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Planning a trip to Salt Lake City? You’re in the right place!
We love exploring Utah’s capital. From its breathtaking mountain views and unique landscapes to its outdoor adventures and rich history, Salt Lake City is packed with incredible experiences. But with so much to see and do, just figuring out where to start feels quite overwhelming.
However, now that we’ve spent a lot of time exploring this unique and beautiful city, we’ve put together this guide to help you make the most of your time here. Whether you’re cruising across the Great Salt Lake, spotting bison on Antelope Island, or marveling at the otherworldly Bonneville Salt Flats, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Salt Lake City was this Great Salt Lake boat tour! Cruising in a small group made it easy to soak up the views, spot wildlife, and learn the lake’s wild history—all while rocking a bug-proof hat. Totally worth it!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah
- 1. See Salt Lake City’s top sights on a bus tour
- 2. Take a boat ride on the Great Salt Lake
- 3. Fly over the Great Salt Lake
- 4. See wildlife on Antelope Island
- 5. Bicycle around Salt Lake City
- 6. Explore the Bonneville Salt Flats
- 7. Learn about Salt Lake City on a walking tour
- 8. Enjoy an entertaining trolley tour of the city
- Where to Stay in Salt Lake City
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Salt Lake City, Utah
1. See Salt Lake City’s top sights on a bus tour
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10 am or 2 pm
- Highlights: Go sightseeing in Salt Lake City, see Mormon Trail, Temple Square, the State Capitol Building, Old Fort Douglas, sites from the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, learn about the pioneers and the Mormon religion, see the 12,000 pipes of the Salt Lake Tabernacle organ
- Inclusions: Narrated tour, bus transport, English-speaking guide, driver, downtown pick-up and drop-off
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This guided bus tour was the perfect introduction to Salt Lake City! We experienced so much in just a few hours, and our guide, Kevin, was so engaging and full of fascinating stories about the city’s very unique history.
Our first stop was the Utah State Capitol. It’s a stunning neoclassical building perched on a hill, and we got a panoramic view of the entire downtown area from here. Talk about an epic start!
Next, we explored Old Deseret Village, where we got a glimpse into 19th-century pioneer life. We even saw part of the historic Mormon Trail—and learned that many settlers pulled handcarts for over a thousand miles across the plains. It gave us a whole new level of respect.
Temple Square was another major highlight. We were lucky enough to catch a recital on the Tabernacle’s famous organ, which is a unique, spine-tingling experience that you can only have right here in Salt Lake City! We also got to see the Cathedral of the Madeleine, which is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve seen in the U.S.
Driving through the city, we passed historic mansions, the University of Utah, and even landmarks from the 2002 Winter Olympics. By the end of the tour, we felt like we had a true sense of Salt Lake City’s history and charm.
Whether it’s your first time in the city or you’re a returning visitor, this tour is a fantastic way to see what makes Salt Lake City special.
Book this sightseeing tour here and get FREE 24-hour cancellation!
2. Take a boat ride on the Great Salt Lake
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Time: Multiple time slots between 10 am and 3 pm
- Highlights: Boat tour of the Great Salt Lake, learning about the lake’s history and wildlife, beautiful views, live commentary
- Inclusions: Boat ride, local guide, bottled water
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This boat tour of the Great Salt Lake is our top pick for things to do in Utah. After all, you can’t visit Salt Lake City without getting out on the Great Salt Lake!
Starting at the marina, we were quickly whisked away on a small motorized pontoon boat with just a few other people. The experience felt so personal, and our guide, Tyler, truly couldn’t have been better. He really helped us understand why the Great Salt Lake is so unique and gave us a much deeper appreciation for this breathtaking body of water.
We had no idea the lake played such a huge role in supporting global bird migration—it made the whole place feel even more special.
As we cruised across the calm waters, we were treated to epic views of the lake’s vast, glassy surface and the surrounding mountains. Tyler shared fascinating stories about the lake’s formation and its unique ecosystem. We even got a glimpse of the lake’s famous brine shrimp, which are vital to the local wildlife.
The boat moved at a leisurely pace, allowing us plenty of time to take in the scenery and snap photos without feeling rushed—a nice break from our usual fast-paced travel days.
It was such a tranquil and wholesome experience—in fact, we think it’s perfect for families visiting Salt Lake City! But honestly, I can’t think of anyone who wouldn’t enjoy this beautiful boat ride. And with over 500 rave reviews, it seems that everyone agrees!
Secure our FAVORITE Salt Lake City tour here, before it sells out!
3. Fly over the Great Salt Lake
- Duration: 1 hour
- Time: Multiple flight times between 9 am and 3 pm
- Highlights: Aerial views of the Great Salt Lake, spotting wildlife such as elk, antelope, and buffalo in Antelope Island State Park, flying over the Oquirrh Mountains
- Inclusions: Flight, professional pilot, aviation headsets, private tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
To say that this private tour over the Great Salt Lake was an unforgettable experience would be a huge understatement! The aerial views were stunning and gave me a whole new appreciation for the lake’s massive scale—something you just can’t grasp from the ground.
After a smooth takeoff, we flew over the Oquirrh Mountains and searched for elk herds along the way. Our pilot, Neil, was fantastic. He made the experience so informative and even let me take control of the plane for a few moments, which was one of the most exciting things I’ve ever done! I couldn’t believe my luck.
At one point, I looked out and saw the lake stretching endlessly beneath us—the bold contrast between the blue water, white shoreline, and burnt orange patches looked like something from another planet.
But the best part of the flight had to be the “low and slow” segment. We flew close to Antelope Island, where we had a chance to see more wildlife up close, and we even got a good look at the Saltair Pavilion, a historic but now-defunct entertainment venue that was once owned by the Mormon Church.
The 40-minute flight was the perfect way to see the Great Salt Lake. It’s a true bucket list experience and the ultimate way to see Salt Lake City’s amazing wildlife and natural beauty. I would do it again in a heartbeat!
Book this once-in-a-lifetime flight here and enjoy FREE cancellation!
4. See wildlife on Antelope Island
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 2 pm–6 pm
- Highlights: Visiting Antelope Island, enjoying sprawling lakeside views, spotting lots of wildlife including American Bison, coyotes, bobcats, and porcupines, short hike to Buffalo Point, watching the sunset from Buffalo Point
- Inclusions: Downtown pickup, flexible drop-off, transport, local guide, use of binoculars, all taxes and fees
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Salt Lake City is home to some incredible wildlife, but how do you find it? With this wildlife tour, that’s how!
We had an unforgettable time visiting Antelope Island, which is a stunning natural gem in the Great Salt Lake. It boasts a breathtaking landscape and a massive herd of 600 American Bison. Who wouldn’t want to visit?
Right from the start, our guide, Cramon, was incredible. He taught us so many fascinating facts about the island’s wildlife and knew just where to find the bison. He ensured that we stayed safe and respectful of the animals’ space so as not to disturb them.
We didn’t just see bison here, though. We also saw coyotes, antelope, porcupines, and big-horn sheep. If you visit at the right time of year, you might even get to see migratory birds!
After viewing the wildlife, we set off on a short hike to Buffalo Point. It was steep at points, but only 0.9 miles (1.4 kilometers) long, so it was totally manageable, and definitely worth it for the incredible sunset views from the top. It was the perfect end to our adventure!
This entire tour was absolutely epic. We were in a really small group, so it felt very personal, and thanks to Cramon’s knowledge, we were able to totally immerse ourselves in Utah’s captivating wilderness. This is an absolute must for any wildlife lover visiting Salt Lake City, and we’re not the only ones who think so —check the hundreds of glowing reviews here.
Grab your spot on this epic wildlife tour here!
5. Bicycle around Salt Lake City
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departures between 10 am and 6 pm
- Highlights: Exploring Salt Lake City by bike, Temple Square, Liberty Park, City Creek Canyon, Gilgal Gardens, Salt Lake City Public Library
- Inclusions: Use of bicycle and helmet, local guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
A beautiful place like Salt Lake City deserves to be explored in the open air, which is why we love this bike tour! It’s a big city, and we definitely would have gotten lost on our own, so we promise that it’s definitely worth exploring with a local guide who knows all of the best spots to visit.
We started by pedaling through Liberty Park and then explored Temple Square, where we learned all about the Salt Lake Temple. It’s the largest Mormon church in the world, and we felt tiny looking up at its imposing towers.
After admiring the temple, we rode to City Creek Canyon, where we marveled at the beautiful views. Then, it was onto the quirky Gilgal Sculpture Garden, where we explored the unique sculptures and engraved stones. We also got to cycle the historic district of South Temple and see some of the city’s oldest homes.
Finally, the tour wrapped up at the Salt Lake City Public Library. I was expecting a grand old building, but to my surprise, this library is a modern masterpiece made of glass with a curving crescent wall. We not only got to admire the building, but our guide actually took us up to the rooftop, where we enjoyed some incredible views.
This tour certainly exceeded my expectations, and I would recommend it to anyone. The small group size makes it feel super personal, and the ride is leisurely, so it doesn’t matter if you’re not a regular cyclist.
Reserve this cycling tour here and see the city one pedal at a time!
6. Explore the Bonneville Salt Flats
- Duration: 6 hours
- Time: 8 am or 3 pm
- Highlights: Walking on the Bonneville Salt Flats, capturing amazing photos, learning about the famous speed racing here, visiting Great Salt Lake State Park and the Tree of Life
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, bottled water, licensed guide, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
The Bonneville Salt Flats have to be one of the most beautiful places we have ever seen. But we not only got to see the breathtaking salt pan on this small-group tour, we also got to visit the famous Tree of Life and explore Great Salt Lake Park. With limited time in Salt Lake City, it’s hard to see it all, but this tour made it easy to check off some major highlights.
One of the best parts was our guide, Dmytro, who was incredibly knowledgeable and made the entire trip fascinating. On the way to the Salt Flats, we stopped at Great Salt Lake State Park and saw the Tree of Life rising dramatically against the incredible Salt Lake Desert backdrop—a surreal and strangely beautiful sight that felt straight out of a dream.
Next, we headed to the iconic Bonneville Salt Flats. The vast, white expanse was mesmerizing! And we had a blast exploring and snapping perspective photos here. Our favorite was one that made it look like I was stepping on Dan.
Meanwhile, learning about the history of speed racing at the flats was an unexpected delight. Tons of land speed records were broken here because the salt pan is almost perfectly flat!
We had so much fun on this tour, and it helped us make the most out of our time in Salt Lake City. It’s a must—especially if you want to come home from your trip with some amazing photos.
Check availability here and book this epic Salt Flats tour!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Learn about Salt Lake City on a walking tour
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 9 am
- Highlights: Exploring Salt Lake City on foot, Temple Square, City Creek Center, Pioneer Park, Delta Center
- Inclusions: Professional local tour guide, all taxes and fees, small group size
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check great reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We love exploring a new city on foot, but it can be hard to know where to go if it’s your first time in a new place! That’s why we think that this Salt Lake City walking tour is a fantastic way to dive into the city’s history, culture, and unique architecture.
Our guide, Jessica, was engaging and knowledgeable, making every stop along the 3-mile (5-kilometer) route even more interesting. We started at the Visit Salt Lake City Visitors Center and then made our way to Temple Square, where we learned about the Mormon pioneers who settled the area.
The square was stunning, and we even got to hear the organist warming up inside the Tabernacle, which is famed for its near-perfect acoustics!
From there, we walked through City Creek Center, a lively shopping and dining hub, before heading to Pioneer Park and the beautiful Greek Orthodox Cathedral. We were so interested to hear about the city’s cultural influences, and we learned a lot about how the 2002 Winter Olympics played a pivotal role in shaping its growth.
The tour was paced really well, with a short break at a local café. Our guide even gave us tips on using Salt Lake’s free downtown transportation, which came in super handy for the rest of our stay here. I’d highly recommend this walking tour for anyone visiting Salt Lake City for the first time!
Secure your Salt Lake City walking tour here!
8. Enjoy an entertaining trolley tour of the city
- Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Time: 10:30 am or 1:30 pm (not available Sunday)
- Highlights: Traveling on a replica streetcar, exploring Salt Lake City’s historical districts, photo stops at landmarks and attractions, Utah State Capitol, the Gateway, Cathedral of the Madeleine, Beehive House, Salt Lake City Public Library, Salt Lake Utah Temple
- Inclusions: Trolley ride, uniformed conductor guide, vintage trolley treats
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Last but certainly not least, we think that this trolley adventure is probably THE most fun and unique way to explore Salt Lake City! We had a blast riding around the city in a charming replica streetcar and learning about Salt Lake’s unique character from our conductor, who was in full uniform.
On a practical level, this tour is a super-efficient way of ticking off all of Salt Lake City’s highlights. We stopped for photo opportunities at major attractions like the Utah State Capitol, the Olympic snowflake Fountain, Temple Square, and the Governor’s Mansion.
I loved learning about the Beehive House, which was one of the official residences of Brigham Young, the first governor of Utah.
But on a more personal level, this tour just delivered such a fun experience. We loved hearing our conductor’s stories about Salt Lake City, and he also kept us entertained with lots of jokes along the way.
At one point, he even got our entire trolley singing, which was absolutely hilarious and really brought the group together. There was such a fun, lighthearted energy on board that made the experience even more enjoyable.
Between the lively storytelling, the sing-alongs, and the chance to see so many famous sights in a short time, this tour was absolutely worth it. It’s ideal for any type of traveler, and the hundreds of glowing reviews certainly attest to that!
Book this top-rated trolley tour here and get flexible payment options!
Related Read: Our detailed 3-day itinerary goes over all the best things to do and places to eat in Salt Lake City, so that you don’t miss out!
Where to Stay in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City is a vibrant and historic destination with plenty of options for where to stay. That said, we highly recommend staying in downtown Salt Lake City. This lively area puts you within walking distance of the city’s top attractions, including Temple Square, the Utah State Capitol, and the bustling City Creek Center.
Plus, downtown is super convenient because many of the best tours and restaurants are right on your doorstep. It’s the perfect base for exploring this vibrant and varied city. Below, I’ve picked out the best hotels for every budget!
Luxury – $$$
Le Méridien Salt Lake City Downtown is luxury done right! We love the modern design and fantastic amenities of this hotel, especially the rooftop pool with stunning city and mountain views! Plus, with Temple Square and Vivint Arena just steps away, you’re in the perfect location to explore, and the comfy beds will ensure that you sleep like a baby.
Prices here vary according to the time of year, but you’re typically looking at between $300 and $600 USD per night. Check out all of the options and reserve your stay on Booking.com!
Mid-range – $$
Hyatt House Salt Lake City Downtown offers a comfortable stay just a short walk from Temple Square. The hotel features spacious rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and some with full kitchens. Breakfast is also included, which is always a winner in our book! In terms of value for money, we think that this hotel offers a lot of bang for your buck.
Prices here typically range between $150 and $350 USD per night, including free 24-hour cancellation. Check availability and book this hotel on Booking.com!
Budget – $
Crystal Inn Hotel & Suites offers a comfortable and convenient stay, just a short drive from Temple Square and the airport. The rooms are spacious, clean, and come with free WiFi, a flat-screen TV, and modern furnishings. There’s also a free breakfast, an indoor pool, a sauna, and a hot tub! Some rooms even offer a luxurious spa bath.
You’re looking at between $150 and $220 USD per night here. Check prices and availability over at Booking.com!
For more options, explore all of Salt Lake City’s listed hotels here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this list has made planning your Salt Lake City trip easier! These are some of the best experiences we’ve had while exploring Utah’s capital—whether we wanted to dive into the city’s history, spot wildlife, or chase views out on the salt flats. No matter what kind of adventure you’re after, Salt Lake City delivers something truly memorable.
Still dreaming up your U.S. itinerary? You can browse all our USA blogs here. Or we’ve picked a few of our favorite nearby destinations worth checking out next!
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