Salt Lake City Tours: Complete Guide to the Best Experiences in Utah’s Capital
For sightseeing historic attractions, Salt Lake City stands as Utah’s crown jewel, where soaring mountain peaks meet rich cultural heritage in a destination that captivates millions of visitors annually. This unique city offers an extraordinary blend of urban sophistication and natural wonders, making it a premier destination for travelers seeking both cultural enrichment and outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re drawn to the world famous tabernacle choir, fascinated by the Great Salt Lake’s unique ecosystem, or eager to explore downtown salt lake’s historic landmarks, the city’s diverse tour offerings ensure every visitor discovers something memorable. From traditional sightseeing bus tours to theatrical trolley adventures, salt lake city’s tour industry has evolved over decades to provide comprehensive experiences that showcase both the area’s Mormon heritage and its stunning natural attractions.
This complete guide reveals the best salt lake city tours available, offering insider tips on booking, timing, and maximizing your utah adventure. You’ll discover everything from the longest-running bus tour that’s been operating for over four decades to specialized excursions that take you beyond the city limits to explore hidden gems and popular attractions throughout the region.
Key Takeaways
Salt Lake City offers diverse tour options including bus tours, trolley adventures, and specialized experiences like Great Salt Lake excursions
The Ultimate Salt Lake City Tour has been operating for 44 years and covers 20 miles of city highlights
Popular tours include Temple Square visits, Tabernacle Choir experiences, and Antelope Island wildlife viewing
Most tours offer free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with expert local guides
Book in advance as many tours are likely to sell out, especially during peak season
Ultimate Salt Lake City Bus Tour
The Ultimate Salt Lake City Bus Tour represents the gold standard of urban exploration in Utah’s capital. Operating for over 44 years, this comprehensive 20-mile journey through the city has earned its reputation as “The Best FIRST thing to do in SLC.” This day tour provides visitors with a thorough orientation to the city’s most significant landmarks and attractions.
Key Stops and Highlights
The guided tour includes stops at Temple Square, the spiritual and cultural heart of salt lake city, where visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped grounds and learn about the area’s religious significance. The Utah State Capitol, with its stunning neoclassical architecture, offers panoramic views of the entire valley and surrounding mountain ranges.
Additional stops include the Natural History Museum, showcasing regional geology and Native American artifacts, along with downtown salt lake’s historic districts featuring notable cathedrals and preserved mansions. The tour’s comprehensive overview ensures first-time visitors gain a solid understanding of the city’s layout and major attractions.
Professional Commentary and Amenities
Local expert guides provide entertaining narration covering the city’s evolution, Mormon heritage, local legends, and contemporary culture. The premium, air-conditioned buses feature panoramic view windows that enhance visibility and comfort throughout the memorable ride.
Tours typically depart from the Radisson Downtown SLC Hotel, with morning and afternoon options available depending on season and demand. The 3-hour duration allows for multiple stops with guided exploration at key sites, making it an ideal introduction for those with limited time to explore the city.
Pricing is $59 per adult, with discounts available for children under 8 years old. The tour’s long-standing operation and consistently high ratings make it a reliable choice for visitors seeking a comprehensive overview of salt lake city’s highlights.
Salt Lake Trolley Adventure Tour
The Salt Lake Trolley Tour stands apart from traditional sightseeing experiences by combining transportation with live theatrical performance. This unique 90-minute show tour features three talented performers—typically a conductor and two musicians—who deliver the city’s fascinating facts through drama, music, and humor.
Theatrical Performance Experience
What makes this trolley tour exceptional is its entertaining stories delivered by costumed theatrical performers who bring salt lake city’s history to life. The format transforms a standard sightseeing experience into an engaging theatrical performance that appeals to visitors of all ages. Families particularly appreciate the interactive storytelling that keeps children entertained while adults enjoy the historical insights.
The trolley winds through historic districts, showcasing marvelously preserved mansions, ornate cathedrals, and scenic mountain viewpoints. The entertaining narration covers local legends, pioneer stories, and amusing anecdotes that provide both education and delight throughout the journey.
Family-Friendly Entertainment
Designed with multi-generational appeal, this tour successfully balances entertainment with education. The accessibility and engaging format make it suitable for visitors who might find traditional walking tours challenging. The theatrical elements create a fun, relaxing atmosphere that transforms sightseeing into entertainment.
High demand, especially during summer and holiday seasons, means advance booking is essential. Online reservations are required, and the tour frequently receives ratings as “the most entertaining Salt Lake City attraction.” The combination of sightseeing and live performance creates a unique experience that visitors remember long after their trip ends.
Great Salt Lake and Natural Attractions Tours
The Great Salt Lake represents one of Utah’s most unique natural wonders, and specialized tours provide access to this extraordinary ecosystem. These excursions take visitors beyond the urban environment to explore the geological and biological marvels that make this region unlike anywhere else in the world.
Great Salt Lake Sightseeing Experience
The 50-mile, two-hour round trip to the Great Salt Lake offers visitors a chance to witness “America’s Dead Sea”—the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere. Expert guides explain the lake’s extreme salinity, reaching up to 10 times saltier than the ocean, and its crucial role as a habitat for millions of migratory birds.
The tour provides fascinating facts about the lake’s unique ecosystem, including its importance to regional history and industry. Visitors learn about the salt-tolerant flora and rare brine shrimp populations that thrive in this harsh environment. The stark beauty of the landscape, with its white salt formations and stunning mountain backdrop, creates exceptional photography opportunities.
Antelope Island Wildlife Viewing
Antelope Island tours focus on wildlife viewing in one of Utah’s premier natural areas. Visitors have opportunities to observe free-roaming bison herds, pronghorn antelope, mule deer, and extensive bird species, particularly during migration seasons. The island’s unique ecosystem supports diverse wildlife that visitors rarely encounter elsewhere.
Spring and fall represent ideal times for wildlife and landscape photography, when migratory birds peak and temperatures remain mild. The island’s elevated position provides gorgeous views of the Great Salt Lake and surrounding mountain ranges, making it a photographer’s paradise.
Bingham Canyon Copper Mine Excursion
The Bingham Canyon Copper Mine Tour allows visitors to witness the world’s largest man-made excavation—nearly one mile deep and three miles wide. This operational mine presents a fascinating case study in modern engineering, industrial heritage, and ongoing environmental management.
The excursion demonstrates the scale of modern mining operations while providing insights into the economic importance of copper mining to utah’s economy. The sheer size of the operation and the sophisticated equipment required create an impressive industrial spectacle that complements the region’s natural attractions.
Temple Square and Religious Heritage Tours
Temple Square serves as the cultural and spiritual nucleus of Salt Lake City, attracting millions of visitors annually who come to explore its architectural marvels and learn about the area’s religious heritage. The 35-acre complex represents the global headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and stands as one of Utah’s most visited attractions.
World Famous Tabernacle Choir Experiences
Combined city tours often include scheduled visits to hear the world famous tabernacle choir, one of the most renowned musical ensembles in the world. Performances and rehearsals are open to the public, with Sunday mornings featuring “Music and the Spoken Word” and Thursday evenings offering rehearsal opportunities.
The Tabernacle’s remarkable acoustics, demonstrated by the famous “pin drop test,” create an unforgettable auditory experience. Visitors can witness the 360-member choir and full orchestra performing in a venue with perfect natural acoustics, creating a musical experience that resonates long after the performance ends.
Free Walking Tours and Cultural Education
Temple Square offers free walking tours led by friendly missionaries who provide comprehensive information about the complex’s buildings, gardens, and significance. These guided tours cover the Salt Lake Temple, Assembly Hall, and several visitor centers that house religious artifacts and historical exhibits.
The tours emphasize the city’s founding by Mormon pioneers in 1847, the construction and symbolism of key buildings, and the ongoing importance of Temple Square as both a spiritual center and architectural landmark. The beautifully landscaped grounds, featuring seasonal flowers and fountains, provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of downtown salt lake.
Architectural and Historical Significance
The temple complex showcases remarkable 19th-century architecture, with the Salt Lake Temple taking 40 years to complete using granite quarried from nearby canyons. The Gothic Revival and Colonial Revival styles represented throughout the complex create a unique architectural ensemble that reflects the community’s dedication and craftsmanship.
Visitors learn about the temple’s symbolic elements, the significance of the angel Moroni statue, and the role these buildings play in the daily life of church members worldwide. The visitor centers provide context for understanding both the religious and cultural impact of the Latter-day Saint movement on utah’s development.
Specialized Adventure Tours
Beyond traditional sightseeing, salt lake city offers unique adventure tours that showcase the region’s diverse landscapes and provide access to experiences unavailable elsewhere. These specialized excursions cater to visitors seeking adventure, nature immersion, or distinctive seasonal activities.
Seasonal Winter Adventures
Hardware Ranch winter tours provide unforgettable sleigh rides through the Rocky Mountains, offering close encounters with wild elk herds. These family-friendly excursions operate during winter months when elk congregate in lower elevations, creating exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The horse-drawn sleighs traverse snow-covered meadows while visitors observe hundreds of elk in their natural habitat.
The experience combines adventure with education, as guides explain elk behavior, migration patterns, and conservation efforts. The crisp mountain air and stunning winter landscapes create a magical atmosphere that appeals to visitors of all ages seeking a quintessential Utah winter experience.
Astronomy and Dark Sky Tours
Compass Rose Dark Sky excursions take advantage of Utah’s internationally recognized dark sky reserves, providing some of the best stargazing opportunities in the United States. These evening tours transport visitors to locations with minimal light pollution, where expert astronomers guide participants through celestial observations using high-quality telescopes.
The tours capitalize on Utah’s exceptional atmospheric conditions and high elevation to provide clear views of planets, nebulae, star clusters, and seasonal astronomical phenomena. Photography tours focusing on astrophotography teach participants techniques for capturing stunning night sky images while enjoying the peaceful desert environment.
Alternative Urban Exploration
Segway tours and bike taxi options provide modern, eco-friendly alternatives for exploring urban areas and historic neighborhoods. These tours appeal to active travelers and accommodate those with limited mobility who still want to cover significant ground while sightseeing.
The guided Segway experiences include training sessions and safety equipment, allowing participants to effortlessly navigate downtown salt lake’s streets while stopping at key landmarks. The unique perspective and ease of movement make these tours particularly popular with younger visitors and those seeking interactive experiences.
Custom and Photography Tours
Professional photography tours led by local photographers focus on both city architecture and Utah’s striking natural scenery. These specialized excursions teach composition techniques while guiding participants to the most photogenic locations during optimal lighting conditions.
Custom private tours allow operators to tailor itineraries for groups, corporate events, or visitors with specific interests such as culinary exploration, architectural study, or nature focus. These personalized experiences accommodate special requests and provide flexible scheduling that standard tours cannot match.
Planning Your Salt Lake City Tour Experience
Successful tour planning maximizes your enjoyment while minimizing logistical challenges. Understanding seasonal variations, booking requirements, and practical considerations ensures you make the most of your visit to utah’s capital city.
Optimal Timing and Seasonal Considerations
Spring (April-June) and fall (September-October) offer ideal conditions for most salt lake city tours, with mild weather and manageable crowd levels. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures for walking tours and optimal lighting for photography tours. Summer attracts peak tourist numbers, especially for outdoor excursions and festival-related tours, requiring earlier booking but offering the fullest range of available experiences.
Winter tours focus on different attractions, with some seasonal offerings like Hardware Ranch sleigh rides only available during colder months. The Bonneville Salt Flats and Great Salt Lake provide dramatic winter landscapes, though visitors should prepare for variable weather conditions and potential tour modifications due to snow or ice.
Booking Strategies and Advance Planning
Advance reservations 2 weeks ahead are strongly recommended, as popular tours frequently sell out during weekends and peak periods. Many operators offer online booking with immediate confirmation, making it easy to secure your preferred dates and times.
The revenue generated by tourism in salt lake city means operators maintain professional standards and reliable schedules, but high demand requires proactive planning. Consider booking multiple tours during your visit, as morning city tours can easily combine with afternoon nature excursions or specialized adventure experiences.
Logistics and Meeting Points
Central meeting points near major hotels, particularly the Radisson Downtown SLC Hotel, provide convenient departure locations with parking and public transportation access. Most tour operators provide detailed directions and contact information for day-of-tour questions.
Accessibility varies among different tour types—contact operators directly for specific mobility needs or special accommodations. Many tours accommodate wheelchairs and provide alternative arrangements for participants with limited mobility.
What to Bring and Prepare
Comfortable walking shoes and layered clothing are essential, as utah weather can fluctuate significantly throughout the day. Mountain locations may be considerably cooler than downtown areas, even during summer months.
Cameras are strongly recommended for capturing the stunning landscapes and architectural details you’ll encounter. Many tours provide optimal photography opportunities, and guides often suggest the best vantage points for memorable shots.
Water bottles and sun protection become crucial during summer months, while winter visitors should prepare for cold temperatures and potential snow. Most tour vehicles provide climate control, but outdoor portions require appropriate weather preparation.
Tour Pricing and Booking Information
Understanding pricing structures and booking processes helps you select tours that match your budget and preferences while ensuring you secure availability during your preferred travel dates.
Price Ranges and Value Considerations
Standard bus and trolley tours typically range from $59-$79 per adult, representing excellent value for 1.5-3 hour comprehensive experiences.
Tour Type
Price Range
Duration
Standard Bus Tours
$59-$79
2-3 hours
Trolley Adventures
$59
90 minutes
Private Tours
$100+
Flexible
Cancellation Policies and Flexibility
Most reputable operators offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, providing valuable flexibility for changing travel plans. This policy recognizes that weather, health issues, or itinerary changes may require adjustments to tour bookings.
Advanced booking often includes the option to reschedule rather than cancel, allowing you to move your tour to a different day if circumstances change. Some operators extend cancellation periods during winter months when weather may impact tour feasibility.
Booking Platforms and Payment Options
Direct bookings through tour operator websites often provide the best rates and additional perks such as priority boarding or complimentary upgrades. Third-party platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator often charge higher prices.
Payment options typically include all major credit cards, with some operators accepting digital payment methods. Advance payment secures your reservation.
Special deals and seasonal promotions frequently appear during shoulder seasons or for advance bookings. Newsletter subscriptions and social media followers often receive exclusive discount codes and early notification of special offers.
What Travelers Say About Salt Lake City Tours
Traveler feedback provides valuable insights into tour quality and helps set appropriate expectations for your salt lake city experience. Consistently high ratings and detailed reviews highlight what makes these tours memorable and worthwhile.
Guide Quality and Expertise
Overwhelmingly positive feedback consistently praises knowledgeable guides who combine expertise with entertaining delivery. Many reviewers specifically mention guides’ ability to bring local history to life through engaging storytelling and insider knowledge that guidebooks cannot provide.
Professional guides receive recognition for their enthusiasm, accessibility, and willingness to answer questions throughout tours. Their deep understanding of both historical significance and contemporary culture creates educational experiences that appeal to visitors with varying levels of prior knowledge about the region.
Comfort and Scenic Value
Tour participants frequently highlight the comfort of modern vehicles and the strategic routing that maximizes scenic viewing opportunities. Panoramic view windows in bus tours and the open-air design of trolley tours receive particular praise for enhancing the sightseeing experience.
Accessibility features and attention to passenger comfort earn consistent positive mentions, with many tours accommodating mobility challenges and providing comfortable seating for extended periods. Climate-controlled vehicles and rest stop timing contribute to overall satisfaction.
Educational Value and Cultural Insights
Travelers consistently appreciate learning about both salt lake city’s unique history and utah’s remarkable natural wonders. The blend of cultural education and natural science creates well-rounded experiences that satisfy diverse interests within the same tour group.
Many reviews emphasize the value of professional commentary that provides context for understanding the significance of various sites. Visitors frequently mention gaining new appreciation for Mormon heritage, pioneer history, and the geological forces that shaped the region.
Ratings and Recommendations
Tours regularly achieve 92-100% recommendation rates from participants, with “must-do” designations appearing frequently in reviews. First-time visitors particularly appreciate comprehensive overview tours that provide orientation and help prioritize additional activities.
Repeat visitors often choose specialized tours that explore specific interests more deeply, suggesting that the diverse tour offerings successfully cater to both newcomers and returning travelers. The consistency of high ratings across different tour types indicates strong quality standards throughout the industry.
FAQ
What is the best first-time tour for Salt Lake City visitors?
The Ultimate Salt Lake City Bus Tour consistently receives recommendations as the ideal introduction for newcomers. Its 44-year operation history, comprehensive 20-mile route, and thorough coverage of major landmarks provide an excellent orientation to the city. This tour offers the comprehensive overview that helps first-time visitors understand the city’s layout and prioritize additional activities during their stay.
How long do most Salt Lake City tours last?
Tour durations vary significantly based on scope and destination. City sightseeing tours typically last 1.5-3 hours, providing sufficient time to visit key landmarks without overwhelming participants. Natural attraction excursions extend to half-day experiences, while specialized adventure tours may require full-day commitments. The variety allows visitors to select tours that match their available time and interest level.
Are Salt Lake City tours suitable for children and families?
Yes, most tours are designed with family appeal in mind. The Salt Lake Trolley Tour particularly excels at engaging children through theatrical performance and interactive storytelling. Many operators provide family packages and children’s pricing, while the educational content appeals to multiple generations. Tour operators typically accommodate strollers and provide appropriate safety measures for younger participants.
What should I wear on a Salt Lake City tour?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential for all tour types, as most include walking portions at various stops. Layered clothing provides flexibility for utah’s variable weather conditions, which can change significantly throughout the day. Summer visitors should include sun protection and light layers, while winter tourists need warm clothing for outdoor portions. Most tour vehicles provide climate control, but outdoor exploration requires weather-appropriate preparation.
Can I book multiple tours in one day?
Yes, scheduling multiple tours in one day is feasible with proper planning. Morning city tours typically conclude by early afternoon, allowing time for specialized afternoon experiences. However, consider your energy level and transportation between tour meeting points when planning multiple activities. Many visitors find combining a comprehensive city tour with a natural attraction excursion creates a well-rounded day of exploration.
Do tours operate year-round or only during specific seasons?
Most standard city tours operate year-round with seasonal schedule adjustments. Natural attraction tours may have seasonal limitations—optimal wildlife viewing at Antelope Island occurs during spring and fall migration periods. Weather conditions occasionally impact tour schedules, particularly for outdoor excursions during extreme weather events.
Are food and drinks included in Salt Lake City tours?
Standard tours typically do not include food and drinks unless specifically mentioned in tour descriptions. Most tours provide scheduled breaks where participants can purchase food and beverages. Check tour descriptions carefully and plan accordingly, especially for longer excursions that may extend through meal times.
How far in advance should I book popular tours?
Advance booking 1-2 weeks ahead is strongly recommended for most tours, with peak season and weekend tours requiring even earlier reservations. Popular experiences like the Salt Lake Trolley Tour and specialized natural excursions often sell out, particularly during summer months and holiday periods. Early booking also provides better availability for preferred departure times and ensures space for larger groups.
Salt lake city tours offer incredible diversity, from comprehensive urban exploration to unique natural adventures that showcase utah’s remarkable landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to the world famous tabernacle choir, fascinated by the Great Salt Lake’s extraordinary ecosystem, or seeking adventure beyond the city limits, the tour options available ensure every visitor discovers memorable experiences.
The key to maximizing your visit lies in advance planning, selecting tours that match your interests and available time, and remaining flexible for utah’s variable weather conditions. With professional guides, comfortable transportation, and access to attractions that would be difficult to explore independently, guided tours provide exceptional value for both first-time visitors and returning travelers.
Book your Salt Lake City tours in advance to secure the best experiences and begin planning an unforgettable exploration of one of America’s most unique destinations. From downtown salt lake’s historic landmarks to the natural wonders that surround the city, your Utah adventure awaits.
Must-Try Iconic Restaurants in Salt Lake City: A Culinary Journey Through Time
Salt Lake City is a treasure trove of culinary delights, each establishment steeped in rich history, local pride, and unforgettable flavor. From time-worn diners nestled in scenic canyons to legendary burger joints and subterranean pizza paradises, the city offers a food experience that’s equal parts nostalgic, flavorful, and deeply rooted in Utah’s unique character.
So, loosen your belt and bring your appetite—here are the must-try, can’t-miss, “wait, we have to go back there again” restaurants in Salt Lake City. And hey, if you're hoping to work up an appetite between bites (or walk off your food coma afterward), don’t forget to check out City Sights Salt Lake City Tours—because no visit to the capital is complete without diving into its history, architecture, and one-of-a-kind culture with the folks who've been showing it off longer than anyone else.
Ruth’s Diner: Canyon Comfort with a Side of Sass
Tucked away in the lush greenery of Emigration Canyon, Ruth’s Diner is the kind of place that feels like it was plucked out of a storybook—if that storybook featured a no-nonsense cabaret singer who decided to trade in her feather boa for a spatula and a trolley car. Established in 1930 by Ruth Evans, this diner is one of the oldest operating restaurants in Utah, and its origin story is every bit as flavorful as its menu.
Ruth herself was a larger-than-life figure, known for cooking with a cigarette dangling from her lips and not-so-gently reminding guests to mind their manners. The original location was in downtown Salt Lake, but in 1946, she moved the operation to a decommissioned trolley car nestled in Emigration Canyon—and the rest, as they say, is delicious history.
Today, Ruth’s is famous for its “Mile-High Biscuits,” and no, the name isn’t just clever marketing. These fluffy giants are baked with a tenderness that defies logic and altitude. Locals swear by them, slathered in sausage gravy or just dripping with butter and jam. And if you sit out on the patio in the summer, surrounded by cottonwoods and canyon breeze, you might just convince yourself to cancel the rest of your plans.
The menu leans into comfort food with serious flair—think meatloaf with chipotle ketchup, crab cake eggs benedict, and a killer chicken fried steak that could double as a weighted blanket. Plus, the cocktail list is surprisingly robust, and Sunday brunch here feels more like a sacred ritual than a weekend meal.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a fifth-generation Salt Laker, Ruth’s is always worth the winding drive up the canyon.
Crown Burgers: Reigning Supreme in Utah's Fast-Food Kingdom
If there were a Mount Rushmore of Salt Lake City eateries, Crown Burgers would be carved in granite, wearing a paper burger hat and wielding a spatula like a scepter. Since opening its doors in 1978, this locally owned mini-chain has been serving up the most regal of burgers: the mighty Crown Burger.
What makes a Crown Burger so legendary? In a word: pastrami. A glorious heap of thin-sliced, peppery pastrami piled high atop a quarter-pound beef patty, melted cheese, lettuce, tomato, onions, and their famed fry sauce. It’s a burger so iconic that it sparked a pastrami-on-burgers trend throughout the entire state—and no one does it quite like the original.
The Greek-American family behind Crown Burgers (shoutout to the Katsanevas and Katzourakis clans) brought a touch of their heritage to the fast-food scene, blending diner-style comfort food with Greek specialties. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the gyro, the souvlaki, or a side of rice pilaf—but really, you came for the burger, and you know it.
Order the namesake with a side of extra-crispy fries and a generous dollop of Utah’s beloved fry sauce (yes, it’s a thing, and yes, you will love it), and wash it all down with a root beer or orange whip.
There are multiple Crown Burgers locations around town, each one a little different, but all proudly carrying the family torch. It's the kind of fast food that sticks with you—in memory and, possibly, in waistband.
Red Iguana: Mole Magic & Mexican Mastery
You know a restaurant is special when the locals willingly stand in line during snowstorms for a table. Red Iguana is that kind of place. Located just west of downtown Salt Lake, this colorful, family-run institution has been dazzling taste buds with complex, soulful Mexican cuisine since 1985.
Started by Ramon and Maria Cardenas, whose family had been in the restaurant business since the 1960s, Red Iguana built its cult following one plate of mole at a time. Today, their children run the restaurant, but the secret recipes and fiery spirit remain unchanged. The place is loud, lively, and full of the smells of roasted chiles, simmering spices, and decades of culinary love.
Let’s talk mole—because that’s what you're really here for. Red Iguana offers not one, not two, but seven different moles, each made from scratch and completely distinct in flavor, texture, and aroma. Mole Negro, the crown jewel, is rich, dark, and slightly sweet, made with dried chilies, nuts, chocolate, and fruit. It’s the kind of dish that makes you stop mid-conversation and just stare at your plate in awe.
Not into mole? (First, are you sure you’re okay?) Don’t worry—the menu is a greatest hits compilation of regional Mexican specialties: cochinita pibil, chiles rellenos, carnitas, and enchiladas that burst with flavor and authenticity. Portions are generous, the margaritas are strong, and the service is as warm as the tortillas.
Pro tip: Put your name on the list, then slide into the bar area where the full menu is available—with way less wait time and just as much ambiance.
Hires Big H: Time Travel, with a Side of Root Beer
Stepping into Hires Big H is like taking a joyous leap back into the 1950s—jukebox charm, chrome fixtures, carhops gliding between cars, and the unmistakable clink of frosty mugs. Since 1959, this locally loved burger joint has been serving up Americana on a tray.
The star of the show? The Big H Burger—a Utah classic that's juicy, perfectly seasoned, and thoughtfully assembled with fresh produce, melted cheese, and that all-important fry sauce. But what really elevates the experience is the house-made root beer, still crafted using the original family recipe. Served in a chilled glass mug with a creamy head of foam, it’s practically a rite of passage.
Their hand-cut fries are the stuff of legend, crisp and golden with the perfect balance of potato fluff inside. For the full retro experience, order a cherry limeade or a thick malted milkshake. You’ll leave full, nostalgic, and probably craving more.
Hires Big H has stood the test of time, not just as a burger joint but as a cherished gathering place. Whether you're grabbing lunch with coworkers, introducing your kids to your favorite childhood meal, or just craving a taste of the good old days, Hires delivers.
The Pie Pizzeria: Underground Legend with Cheese-Laden Glory
If The Pie Pizzeria had a fan club, it would be standing-room only. And that’s saying something, considering the restaurant itself is literally underground. Located in a basement near the University of Utah, The Pie has been fueling students, professors, and night owls since 1980 with pies so massive and cheesy they should come with a gym membership.
This isn’t your average slice joint. The crust is chewy and golden, the sauce is rich and slightly sweet, and the cheese—oh, the cheese—melts and stretches in dramatic fashion. Watching someone tackle their first slice here is like witnessing a rite of passage.
The menu is loaded with quirky, flavorful options. Try the "Holy Shiitake" (yes, that’s its real name), packed with mushrooms and garlic, or the "Xtreme Veggie" for a surprisingly hearty meat-free masterpiece. The Pie also caters to vegan and gluten-free diners, which means everyone gets to join in the carb-fueled fun.
The vibe? Think low ceilings, graffiti-covered walls, and the comforting hum of laughter and late-night conversation. It’s a little gritty, a lot friendly, and totally unforgettable.
Feldman’s Deli: East Coast Flavor with Mountain West Soul
Feldman’s Deli isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a portal. One step inside and you’re whisked straight from Salt Lake to the streets of Brooklyn or the Bronx, minus the honking horns and parking stress.
Opened by Michael Feldman in 2012, this unassuming eatery on the city’s east side has become a haven for those in search of authentic Jewish deli fare. We’re talking sandwiches piled higher than the Wasatch, hand-sliced pastrami and corned beef, crispy latkes, tender knishes, and bagels so good they often sell out by mid-morning on weekends.
The "Rachel" and "Reuben" sandwiches are local legends, stacked with juicy meat, Swiss cheese, tangy kraut, and Russian dressing on rye that’s been grilled to perfection. Every bite is rich, comforting, and just a little messy—exactly as it should be.
Beyond the food, Feldman’s has heart. It’s a community gathering space, a hub for live music, and a place where you’ll be treated like family whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth. Don’t be surprised if you walk out with a new favorite sandwich and a few new friends.
Experience It All with City Sights Salt Lake City Tours
Feeling full yet? Salt Lake’s culinary offerings are just one part of the city’s vibrant culture—and the best way to experience it all is with City Sights Salt Lake City Tours. As the longest-running and most popular tour company in the city for over 44 years, they know Salt Lake like no one else.
Their Ultimate Salt Lake City Bus Tour (https://www.saltlakecitytours.org/ultimate-salt-lake-city-tour/) is a must for first-time visitors and locals alike, offering a rich overview of the city’s most iconic landmarks, neighborhoods, and hidden gems, all led by knowledgeable guides who are equal parts historians and entertainers.
Looking for something a little more theatrical? Hop aboard the Salt Lake Trolley Adventure Tour (https://www.saltlakecitytours.org/salt-lake-trolley-tour/), a lively, storytelling-driven ride through the city's past, complete with skits, music, and plenty of laughs. It’s perfect for families, history buffs, and anyone who likes their sightseeing with a dash of drama.
And for those wanting a touch of the spiritual? The Tabernacle Choir with Ultimate Salt Lake City Tour (https://www.saltlakecitytours.org/mormon-tabernacle-choir/) pairs a morning tour of the city with an unforgettable live performance by the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square.
Each tour is carefully curated, thoughtfully paced, and packed with stories you won’t find in guidebooks—plus, they’ll even recommend the best places to grab lunch (hint: it might just be one of the spots above).
So eat, explore, repeat. And when you're ready to truly see Salt Lake City, do it with the team that’s been doing it best for more than four decades: City Sights - Salt Lake City Tours.