Temple Square, Salt Lake City

An Introduction to Temple Square

Nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City, Temple Square has been a cornerstone of the city since its founding in 1847. As the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), it plays a central role in the history, culture, and spirituality of the region.

A Brief History

Brigham Young, the second president of the LDS Church, dedicated the ground for the construction of the Salt Lake Temple on February 14, 1853, just six years after the pioneers first entered the Salt Lake Valley. The Salt Lake Temple took 40 years to complete and was dedicated on April 6, 1893.

Sacred Buildings and Monuments

Salt Lake Temple

The centerpiece of Temple Square, the majestic Salt Lake Temple, stands as an iconic symbol of the LDS Church and its rich history. This towering structure, constructed from quartz monzonite from the nearby Wasatch Mountains, took 40 painstaking years to complete. It stands as a testament to the unwavering faith and dedication of the early church members.

Tabernacle and Conference Center

The Tabernacle, home to the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir, and the Conference Center, the largest theater-style auditorium ever built, host semi-annual General Conferences and a myriad of concerts, meetings, and cultural events.

Assembly Hall and Church History Museum

The beautiful Gothic-style Assembly Hall, constructed of granite leftover from the temple, serves as a venue for concerts and lectures. The Church History Museum, adjacent to Temple Square, showcases exhibits on the rich history and culture of the LDS Church.

Temple Square Today

In the 21st century, Temple Square remains a hub of religious activity, as well as a popular tourist destination. Visitors from around the world are drawn to its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and significant historical sites.

Those visiting Temple Square might also want to explore the wider Salt Lake City area. Nearby attractions include the Spiral Jetty, Robert Smithson's iconic earthwork on the northeastern shore of the Great Salt Lake, and the vibrant Downtown Salt Lake City area, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.

When it comes to accommodations, Salt Lake City offers a broad range of hotels, many of them conveniently located near Temple Square. Whether you're an attorney seeking highly rated attorney-rated hotels, or you're looking for hotels near the Salt Palace, or hotels near the Conference Center, there's something to suit every traveler's needs.

Noteworthy accommodations include the Marriott Downtown at City Creek, Hilton Garden Inn Downtown, Kimpton Hotel Monaco, and The Little America Hotel, among others. For a full list of recommended accommodations, see this top 25 list of Salt Lake City hotels.

Other Attractions in Temple Square

Beyond the Salt Lake Temple, Temple Square teems with many other attractions. The Assembly Hall, a charming gothic-style building constructed from leftover granite from the temple, often hosts free concerts on weekends. The Tabernacle, home to the world-renowned Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, is an acoustical marvel worth experiencing.

Two visitors' centers, the North Visitors' Center and the South Visitors' Center, offer informative exhibits about the LDS Church's history, beliefs, and global reach. They also provide free guided tours, given by friendly, knowledgeable missionaries.

Accommodation and Accessibility

Considering a visit to Temple Square? Salt Lake City boasts a wide array of hotel accommodations catering to different budgets and tastes. From the upscale luxury of The Grand America Hotel to the quirky charm of Kimpton Hotel Monaco, you'll find an inviting place to rest. Conveniently located options like the Hilton Salt Lake City Center or Holiday Inn Express are a short walk away from Temple Square.

Accessibility is a priority at Temple Square. The majority of buildings, restrooms, and drinking fountains are wheelchair accessible, with wheelchairs available for use free of charge.

Nearby Attractions

While Temple Square itself can easily fill a day or two of exploration, several other exciting attractions are nearby. Check out the Great Salt Lake, the largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, or visit the Spiral Jetty, an earthwork sculpture created by artist Robert Smithson.

After an enriching day at Temple Square, unwind at one of the many downtown Salt Lake City hotels. Maybe you'd like the modern sophistication of the AC Hotel by Marriott or the homely comforts of Homewood Suites by Hilton. Regardless of your choice, you're bound to find warm hospitality and comfort to round off your day.

Final Thoughts

With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and central location, Temple Square is a must-visit attraction in Salt Lake City. Whether you're there to learn about the LDS Church, admire the beautiful gardens, or soak up the historic atmosphere, Temple Square offers a truly enriching experience.

Start planning your visit now and immerse yourself in the history and spirituality that make Temple Square a unique destination. And remember, Salt Lake City's extensive array of hotels ensures that you'll have the perfect place to rest, recharge, and reflect on your Temple Square experience.