Salt Lake City Tours
Top Salt Lake City Day Tour Options
SLC offers a variety of tour options to suit every interest and preference. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a fun way to see the city, there’s something for everyone.
City Sights Ultimate Salt Lake City Bus Tour
This 20-mile tour is a comprehensive overview of the city’s highlights. You’ll visit iconic spots like Temple Square, the Natural History Museum of Utah, and the Great Salt Lake.
Salt Lake Trolley Adventure Tour
Step back in time with this 90-minute guided tour that combines theatrical performance, music, and storytelling. As you ride the vintage trolley, you’ll learn about Salt Lake City’s rich history and landmarks in a fun and engaging way.
City Sights Tabernacle Choir LIVE + SLC Bus Tour
Experience the magic of the world-famous Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, then continue with the Ultimate Salt Lake City Tour. This combination offers a memorable ride blending music and sightseeing.
City Sights Great Salt Lake Bus Tour
Explore the natural beauty and unique properties of the Great Salt Lake on this two-hour sightseeing bus tour. Led by a local expert, you’ll hear entertaining stories and fascinating facts about this natural wonder.
What to Expect from Each Tour
Every tour offers a unique experience, but here are the consistent standards you can expect when booking with City Sights and their partners:
Expert-Led Guided Tours
Experienced local guides share insider info and bring the city’s history and culture to life with passion.
Panoramic View Windows
Bus tours feature panoramic windows offering stunning views of the skyline and mountains, ensuring you won't miss a sight.
Entertaining Narration
From theatrical trolley performers to lively bus guides, the narration keeps you engaged and delighted throughout the journey.
Popular Attractions
Visit Temple Square, the Utah Capitol, and the Great Salt Lake—seeing the best of SLC in one convenient package.
Salt Lake City Attractions & History
An exhaustive guide to the landmarks, monuments, and institutions that define Utah's capital. Discover the stories behind the Salt Lake City landmarks that shaped the West.
Origins: The Saint & The Soldier
1847: The Pioneer Arrival
Salt Lake City was founded on July 24, 1847. Brigham Young, leading 148 weary pioneers, looked out over the barren valley from Emigration Canyon and famously declared, "This is the right place."
They didn't just build cabins; they built a civilization. Within days, they established a city grid based on the "Plat of Zion," featuring massive 132-foot wide streets—wide enough for a team of oxen to perform a U-turn without backing up.
1862: The Military Watchdog
In 1862, during the Civil War, Colonel Patrick Edward Connor marched federal troops into the city to establish Fort Douglas. Connor didn't just build a fort—he built a statement.
He positioned Fort Douglas high on the East Bench with cannons pointed directly down at Temple Square—a not-so-subtle message to Brigham Young that the U.S. Army was watching. Connor actively encouraged his soldiers to prospect for silver and gold, hoping a mining boom would attract non-Mormons to dilute the Church's power.
Temple Square: The Spiritual Center
Located in downtown Salt Lake City, this 35-acre headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the #1 tourist attraction in Utah.
Salt Lake Temple
"Here we will build the Temple of our God."
Just four days after arriving, Brigham Young marked this spot with his cane. What followed was a 40-year construction saga (1853–1893). Pioneers hauled granite blocks by ox-drawn wagon from Little Cottonwood Canyon, 20 miles away. The walls are 9 feet thick—built to last through the Millennium.
Salt Lake Tabernacle
Built: 1863–1867 | Pioneer Engineering
The acoustics are so perfect that when a guide drops a pin at the pulpit, you can hear it 170 feet away. The roof is held together with wooden pegs and rawhide—no nails, as metal was scarce. See this marvel on the Tabernacle Choir Tour.
Conference Center
Capacity: 21,000 | Built: 2000
The largest theater-style auditorium in the world, large enough to hold a Boeing 747. The 4-acre rooftop garden features a meadow of native Utah wildflowers and trees to mimic the pioneer landscape.
FamilySearch Library
World's Largest Genealogy Library
A Mecca for ancestry research. Visitors can use free access to billions of records and professional assistance to trace their family tree. Tip: It's free and open to the public.
Lion House & Beehive House
Residence of Brigham Young
The Beehive House served as Young's official residence and governor's mansion. The adjacent Lion House was the family home. Notice the beehive atop the house—Utah's symbol of industry.
Joseph Smith Memorial Bldg
Formerly: Hotel Utah (1911)
Once the grandest hotel in the West, hosting presidents and dignitaries. Walk into the lobby to see the intricate stained-glass ceiling and the massive marble pillars.
Civic Masterpieces & Historic Sites
Utah State Capitol
Built: 1912–1916 | Location: Capitol Hill
When you walk into the rotunda, look up at the dome—it's covered in real copper. But here's the kicker: the entire building sits on massive base isolators (like giant shock absorbers) installed during a 2004-2008 renovation. This building can literally slide 3 feet in any direction during an earthquake and survive intact.
See it on the Salt Lake City TourSalt Lake City & County Building
Completed: 1894 | Style: Richardsonian Romanesque
It was deliberately built to rival the Temple in grandeur—a symbolic statement by non-Mormon civic leaders. Adorned with intricate carvings of Indian chiefs and Spanish explorers, it sits on "Washington Square," the original campsite of the 1847 pioneers.
Cathedral of the Madeleine
Dedicated: 1909 | Funded by: Mining Magnates
Step inside and you'll do a double-take. The exterior is heavy Romanesque stone, but the moment you walk through those doors, you're transported into a Gothic wonderland of vaulted ceilings and jewel-toned stained glass. This was built by Utah's Catholic minority (funded by Bishop Lawrence Scanlan and wealthy miners) as their architectural declaration: "We're here too."
Monuments to the Frontier
This is the Place Heritage Park
Stand at the mouth of Emigration Canyon and imagine Brigham Young, sick with mountain fever in the back of a wagon, seeing the valley for the first time. This monument marks the exact spot where the journey of 111 days ended and Salt Lake City began.
Historic Fort Douglas
Founded in 1862 by Colonel Connor to protect the overland mail route and monitor the Saints. Today, it is part of the University of Utah campus, but the officers' circle and museum remain.
Pony Express Monument
April 1860–October 1861. This statue honors the brave riders who connected the frontier to the nation. Salt Lake City was a critical hub during the service's brief 18-month existence before the telegraph took over.
Mormon Battalion Monument
Honors the 500 men who marched 2,000 miles from Iowa to San Diego during the Mexican-American War. They arrived in January 1847, completing one of the longest infantry marches in history.
Modern Culture & Hidden Gems
Trolley Square
Originally the car barns for the city's trolley fleet in 1908. It was converted into a festival marketplace in the 1970s. The distinct water tower and brick industrial architecture make it a favorite photo spot.
City Creek Center
A $1.5 billion redevelopment of downtown. This open-air mall features a fully retractable glass roof and a trout-stocked creek (a recreation of the original City Creek) running through the walkways.
Natural History Museum of Utah
Located on the foothills of the Wasatch range, this architectural marvel is wrapped in copper to blend with the mountains. It houses the world's largest collection of horned dinosaur skulls.
Red Butte Garden
The largest botanical garden in the Intermountain West. It offers 21 acres of display gardens and miles of hiking trails. Famous for its summer outdoor concert series.
Gilgal Sculpture Garden
A quirky, hidden gem tucked behind a house in downtown. It features 12 original sculptures and over 70 stones engraved with scriptures and poems by Thomas Child.
Tracy Aviary (Liberty Park)
Located in Liberty Park, this is the oldest aviary west of the Mississippi (1938). It spans 8 acres and focuses on bird conservation and education.
Frequently Asked Questions About Salt Lake City
What is the most visited attraction in Salt Lake City?
Temple Square is the most visited site, attracting over 5 million visitors annually—more than Utah's five National Parks combined.
How long did it take to build the Salt Lake Temple?
It took 40 years to complete (1853-1893). Construction was delayed by the Utah War, and the foundation famously had to be dug up and relaid in 1858.
What is unique about the Utah State Capitol?
The building sits on 265 base isolators. In the event of a major earthquake, the massive structure can shift up to 3 feet horizontally to prevent collapse.
Why was Fort Douglas built in Salt Lake City?
It was established in 1862 by Colonel Patrick Connor to protect the overland mail route and to monitor Brigham Young and the Mormon settlers during the Civil War.
Insider Tips for Exploring SLC
Maximize your visit with these expert recommendations on logistics, history, and local flavor.
1. Take a Guided Tour
Guided tours offer a comprehensive overview of the city’s highlights and hidden gems. They are a great way to learn about the city’s pioneer history and culture from knowledgeable local guides.
See the top 5 tours ranked in order3. Enjoy the Local Food
The restaurant scene in Utah's capital is thriving. From seafood or Mexican dining to cozy comfort food, make sure to indulge in the local flavors during your visit.
See our recommendations here2. Plan Extra Time for Temple Square
Temple Square is a must-visit attraction offering stunning views and a glimpse into pioneer history. While bus tours provide an overview, this 35-acre property has attractions that require an hour or more to fully explore.
Free Missionary-Led Tours Available:
- Family History Library (Free genealogy)
- Church History Museum
- LDS Conference Center
- Church Office Building (Observation Deck)
- Lion House & Beehive House
- Joseph Smith Memorial Building
"Don’t miss the chance to explore this iconic landmark in depth."
By following these tips and choosing the right tours, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable Utah adventure!
Planning & Booking Your SLC Day Tour
Everything you need to know to secure your seats. From choosing the right itinerary to parking at the departure point, here is your essential guide to a stress-free Salt Lake City experience.
1. Choose Your Experience
Salt Lake City offers diverse touring styles. To ensure the best experience, match the tour to your group's interest level and time availability:
The definitive 2.5-hour sightseeing loop by City Sights. Features panoramic view windows and live narration. Includes photo stops at the Utah State Capitol and This is the Place Heritage Park, plus a drive-by of the Governor's Mansion and Olympic Stadium.
A 90-minute theatrical "show-tour" aboard a vintage replica streetcar. Led by a costumed conductor, it focuses on storytelling and humor rather than dry facts. Includes complimentary Cracker Jacks and old-fashioned sodas.
A premium 3.5-hour City Sights experience combining the live Sunday broadcast (Music & The Spoken Word) or Thursday rehearsal with a full city tour. Includes guaranteed access and logistics for Temple Square.
2. Schedule & Availability
High Demand Warning
The Salt Lake Trolley and Tabernacle Choir tours frequently reach capacity 3-5 days in advance during the summer season (May–September). Advance online booking is strongly recommended to guarantee your seats.
| Tour Name | Duration | Departure Times |
|---|---|---|
| City Sights Bus Tour | ~2.5 Hours | 10:00 AM & 2:00 PM (Daily) |
| Salt Lake Trolley | 90 Mins | 10:30 AM & 1:30 PM (Daily) |
| Tabernacle Choir | ~3.5 Hours | Sun 8:30 AM | Thu 5:00 PM |
3. Departure Logistics
All tours depart centrally from the curbside of the Radisson Downtown Salt Lake City Hotel. This location is convenient to Temple Square and the Convention Center.
215 W South Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84101
- Public Parking: A large ABM surface lot is located directly across the street (North side of South Temple). Avg cost: $10/day.
- Check-In: Please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure. Buses depart promptly.
