Discover Salt Lake City's remarkable journey from a pioneer settlement to a modern metropolis with a passionate local guide. Stroll through historic neighborhoods that reveal the stories of diverse communities—from Greek Town to Little Italy. Hear captivating tales of early settlers, architectural marvels, and cultural landmarks, all while enjoying the personalized atmosphere of a small-group tour that feels more like exploring with a knowledgeable friend than following a traditional guide.
Meet your guide at the main entrance of the FamilySearch Center, wearing an official Matei Travel badge and carrying a backpack. Please arrive 10 minutes early — your guide will wait up to 15 minutes. Parking available at Plaza Hotel Garage and City Creek Center.
Our Salt Lake City adventure begins at the FamilySearch Center—the world’s largest genealogical library. Home to billions of family history records, it stands as a living monument to the power of family connections across generations. Here begins the fascinating story of how pioneers transformed this valley into the “City of Zion.”
First, we’ll explore Abravanel Hall, the stunning glass-facade home of the Utah Symphony Orchestra, representing Salt Lake City’s vibrant cultural heart with its world-class acoustics. From there, we’ll head to the Delta Center, where legendary basketball games and the city’s newly beloved hockey team create unforgettable sporting memories.
Next, we’ll explore the historic Devereaux Mansion, a Civil War–era landmark that has recently found new fame as a filming location for a popular comedy series. We’ll also visit the train station where Utah’s railroad story began. Once a hub for the city’s tramway network—the first urban public transit system—it connected Salt Lake City’s outlying neighborhoods and helped establish the city as a center of transportation innovation in the American West.
Next, we'll venture into a neighborhood that was at various times known as Greek Town, Little Italy, and the Railroad District, reflecting its rich and diverse history. Our path will lead us to Rio Grande Station, the historic railroad hub, and then to Pioneer Park, built on the site of the first fort, which stood as a symbol of hope and protection for the early settlers.
At Temple Square, we'll walk to the magnificent Eagle Gate monument, a symbolic entrance to the city's heart and architectural masterpiece. You'll discover fascinating details about each building in this massive complex that required half a century to complete. This sacred place for millions of believers features exquisite flowers and stunning landscape designs year-round. At the square's center stands its crown jewel—the grand Salt Lake Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, showcasing remarkable grandeur and architectural perfection. We'll then ascend to one of the world's largest rooftop gardens, where an unforgettable city panorama awaits—a breathtaking view that will leave you speechless.
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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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