The most iconic symbol of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a defining landmark of the city’s skyline, the Salt Lake Temple closed in December 2019 for renovations, including structural and seismic upgrades to withstand large-magnitude earthquakes. Originally scheduled for completion in four years, the temple is now scheduled to be completed in late 2026.
Upgrades include expanding the number of sealing rooms (where marriages are performed), improving accessibility and safety, and restoring spaces to their original pioneer-era splendor. The temple’s four grand spiral staircases have been refurbished, and teams of artisans have been working meticulously to restore the beauty of the hand-painted ceilings, gilded moldings and ornate wood paneling.
“The renovated temple will feel more consistent and more like the original Salt Lake Temple from beginning to end,” said Bill Williams, the church’s director of architecture. “As soon as you walk through the doors of the north entry pavilion, it will look like a Victorian-era temple, which was never the case after previous renovations. I think for most people it will feel like, ‘Wow, now it feels like the Salt Lake Temple from stem to stern.’”
The Salt Lake Temple renovation provides a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for non-Mormons to witness the interior of this sacred space. Once temples are formally dedicated, entrance is permitted only for church members in good standing. Prior to its dedication, the Salt Lake Temple will reopen in April 2027 for a public open house, with ticketed tours that will run 12 hours a day through October. LDS officials expect 3 million to 5 million visitors to tour the temple and participate in other activities in and around Temple Square during the six-month open house period.
At present, much of Temple Square is open. Visitors can enjoy the Conference Center, Tabernacle, Church History Museum, Church History Library, FamilySearch Library and the newly renovated Main Street and Church Office Building plazas.
