Thinking about exploring Salt Lake City but not quite sure how to make the most of your time? This hop-on hop-off bus tour offers a relaxed, flexible way to see key sights without the hassle of navigating on your own. It’s especially appealing if you’re someone who appreciates comfort, live commentary, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.

What really caught our eye is that it’s the only double-decker hop-on hop-off in Salt Lake City—giving you that classic sightseeing feel and panoramic views from the top deck. Plus, having live guides enriches the experience with stories and insights you just don’t get from a map or app. On the flip side, the price of $55 per person for a full day might seem a little steep if you’re budget-conscious, but considering the convenience and the variety of stops, it can be quite good value.

This tour suits a wide range of travelers—whether you’re a first-time visitor wanting to tick off major landmarks or someone who prefers a laid-back way to get a feel for the city without committing to a full-blown guided tour. It’s also straightforward to hop on and off, making it easy to customize your day.

Key Points

Unique Double-Decker: The only open-top, double-decker hop-on hop-off in Salt Lake City provides great views and classic sightseeing vibes.
Live Commentary: Knowledgeable guides share stories and details, making each stop more meaningful.
Flexible Schedule: 24 hours of unlimited access means you can explore at your own pace and revisit sites easily.
Prime Locations: Stops include Temple Square, Utah State Capitol, City Hall, Gateway Mall, and more—covering the city’s must-see attractions.
Extras: Enjoy discounts at local restaurants, shops, and attractions, adding extra value to your day.
Weather Comfort: Climate-controlled seating makes this tour accessible in all weather conditions.

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Exploring Salt Lake City on the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

Let’s walk through what you’ll experience on this tour, step by step. Starting from the Salt Palace Convention Center, you’ll board a comfortable, closed-top double-decker bus that takes you on a loop through downtown Salt Lake City. The route is designed to hit the city’s most notable spots, with buses running every 35 minutes—so you won’t be waiting long to hop back on and continue your sightseeing.

First Stop: Gateway Mall
This area is a lively hub with attractions like the Clark Planetarium and Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum. Whether you’re traveling with kids or just want to indulge your curiosity about space and science, this stop is great. You’ll find shops and eateries too, making it a nice place to stretch your legs and soak in the city vibe.

Next: City Hall & The Leonardo Museum
City Hall offers a glimpse into local governance, while The Leonardo Museum combines art, science, and innovation in a way that’s engaging for all ages. The guides often share stories about Salt Lake City’s development here, which adds context that makes the visit more enriching.

The Utah State Capitol
This is arguably the highlight with sweeping views of the city and a chance for some stunning photos. The Capitol’s architecture is impressive, and the guides tend to share stories about Utah’s history that make the visit more memorable. Expect to spend some time here, soaking in the views and snapping photos.

Daughters of Utah Pioneers Museum
Here, you’ll find artifacts and stories that reveal Utah’s pioneering past. It’s a quiet, reflective stop that adds depth to your understanding of the area’s history. Many reviews mention how the guides’ commentary makes this stop come alive, with one noting, “The guides really bring the history to life.”

Temple Square
The final major stop is Temple Square, home to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Church History Museums. It’s one of Salt Lake’s most iconic and meaningful sites. You can explore the Visitor Center, the historic Tabernacle, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. You’re encouraged to wander at your own pace here, making it a perfect spot for photos or a quiet moment.

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What It Feels Like to Ride the Bus

The buses are described as comfortable, with climate-controlled seats—important if you’re visiting in extremes of weather. The double-decker layout offers excellent vantage points, especially on the top deck, where many reviews praise the views of the city and surrounding mountains. The live commentary is a standout feature, with guides providing entertaining and insightful stories that elevate the experience beyond just a scenic ride.

A common compliment from travelers is how knowledgeable the guides are. One reviewer shared, “The guides knew so much and made every stop interesting,” which shows how much personality and expertise can enhance what might otherwise be a simple city tour.

While the tour is a great way to get an overview, some travelers mention that it’s best suited for those comfortable with hopping on and off buses and walking at stops. It’s not a full-depth guided tour of every site, but rather a fantastic overview that leaves space for exploration afterward.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $55 per person, the value really depends on your priorities. For the convenience of not worrying about parking or navigating city streets, it’s fair. Plus, the inclusion of live guides and scenic views makes it enjoyable. The additional discounts at local spots also add value if you’re planning to eat or shop around the stops.

If you’re on a tight budget, you might find cheaper ways to see some attractions separately, but you’ll lose the flexibility and comfort of this guided bus experience. For visitors wanting a relaxed, informative introduction to Salt Lake City, this tour is a good investment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is especially well-suited for first-time visitors who want an overview of Salt Lake City without committing to multiple different tours. It’s great for those who appreciate comfortable transportation, live narration, and the flexibility to hop on and off as they please.

Travelers with limited time will find it efficient, and those who enjoy sightseeing from a double-decker bus will appreciate the views from above. While not specifically geared toward families, the stops are generally interesting and suitable for a broad audience.

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Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a simple, no-stress way to get a broad sense of Salt Lake City, this hop-on hop-off tour offers a solid combination of comfort, flexibility, and local insight. The live guides are a highlight, making each stop more engaging and helping you connect the dots of the city’s history and culture.

The scenic views from the double-decker are a real plus, especially around the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. The route covers the city’s main attractions without feeling rushed, and the ability to revisit sites means you can tailor the day to your interests.

While the price might be a consideration for budget travelers, many find that the convenience, guided commentary, and added discounts justify the cost. It’s a worthwhile way to orient yourself in Salt Lake City, particularly if you like a relaxed pace and insightful storytelling.

Ready to Book?

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

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour runs on a 35-minute loop, with unlimited hop-on hop-off access for 24 hours, so you can take your time exploring each stop.

Where do I meet the bus?
Buses depart from the Salt Palace Convention Center, East Entrance, which is centrally located and easy to find.

Is the tour suitable for all weather?
Yes, the buses have climate-controlled seating, so you’re comfortable whether it’s hot, cold, or rainy.

Can I join the tour at any stop?
Absolutely, you can hop on or off at any of the designated stops along the route, giving you flexibility throughout the day.

Are the guides available in languages other than English?
The tour includes live commentary in English—if you’re looking for other languages, you might want to check with the provider directly.

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 there discounts available?
Yes, you’ll enjoy exclusive discounts at selected restaurants, shops, and attractions as part of your tour.

Is it family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for families, the stops and commentary are generally suitable for all ages.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Is this a guided tour or just transportation?
It’s a guided tour with live narration, so you get insightful stories and information during your ride.

If you’re after an easy, engaging way to get familiar with Salt Lake City, this hop-on hop-off bus tour might just be the perfect fit. It offers a relaxing, informative, and scenic way to see the city’s highlights—especially if you enjoy stories from friendly guides and views from a double-decker.