Trolley Adventure: A Show-Tour of Salt Lake City

Explore Salt Lake City on a Vibrant Trolley Tour for $69

The Trolley Adventure: A Show-Tour of Salt Lake City offers a lively and engaging way to discover Utah’s capital. Priced at $69 per person, this 1.5 to 2-hour journey is led on a replica streetcar with a fully narrated tour by a friendly, professional local guide. The tour departs from the Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown and includes several photo stops at major landmarks, making it ideal for those seeking both entertainment and a rundown of the city’s highlights.

Traveling on a mobile ticket, this tour is recommended 14 days in advance and is designed to accommodate most travelers with a maximum of 27 guests. The tour’s cost includes all taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees, making it a straightforward, hassle-free experience. Though it lasts around 90 minutes, the entertainment, storytelling, and photo opportunities make it feel brisk yet fulfilling, with many reviewers praising the knowledgeable guides and entertaining performances.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $69 per person and lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with some flexibility up to 2 hours.
• Unique Format: Served on a replica streetcar, it combines sightseeing with live storytelling, singing, and skits.
• Major Stops: Includes iconic locations such as Salt Lake Temple, Utah State Capitol, Pioneer Mansion, and Temple Square.
• Expert Guides: Led by local guides who are praised for being friendly, informative, and entertaining.
• Photo Opportunities: Several short stops offer chances to capture pictures of landmarks like the Union Pacific Train Depot and the Salt Lake Temple.
• Family Friendly: The wholesome, fun atmosphere and professional performers make it suitable for all ages.

Starting Point and Overall Experience

The tour begins at the Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown and concludes back at the same location. The group size is limited to 27 guests, which helps maintain an intimate experience. The fully narrated tour ensures that you receive detailed explanations of the city’s history and sights, often delivered with songs, jokes, and performances that keep the atmosphere lively.

This tour is especially popular among visitors who want a compact, entertaining introduction to Salt Lake City’s landmarks. Its pricing, entertainment value, and stops at notable sites make it an attractive option for those short on time or looking for a fun way to learn about the city’s past and present.

The Historic Salt Lake Temple and Temple Square

One of the highlight stops is the Salt Lake Temple, recognized as Utah’s most famous structure. Built in 1893 with granite carved from the Rocky Mountains, it is styled in Gothic architecture and is the largest temple in the world for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. During the tour, you’ll learn about its history, although some views may be partially obstructed if Temple Square is under construction—a recent caveat noted by some visitors.

The tour also visits Temple Square, which is appreciated for its significance and beauty. Even if views are limited, the guide explains the importance and stories behind these iconic buildings, enriching your understanding of the city’s religious and cultural roots.

The Utah State Capitol: A Stunning Landmark

The Utah State Capitol is voted the second most beautiful in the United States. During a 10-minute stop, visitors can admire its architecture and snap photos of the impressive building set against the city skyline. This landmark’s elegant design and surrounding grounds make it a photo-worthy highlight on the tour. Admission is free, allowing plenty of time for photos and brief exploration.

The Gateway and Winter Olympics Memories

A short 5-minute stop at The Gateway offers stories of Salt Lake City’s role in hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics. The Olympic Snowflake Fountain is a visual highlight, and the photo stop at the historic Union Pacific Train Depot gives a glimpse of the city’s railroad history. The guide shares stories of the Olympics, adding a lively narrative to the visit.

The Historic Government Building and Cathedral of the Madeleine

The tour includes a view of a historic government building, once used as city hall in the 1800s, highlighting Salt Lake’s political history. The Cathedral of the Madeleine, serving as the mother church for Utah Catholics, is another short stop. Visitors learn about its architecture and significance, adding cultural depth to the tour.

Pioneer Heritage and Genealogy Library

A visit to Brigham Young’s pioneer mansion offers insight into the founder’s life and the early settlers of Utah. Nearby, the largest genealogy library in the world is a key highlight, especially for those interested in family history research. The tour provides a brief overview of the library’s importance and its role in genealogical studies.

The Salt Lake Temple and the Modern Library

At the Salt Lake Temple, the tour emphasizes its architectural grandeur and historical importance. Adjacent to it, the award-winning modern library—voted “America’s Library of the Year”—stands out for its innovative architecture. Visitors get a tease of Utah’s blend of history and modernity through these two landmarks.

City Creek Center: Shopping and Early History

The City Creek Center is also part of the tour route. This $1.5 billion outdoor shopping mall features a retractable glass roof and is built on the site of “America’s first department store.” It has become one of Utah’s top shopping destinations, combining retail, dining, and entertainment. The tour touches on its early history and current status as a shopping hub, making it interesting for those curious about Salt Lake’s urban development.

The Pacing, Entertainment, and Guide Talent

Multiple reviews highlight that the guides are entertaining, personable, and knowledgeable. They perform skits, songs, and character portrayals that make the history lessons memorable. The timing of the stops is well-paced, with short, focused visits at each landmark to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed.

The entertainment aspect—with singers and performers—adds a lively touch that many find more enjoyable than a standard city tour. The storytelling style combined with music and humor makes the experience both educational and fun, especially for families and groups wanting a lighthearted yet informative introduction to Salt Lake City.

Logistics and Practical Tips

The meeting point at the Radisson Hotel Downtown makes it easy to access via public transportation. The mobile ticket system simplifies the check-in process. Since the tour is most often booked 14 days in advance, planning ahead ensures availability, especially during peak travel times. The tour duration being approximately 90 minutes makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.

For those with mobility concerns, the short stops are manageable, but the standing or sitting during the ride should be considered. The tour’s friendly pace and family-friendly tone make it suitable for most age groups.

Final Thoughts on the Salt Lake City Trolley Tour

This show-tour, with its entertaining guides, stunning landmarks, and interactive storytelling, offers a memorable introduction to Salt Lake City. The $69 price point provides good value, especially given the number of landmarks covered and the entertaining performance elements verified by many reviewers.

While some stops, like Temple Square, may have view restrictions during construction, the storytelling and photo opportunities compensate for that. This tour appeals most to visitors seeking a fun, informative, and engaging way to quickly get familiar with Utah’s capital.

It’s particularly well-suited for families, first-time visitors, and those wanting a lively overview with musical and theatrical flair. The professional guides and well-organized stops make this a highlight in Salt Lake City’s sightseeing options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the wholesome entertainment, storytelling, and lively performances make it appropriate for most ages.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, with some variation up to 2 hours depending on stops.

Where does the tour start?
It starts at the Radisson Hotel Salt Lake City Downtown and ends at the same location.

What is included in the price?
The $69 fee covers all taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees, with all stops included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing full refunds if canceled in time.

Are there any restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the standing or sitting during the ride.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its combination of entertainment, live performances, and landmark stops, all delivered on a replica streetcar, creates a fun, energetic experience.

Is there a coffee or snack stop during the tour?
While not explicitly detailed, some reviews mention included drinks and snacks, adding to the enjoyment.

What are the highlights of the stops?
Expect Salt Lake Temple, State Capitol, Pioneer Mansion, and City Creek Center, among others, with photo opportunities and informative commentary.

How are the guides?
Guides are praised for being friendly, talented, and knowledgeable, often performing songs and skits to bring the city’s history alive.