#United States #Salt Lake City #Latter-day Saints #Temple Square #Visitors Center

New Temple Square Visitors' Center Preview: A Christ-Centered Experience

On April 13, 2026, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints provided an exclusive glimpse of its much-anticipated Temple Square Visitors' Center, set to officially open on May 18, 2026. This new space is designed to guide visitors through the purpose and significance of temples in the faith, offering a deep dive into the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

The centerpiece of this initiative coincides with the upcoming Salt Lake Temple Celebration, which will take place from April 5 to October 1, 2027. The newly constructed visitors' center serves as an educational hub, welcoming all individuals, regardless of their background, to explore the vital role the Temple plays in the lives of members of the Church.

Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, emphasized the purpose of the center as a means to bridge understanding regarding sacred covenants and the Church’s teachings. "This center is a window into our sacred covenants with Christ. It helps people of all backgrounds understand the role our temples play and why they matter to our members and communities," he stated.

The visitors' center is a spacious 39,800 square feet, showcasing a blend of modern design with perspectives on the Church’s long-standing history. Inside, visitors will find interactive exhibits that delve into the sacredness of temple spaces rooted in faith, family, and service to God. Featured in the west wing is a replica of Bertel Thorvaldsen's iconic sculpture, "Christus," and a stunning marble piece titled "Come Unto Me," created by Swiss artist Christian Bolt, which captures the tender invitation of Jesus to individuals.

Every exhibit within the center has been meticulously crafted to create an environment that evokes tranquility and contemplation. Among the highlights are guided tours through full-scale replicas of sacred temple rooms, allowing guests to experience an authentic temple atmosphere. This unique feature is being touted as a perpetual open house experience, ensuring that it remains available for those curious about the temple's inner workings.

Inside a Temple Experience
This immersive experience lasts 30 minutes and allows visitors to walk through lifelike recreations of various temple rooms. Reservations are recommended to ensure a place in this sought-after tour, which promises to relay the temple experience's essence, even in replicas that maintain the sacred ambiance found in actual temples.

In the east wing, the exhibit titled "Scale Model of the Salt Lake Temple" encourages visitors to engage with the physical design and layout of the Salt Lake Temple. As narrated music complements the visual experience, guests can understand the significance of the temple in members' lives.

Global Temple Engagement
The lower level features a display of miniature temples from around the globe, symbolizing the widespread reach of the Church's belief in the divine. This section of the center seeks to emphasize that the Church is not just rooted in Salt Lake City but has a worldwide presence. Rich Sutton, a senior director in the Temple Department, remarked that the visitors' center reflects the global nature of the faith, capturing the essence of the Church's mission in promoting family and community.

Design Collaboration for Deep Understanding
The Church worked closely with THG Creative to present a narrative easily accessible to all visitors. Phil Hettema, CEO of THG Creative, highlighted their commitment to sharing the Church's story while meeting individuals where they are in their understanding of faith.

Outside the visitors' center, beautifully landscaped gardens adorned with bronze statues illustrating key moments from Christ’s ministry provide inviting spaces for reflection and peace. Two compelling new additions, "Jesus Christ Carrying the Cross" and "Jesus Christ in Gethsemane," further enhance the visitors' outdoor experience.

Visiting Information
For those eager to explore, the Temple Square Visitors' Center will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., starting May 18, 2026. While admission is free, reservations are necessary for the guided tours. Parking options include free validated parking at the nearby Conference Center and accessible public transit options. The visitors' center is fully compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, ensuring an inclusive experience for all.

This remarkable center aims not only to educate but also to foster understanding and connection among the broader community, positioning the Temple as a symbol of faith, hope, and family values.

To learn more or to make a reservation for your visit, explore further at TempleSquare.org/Visitors-Center.