Salt Lake City Tours: Rice–Eccles Stadium, Olympic History & Beyond
As a local guide for Tours of Utah (City Sights), I’m thrilled to show you around one of Salt Lake City’s crown jewels: Rice–Eccles Stadium and its Olympic heritage. Salt Lake might be famous for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and its five national parks, but we locals also know it’s a sports and winter-fun paradise. Picture this: the sun glistening on the Great Salt Lake to the west and the Wasatch Mountains to the east, with this huge stadium and a sea of red seats right in between. Rice–Eccles Stadium isn’t just a football field – it was built for the 2002 Winter Olympics Opening Ceremony , and rumor has it we’re dusting it off for the 2034 Games as well. In this guide, I’ll give you a local’s tour of its history, fun facts, and how you can see these sights on a Salt Lake City tour.
Rice–Eccles Stadium: Salt Lake’s Olympic Arena
The Rice–Eccles scoreboard looms above the field, proudly displaying the University of Utah’s giant crimson “U” against the bright Utah sky. This stadium was specifically built for the 2002 Winter Olympics Opening and Closing ceremonies – and it’s expected to reprise that role in 2034. Before Rice–Eccles, Salt Lake’s largest stadium was the old Rice Stadium (originally “Ute Stadium,” built in 1927) . In 1998, Spencer Eccles and friends tore down the old stands and rebuilt this new arena in less than a year – talk about construction on Olympic time!
Here are some fun facts and highlights of Rice–Eccles Stadium:
Built for the Olympics: Salt Lake City won the 2002 Winter Games bid, and Rice–Eccles was ready just in time. The old stadium was replaced with this new one in about ten months , an Olympic-caliber effort!
Ceremony Venue: For 2002, the grass field was covered with asphalt and a huge stage went up so the stadium could host both Opening and Closing Ceremonies . They even added about 50,000 seats and draped Olympic flags everywhere. The stadium was briefly renamed “Rice–Eccles Olympic Stadium” for the Games .
Miracle on Ice Reunion: One of the most iconic moments was when Mike Eruzione and the 1980 U.S. hockey team lit the Olympic cauldron here . The sold-out crowd at Rice–Eccles chanted “USA!” in unison – a real goosebump moment.
Historic First: President George W. Bush became the first U.S. president to open a Winter Olympic Games when he declared the Salt Lake Games open on this field . In a patriotic tribute, eight American athletes also ran in carrying a tattered flag that had flown at the World Trade Center on 9/11 .
High Altitude: At 4,637 feet above sea level (about 400 feet above downtown), Rice–Eccles is one of the nation’s highest college football stadiums. Every touchdown here comes with a stunning mountain view – and visiting teams often take an extra breath before that fourth quarter.
More Than Football: Rice–Eccles has also hosted mega-concerts. U2, Imagine Dragons, NSYNC, Garth Brooks, Luke Combs – they’ve all packed these stands . And Utah’s great rivalry games fill it up: in 2024 a Utah–BYU game drew 54,383 fans , a new record.
University of Utah Campus: History & Highlights
The University of Utah campus is right next door – and it’s full of surprises. Founded in 1850, it was the first state university west of the Mississippi River . Today “The U” is a major research powerhouse and Salt Lake’s largest employer. The 1,500-acre campus sits on the east bench (at about 4,700 feet elevation ), offering sweeping views of the city, the Great Salt Lake, and the mountains beyond. You’ll spot beautiful old buildings (the old Park Building looks a bit like a 19th-century castle) and modern architecture.
Campus highlights and fun facts for your tour:
Firsts and Figures: The U opened on Feb 28, 1850 as the University of Deseret . Now it enrolls over 34,000 students and awards about 8,500 degrees a year . Its athletic department even has the largest budget in Utah – we love our Ute teams!
State Arboretum: The campus plus the adjacent 100-acre Red Butte Garden form the State Arboretum of Utah . That means landscaped gardens, native plant trails, and even wildflower fields right here. Perfect for a peaceful stroll on a Salt Lake City tour day.
Natural History & Mines: On campus is the Natural History Museum of Utah (the big copper-colored Rio Tinto Center). It’s stuffed with dinosaurs and Utah minerals – fun fact: one exhibit includes copper from Utah’s Bingham Canyon Mine, the world’s deepest open-pit mine .
Fine Arts: The Utah Museum of Fine Arts (also on campus) has a collection of over 20,000 works . If you can squeeze it in, art lovers will love the gallery of Native American and Western art.
Innovation: The U’s labs are a startup factory. Since 2000, Utah researchers have spun off around 300 new companies and 750 products . (That’s part of why Utah’s called Silicon Slopes – many of those tech firms start here.)
Local Legends: Guides love pointing out quirky campus things. See the sundial on a building? It’s calibrated to the Mormon Tabernacle’s clock. Spot the old log cabin? That’s an authentic pioneer house moved to campus. And if you’re lucky, you might pass by the red “Pioneer Bell” tower – ring it for good luck on tour.
In short, the University of Utah is more than just the stadium’s home – it’s a hub of history, science, and scenery. Many Salt Lake tours will drive by or even stop on campus to soak in these highlights.
2002 Winter Olympics: Opening & Closing Ceremonies
Salt Lake City truly became Olympic Salt Lake in 2002. To get ready, crews turned Rice–Eccles into a pageant stage: they paved the turf, built elaborate sets, and raised an enormous steel arch (designed by Chuck Hoberman) . The Olympic cauldron blazed on the south stands each night, while fireworks and laser lights filled the sky. Over 50,000 fans jammed into the stadium, and an astounding 3.5 billion watched worldwide . Locals remember those days with pride – downtown parks showed the ceremonies on big screens, and the whole city buzzed with excitement.
Some ceremony highlights we still talk about:
Stadium Transformation: For Feb 8, 2002, Rice–Eccles was temporarily rechristened “Rice–Eccles Olympic Stadium” . It looked nothing like a normal game-day venue – it was a state-of-the-art Olympic arena for those two nights.
Miracle Return: Mike Eruzione and the 1980 U.S. hockey team surprisingly lit the torch , surprising the crowd. Twenty-two years later, we chanted “USA!” with as much gusto as those Lake Placid crowds did.
Presidential Debut: President George W. Bush stepped onto the field to open the Games – the first time a U.S. president has ever opened the Winter Olympics. (Quick tip: our guides like to joke about which grandstand he was aiming at!)
Symbolic Flag: Eight U.S. athletes carried a torn American flag that had flown at Ground Zero into the stadium , a powerful tribute on that stage.
Jake the Dog: No ceremony talk is complete without Jake, the Utah terrier. He ran a lap with the torch around the track – an adorable moment that took the internet by storm.
Citywide Celebration: Meanwhile, everyone in Salt Lake was partying. We had viewing gatherings, special events at Temple Square, and more. In fact, when Salt Lake won the bid again in 2024, about a thousand locals showed up at 3 a.m. to celebrate on Temple Square dressed in ski gear . That’s just how this town does joy.
Looking Forward: Salt Lake and the 2034 Olympics
Yes, the Olympics are coming back! In 2024, Salt Lake City was officially awarded the 2034 Winter Olympics , making us the only U.S. city to host twice. We essentially bid alone (climate/costs scared off others) , promising a repeat of the 2002 magic. Locals started celebrating immediately – we even joked on Facebook about cancelling our summer plans.
So what’s on the 2034 agenda? We’re still planning, but here’s what we know:
Park City Is Party Central: About half of 2034’s events will be held in Park City area venues (Deer Valley, Park City Mountain, Utah Olympic Park). Think ski racing at Deer Valley and skeleton at Utah Olympic Park. The rest, including Opening/Closing ceremonies, will be here in Salt Lake, likely again at Rice–Eccles.
Reuse and Refresh: The great thing is almost all 2002 venues are still standing . Those ski jumps and bobsled tracks are already in place, just needing a bit of a facelift. So for 2034, we won’t waste time rebuilding – we’ll just modernize and move right in.
New Tech & Tradition: Rumor has it 2034 will use lots of new tech – maybe drone light shows or augmented reality displays. But rest assured, Salt Lake still loves a good fireworks finish. We’re itching to find out how the cauldron flame will burn this time.
Local Buzz: Businesses are already dreaming up Olympic-themed menus. Schools call Fridays “Future Olympian Day.” We’ve even started salting sidewalks early (just kidding, but nearly!). The community pride is real – we’re all ready to welcome visitors again.
Looking Ahead: While the stadium and resorts get polished, Salt Lake is also improving transit, hotels, and trails for 2034. As your local guide, I can’t promise we’ll have jetpacks for 2034 tours – but hey, maybe the city will surprise us!
Whether you came for 2002 or will come for 2034, Salt Lake City’s Olympic legacy is a big part of our identity. It’s woven into the city’s spirit – which is why on our tours we love pointing out old Olympic logos, relics in museums, and even the lane lines in hotel pools (yes, they remember!).
Guided Tours and Top Attractions in Salt Lake City
Now that you’ve got the scoop, let’s talk about seeing it all. The best way to hit these highlights is with a guided tour. City Sights (Tours of Utah) has been showing visitors around for over 44 years – we’re Salt Lake’s longest-running, most trusted tour company. We operate daily sightseeing tours on comfortable buses and trolleys, led by friendly local guides. They know all the Utah jokes (and where to find the best fry sauce, we tell ya).
For example, our classic Salt Lake City Guided Bus Tour (a 20-mile loop) is a can’t-miss . It starts downtown and winds up the hillside. On this loop you’ll learn fun Utah trivia and get all the must-see views. We stop at Temple Square (the Mormon temple and Tabernacle), the City-County Building, the State Capitol, the University of Utah area (you’ll even catch a glimpse of Rice–Eccles), and scenic overlooks like City Creek Canyon. It’s often called “the Best First Thing to Do in Salt Lake City” (and I’m not just tooting our own horn!). Expect entertaining commentary and maybe a photo stop or two.
Here are a few more City Sights tour options:
Tabernacle Choir + City Tour – A combo of city sights plus the world-famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir (also known as Music & the Spoken Word). You’ll enjoy the 30-minute choir performance at the historic Tabernacle after the standard city bus route . (Insider tip: even if you’re not Mormon, the acoustics will give you goosebumps.)
Salt Lake Trolley Adventure – For fun, hop on a vintage trolley and ride through downtown. Actors in pioneer costumes will jump onboard, cracking jokes and telling local legends as you roll past historic sites . It’s like a mini Broadway show on wheels – perfect for families or anyone young at heart.
Great Salt Lake Tour – We head out of the city on a 50-mile loop to the Great Salt Lake and Antelope Island . Learn why the lake’s so salty, see where flamingos hang out, and meet the wild bison roaming free on Antelope Island. By the time the sun sets on the sparkling salt flats, you’ll get why locals call it the “Dead Sea of the West.”
Park City/Wasatch Loop – (By special request) We also offer tours up Parleys Canyon to Park City, where you can visit the Utah Olympic Park (bobsleds and ski jumps!) and tour this charming ski town. As 2034 approaches, half of the Winter Games will happen here , so it’s a great add-on for Olympic fans.
Beyond these guided tours, Salt Lake City itself has tons to do if you have more time. Some best things to do in SLC include:
Temple Square & City Creek Center: The downtown heart – free to explore. Enjoy the tabernacle organ concerts (especially on Sundays), the beautiful gardens around the temple, and the City Creek shopping area with a stream running through it.
Utah State Capitol: Perched on a hill, it’s a short ride from downtown. Free tours are available, and the panoramic view of the city and valley is fantastic.
Red Butte Garden: Utah’s largest botanical garden is right on campus hills. A lovely place for flowers, outdoor concerts, or just a peaceful hike.
Natural History Museum: As mentioned, great for families or geology buffs. (Many tours will at least drive past it in the University area.)
Hogle Zoo: Also near Red Butte, great for kids and animal lovers.
Snowbird/Alta: Just 30 minutes up Little Cottonwood Canyon. In summer, take the tram or chairlift for amazing mountain views – not on a standard city tour, but well worth a half-day.
Bonneville Salt Flats: If you have a rental car and an adventurous spirit, a day trip out west to the Salt Flats is unforgettable – a moonlike desert that begs for photos.
Park City: About 30 minutes from Salt Lake. A pretty town with shops, restaurants, and ski areas – plus, Salt Lake’s big winter athletes still train here.
Salt Lake City has history, culture, great outdoors, and unique local quirks. The easiest (and most fun) way to see it all is with a guided tour. Sit back and relax – your guide will handle the driving, storytelling, and even those dad jokes.
Plan Your Visit: Book a Tour Today!
Ready to experience Salt Lake City for yourself? City Sights (Tours of Utah) has you covered. We run daily guided Salt Lake City tours (bus and trolley) and day trips, year-round. Just head to www.ToursOfUtah.com to see all the options and book your spot. Our website often has exclusive deals and it’s the easiest way to grab seats on the tour you want.
Don’t just take it from me – travelers rate our tours as the highlight of their visit (we’ve literally been called “the Best First Thing to Do in Salt Lake City” !). Let us show you where to find the best city views, the Olympic landmarks, and even the yummiest fry sauce in town.
So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip, pick a Salt Lake City tour, and let’s make some Utah memories together. The stadium, the mountains, and all the local stories are waiting for you – we can’t wait to show you around!
A Crowning Jewel: Experiencing the Utah State Capitol (Especially During Cherry Blossom Season!) with Salt Lake City’s Best Tours
Welcome to Salt Lake City! Whether you're stepping off a plane, rolling in on I-80, or just looking to explore your own backyard with fresh eyes, you're in for a treat. This city, nestled dramatically between the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, is brimming with history, culture, and stunning natural beauty. But where do you even begin? With so much to see, figuring out the "best things to do in Salt Lake City" can feel overwhelming.
That's where we come in. Or rather, where a Salt Lake City tour comes in. Ask any seasoned traveler (or savvy local!), and they'll tell you: the absolute best way to get your bearings and discover the heart of a new city is with a guided tour. And when it comes to SLC bus tours, one name consistently rises to the top: City Sights, the team behind Tours of Utah (find them at www.toursofutah.com).
Why start with a tour? Imagine this: instead of wrestling with maps (or a sometimes-confused GPS – Salt Lake's grid system can be quirky!), hunting for parking, and wondering what exactly you're looking at, you're relaxing in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus with huge panoramic windows. You're not just seeing the sights; you're experiencing them, guided by a knowledgeable local expert who brings the city's stories to life. You get an overview of everything, helping you decide where you want to spend more time later. It’s efficient, informative, and genuinely fun.
For over 44 years, City Sights has been showcasing the best of Salt Lake City. That’s nearly half a century of experience, earning them the reputation as SLC's longest-running, most trusted, and most popular sightseeing tour company. Their guides aren't just drivers; they're often educators, professors, and passionate locals with decades of experience, ready to share entertaining anecdotes and fascinating facts you won't find in a guidebook.
And one absolute must-see landmark prominently featured on their acclaimed Ultimate Salt Lake City Tour? The magnificent Utah State Capitol building. Perched like a stately crown atop Capitol Hill, it's more than just the seat of state government; it's a symbol of Utah's heritage, a masterpiece of architecture, and, for a few magical weeks each spring, home to one of the most breathtaking floral displays you'll ever witness.
A Beacon on the Hill: The Utah State Capitol
You can't miss it. Driving into the city or strolling through downtown, your eyes are inevitably drawn upward to the commanding presence of the Utah State Capitol. Its massive dome, gleaming with Utah copper, catches the sunlight, standing sentinel over the valley. The location itself, historically known as Arsenal Hill (yes, it was once a munitions storage site!), offers panoramic views that stretch across the city grid, out towards the Great Salt Lake, and encompass the towering Wasatch peaks. It’s a view that reminds you just how intertwined this city is with its dramatic landscape.
Getting Utah its own dedicated Capitol building wasn't a quick process. After becoming a state in 1896 (following decades of trying!), Utah's government operated out of various buildings. The city donated the land on Arsenal Hill in 1888, but funding remained elusive. The real breakthrough came in 1911. When the widow of railroad tycoon E.H. Harriman paid a hefty inheritance tax – nearly $800,000 (a fortune back then!) – the state finally had the seed money. Combined with a legislative bond, construction began in 1912.
Local architect Richard K.A. Kletting won the design competition with his stunning Neoclassical Renaissance Revival plan. Inspired by the grandeur of the U.S. Capitol, Kletting envisioned a building that projected strength, permanence, and elegance. Completed in 1916, the result is a 404-foot long, 240-foot wide, and 286-foot tall masterpiece that continues to inspire awe.
Inside the People's House: Marble, Murals, and Majesty
Stepping inside the Capitol is like entering a cathedral dedicated to civic life. While the exterior boasts impressive Utah granite quarried from nearby Little Cottonwood Canyon (the same canyon famous for its world-class ski resorts!), the interior dazzles with cool, veined Georgia marble. Fifty-two massive Corinthian columns grace the exterior, while inside, elegant Ionic columns, each weighing a staggering 25,000 pounds, line the main halls.
Look up in the central Rotunda, and you'll be craning your neck to take in the soaring 165-foot height. The ceiling features a beautiful painting of seagulls (Utah's state bird) against a cloudy sky. Lining the Rotunda are twelve large murals depicting pivotal moments in Utah's history. Here’s a poignant piece of history: these murals, along with others in the building, were painted during the Great Depression by artists employed through the Works Progress Administration (WPA), offering them vital work and leaving a lasting artistic legacy for the state.
Wander the halls (something you can often do on a stop during the City Sights tour!), and you might peek into the opulent State Reception Room, affectionately known as the "Gold Room." Adorned with rich fabrics, intricate woodwork, and period furnishings, it's used for hosting dignitaries and important state functions. You can also find the chambers for the House of Representatives (where 75 representatives convene) and the State Senate (home to 29 senators), as well as the stately Supreme Court courtroom. Throughout the building, keep an eye out for the beehive symbol – Utah's state emblem, representing industry, cooperation, and the pioneering spirit.
Built to Last: Surviving Earthquakes and Time
Like any century-old structure, the Capitol has stories etched into its very stones. It’s witnessed countless legislative debates, historic decisions, and moments of public gathering. But one of its most compelling stories is one of preservation and resilience.
By the turn of the 21st century, studies revealed a sobering reality: the magnificent building was dangerously vulnerable to earthquakes. Utah sits in a seismically active region, and protecting this beloved landmark became paramount. From 2004 to 2008, the Capitol underwent a monumental restoration and seismic upgrade project – one of the most extensive state capitol renovations ever undertaken in the U.S.
The engineering feat at the heart of this project was the installation of a base isolation system. Essentially, the entire building was structurally separated from its foundation and placed on hundreds of specialized bearings (isolators) that allow the ground to move during an earthquake while the building itself remains relatively stable. This created a visible "moat" around the base, a necessary part of the system.
But the project went far beyond earthquake proofing. It was a meticulous restoration. Using Kletting's original drawings, historic photographs, and careful analysis of the existing structure, crews worked to restore public spaces to their original grandeur. Colors were matched, decorative elements were repaired or recreated, and modern systems (electrical, plumbing, data) were integrated seamlessly. Skylights were replaced, and the exterior stone was cleaned and reinforced. It was a labor of love, ensuring the Capitol would not only survive but continue to shine for generations to come.
Here’s a touching detail that connects the building's history with nature's power: In 1999, a rare tornado tore through downtown Salt Lake City, damaging Temple Square and felling many mature trees on the Capitol grounds. Instead of being discarded, wood from some of those fallen trees was carefully salvaged and repurposed. Today, it forms part of the Governor's ceremonial desk inside the Capitol – a beautiful symbol of resilience and renewal.
Spring's Ephemeral Spectacle: The Yoshino Cherry Blossoms
While the Capitol is a stunning sight year-round, there's a period each spring when its beauty transcends the architectural and becomes pure magic. This is when the 433 Yoshino cherry trees planted along the 0.7-mile Memorial Walkway encircling Capitol Hill burst into bloom.
For a few short weeks, typically starting in early April, the grounds transform into a sea of delicate pink and white blossoms. The meticulously pruned trees, specially grafted in Oregon for straight trunks and high branches, form ethereal archways over the walking path. The air fills with a light, sweet fragrance. It's a photographer's paradise, a perfect spot for a peaceful stroll, a popular backdrop for graduation and wedding photos, and a beloved tradition for locals emerging from winter.
The history of cherry trees at the Capitol is layered. The very first landscape plans, drafted by the renowned Olmsted Brothers firm (sons of Frederick Law Olmsted, the designer of New York's Central Park!), envisioned flowering trees back in the early 1910s, although their specific designs weren't fully implemented. The first documented cherry trees, likely Kwanzans, arrived from a Seattle nursery and were planted on Arbor Day in 1931. After World War II, Japan gifted more Kwanzan trees to Utah as a symbol of peace and friendship – a poignant gesture. In Japanese culture, the fleeting beauty of the cherry blossom, or sakura, symbolizes the ephemeral nature of life.
However, by the early 2000s, many of the older trees, some damaged by that 1999 tornado, were struggling. During the major Capitol restoration, the decision was made to return to the spirit of the original landscape vision. The current collection of 433 Yoshino cherry trees was planted between 2007 and 2008, creating the unified, breathtaking display we see today.
When is the best time to see them? Ah, that's part of the excitement! While early to mid-April is the general target, the exact timing of peak bloom (when about 70% of the blossoms are open) varies each year depending on the weather. A long, cold winter might delay the blooms, as happened in 2023 when peak bloom didn't arrive until the third or even fourth week of April, according to local news reports from KSL. A warm spring might bring them out earlier. Locals eagerly watch the buds, and the Utah State Capitol's own social media often tracks the progress. But one thing is certain: the display is fleeting, typically lasting only a week or two at its peak. When the blossoms arrive, you have to seize the moment! Taking a Salt Lake City sightseeing tour during this window offers a fantastic way to see them without worrying about the inevitable crowds and parking challenges.
Beyond the Blossoms: Monuments and Views
Even outside of cherry blossom season, the Capitol grounds are a worthy destination. The 40-acre site is beautifully maintained, offering not just those incredible city views but also space for reflection among various monuments. You'll find memorials honoring Utah veterans from the Civil War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts. A prominent monument commemorates the Mormon Battalion, a unit of Latter-day Saint volunteers who marched during the Mexican-American War. There's also a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. These memorials add layers of historical context to the seat of state power. Walk the paths, enjoy the gardens, and soak in the expansive vistas.
See the Capitol the Smart Way: With City Sights Tours
You could drive up to the Capitol yourself. You could try to find parking (especially challenging during legislative sessions or cherry blossom season). You could wander the grounds and the interior, perhaps grabbing a brochure.
Or, you could make it easy, informative, and thoroughly enjoyable by including it as part of a guided tour. The Ultimate Salt Lake City Tour offered by City Sights (bookable at www.toursofutah.com) is expertly designed to give you the best overview of the city, and the Capitol is a key highlight.
On this 2.5-hour tour, you'll not only see the Capitol's exterior grandeur from the comfort of the bus but also enjoy a dedicated 15-minute stop. This gives you time to walk around, snap photos (imagine those cherry blossoms!), admire the architecture up close, perhaps step inside the Rotunda, and hear fascinating stories and context from your expert local guide. They’ll point out architectural details, share historical anecdotes, and answer your questions – enriching your understanding in a way self-exploration rarely can.
This tour truly lives up to its reputation as "the best first thing to do in SLC." It covers a 20-mile loop, showcasing other iconic landmarks like Temple Square (including hearing the famous Tabernacle organ!), the historic Mormon Pioneer Trail, the magnificent Cathedral of the Madeleine, historic mansions, Olympic sites, and hidden gems. You'll leave the tour with a fantastic sense of the city's layout, history, and highlights.
Your Salt Lake City Adventure Starts Here
The Utah State Capitol building is more than just granite and marble. It's a repository of history, a symbol of democracy, an architectural gem, and a place of surprising natural beauty, especially when the Yoshino cherries paint the hillside pink.
Experiencing it as part of a Salt Lake City sightseeing tour elevates the visit from simply seeing a building to truly understanding its significance and enjoying it hassle-free. When you choose City Sights and their Tours of Utah, you're not just booking a bus ride; you're investing in an experience crafted over 44 years, delivered by passionate locals who love sharing their city.
So, whether the cherry blossoms are in full bloom or the Capitol dome gleams under a summer sun or a dusting of winter snow, make sure this iconic landmark is on your list. And consider making your first stop the booking page at www.toursofutah.com. Let the experts guide you, share the stories, handle the driving, and help you discover why Salt Lake City is such a captivating place.
Ready to explore the best things to do in Salt Lake City? Book your SLC bus tour today and let the adventure begin!
The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Salt Lake City in Spring 2025
Welcome to Salt Lake City! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, springtime in this vibrant city offers a plethora of experiences that cater to all interests. From historic landmarks to natural wonders, there’s something for everyone. And what better way to kickstart your adventure than with a guided tour from Tours of Utah? With over 40 years of experience, they offer comprehensive tours that provide deep insights into the city’s rich history and culture.
Nestled between the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake, Salt Lake City is a gem waiting to be explored. Known for its rich pioneer history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, the city offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern attractions. Springtime brings blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, making it an ideal season for sightseeing.
Why Choose City Sights - Tours of Utah?
When it comes to exploring Salt Lake City, City Sights Tours of Utah stands out as the premier choice. With over four decades of experience, they have established themselves as the go-to tour company in the region. Their expert local guides provide entertaining stories and insider information that you won’t find on your own. Traveling in premium touring buses with panoramic windows ensures you don’t miss any of the scenic views. Plus, their tours are designed to be the “Best First Thing to Do in Salt Lake City,” giving you a comprehensive overview of the city’s top attractions.
Top Tours Offered by City Sights - Tours of Utah
Ultimate Salt Lake City Guided Bus Tour
Dubbed as the “Best First Thing to Do in Salt Lake City,” this comprehensive 20-mile loop covers the city’s historic districts and top attractions. Traveling aboard a premium touring bus with panoramic windows, you’ll get scenic views and make several stops at notable sites.
Highlights:
• Historic Districts: Traverse through areas rich in history and architecture.
• Top Attractions: Stops include significant landmarks that define the city’s heritage.
Details:
• Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours
• Starting Location: Radisson Downtown Hotel (215 W South Temple, Salt Lake City)
• Parking: Available for a small fee in a public parking lot across the street
Why It’s a Must-Do: This tour offers a perfect introduction to Salt Lake City, allowing you to identify areas you’d like to explore further during your stay. The engaging narration filled with stories and insights ensures an informative and entertaining experience.
Tabernacle Choir Performance with Salt Lake City Tour
Combine the comprehensive Salt Lake City Tour with a performance by the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir. This nondenominational concert, “Music and the Spoken Word,” is the world’s longest continuously running network broadcast.
Highlights:
• Tabernacle Choir Performance: Experience the heavenly voices of the choir in a setting known for its exceptional acoustics.
• City Tour: Enjoy all the features of the standard Salt Lake City Tour.
Details:
• Duration: Approximately 4 hours
• Starting Location: Radisson Downtown Hotel (215 W South Temple, Salt Lake City)
• Parking: Available for a small fee in a public parking lot across the street
Why It’s a Must-Do: Hearing the Tabernacle Choir perform is a bucket-list experience. Coupled with the city tour, it provides a rich cultural and historical immersion.
Experience a unique blend of entertainment and sightseeing aboard a beautifully restored trolley. This “sightseeing show-tour” features professional entertainers in costume, sharing lively stories and historic character performances.
Highlights:
• Theatrical Performances: Enjoy engaging stories from costumed actors.
• Historic Sights: Visit notable landmarks with photo stops.
Details:
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Times: 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM, Monday-Saturday
• Starting Location: Radisson Downtown Hotel (215 W South Temple, Salt Lake City)
• Parking: Available for a small fee in a public parking lot across the street
Why It’s a Must-Do: This tour offers a fun and memorable way to see the city, making it ideal for all ages. The combination of storytelling and sightseeing provides a unique perspective on Salt Lake City’s history.
Mysteries of Great Salt Lake Tour
Delve into the secrets of the Great Salt Lake on this 50-mile guided adventure. Discover why it’s called “America’s Dead Sea” and learn fascinating tales about this natural wonder.
Highlights:
• Great Salt Lake Exploration: Visit the shores of the saltiest lake in the western hemisphere.
• Entertaining Narration: Hear stories and myths associated with the lake.
Details:
• Duration: 2 hours
• Time: 2:30 PM
• Starting Location: Radisson Downtown Hotel (215 W South Temple, Salt Lake City)
• Parking: Available for a small fee in a public parking lot across the street
Why It’s a Must-Do: This tour provides insights into one of Utah’s most intriguing natural features, offering stories and facts that you wouldn’t discover on your own.
Exploring Temple Square
Temple Square is the heart of Salt Lake City and a must-visit destination. This 35-acre area attracts millions of visitors annually and serves as a testament to the city’s pioneer heritage.
Key Attractions:
• Salt Lake Temple: An iconic granite structure completed in 1890. While interior tours aren’t available, the exterior is a marvel to behold.
• Tabernacle: Home to the world-famous Tabernacle Choir, known for its unique design and exceptional acoustics.
• Assembly Hall: A historic chapel showcasing stunning Gothic architecture.
• Brigham Young’s Homes: The Beehive House and Lion House offer a glimpse into the life of the city’s founder.
Fun Fact: The Tabernacle’s design was inspired by a bridge’s construction, contributing to its remarkable acoustics.