Salt Lake City: Trolley Show-Tour

Looking for an activity that combines entertainment with sightseeing in Salt Lake City? The Salt Lake City Trolley Show-Tour offers a lively, theatrical twist on exploring the city’s historic districts. Rather than a typical bus or walking tour, this experience is a 90-minute ride aboard a colorful, vintage trolley, brought to life by professional actors performing skits, songs, and stories that highlight Salt Lake’s fascinating past.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the way it blends entertainment with education, making it ideal for families, history buffs, or anyone wanting a relaxed but engaging look at Salt Lake City’s roots. We especially love the friendly, experienced guides—who are also performers—that keep things fun and lively. One potential consideration? The trolley’s low windows limit visibility for those standing or sitting outside, so don’t expect panoramic views, but the laughter and storytelling more than compensate.

If you’re after an activity that’s light-hearted, inclusive, and packed with local character, this trolley tour might just be your perfect fit. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a relaxed pace, enjoy comedic storytelling, and want a memorable story to take home.

Key Points

• Unique format: It’s not just a sightseeing tour—it’s a show with actors bringing history to life.
• Comfortable ride: The trolley is air-conditioned and colorful, adding to the vintage charm.
• Fun extras: You’re served Cracker Jacks and old-fashioned sodas, elevating the nostalgic feel.
• Engaging guides: The guides are professional performers who entertain and educate simultaneously.
• Photo stops: Multiple opportunities to step off the trolley and capture photos or pose with the conductor.
• Affordable value: At $69 per person, it offers a fun, entertaining way to see the city, especially considering the lively performances and treats included.

An In-Depth Look at the Salt Lake City Trolley Show-Tour

What to Expect from the Experience

This isn’t your average trolley ride. The colorful, restored trolley streetcar is a highlight in itself, exuding vintage charm and making for a memorable ride. The air-conditioned carriage ensures comfort, especially during warmer months, and the friendly, professional guides double as performers, adding a theatrical flair.

Once onboard, you’ll be swept into a 90-minute guided tour through Salt Lake City’s historic districts. The guides, dressed in period costumes, tell the story of Salt Lake’s founders and significant sites through skits, songs, and comedic storytelling. This approach transforms history into an engaging narrative, making it particularly appealing for younger audiences or anyone who appreciates humor and theatrics.

The Route and Stops

While specific details on the route aren’t provided, reviewers note that the tour cruises through historic districts, giving guests an overview of Salt Lake City’s background. The trolley’s design means views are limited due to low windows, so most of the visual experience comes from the storytelling rather than panoramic scenery.

However, the tour includes multiple photo stops where guests can disembark briefly to take pictures or even pose with the conductor—adding a personal touch and opportunities for memorable photos. One reviewer mentioned that pulling over for better views could have enhanced the experience, but overall, the focus remains on entertainment rather than sightseeing.

The Entertainment and Guides

What truly sets this tour apart is the performing guides—they are not just narrators but actors actively portraying Salt Lake City’s founders and historical figures. Their costumes and acting are highlighted as excellent, with reviews praising their ability to balance humor and authenticity.

Guests often mention that the guides’ storytelling makes the history come alive, making it more than just a dry narration. The performances are described as professional, with one reviewer emphasizing that the staff is kid-friendly and engaging for all ages.

Food and Treats

Adding to the nostalgic charm, the tour offers Cracker Jacks and old-fashioned sodas during the ride. These treats help set the mood, making the experience feel like a step back in time. It’s a small but thoughtful inclusion that enhances the overall value and fun.

Practical Details

• Duration: 1.5 hours — perfect for a relaxed, engaging activity without feeling rushed.
• Price: $69 per person — a reasonable price considering the entertainment, storytelling, and treats.
• Meeting Point: The trolley parks curbside in front of the Radisson Downtown Hotel, 10-15 minutes before the tour begins.
• Parking: Available nearby at a paid lot on John Stockton Drive, just a short walk across the street.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, or large bags due to limited space inside the trolley.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travel plans.

What the Reviews Say

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, describing them as great entertainers who bring the city’s history to life. Jeff, a recent visitor, shared, “Great driver and tour guides. The opportunity to learn about the city and sites while being entertained was awesome.”

Another reviewer, Judy, appreciated the authenticity of the actors and costumes but noted that viewing from inside the trolley was limited due to the low windows. She suggested that more frequent pulling over might improve sightseeing, but overall, she found the tour very enjoyable and entertaining.

Families and groups alike have found the tour kid-friendly and engaging, with Andrew mentioning that the mix of entertainment and learning was perfect for all ages. Caitlyn highlighted the professional staff and fun performances, emphasizing how the tour effectively combines education with lively entertainment.

Is It Worth It?

Considering the price point of $69, this tour offers substantial value. You’re paying for a unique, theatrical approach to city sightseeing, combined with treats and photo opportunities. It’s especially appealing if you favor interactive, fun experiences over traditional bus or walking tours.

The limited sightseeing scope may be a drawback for those seeking panoramic views or in-depth historical details, but for most visitors, the storytelling and entertainment outweigh these considerations. The small group size and personalized approach likely enhance the experience, making it feel exclusive and intimate.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trolley show is best suited for families, couples, or groups looking for a relaxed, fun way to explore Salt Lake City. It’s perfect for history lovers who enjoy storytelling with humor, as well as those who appreciate a bit of theatrical flair. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll find it particularly engaging and suitable for all ages.

On the other hand, adventure seekers seeking panoramic vistas or in-depth historical tours might prefer other options. Also, wheelchair users and those with large bags should note that the trolley’s space is limited and not accessible.

The Sum Up

The Salt Lake City Trolley Show-Tour offers a delightful blend of entertainment and local history, delivered by talented guides who know how to keep guests engaged. It’s a lighthearted, family-friendly activity that provides a unique perspective on Salt Lake’s past with plenty of laughs along the way.

While the views are somewhat limited, the storytelling, costumes, and treats create an authentic, nostalgic atmosphere that makes the experience memorable. For travelers wanting a fun, relaxed way to learn about Salt Lake City without the stress of walking or navigating large groups, this tour delivers excellent value.

If you’re after an interactive experience that entertains both kids and adults, this trolley show could be just what you need. It’s a perfect addition to any Salt Lake City itinerary, especially for those who enjoy a good story told with humor and flair.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small children?
Yes, it is quite kid-friendly, with entertaining guides and a fun atmosphere. However, keep in mind there’s minimal walking involved.

Can I book this tour last minute?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making last-minute bookings flexible.

Where does the tour start?
The trolley parks curbside on the street in front of the Radisson Downtown Hotel. Be sure to arrive 10-15 minutes early.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, there’s a paid lot directly across the street at 40 John Stockton Drive. Arrive a bit early to pay and cross the street.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 90 minutes, making it a manageable activity for most travelers.

Can I expect good photo opportunities?
There are several photo stops where you can step off and take pictures or pose with the conductor, but window views from inside the trolley are limited.

Is there any food or drinks included?
Yes, you’ll be served Cracker Jacks and old-fashioned sodas during the ride, adding a nostalgic touch.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, due to space constraints, it’s not suitable for wheelchairs, strollers, or large bags.

This lively trolley tour offers a charming, humorous lens on Salt Lake City’s history, making it an excellent choice for those wanting an enjoyable, memorable way to explore the city’s story.