Exploring Temple Square and the Mormon Tabernacle in Salt Lake City
For non-Mormons interested in visiting Salt Lake City, exploring Temple Square and the Mormon Tabernacle can be a fascinating experience. This article will guide you through the accessible areas and offer insights into what you can expect during your visit.
Access to Temple Square
Contrary to some misconceptions, Temple Square is open to all visitors. While the Salt Lake Temple itself is not open for tours, Temple Square provides a wealth of cultural and historical experiences that are welcoming to everyone. Currently, the Salt Lake Temple is undergoing renovations, but visitors can still enjoy tours of the other buildings on the square.
Temple Square Tours
Tours of Temple Square are free and provided by knowledgeable guides who can offer a personalized experience. Visitors can learn about the history and significance of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The square features stunning architecture, beautiful murals, and even a Christus statue. During the holiday season, particularly around Christmas, the square is adorned with thousands of lights on trees and shrubs, creating a magical atmosphere.
Key Buildings on Temple Square
Temple Square is a hub of Mormon architecture and culture:
General Conference Center
Here, semi-annual General Conferences of the Church are held. Visitors can take non-intrusive tours to see the scale and grandeur of the facility.
Genealogy Library
For those interested in learning about their family history, the Genealogy Library offers visitors the opportunity to search through vast databases for information on ancestors.
Alexander W. Young Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is a great starting point for any tour. Here, visitors can learn a brief history of the Church and find information on the surrounding area. Guides can provide insights into the daily life of the pioneers and the significance of the square itself.
Assembly Hall
The Assembly Hall and the Tabernacle, both built in the 1800s by the early Mormon pioneers, are key historical structures on the square. Visitors can enter and explore these buildings, gaining a deeper appreciation for the architectural and historical heritage of the area.
Around Salt Lake City
While you are in the Salt Lake Valley, don't miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding natural beauty. The mountains, canyons, and lakes in the area offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and enjoying nature's splendor. Additionally, Salt Lake City offers a vibrant culinary scene, with numerous excellent restaurants catering to various tastes.
The Future of Mormon Tourism
The Mormon Church is investing in tourism infrastructure, including a theme park that is in the works. This project, authorized by Elder Stevenson and backed by the impressive congregation of over 26 billion members, aims to provide further opportunities for visitors to engage with Mormon culture and history.
Prepare yourself for a memorable visit to Salt Lake City, where history, culture, and nature come together to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you are a visitor or a loyal member, there is always something new to discover at Temple Square and beyond.