Salt Lake City isn’t just the capital of Utah—it’s a city packed with surprises, thanks to its mix of historical sites, outdoor adventures, and musical traditions. What really sets it apart is how accessible and varied these tours are; you can learn about Mormon pioneers, see stunning salt flats, or float in the world’s largest saltwater lake—all within a few hours or a day. We love the Trolley Adventure for its lively storytelling and iconic landmarks, and the Great Salt Lake Wildlife Experience for its chance to see bison grazing at sunset. Salt Lake’s geographic diversity makes it a natural playground for all kinds of tours, and the friendly, professional guides ensure you get local insight on every trip.
If you’re visiting Salt Lake City, you won’t run out of options. Whether you’re after a quick city tour, a wildlife safari, or a day dedicated to the surreal landscape of the Bonneville Salt Flats, there’s something for every interest and schedule. Below, we’ve rounded up the 16 best tours in Salt Lake City, highlighting what makes each unique and worth your time.
1. Trolley Adventure: A Show-Tour of Salt Lake City
At number 1, the Trolley Adventure offers a fun, lively way to see Salt Lake City’s highlights in about 90 minutes. Traveling on a colorful replica streetcar, you’ll visit landmarks like the Utah State Capitol, the Salt Lake Temple, and the Family History Library. The fully narrated tour is led by a personable local guide who adds humor and singing to keep things engaging. The tour also includes several photo stops at key sights such as the historic Union Pacific Train Depot and the Cathedral of the Madeleine. With every detail from taxes to fuel included, it represents good value for travelers seeking a friendly, informative overview. Guests love the entertainment aspect; one reviewer said, “It was campy, fun, and very informative.” Perfect for first-time visitors wanting a lively orientation.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal if you value local storytelling, a friendly atmosphere, and want to see the city’s major landmarks in one short, cheerful package.
2. Great Salt Lake Wildlife Experience
For a peaceful, nature-focused outing, the Great Salt Lake Wildlife Experience is a standout. Traveling in a small vehicle, you’ll explore Antelope Island, where a herd of 600 American Bison roams freely among wild sheep, coyotes, and migratory birds. The highlight is hiking to Buffalo Point, with a moderate 0.9-mile trail leading to panoramic sunset views. Tour guide Gareth is praised for his knowledge and friendly approach, making wildlife sightings—like herds of bison—a highlight. The tour lasts around five hours and is perfect for nature lovers who enjoy casual hikes and wildlife photography. One reviewer described it as “an incredible trip—wildlife, sunset, and a knowledgeable guide.”
Bottom Line: Best suited for outdoor enthusiasts and those craving a mix of wildlife viewing and scenic tranquility.
3. 45 Minute Great Salt Lake Boat Tour
If you want a quick, close-up look at Utah’s saltwater lake, the 45 Minute Great Salt Lake Boat Tour offers an easy way to see the lake from the water. Meeting at the marina, you’ll hop onto a motorized pontoon and enjoy views of the shoreline and wildlife. The small-group setting means more personalized attention from your guide, who shares stories about the lake’s geology and ecology. The tour provides a unique perspective—not a long cruise, but enough time to appreciate the lake’s otherworldly landscape and learn about brine shrimp and birdlife. With a 4.5-star rating and reviews praising the knowledgeable guides like Tyler, this tour balances brevity with insight.
Bottom Line: A great choice for a quick, educational experience that’s easy to fit into a busy schedule.
4. 2 Hour Salt Lake Boat Tour with Swimming on the Lake
For those wanting a splash of adventure, the 2 Hour Salt Lake Boat Tour with Swimming takes you onto the lake for a relaxing float—and a rare opportunity to swim in the world’s largest saltwater lake. Traveling on a small pontoon, you’ll stop at two spots for swimming and enjoy scenic views of the vast salt flats. The tour is praised for its educational commentary and the chance to relax on onboard spa pillows. With a 5-star rating, travelers mention how buoyant and surreal it feels to float effortlessly in the salty waters. Guides like Devin make the experience personable and informative, often taking photos and sharing lake history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking both relaxation and a memorable, hands-on salt lake experience.
5. Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island Day Tour
For a full day enjoying Utah’s iconic landscape, the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island Day Tour is hard to beat. It combines scenic drives with a 1-mile hike at Antelope Island, wildlife viewing at Fielding Garr Ranch, and spectacular sunset vistas. The tour covers the lake’s most photogenic spots, including herds of bison, mule deer, and hundreds of bird species. Guided by a passionate naturalist, this trip offers insights into the ecology and history of the area. Reviewers note it’s “an active, immersive way to see the region,” suited for travelers who want to combine light hiking with wildlife spotting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, active look at Utah’s salt flats and wildlife in one day.
6. Tabernacle Choir Performance + Salt Lake City Bus Tour
Music and culture come together in this performance of the Grammy-winning Tabernacle Choir, paired with a city tour. The bus tour includes landmarks like the Utah State Capitol, This is the Place Heritage Park, and Temple Square, rounding out your cultural experience. The highlight is hearing the choir perform live at the historic Salt Lake Tabernacle; performances are available September through May. The tour lasts about three and a half hours, offering a good balance of sightseeing and music. Reviewers describe it as “magnificent” and “a must-do” for lovers of choral music.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want to combine Utah’s musical tradition with a guided city tour in a relaxed setting.
7. From Salt Lake City: Bonneville Salt Flats Guided Tour
A trip to Utah isn’t complete without seeing the Bonneville Salt Flats. This guided tour takes you out of the city for six hours to witness this vast, surreal landscape. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Great Salt Lake State Park and see the striking Tree of Utah sculpture, a 87-foot-high monument created by Karl Momen. The salt flats are famous for land speed records, but their stark beauty and endless white salt crust are equally captivating. Tour guide Shawn is praised for his friendly, flexible approach, making sure you enjoy every moment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking a dramatic landscape and a memorable photo opportunity.
8. Salt Lake City: Great Salt Lake Wildlife & Sunset Experience
For an evening escape into nature, the Wildlife & Sunset Experience combines wildlife viewing with the magic of dusk at Antelope Island. You’ll watch for bison, antelope, and migratory birds, then hike to Buffalo Point for sunset. The tour’s timing makes it perfect for photographers and anyone wanting a peaceful end to a day. Reviewers mention the “dramatic landscape” and the “beautiful sunset,” which makes this tour ideal for romantic travelers or nature lovers.
Bottom Line: A calming and scenic way to wind down your Salt Lake visit, with excellent wildlife sightings at sunset.
9. Salt Lake City: Great Salt Lake Antelope Island Guided Tour
This guided tour emphasizes wildlife and history, exploring the Antelope Island State Park in detail. You’ll visit Fielding Garr Ranch, a historic site, and spot animals like bison, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. The tour provides insight into the lake’s ecological importance and ongoing conservation efforts. The small group size (max 14) enhances the experience, allowing more personalized wildlife viewing and storytelling. Travelers enjoy learning about the area’s ecological role and the historic ranch.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for travelers interested in ecology, wildlife, and history in a relaxed setting.
10. Salt Lake City: Ultimate Guided Sightseeing Tour by Bus
If you want a quick yet rundown of Salt Lake City, this bus tour covers 20 miles of the city’s most iconic sights in just 2.5 hours. Led by knowledgeable local guides, it includes Temple Square, the Utah State Capitol, and the City and County Building. Many reviewers call it the “best first thing in SLC” because it gets the highlights right away. The large panoramic windows help you take in the scenery while the guide shares lively stories.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those on a tight schedule who want a broad overview with local insights.
11. Salt Lake City: Guided City Tour
This guided day tour offers a deeper dive into Salt Lake City’s secrets, including Pioneer Square, Temple Square, and the Utah State Capitol. The guide shares stories from early settlers and the city’s development into Utah’s capital. The 3-hour itinerary balances history with scenic spots, making it ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded introduction. The included water keeps you comfortable, and the small group ensures personal attention.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a moderate, in-depth city tour with local storytelling.
12. Salt Lake City Big City Loop Bike Tour
For active travelers, the Big City Loop Bike Tour covers major points like Temple Square, Liberty Park, and City Creek Canyon on a comfortable bike. With a guide sharing stories about Mormon pioneers and the city’s growth, it makes for an engaging, educational ride. The small group size and multiple departures mean flexibility and intimacy. Reviewers appreciate the “interesting info” and “fun, safe ride,” making it a great way to explore at your own pace.
Bottom Line: Ideal for cyclists wanting a personal, informative, and active city tour.
13. Salt Lake City: Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Guided City Tour
This tour combines live performances by the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir with a guided city tour. Visiting Temple Square, the Utah State Capitol, and the historic Salt Lake Temple, it offers a cultural highlight for music lovers. The choir performs live (or at rehearsals), making this a memorable experience. Led by a knowledgeable guide, it’s suited for those interested in both Utah’s religious heritage and its musical tradition.
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for music fans wanting to pair a city tour with a live choral concert.
14. Private Half-Day Tour to Bonneville Salt Flats
For travelers craving privacy and flexibility, this private tour takes you to the Bonneville Salt Flats with a customized itinerary. Starting from your hotel or the airport, your guide takes you off the beaten path to see the Tree of Utah and enjoy high-speed fun on the salt flats. The ride is tailored to your interests, whether that’s wildlife, landscapes, or photography. It includes snacks and bottled water, making it a convenient, personal trip. Reviewers mention how accommodating and knowledgeable the guides are.
Bottom Line: Best suited for private groups or those wanting a personalized, flexible salt flats experience.
15. SLC Bus Tours Hop On Hop Off
This hop-on hop-off tour gives you the freedom to explore Salt Lake City at your own pace. With a one-day pass, you can visit landmarks like the Temple Square, City Hall, and Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum, hopping off as you please. The double-decker bus features live commentary and real-time tracking, making it easy to plan your day. Reviewers say it’s “a great way to see the city in a short time,” especially for first-timers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for flexible sightseeing and those who want to customize their day.
16. Great Salt Lake Safari – Discover Antelope Island
Last but not least, the Great Salt Lake Safari by former safari guide Clayton offers a personalized journey into the wilds of Antelope Island. Focusing on wildlife, birding, or landscapes, the small group tour adapts to your interests. It includes visits to the Tree of Utah, wildlife sightings like bison and owls, and time to photograph the scenery. Travelers appreciate Clayton’s extensive knowledge and the intimate experience, which often results in spotting more animals than larger tours.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts wanting a tailored, immersive experience with a seasoned guide.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Salt Lake City
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how much time you have. If you want a quick city overview, the Salt Lake City Guided City Tour or the Bus Hop On Hop Off give a broad sense of the city’s highlights. For outdoor lovers, the wildlife Antelope Island tours or the Salt Lake Lake boat excursions are excellent choices, especially if you’re interested in wildlife or swimming. If music or history are your passions, the Tabernacle Choir and Salt Lake City Guided City Tour combine cultural insight with entertainment. Budget-conscious travelers will find value in the shorter boat tours or the Hop On Hop Off options. For those with a sense of adventure, the Bonneville Salt Flats or personalized safari tours deliver unforgettable moments.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak summer months or around major events like the Salt Lake City Jazz Festival or the Winter Olympics. Remember, tailoring your choice to your interests and physical activity level will guarantee a more rewarding experience.
Final Thoughts
Salt Lake City offers a surprising variety of tours that showcase its rich landscape, lively culture, and history. Whether you’re after a fun city orientation, an active wildlife adventure, or a serene salt flats experience, there’s something for you. For a balanced introduction, the Trolley Adventure is hard to beat, while nature lovers should consider the Wildlife Experience or Antelope Island tours.
If you love music, don’t miss the Tabernacle Choir performance. For a tailored, private trip, the Salt Flats or Safari tours are excellent options. Whatever your interest, early booking ensures a great spot—Salt Lake City’s tours are popular for good reason. Now, pick your adventure and start exploring this dynamic corner of Utah.