Salt Lake City: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

If you’re planning a visit to Salt Lake City and want to see the highlights without the hassle of figuring out transportation or sticking to a strict schedule, the Salt Lake City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour might be just what you’re looking for. This one-day adventure offers a convenient way to explore the city at your own pace, making it ideal for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

What immediately catches the eye about this tour is that it’s the only double-decker hop-on hop-off in Salt Lake City — a feature that adds a classic sightseeing vibe and offers great vantage points for photos. Coupled with live commentary, comfort, and the ability to hop off and wander around top attractions, it promises a flexible, engaging experience.

However, it’s worth noting that the tour is priced at $55 per person for 24 hours of access, which could seem steep for some, but the value is in the convenience and guided insights. This experience is perfect for those who enjoy exploring with a guided touch but prefer to set their own pace and itinerary.

Good To Know

• Unique Double-Decker Bus: The only one of its kind in Salt Lake City offers scenic views from the top deck.
• Flexible 24-Hour Pass: You can hop on and off at will, exploring major sights comfortably.
• Live Narration: Knowledgeable guides provide engaging commentary, adding context to each stop.
• Top Attractions Covered: From Temple Square to the Utah State Capitol, you’ll see the city’s highlights.
• Exclusive Discounts: Savings at select restaurants, shops, and attractions add extra value.
• Accessibility and Convenience: Mobile tickets and real-time bus tracking make planning easier.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Tour Works: What to Expect

Starting from the Salt Palace Convention Center, your journey is a smooth introduction to Salt Lake City’s most iconic locations. The bus runs on a 35-minute loop, meaning you won’t be waiting long between stops, and the climate-controlled seating ensures comfort regardless of the weather.

Once onboard, the live commentary, delivered by certified guides, helps you understand the significance of each site. We loved the detailed stories and anecdotes, which brought the city’s landmarks to life — something you might miss if exploring solo. According to reviews, guides like Jared and Sarah are particularly praised for their engaging, humorous, and informative narration.

First Stop: Gateway Mall

Your first stop is Gateway Mall, a vibrant shopping and entertainment hub. Here, you can visit the Clark Planetarium or the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum. Many visitors appreciate the ease of hopping off for a quick stroll, especially families with children, as one review notes, “The bus made it easy for us to see the city without rushing or worrying about parking.”

City Hall and the Leonardo Museum

Next, the bus takes you past Salt Lake City Hall, an impressive historic building, and the Leonardo Museum, where innovation, art, and science collide. The guides are good at pointing out interesting facts, such as the building’s architecture or the museum’s latest exhibits. Reviewers have mentioned the live narration here as particularly engaging, making the quick stop worthwhile.

The Utah State Capitol

A highlight for many is the Utah State Capitol, perched atop Capitol Hill. The views from here are breathtaking, offering sweeping panoramas of Salt Lake City and the surrounding mountains. Several reviews emphasize how this stop provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Utah’s governance history. The guides often share lesser-known stories about Utah’s founding, which visitors find adds depth.

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Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum and Temple Square

Further along, you can hop off at the Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum to explore artifacts from Utah’s early settlers. It’s a quieter, more reflective stop that offers insight into the state’s frontier days. The final major stop is Temple Square, home to the Tabernacle, FamilySearch Library, and Church History Museums. Visitors cherish the opportunity to explore these iconic sites at their own pace, and many mention the scenic views and historic ambiance as memorable highlights.

The Quality of Transportation and Guides

The double-decker buses are praised for their comfort and ease of boarding. The climate-controlled environment means you stay comfortable regardless of weather. The buses operate continuously on a loop, so you can maximize your time at each stop without feeling rushed.

The live guides are a standout feature. According to user feedback, guides like Mike and Lisa are not only knowledgeable but also entertaining, sharing personal stories and local insights. Their commentary adds a layer of authenticity to the experience that a recorded audio guide simply cannot match.

Value and Cost Analysis

At $55 per person, the tour offers significant value considering it includes unlimited hop-on hop-off access for a full 24 hours, live guides, and discounts at local attractions. For visitors wanting to see the city’s landmarks without the hassle of public transportation or car rentals, this can be a cost-effective option.

The discounts at selected restaurants, shops, and attractions are an attractive perk, often offsetting part of the ticket price. Visitors have noted that these discounts make dining and shopping more affordable, especially for those planning to explore downtown extensively.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This hop-on hop-off experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Salt Lake City’s main sights without the stress of navigating public transit or taxis. It’s also great for families who want a flexible way to see the city comfortably, or for solo travelers who enjoy guided commentary but prefer their own pace.

If you value scenic views, engaging guides, and the convenience of a temperature-controlled vehicle, this tour ticks plenty of boxes. However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer more specialized, niche tours (like outdoor adventures or off-the-beaten-path sights), you might want to explore other options.

The Sum Up

The Salt Lake City Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour offers an engaging, flexible, and informative way to explore one of Utah’s most distinctive cities. For around $55, you gain access to top landmarks, insightful guides, and the comfort of a double-decker bus, all with the freedom to explore at your own pace.

It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors eager to get a broad overview without the stress of planning complex logistics. The scenic views from the top deck and the stories shared by knowledgeable guides add an authentic touch that makes the experience memorable.

While the price may seem high for a single day, the value is clear in the convenience, insights, and extra discounts included. Whether you’re interested in Utah’s history, stunning architecture, or simply want to enjoy Salt Lake City from a comfortable vantage point, this tour delivers a well-rounded, hassle-free introduction.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The bus operates on a 35-minute loop, giving you plenty of opportunities to stop and explore each site at your own pace within the 24-hour access window.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at the Salt Palace Convention Center, East Entrance, a central and accessible location.

Can I join the tour at any stop?
Yes, the pass allows you to hop on and off at any of the stops along the route during your 24 hours.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Do I need to print my ticket?
No, the tour offers easy mobile ticketing, so you can show your ticket electronically.

Are there guides available in other languages?
Currently, the commentary is in English, but the guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the experience accessible.

What attractions are included?
Stops include Gateway Mall, City Hall, the Leonardo Museum, Utah State Capitol, Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum, and Temple Square.

Are entrance fees to attractions included?
No, entrance fees are separate, but discounts are available at selected attractions and shops.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera to capture the scenic views and memorable moments from the top deck.

This Salt Lake City hop-on hop-off tour strikes a great balance between guided insights and flexible exploration. It’s a smart choice for anyone wanting to make the most of a single day in this vibrant city, especially if weather and comfort are priorities.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby