Private Guided Tour of Salt Lake City

If you’re considering a way to truly get to know Salt Lake City beyond just passing through, a private guided tour like this one might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally done this particular experience, I’ve gone through the details and the rave reviews, and it sounds like an excellent way to see the city with a knowledgeable guide at your side.

What really draws me in about this tour is its customizable nature—you can pick what interests you most, whether it’s the historic sites, architectural marvels, or cultural landmarks. Plus, the reviews emphasize how friendly and well-informed the guides are, making the experience not just educational but genuinely enjoyable.

That said, a potential consideration is the length of the tour, which can stretch from three to five hours—so it’s worth planning your day accordingly. It also doesn’t include meals, so be prepared to find a lunch spot during your outing.

This kind of tour is especially suited for travelers who love flexibility and personalized experiences, and those who appreciate a good mix of history, architecture, and local flavor. Whether you’re a first-timer or someone wanting a fresh perspective on Salt Lake City, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Highly customizable: Pick the sites you’re most interested in or make last-minute adjustments.
• Expert guide: Guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility.
• Includes major landmarks: From the Utah State Capitol to Heritage Park, you get a well-rounded view.
• Private transportation: Comfortable, personalized rides enhance the experience.
• Free admission at many stops means you get a lot of value for the price.
• Duration flexibility: Tour length varies, allowing you to choose a shorter or longer outing.

What the Tour Offers: A Closer Look

This private Salt Lake City tour is designed to be your own personal adventure—a flexible, curated experience that respects your interests. You don’t have to follow a rigid schedule; instead, you get to choose what to see, with the added benefit of a guide who can adapt on the fly. This approach is perfect if you have specific sites you’re eager to explore or if you want to skip places that don’t appeal to you.

The Main Stops and What They Offer

Utah State Capitol

We loved the way the tour kicks off at the Utah State Capitol. The building’s interior, with its sweeping granite surfaces and intricate woodwork, feels both grand and welcoming. It’s a prime spot for photos and for soaking in some local pride. The souvenir shop across the street is an extra bonus, offering fun Utah-themed keepsakes.

The best part? It’s free to enter, and you can spend roughly 45 minutes here without feeling rushed. Many reviews highlight this as a highlight—one traveler mentioned their favorite part was the organ rehearsal at the nearby Salt Lake Tabernacle, which showcases the musical talent and engineering marvels of the city.

The Conference Center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Next, you’re taken to a building that’s as impressive architecturally as it is historically significant. The Conference Center is the largest theater-style auditorium ever built, large enough to hold a Boeing 747. That’s a pretty staggering fact and makes you realize how much effort and scale went into this structure.

You’ll learn that it hosts biannual General Conferences and features 60 interpreting booths translating into 92 languages—second only to the United Nations. The organ inside has 7,667 pipes, with only 170 visible, and the three-story chandelier creates quite a visual impact. Bonus: there’s a rooftop garden offering some peaceful views.

Many visitors comment on how this site helps put the local culture into context—it’s a worthwhile stop for anyone curious about Salt Lake’s religious and architectural history.

City Creek Center

Concluding at City Creek Mall, you’ll enjoy a different vibe—the bustling, modern city center with a natural creek running right through it. The outdoor levels, food court, fountains, and skybridge make it a lively spot to relax, grab a bite, or do some light shopping.

This stop is about 30 minutes long, perfect for a quick walk and some people-watching. Given that it’s free to explore, it’s a convenient and pleasant way to wind down your tour. Several reviews mention how nice it is to end the day here, especially if you’re in need of a casual break.

Temple Square (Optional, by request)

While this is a renowned site, it’s only available if you request it. The square is undergoing renovation, so access might be limited. Still, it’s worth noting since many visitors find it a must-see—its gardens, architecture, and history are compelling.

This is the Place Heritage Park

A favorite among history buffs, this park commemorates the arrival of Mormon pioneers in 1847. Brigham Young’s declaration, “This is the right place,” is a pivotal moment in local history. The park allows you to walk through recreated pioneer settlements, giving you a tangible sense of the past.

Most reviews praise this stop, noting the historical significance and how it brings the early settlers’ stories to life—without the crowds or commercial feel of larger attractions.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour’s value really hinges on the private transportation and the guide’s expertise. For $150 per person, you’re getting a personalized experience, which many find well worth the cost. The transportation is either the guide’s personal vehicle or a rented van, depending on group size, adding to the comfort and convenience.

Your guide, Shawn, receives glowing reviews for his friendliness, knowledge, and flexibility. He’s open to customizing the itinerary, which means you’ll get a tailored experience rather than a cookie-cutter tour.

Note: Lunch isn’t included, so plan for a meal during the tour. You’ll have opportunities to stop at eateries along the way or bring snacks if you prefer.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts between three to five hours, so you can decide how long you want to spend at each location. It’s a private activity, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a more relaxed and engaging experience.

This makes it ideal for travelers who value a more intimate, flexible approach—whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends.

The Experience in Review: What Travelers Say

The reviews speak volumes about the quality of this experience. One feature consistently praised is the knowledgeability and personable nature of the guides. Multiple reviewers mention how Shawn went out of his way to accommodate requests and made the trip feel personalized.

Others highlight the beauty of Salt Lake City’s sights, especially mentioning the breathtaking views from Ensign Peak and the impressive architecture of the Capitol and Conference Center.

A visitor shared, “Our tour guide Shawn was very knowledgeable… We saw and learned so much,” which encapsulates what many feel about this experience—it’s not just a sightseeing trip but an educational journey.

Several reviews mention the organ rehearsal and concert at the Salt Lake Tabernacle as a standout moment, offering a rare glimpse into Utah’s musical heritage.

The feedback indicates that this tour offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized approach, the variety of sites, and the positive interactions with the guide.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private tour is best suited for those who:

• Want a customized experience tailored to their interests.
• Appreciate local insights from a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
• Have limited time but want to see the highlights and some hidden gems.
• Prefer flexibility in the schedule and stops.
• Are comfortable with a moderate physical level, as some sites involve walking.
• Value private transportation for comfort and convenience.

It’s not necessarily aimed at families with very young children or travelers seeking a highly structured, large-group experience. Instead, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed, personalized approach to city sightseeing.

The Sum Up

If you’re eager to explore Salt Lake City in a way that feels personal, flexible, and insightful, this private guided tour ticks all those boxes. The ability to choose your stops and have a friendly guide like Shawn makes the experience engaging and educational. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like the Utah State Capitol and Heritage Park, learn about the city’s religious and cultural roots, and finish at a lively shopping area—all in about 3 to 5 hours.

While it’s not a comprehensive, all-day sightseeing extravaganza, the tour’s tailored nature means you get a more meaningful glimpse of Salt Lake City’s character. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who value personalization and expert local knowledge without the crowds or cookie-cutter formats.

Just keep in mind that it’s best for those who are comfortable with walking a bit and who plan to have lunch during the trip, as food isn’t included. The price may seem high for some, but considering the private guide, transportation, and flexible itinerary, many find it to be a worthwhile investment.

For anyone looking to make the most of a short stay or wanting a more authentic, personalized taste of Salt Lake City, this tour offers a great starting point—and the positive reviews suggest you’ll come away feeling more connected to the city than you would with a standard group tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While the tour is flexible and can be customized, it’s designed for travelers with a moderate physical fitness level. Children comfortable with walking and sitting during the stops will likely enjoy it, but it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour.

How long does the tour take?
The tour lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours, depending on how much time you spend at each site and the pace you prefer.

What sites are included?
Most stops are optional, but the main ones are the Utah State Capitol, Conference Center, City Creek Center, and Heritage Park. Temple Square is available upon request.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is provided, either via the guide’s personal vehicle or a rented van, depending on your group size.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have opportunities to stop for food during the tour.

Can I modify the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be customizable—just communicate your preferences to your guide.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 64 days in advance, but it can be scheduled sooner if there’s availability.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour suitable in all weather conditions?
Yes, but if the weather is poor, the experience may be adjusted, or you may be offered an alternative date or full refund.

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized way to discover Salt Lake City’s highlights, this tour could be just the thing. With flexible stops, a friendly guide, and the chance to tailor your experience, it offers a practical and memorable way to get to know Utah’s capital.