yes.
Must-do:
Try the pie at Gifford Homestead
Hike to Hickman Bridge
Take that “we’re-in-a-car-commercial” scenic drive
Vibe check: Retro charm meets rugged adventure (basically Sparks in the wild)
🛸 Don’t Skip: Goblin Valley – It’s Weird (In the Best Way)
Couples love Goblin Valley in Utah
This park is like Mars but make it cute. Goblin Valley is full of funky rock formations that look like little goblins. Wander around, explore caves, and laugh a lot—this place is made for fun couples.
Pro tip: Pack snacks and stay for golden hour. The light is unreal.
🧡 Almost There: Bryce Canyon – Hoodoo You Love?
Bryce Canyon the red rocks of romance
Welcome to Bryce Canyon, home to those wild, spiky rock towers called hoodoos. The vibe here is magical—especially at sunrise. Hike down into the canyon, then grab coffee and cozy up in a log cabin.
Romantic Move: Do the Navajo Loop Trail and get lost together—in a good way.
🌅 Last Stop: Coral Pink Sand Dunes – Soft, Pink, and Perfect
Coral Pink Sand Dunes a Romantic place to road trip
Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park exactly what it sounds like—rolling dunes of soft pink sand that glow at sunset. You can rent a board and slide down or just kick off your shoes and take it all in.
Vibe: Chill, flirty, and totally Insta-worthy
🏁 The Grand Finale: Back to Provo & Sparks Museum and Event Center
Swing together at Sparks in Provo, Utah
After all that road-tripping, come home to Provo and bring the adventure full circle at Sparks Museum and Event Center. Whether you’re planning a retro-themed wedding, a cozy elopement, or a wild anniversary bash, we’ve got the vibes to match your story.
We’re all about creating unforgettable moments—and if your love story includes slot canyons, pie, and pink sand, we say bring it on.
💡 Pro Road Trip Tips for Adventurous Couples
Best time to go? Spring or fall—less heat, more magic
Download offline maps. Service is sketchy in the parks
Pack layers. Desert temps go from hot to “where’s my jacket” fast
Don’t forget: water, sunscreen, and your sense of humor
Who needs five-star hotels or fancy flights to feel the romance. Sometimes, it’s red dust on your shoes, stars in your eyes, and someone next to you who loves the journey just as much as the destination.
When you're ready to turn your love story into a celebration, Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo is here for the next chapter and is ready for your visit.
Sparks Museum and Event Center is a locally owned and operated business. We sincerely hope to encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners from around the country with a weekly shout out in our blog. you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
Best Time to Visit Utah's National Parks and Travel Tips from Sparks Museum & Event Center
Beautiful Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah a couples dream getaway
The Ultimate Guide to Utah's National Parks: Best Months, Activities & Travel Tips
Utah is home to five world-famous national parks—Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Canyonlands, and Capitol Reef—often referred to as the Mighty 5. Whether you're planning an epic road trip or a quick getaway, these parks offer unforgettable landscapes, hikes, and photo opportunities.
As part of our mission at Sparks Museum & Event Center, we help travelers and locals alike discover the beauty of Utah. Here’s our expert guide on when to visit, what to do, and how to prepare for your first national park adventure.
1. Zion National Park
Zions National Park in Utah
Best Months to Visit: March to May and September to November (mild weather and fewer crowds)
Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle (valid for 7 days)
Top Activities:
Hike Angels Landing (permit required) for jaw-dropping views.
Walk the Narrows—a river hike through a deep slot canyon.
Drive or shuttle through Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.
Pro Tips:
Spring and fall are ideal for hiking. Summer is extremely hot (100°F+).
The main canyon is only accessible via shuttle (March–November), so plan accordingly.
2. Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah
Best Months to Visit: May to October (snow lingers into spring)
Entrance Fee: $35 per vehicle
Top Activities:
Catch sunrise at Bryce Point—truly unforgettable.
Hike the Navajo Loop & Queen’s Garden trail.
Drive the 18-mile scenic road to view multiple amphitheaters and hoodoos.
Pro Tips:
Bryce sits at 8,000+ feet—nights are chilly even in summer.
Snowshoeing is available in winter for a magical, less-crowded experience.
3. Arches National Park
Arches National Park in Utah
Best Months to Visit: April to May and September to October (cooler temps, manageable crowds)
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle
Top Activities:
Visit Delicate Arch at sunset—Utah’s most iconic view.
Drive the scenic road and stop at Landscape Arch and Double Arch.
Try night photography—the dark skies are perfect for stargazing.
Pro Tips:
Timed entry reservations are required from April–October between 7 AM–4 PM.
Summer temps soar above 100°F—hike early and bring lots of water.
4. Canyonlands National Park
Canyonlands National Park Utah
Best Months to Visit: March to May and September to November
Entrance Fee: $30 per vehicle
Top Activities:
Watch sunrise at Mesa Arch.
Explore Island in the Sky for sweeping canyon views.
Visit the Needles District for longer, less crowded hikes.
Pro Tips:
Canyonlands is huge—plan your day by district.
Combine with nearby Arches for a 2-in-1 experience from Moab.
5. Capitol Reef National Park
Capitol Reef National Park Utah
Best Months to Visit: April to June and September to October
Entrance Fee: $20 per vehicle (Scenic Drive section only)
Top Activities:
Pick fruit in the historic Fruita orchards (seasonal).
Hike to Hickman Bridge or explore Capitol Gorge.
Take the Scenic Drive through colorful cliffs and canyons.
Pro Tips:
Capitol Reef is less crowded than the other parks—perfect for solitude seekers.
Visit the Gifford House for fresh pies and homemade goodies.
Planning Tips for First-Time Visitors
America the Beautiful Pass: If you're visiting 3+ parks, get the $80 annual pass. It covers entrance to all U.S. national parks and federal lands.
Lodging: Book early, especially near Zion and Arches. Consider camping or staying in gateway towns like Moab, Springdale, or Torrey.
Weather: Utah’s parks span from low desert to high plateaus. Temps can vary widely—even in one day.
Gear Essentials:
Refillable water bottles or hydration packs
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
Sturdy hiking shoes
National Park map or app (cell signal is limited in many parks)
Best Itinerary for 7–10 Days
If you're road-tripping through the Mighty 5, here's a quick sample route:
Start in Zion (2 days)
Bryce Canyon (1 day)
Capitol Reef (1 day)
Arches & Canyonlands from Moab (3–4 days)
Plan Events Near Utah’s Parks
Utah’s national parks are a treasure trove of red rock formations, winding canyons, and epic hiking trails. With proper planning, your first visit can become a lifelong memory. Whether you’re soaking in a canyon sunrise or hiking to a natural arch, every moment will leave you inspired.
If you're planning a wedding, corporate retreat, or private event before or after your park adventure, consider hosting it at Sparks Museum & Event Center. We’re located near Provo, Utah—perfect for guests flying in or road-tripping to the parks.
Ready to explore? Start your Utah adventure today—and don’t forget to stop by Sparks Museum & Event Center to make your trip even more memorable.
We’re on a mission to celebrate and support locally owned wedding venues—and we need your help! Want to make a real impact? It’s as easy as leaving a thoughtful Google review, following them on social media, or recommending them to friends and family. Your support means everything, and we want to give a huge shoutout to the incredible wedding venue owners across the country who pour their hearts into making dream weddings come true.
🎓 Celebrating Graduation in Provo: A Local’s Guide to the Perfect Day
Provo Event Venue is the perfect place for a graduation party, wedding, corporate event, reunion or private party!
…a Provo Local of 30+ Years
Graduation season in Provo is one of my favorite times of year. The energy is high, the mountains are green, and families from across the country come to celebrate a major milestone in the lives of their loved ones. As someone who’s lived here for over 30 years, I’ve seen Provo grow into not just a university town, but a place full of charm, culture, and hidden gems.
Where to Throw the Perfect Graduation Party: Sparks Museum and Event Center
Graduation celebration in Provo Utah
One of the most unique and elegant venues in the heart of Utah Valley is Sparks Museum and Event Center. It’s more than just a rental space—it’s a piece of Provo’s history wrapped in timeless charm.
Why choose Sparks?
Central Location near downtown Provo
Historic Architecture perfect for memorable photos
Flexible Event Space for small or large groups
Built-in Provo Charm that adds a meaningful local touch
Graduation is a moment to honor where you've been and where you're going—Sparks is the perfect backdrop.
What to Do in Provo While You’re Here
Beautiful Provo Canyon
1. Hike the Y Trail
Great views, close to BYU, and a fun graduation tradition.
2. Explore Downtown Provo
Eat at Station 22, shop at local boutiques, or browse art galleries on Center Street.
3. Visit a BYU Museum
Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum and MOA are family-friendly and free.
4. Drive through Provo Canyon
Stop at Bridal Veil Falls, or head to Sundance Resort for lunch or a chairlift ride.
5. Relax at Utah Lake or Thanksgiving Point
Perfect for a post-ceremony picnic or casual day trip.
🍽️ Best Graduation Dinner Spots
Delicious colorful salad for a graduation celebration in Provo
Communal – farm-to-table excellence
Black Sheep Cafe – bold southwestern flavors
La Jolla Groves – stylish and comfortable
Brick Oven Pizza – family-friendly classic
🛍️ Shopping & Gifts
Graduation in Utah Valley is the perfect place
Graduation is more than a ceremony—it’s a memory. Celebrate it right in Provo, surrounded by mountains, loved ones, and local charm. And if you're looking for a place to mark the moment, Sparks Museum and Event Center is my top recommendation—historic, elegant, and rooted in the heart of this city.
Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We’re passionate about using our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this wedding venue map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!
10 Fun things to do in PRovo, Ut
Beautiful mountains of Utah
Discovering Provo, Utah: 10 Must-Experience Activities
Provo is the home of Brigham Young University but is much more than that. Provo offers the beauty of this city nestled against the majestic Wasatch Mountains offering a delightful blend of cultural richness, and unique attractions. Whether you're a local or a visitor, here are ten engaging activities to immerse yourself in Provo's vibrant scene:
Brigham Young University with the Y in the background
1. Swing into Fun at Sparks Museum and Event Center
Swing Dancing at Sparks Museum and event Center in Provo, Utah
Experience the lively energy of country swing dancing every Thursday night starting April 24 from 8:30-12:00 at the Sparks Museum and Event Center. Hosted by Swinging Dance Co., these evenings are filled with upbeat music, friendly faces, and dynamic dance moves. The venue's retro ambiance, adorned with vintage gas pumps and neon signs, creates an unforgettable backdrop for dancers of all levels.
2. Explore the Petroliana Collection at Sparks Museum
Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Ut
Beyond dancing, the Sparks Museum boasts one of the nation's most extensive Petroliana collections. Marvel at hundreds of antique gas pumps, porcelain signs, and classic cars that transport you back to America's golden automotive era. This unique museum, featured on Fox News and other outlets, offers both guided tours and event hosting opportunities.
3. Savor Culinary Delights at Provo's Finest Restaurants
Provo's dining scene is a gastronomic adventure. Indulge in gourmet experiences at establishments like Communal, known for its farm-to-table dishes, or Black Sheep Café, which offers a fusion of Native American and Southwestern flavors. Each restaurant brings its own flair, ensuring a memorable meal.
4. Stroll Through the Provo River Trail
Embrace the outdoors with a walk or bike ride along the Provo River Trail. This scenic pathway meanders through lush landscapes, offering picturesque views and a tranquil escape from the city's hustle.
5. Visit the Monte L. Bean Life Science Museum
Provo Cougar
Located on the Brigham Young University campus, this museum showcases an impressive collection of animal exhibits. From African elephants to exotic birds, it's an educational journey through the wonders of the natural world.
6. Enjoy Performances at the Covey Center for the Arts
Beautiful Ballet
Immerse yourself in Provo's cultural scene at the Covey Center. With a lineup of theatrical productions, concerts, and art exhibitions, there's always something captivating to experience.
7. Relax at Utah Lake State Park
Relax at Utah Lake State Park
Just a short drive from downtown, Utah Lake State Park offers a serene setting for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The expansive lake against the mountain backdrop provides a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation.
8. Discover History at the BYU Museum of Paleontology
Step back in time at this museum, home to fascinating dinosaur fossils and exhibits. It's a must-visit for history buffs and curious minds alike.
9. Shop and Dine at The Shops at Riverwoods
This charming outdoor mall combines boutique shopping with diverse dining options. Whether you're looking for unique gifts or a delightful meal, Riverwoods offers a pleasant experience.
10. Visit the beautiful Provo City Center Temple
Provo City Center Temple
Admire the stunning architecture of the Provo City Center Temple, a historic building restored after a fire and now serving as a place of worship. While the interior is reserved for members, the exterior and surrounding gardens are open to the public and are a beautiful piece of the historical space Provo has to offer.
Thanks so much for stopping by our blog! We hope you found this information helpful. We love supporting local wedding venues and use our blog to shine a light on locally owned wedding venues. These venues often bring a higher level of expertise, service, and dedication to your big day. Plus, with less staff turnover than corporate or investor-owned venues, they’re able to provide a more personal touch. As you plan your wedding, we’d love for you to consider a locally owned venue like ours! Check out this wedding venue map to discover amazing locally owned venues across the country. And a big shout out to all the incredible locally owned wedding venues out there!
Rough & Ready Vineyards
Provo, Utah, is a city brimming with opportunities for adventure, learning, and enjoyment. Whether you're dancing the night away at the Sparks Museum, exploring rich collections, or savoring local cuisine, there's something for everyone in this vibrant community.
How to start planning your wedding in Provo, utah
Celebrate with Marylin and Elvis at your wedding party!
Planning a Dream Wedding in Provo, Utah
Provo, Utah, with its stunning mountain views, historic charm, and vibrant community, is an incredible place to say "I do." Whether you're looking for a venue filled with character, top-tier catering, or excellent entertainment, Provo has it all. If you're planning a wedding in this beautiful city, here’s everything you need to know to create a truly unforgettable celebration.
Choosing the Perfect Venue: Sparks Museum and Event Center
Have your party on the inside of Sparks Museum
Finding the right venue is one of the most important parts of wedding planning. The Sparks Museum and Event Center offers a unique and historic setting that sets your wedding apart from traditional banquet halls. With its adaptable space, rich character, and customizable options, Sparks Museum allows you to bring your vision to life, whether you're going for a classic, vintage, or modern wedding theme. Unlike other venues, it gives you the flexibility to choose your own vendors, ensuring your wedding feels completely personal and tailored to your style. It has an indoor and outdoor option making it a great place to get wed outside and party inside.
Have your wedding on the outiside
Delicious Dining: The Best Caterers in Provo
Food is a major highlight of any wedding, and Provo has some outstanding catering options to ensure your guests have an unforgettable culinary experience.
summer salad
Marvelous Catering – Known for their diverse menu options and impeccable presentation, Marvelous Catering delivers high-quality dishes tailored to your wedding theme and guest preferences.
Magleby’s – A long-time favorite in Utah, Magleby’s offers elegant, flavorful dishes, from gourmet entrees to delicious desserts, making them a fantastic choice for an upscale wedding.
Brown Brothers Catering – Whether you're looking for classic comfort food or a refined dining experience, Brown Brothers provides customized catering to match your wedding style and guest expectations.
Don Juaquin- For a fun Mexican flavor a great option is Don Juaquin with authentic taste of Mexican street tacos
Pork tacos
Elevate the Celebration with Exceptional Bar Services
A great wedding celebration isn’t complete without a well-stocked bar and talented mixologists. Consider these top bar service providers in Provo:
Cheers and Swizzles – Experts in crafting signature cocktails that reflect your personal taste and wedding theme.
DRNK by Lux– Offers premium bar services with high-end cocktails, mocktails, and a sophisticated experience for your guests.
Copa – Known for their fun and creative drink selections, Copa’s bar service adds an extra layer of excitement to your wedding reception.
Mixed drinks make the party
Unforgettable Entertainment: DJ & Music Services
Music sets the tone for the entire evening, and a great DJ keeps the energy high while ensuring seamless transitions throughout your event. Randy from Rock the Mic is a top choice in Provo, bringing years of experience, an amazing playlist, and a knack for keeping guests entertained and on the dance floor. Looking for a fun Karaoke experience, they do that too!
Capturing the Moment: Wedding Photography
Your wedding day is filled with precious moments that deserve to be beautifully captured. Visual Storytelling is an exceptional choice for wedding photography in Provo, offering a documentary-style approach that captures genuine emotions, intimate moments, and stunning portraits that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Forever together
Planning a wedding in Provo, Utah, is an exciting journey, and with the right venue, catering, bar services, entertainment, and photography, your big day will be nothing short of magical. Whether you choose the Sparks Museum and Event Center for its historic charm or any of Provo’s top vendors for an unforgettable experience, your wedding will be a beautifully curated event filled with love, joy, and celebration.
Did you know…when you choose a locally owned wedding venue you are helping to develop and improve the local economy? It’s true, your locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Consider selecting a locally owned venue for your special day. Here's a shout out to our fellow locally owned wedding venues nationwide!
Harris Glen,Butler’s Courtyard,The 1860 Schulhaus, The 1860 Schulhaus Blog, The 1860 Schulhaus Contact,The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch, The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch Blog, The Ironwood Barn at Von Erich Ranch Contact,Heartland Farms Event Center, Heartland Farms Articles, Heartland Farms Contact Us
A Retro & Vintage Dream: Hosting Your Wedding at Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Utah
When planning your wedding, finding the perfect venue is crucial—it sets the stage for one of the most important days of your life. If you’re looking for a space that blends retro charm, vintage elegance, and unforgettable photo opportunities, look no further than Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Utah.
With antique cars, historic carnival rides, vintage trains, and a collection of porcelain signs and gas pumps, Sparks Museum offers a one-of-a-kind setting for couples who want a wedding filled with nostalgia and charm.
A Venue That Tells a Story
1931 model A
Unlike traditional wedding venues, Sparks Museum and Event Center transports you and your guests to another era. Whether you're drawn to the classic cars that line the space, the dazzling neon lights of vintage signage, or the history behind the antique trains, this venue offers a setting rich in character and style. Imagine saying your vows against the backdrop of a beautifully restored antique car or posing for romantic portraits by a historic train—it’s a wedding photographer’s dream.
Photo Ops Like No Other
pink caddy and more
For couples who love photography, Sparks Museum is an absolute paradise. Every corner of the venue is a picture-perfect backdrop, making it easy to capture moments that will last a lifetime.
Antique Carnival Rides: Step back in time with charming vintage rides that add a playful and nostalgic touch to your wedding album.
Classic Cars & Gas Pumps: Whether you’re a fan of 1950s Americana or old Hollywood glamour, the retro cars and gas pumps provide unique photo opportunities.
Vintage Trains & Railroad Vibes: For a wedding with timeless romance, take stunning photos on or near historic trains, adding a touch of adventure to your wedding day story.
Neon & Porcelain Signs: Add some retro energy to your night with glowing neon and colorful porcelain signage, perfect for fun and stylish wedding portraits.
Retro Glam Meets Modern Comfort
While Sparks Museum embraces the vintage aesthetic, it’s equipped with all the modern amenities to ensure your wedding runs smoothly. With 4,850 square feet of indoor space, a caterer's prep area, a top-notch sound system, and ample seating for guests, it offers everything you need for a stress-free, unforgettable celebration.
A Unique Experience for Your Guests
Weddings at Sparks Museum aren’t just events—they’re experiences. From cocktail hour among the vintage displays to a first dance under glowing neon lights, your guests will be immersed in a setting unlike any other. Whether you're planning a glamorous Gatsby-style wedding, a retro diner-inspired reception, or a rustic-chic affair with vintage flair, this venue provides the perfect foundation for your unique vision.
patio
Planning Your Sparks Museum Wedding
To bring your dream wedding to life, consider these planning tips:
✅ Work with a vintage-loving photographer: Capture the essence of the venue with a professional who understands how to highlight the retro and antique elements in your photos.
✅ Choose a décor theme that complements the space: Think mid-century modern accents, old Hollywood glam, or rustic vintage details to enhance the existing charm of the venue.
✅ Incorporate classic cocktails and diner-style treats: Work with your bartender and caterer to create a 1950s-inspired drink menu or retro-inspired bites to match the theme.
✅ Use the venue’s unique features as part of your event flow: Have your guests enjoy a cocktail hour by the gas pumps, a dinner surrounded by antique cars, and a dance party near the neon signs.
Not just your ordinary centerpiece
Ready to Say "I Do" in Vintage Style?
If you’re looking for a wedding venue that’s anything but ordinary, Sparks Museum and Event Center in Provo, Utah, is ready to make your wedding vision a reality. With its retro ambiance, one-of-a-kind photo ops, and unforgettable atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for couples who want a wedding day that feels as timeless as their love.
Schedule a tour today and let the Sparks Museum magic bring your wedding dreams to life!
Special Thanks to all these locally owned and operated wedding venues from around the country who continue to inspire our blogs and cheer on our success daily!
bringing family together in Utah County
Peterson Hadlock Reunion in Sparks Museum and Event Center, Provo Utah
We loved hosting the Peterson - Hadlock Family Reunion with multi generations in attendance. There was amazing music including trumpet playing by Jerry Hadlock, piano playing by Lyle Hadlock, singing by the Peterson Sisters and a Solo by GInny Critchfield. We loved bringing family together and seeing the talent that comes through generations. Food and fun visiting, laughing and singing. Reminding one another that family matters and to keep in touch with each other.
Shell shell shell
Many of our Shell gas signs are on display.
The shell signs have come from all over including from Canada. Sparky bought Sehll gas in California as a kid but never knew it’s a European based Company till he started collecting signs. Shell changed the World of Petroleum while people were sleeping:) They invented and shared the means of deep water drilling which makes much more of our oil available today.
The man behind the Mue
It all begins with an idea.
The seeds of the collection at Sparks Museum and Event Center were sewn in the Summer of 1957 as Sparky (the creator) went with his friend Todd Roberts, on a trip thru old ghost towns in Nevada and found a very nice original 1929 Model A Ford pickup that he bought for $25 . They tied it to the back bumper of his 49 oldsmobile and towed it all the way over the mountains back to Bel Air where he lived and began restoration on it while still in high school. He sold it before he finished and has always been sorry. Always a dreamer and creator even int the 50s he had the eye to collect and to restore. He loved old things then and loves them even more now.
In 1979 he bought an Erskine in Helper, Utah and that spouted those seeds again . That car he restored when I was a child about 10 years old. I remember him spending hours upon hours on it. He was in need of the parts to get it all back together and would drive all over, becoming what now days is called a “picker” as that was the only way to find parts. There was no internet only your car and lots of farmland with what to many would deem as junk piles. However he would see that so called junk and find the treasure part he had been in search of. Picking was the very best source.
He was a super picker and hauled huge loads of awesome stuff home from every trip he took. Back then the signs and gas pumps he saw he thought of as “junk” The exception was the old visible gas pumps. He did haul a few of those home and restored one as a Texaco and put it in front our home when I was young. We now have that pump in our collection at Sparks Museum and Event Center . This pump is located outside across the street in front of Lakeside Storage along with two signs he picked up. The Gargoil Mobile sign and the Willis Knight sign.