A year before the Salt Lake Temple reopens, Temple Square is already alive with new energy. Media were given a first look at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints’ renovated Temple Square Visitors’ Center and officials announced when tickets will be released for the Salt Lake Temple open house—marking a bright milestone on the road to next year’s celebration.
Key dates
- Visitors’ Center opens to the public May 18, 2026 — daily, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Salt Lake Temple open house celebration runs April 5–October 1, 2027.
- Open house reservations become available September 1, 2026.
A fresh, welcoming experience
“This visitors’ center sits in the shadow of the Salt Lake City Temple,” said Emily Belle Freeman, President of the Young Women General Presidency. “You may think you’ve been to a visitors’ center before. I’m going to tell you: this is not that.” Church leaders called the unveiling a milestone, describing the new center as an unprecedented experience that connects temple teachings to everyday life, family, and Christ.
Art and immersion at the center
The nearly 40,000-square-foot center blends art, story, and hands-on displays:
- A replica of Bertel Thorvaldsen’s beloved “Christus” anchors the west wing.
- Swiss sculptor Christian Bolt’s new marble piece, “Come Unto Me,” sits at the lower level’s central point, portraying the Savior’s invitation of peace and compassion. Bolt explained the choice to present a seated Christ, reaching toward humanity.
- Outside, landscaped gardens feature new bronze statues of Jesus carrying the cross and of Christ in Gethsemane.
- Immersive galleries lead visitors from Brigham Young’s 1847 declaration—“Here we will build a temple to our God”—through accessible explanations of temple purpose into a replica temple lobby and full-scale replicas of sacred temple rooms (note: these are not replicas of rooms in the Salt Lake Temple).
- Additional highlights include a scale model of the Salt Lake Temple, a display of 11 built-to-scale miniature temples with a nearby temple globe, and narrative presentations designed for anyone, whether or not they are members of the Church.
Visitor info and tours
Admission to the visitors’ center is free. While general entry does not require a ticket, a reservation is required for the 30-minute “Inside a Temple” tour; reservations are available through the Temple Square app or online. Free parking is available with validation at the Conference Center; City Creek parking (south of Temple Square) offers the first two hours free. The Temple Square TRAX station provides direct access.
Looking ahead
“This really is one of the most exciting points in this period in the history of the Church,” said Elder Matthew S. Holland of the General Authority Seventy. Acting President Dieter F. Uchtdorf praised the project’s completion: “It came about much better than we ever thought. We’re very proud that it’s on time, on budget, and that it looks good. We are looking forward to a wonderful celebration online and in person. Thank you to everyone who has accomplished this process.”
With the visitors’ center now open and the temple open house reservations announced, Temple Square is inviting all who are curious to come and experience the art, history, and meaning that connect a sacred place to everyday life.