Temple Square

The Basics

Located in downtown Salt Lake City, Temple Square is the world headquarters of the LDS Church, as well as Utah’s number-one tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. In addition to the architecturally impressive temple, the 35-acre (14-hectare) complex includes the tabernacle and its 11,623-pipe organ, two visitor centers, and a museum called the Beehive House, about Brigham Young and his family.

Those with an interest in genealogy won’t want to miss the Family History Library, the largest of its kind in the world. By bike, trolley, or hop-on hop-off bus, most Salt Lake City sightseeing tours stop at Temple Square.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Temple Square is a must-see for all first-time visitors.

• Explore the grounds on your own or opt for a guided tour with an organ recital or Mormon Tabernacle Choir performance.

• The Salt Lake Temple itself isn’t open for tours, but the grounds are.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes; attractions are spread out across 35 acres.

• All facilities in Temple Square are wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

While the easiest way to reach Temple Square is by car, it’s also possible to take the green or blue TRAX line to either the Temple Square or City Center stop. There are also shuttles from Salt Lake City International Airport that stop at the square.

When to Get There

Temple Square is open daily throughout the year. If possible, plan to visit for a scheduled organ recital or Mormon Tabernacle Choir performance. Live outdoor concerts take place throughout summer, and in winter millions of lights adorn the square and its many holiday-related tableaus.

The Mormon Tabernacle Choir

A small choir that first performed in 1847 has grown into one of the world’s top music groups. The choir comprises 360 volunteer members who regularly perform a range of spiritual, popular, classic, and contemporary music in the tabernacle. They typically perform each Sunday morning, but Thursday evening rehearsals are also open to the public.

Ways to explore

Temple Square draws millions of visitors each year. In addition to the architecturally impressive Salt Lake Temple, the 35-acre (14-hectare) complex is home to more than a dozen other sights related to Mormon history, including the tabernacle and its 11,623-pipe organ, the Church History Museum, the Mormon Pioneer Memorial Monument, and the Deuel Pioneer Log Home.

Additionally, if you’re interested in genealogy, don’t miss the FamilySearch Library, the largest of its kind in the world. Most Salt Lake City sightseeing tours—including bike, trolley, and hop-on hop-off bus itineraries—stop at Temple Square.

Accessibility

Temple Square is generally accessible to wheelchair users, except for the historic Beehive House.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sun or rain protection, camera, water bottle and snacks, handheld bag

What to wear

While there is no strict dress code, it may be best to dress conservatively out of respect for visiting worshipers.

Not allowed

Smoking, alcoholic beverages, weapons, cycling, skateboarding

Amenities

Restrooms, water fountains, tours

Address 

Temple Square is in downtown Salt Lake City. The area can be easily reached by car, taxi, or rideshare, and is also well-served by public transportation. To see its top sights, explore on foot or visit on a guided tour.

Driving

You can get to Temple Square via major thoroughfares such as State Street and University Boulevard. A range of parking options is available, including free validated parking at the Conference Center.

Public transportation

TRAX, the city’s light rail system, makes visiting Temple Square a breeze, with Temple Square station served by both the Blue Line and Green Line. Alternatively, use local bus routes.

Best times to visit

Temple Square’s attractions have individual operating hours; however, most are typically open from midmorning until early evening.

Best days to visit

If you can, avoid visiting on Sundays, when many of Temple Square’s attractions are closed.

Best months to visit

Visit during spring to enjoy comfortable outdoor sightseeing conditions, or in winter if you want a festive atmosphere.

Special events

Don't miss the Christmas season at Temple Square, which sees festive light displays, nativity displays, special Tabernacle Choir concerts, and more.