Ultimate Guide to Salt Lake City Tours and Itineraries: How to Spend 1, 2, or 3 Days in SLC This August

Hey there, SLC travelers! If you're planning a trip to Salt Lake City this August, you're in for a treat. As someone who's wandered through countless cities, I can tell you SLC in summer is pure magic—think warm sunny days averaging around 90°F, perfect for outdoor adventures, and a calendar packed with festivals that bring the city to life. August here means fewer crowds than peak ski season, vibrant events like the Great Salt Lake Fringe Festival (running August 1-10, 2025, with indie theater and performances) and the high-energy Das Energi Festival at The Great Saltair (August 8-9, 2025, featuring electronic music under the stars).

Plus, with FuelFest revving up on August 16 at the Utah State Fairpark for car enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies, there's no shortage of excitement.

Whether you're here for a quick day trip or stretching it to three days, this guide draws from my favorite travel blogs and sites like Visit Salt Lake and Lonely Planet to help you make the most of it.

And here's my top tip right off the bat: No matter how long you're staying, the best first thing to do is hop on a sightseeing bus tour with City Sights (www.toursofutah.com). It's the ultimate way to get oriented, spot the highlights, and decide where to dive deeper—whether you have just half a day or more time to explore Salt Lake City tours.

August in SLC is all about blending urban vibes with nature's call. The weather's ideal for hiking in the nearby canyons, catching outdoor concerts, or strolling through farmers' markets bursting with fresh Utah peaches and corn. But let's not forget the cultural pulse—Mormon history meets modern art scenes, and the food? Oh man, we'll get into those classic spots later. This article breaks it down into itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 days, with a heavy focus on Salt Lake City day tours, SLC bus tours, and sightseeing bus tours. I'll weave in the top attractions, mouthwatering restaurants, and even day trips if you've got a car. Ready? Let's dive in.

Why Start Every SLC Adventure with a Sightseeing Bus Tour?

Before we jump into the day-by-day plans, let's talk about why kicking off with a Salt Lake City tour is non-negotiable. Imagine this: You've just landed, jet-lagged but excited, and instead of fumbling with maps or rideshares, you board a comfy bus that whisks you through the city's heart. City Sights (www.toursofutah.com) offers top-notch SLC bus tours that cover everything from historic Temple Square to the stunning Wasatch Mountains backdrop—all narrated by locals who know the hidden gems.

If you're short on time, their half-day options pack in the essentials, making it perfect for Salt Lake City day tours. Got more days? Use it as your lay-of-the-land intro, so you can circle back to favorites later.

For a twist, consider the Salt Lake Trolley Adventure Tour (www.saltlaketrolley.com)—it's the most entertaining way to taste SLC, with theatrical guides dishing out stories and songs. It's great for all ages, especially if you're not usually into sightseeing bus tours; think family fun with a side of history.

In August, these tours shine with open-air vibes and stops near festival spots. Trust me, starting here saves time and sparks that "aha" moment for the rest of your trip.

One Day in Salt Lake City: A Whirlwind of Highlights

If you've only got 24 hours, focus on downtown's core and squeeze in some August flair. Start bright and early—August mornings are crisp before the heat kicks in.

- Morning: Kick Off with a Sightseeing Bus Tour

Book that City Sights SLC bus tour first thing (www.toursofutah.com). Their routes loop through downtown, hitting Temple Square and the Capitol, with hop-off options if time allows. It's the best intro to Salt Lake City tours, giving you panoramic views and insider tips. In August, you might catch glimpses of festival setups. Fun fact: SLC was founded in 1847 by Mormon pioneers led by Brigham Young, who declared "This is the place!" upon seeing the valley—your guide will point out spots tied to that history.

- Mid-Morning: Explore Temple Square

After the tour, head straight to this iconic 10-acre complex. It's the spiritual heart of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with stunning gardens blooming in August. History buff alert: The Salt Lake Temple took 40 years to build (1853-1893) and features pioneer-era craftsmanship.

Fun fact: The square hosts free organ recitals daily—catch one if you can.

- Lunch: Dive into a Classic at Crown Burger

Grab a pastrami-topped burger at this SLC staple, opened in 1978 by Greek immigrants John and Rula Katzourakis. It's been featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" for its juicy charbroiled patties. Fun fact: They invented the "Crown Burger" style that's now a Utah icon—piled high with cheese, lettuce, and that smoky pastrami.

Perfect fuel for an afternoon of walking.

- Afternoon: Utah State Capitol and Nearby Sights

Stroll up to the Capitol, built in 1916 with Corinthian columns and Utah marble. Climb the steps for valley views—on clear August days, you can see forever. Inside, murals depict pioneer life. Then, wander to City Creek Center for shopping and people-watching; it's an open-air mall with a retractable roof and creek running through it. Fun fact: The center's design echoes the original City Creek that once flowed here, vital to early settlers.

- Evening: Catch an August Event or Sunset Stroll

If it's Fringe Festival time, snag tickets for a show. Otherwise, end with the Salt Lake Trolley Tour for laughs and lights as dusk falls. It's entertaining for everyone, turning sightseeing bus tours into a party. Dinner? Hit Red Iguana for killer moles—their family recipes date back to 1965 and earned spots on Travel Channel shows.

This one-day plan clocks in at about 12 hours of fun, leaving you exhilarated but not exhausted.

Two Days in Salt Lake City: Building on the Basics

With an extra day, layer in more depth. Day 1 follows the one-day itinerary, but swap the evening for relaxation so you're fresh for Day 2's adventures.

- Day 1 Recap: Bus Tour and Downtown Essentials

Stick to the morning sightseeing bus tour with City Sights, Temple Square, lunch at Crown Burger, and afternoon at the Capitol. In August, add a quick stop at the Downtown Farmers Market if it's Saturday—fresh produce and live music galore.

- Day 2 Morning: Natural History Museum and Red Butte Garden

Head to the University of Utah area for the Natural History Museum—it's got dinosaur fossils from Utah's badlands and exhibits on Native American cultures. Fun fact: Utah's the "Dinosaur State" with over 800 species found here; the museum's Allosaurus skeleton is a crowd-pleaser.

Adjacent Red Butte Garden bursts with August blooms—hike trails or picnic amid 100 acres of flora. History: Founded in 1985, it's a living museum of desert plants.

- Lunch: Ruth's Diner in Emigration Canyon

Drive or Uber to this historic spot, opened in 1930 by Ruth Evans in a trolley car. It's Utah's second-oldest restaurant, featured on "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" for biscuits and gravy. Fun fact: Ruth was a colorful character who once sold bootleg booze during Prohibition—her spirit lives on in the canyon views.

- Afternoon: Liberty Park and Tracy Aviary

Back downtown, relax in Liberty Park—SLC's oldest, dating to 1881. Rent bikes or paddleboats on the pond. Inside, Tracy Aviary (America's oldest, founded 1938) has over 400 birds; August's warm weather means active flamingos and peacocks. Fun fact: The aviary started with a single injured bird donated to the city—now it's a conservation hub.

- Evening: Trolley Tour and Festival Vibes

Cap it with the afternoon 1:30 PM 90-minute Salt Lake Trolley Adventure Tour—super fun for non-tour types, with storytelling that brings SLC's quirky history alive. Then, dive into August events like Celest Fest or outdoor concerts at the Gallivan Center. Dinner at Red Iguana seals the deal.

Two days let you breathe easier, mixing Salt Lake City day tours with personal exploration.

Three Days in Salt Lake City: Full Immersion with Day Trips

Now we're talking—three days mean downtown depth plus escapes. Days 1 and 2 as above, then Day 3 ventures out (car recommended).

- Days 1-2 Recap: Tours, Sights, and Eats

Day 1: City Sights bus tour, Temple Square, Crown Burger, Capitol. Day 2: Museum, garden, Ruth's Diner, park, trolley tour.

- Day 3 Morning: Big Cottonwood Canyon Hike

Drive 30 minutes east for August hiking—trails like Donut Falls are moderate and shady. History: The canyon was a pioneer logging route; fun fact: It's home to world-class rock climbing, with quartzite walls drawing pros.

- Lunch: Pack a Picnic or Canyon Spot

Grab from a downtown deli—keep it light for more exploring.

- Afternoon: Park City Day Trip

Head 40 minutes to this Olympic town. Stroll Main Street's galleries, ride the alpine slide at Utah Olympic Park (site of 2002 Winter Games). Fun fact: The park's bobsled track is open year-round; feel the G-forces like athletes did. August means wildflowers and festivals.

- Evening: Return for Downtown Wind-Down

Back in SLC, catch a Fringe Festival show or relax with moles at Red Iguana. Reflect on your Salt Lake City tours over a local brew.

This setup maximizes August's outdoor perks.

Top 10 Downtown Attractions in Salt Lake City: History and Fun Facts

Downtown SLC is compact and walkable—perfect for August strolls. Here's my ranked list, with backstory to hook you:

1. Temple Square - Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints HQ since 1853. Fun fact: The temple's walls are 9 feet thick for earthquake resistance; August gardens are Instagram gold.

2. Utah State Capitol - Completed 1916, modeled after D.C.'s. Fun fact: The dome's beehive symbolizes industry—Utah's state emblem.

3. City Creek Center - Modern mall opened 2012. Fun fact: It recycles water from the original creek, sustaining fish and plants.

4. Natural History Museum of Utah - Opened 2011 in a copper-clad building. Fun fact: Houses the world's largest collection of horned dinosaur skulls.

5. Salt Lake Tabernacle - Built 1867, acoustic marvel. Fun fact: A pin drop can be heard 250 feet away—no mics needed for choir performances.

6. Clark Planetarium - Free exhibits since 2003. Fun fact: Laser shows sync to music like Pink Floyd—August evenings are stellar.

7. Gallivan Center - Urban plaza for events. Fun fact: Hosts free concerts in August; ice rink in winter.

8. Cathedral of the Madeleine - Catholic gem from 1909. Fun fact: Its stained glass depicts Utah scenes, blending faiths in Mormon country.

9. Downtown Murals - Street art boom post-2010. Fun fact: Over 100 murals; hunt for the "Beehive State" themes.

10. Book Wall Mural at the Library - Massive 2003 installation. Fun fact: The library's rooftop garden offers city views; a hidden reading oasis.

These spots scream "explore me" in August's sunshine.

Classic SLC Restaurants: Decades of Flavor and Fame

SLC's food scene honors its roots with spots featured on TV. Here's the trio:

- Red Iguana: Family-run since 1965, specializing in moles from Oaxaca recipes. Featured on Food Network and Travel Channel—Guy Fieri raved about the punk rock vibe. Fun fact: Started as Casa Grande; now two locations, but the original's wait is worth it for the killer enchiladas.

- Crown Burger: Born 1978, home of the pastrami burger. On "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives," it's hailed for Greek influences. Fun fact: Founders were immigrants who blended American fast food with Mediterranean flair—try the fry sauce, a Utah invention.

- Ruth's Diner: Since 1930 in a trolley car up Emigration Canyon. Travel Channel spotlights its mile-high biscuits. Fun fact: Ruth Evans was a jazz singer who bought the diner on a whim; it's survived floods and fires, embodying SLC resilience.

These aren't just meals—they're time capsules.

Top 5 Day Trips from SLC (With a Car): August Escapes

Rent wheels for these 1-2 hour drives—August's long days are ideal.

1. Park City: 40 mins. Olympic legacy with hiking and shopping. Fun fact: Hosted 2002 Games; August arts festival adds culture.

2. Big Cottonwood Canyon: 30 mins. Hikes and picnics. Fun fact: Site of ancient glaciers; wildflowers peak in August.

3. Little Cottonwood Canyon: 35 mins. Snowbird tram rides. Fun fact: Granite quarried here built the temple; aerial views stun.

4. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway: 1.5 hours. Lakes and forests. Fun fact: At 10,000 feet, it's cooler—perfect August relief.

5. Utah Olympic Park: 45 mins near Park City. Bobsled and ziplines. Fun fact: Training ground for athletes; free museum on Games history.

These trips complement your Salt Lake City day tours beautifully.

Wrapping up, whether it's one day of SLC bus tours or three with day trips, August in Salt Lake City is unforgettable. Start with City Sights or the Trolley Tour, savor those classics, and let the adventures unfold. Safe travels—drop a comment if you try these!