Exploring the Salt Lake Temple: A Historic Opportunity
The Salt Lake Temple, a significant House of the Lord located in the heart of Salt Lake City, is set for a much-anticipated public open house next year. This memorable event is expected to draw millions as individuals are invited to experience the beauty and significance of this iconic House of the Lord.
Temple Square
The open house is scheduled from April 5, 2027, to October 1, 2027. After this timeframe, access to the House of the Lord will be limited to church members with active temple recommends. This marks a unique opportunity for the general public, as it has been over 130 years since individuals have had the chance to tour the temple in its entirety.
In preparation for this event, extensive renovations and seismic upgrades began with the closure of the temple on January 1, 2020. With reconstruction slated for completion by the end of this year, the church estimates that between 3 million to 5 million individuals will partake in the reopening celebration, translating to approximately 20,000 to 29,000 individuals each day. For context, during the 2002 Olympics, Salt Lake City welcomed around 70,000 visitors daily over just 17 days.
Transportation and Ticketing Information
In late August or early September 2026, an app will be launched to facilitate the booking of tour times. The church has coordinated with UTA to provide public transportation options, including TRAX and Frontrunner, for ticket holders. Additionally, a park-and-ride service with shuttle transport to the House of the Lord will be available, providing ease of access for attendees.
Church employees are set to receive free UTA passes for six months, contributing to the management of downtown traffic during this high-traffic period.
Tour Experience
Starting at the Conference Center, just north of the temple, tours will journey underground to the House of the Lord. This immersive experience will take approximately 60 to 80 minutes, guided by special missionaries serving as docents. Once inside the perimeter, individuals will also have access to Temple Square, which features new statues and various church buildings, allowing for a full exploration that could last several hours.
Community Engagement Ahead of the Open House
Ahead of the general public access, the church plans to invite nearby businesses and residents for tours in March 2027. This initiative aims to engage the local community, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to appreciate the historic essence of the Salt Lake Temple.
As the open house approaches, those interested in experiencing this majestic House of the Lord should keep an eye on announcements from the church for ticketing information and additional details. This event is not only a significant milestone for the Salt Lake Temple but also an invitation to discover its rich history and architectural beauty.