When visitors approach the majestic Salt Lake Temple in downtown Salt Lake City, Utah, many are struck by its grandeur—its towering spires, intricate stone carvings, and sweeping views of the Wasatch Mountains. A symbol of faith, resilience, and architectural brilliance, the temple draws millions of tourists each year. Yet one common question lingers: Can non-Mormons go inside the Salt Lake Temple?
The answer, though evolving over time, remains complex and deeply rooted in the religious doctrines and cultural practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). While the temple grounds and adjacent areas are welcoming to all, access to the temple’s sacred interior is limited. This article explores the historical background, current policies, and what non-Mormons can experience when visiting the iconic Salt Lake Temple.
Understanding the Salt Lake Temple: More Than Just a Building
The Salt Lake Temple is not simply a place of worship—it is one of the most sacred sites in the LDS faith. Located on Temple Square, it took 40 years to construct and was dedicated in 1893 under the leadership of church president Wilford Woodruff. It is the sixth temple built by the LDS Church and the largest upon completion.
Architectural and Symbolic Significance
Designed by architect Truman O. Angell, the Salt Lake Temple is built from quartz monzonite stone quarried from Little Cottonwood Canyon, about 20 miles southeast of the city. Its Gothic and Romanesque mixed style, coupled with symbolic carvings including the all-seeing eye, earthstones, moonstones, sunstones, and star stones, all reflect deep theological meanings important to LDS beliefs.
These symbols speak to themes of creation, progression, and eternal life—concepts central to LDS theology. For Church members, the temple represents a literal house of the Lord, a place where divine ordinances and sacred ceremonies are performed.
The Role of Temples in Latter-day Saint Belief
Unlike regular churches or meetinghouses where weekly Sunday services are held (open to all), temples serve a different, more private purpose. Church teachings hold temples as places for:
- Sealing families for eternity
- Performing baptisms for the dead
- Initiating members into covenants with God
- Receiving instruction on life’s purpose and eternal progression
These practices are considered sacred and are only accessible to Latter-day Saints who meet certain spiritual and moral standards.
Current Access: Who Can Enter the Salt Lake Temple?
The short answer: Non-Mormons cannot enter the interior of the Salt Lake Temple unless they are participating in a specific public open house prior to its dedication or rededication.
To enter the temple at any other time, individuals must be:
- Baptized members of the LDS Church
- In good standing with their local congregation
- Holders of a current temple recommend, granted after an interview with local church leaders
What Is a Temple Recommend?
A temple recommend is a physical card issued to members after they affirm their faithfulness to key commandments, including obedience to the Word of Wisdom (a health code), financial support through tithing, and moral purity. Two ecclesiastical leaders—a bishop and a stake president—must interview the member and approve their recommend.
These stringent requirements underscore the temple’s status as a holy space, not a tourist destination.
Exceptions for the Public: Open Houses and Rededication Events
When a temple is built, renovated, or restored, the LDS Church typically opens it for a limited-time public “open house.” During these periods, non-Mormons and people of all faiths are welcome to tour the interior of the temple.
Recent Open House: The 2024 Rededication
The most recent example occurred in 2024, following a four-year seismic renovation. The Salt Lake Temple underwent extensive structural upgrades to meet modern earthquake standards, including the addition of a base isolation system—something unprecedented for a historic building of its stature.
After completing the renovations, the church held a public open house from March to June 2024, allowing over a million visitors—including non-Mormons, interfaith leaders, and tourists—to walk through the temple’s halls, view the updated interior, and learn about LDS beliefs firsthand.
This marked a rare opportunity for outsiders to experience the temple’s sacred rooms, including the Celestial Room, ordinance rooms, and sealing rooms, which are typically closed to the public.
What Non-Mormons Can See and Do at Temple Square
While the temple’s interior remains off-limits most of the time, the broader Temple Square complex is open and freely accessible to all visitors. This 10-acre parcel of land in the heart of Salt Lake City offers a wealth of experiences for non-Mormons.
Exterior Views of the Temple
Even from the outside, the Salt Lake Temple is breathtaking. Adorned with six spires, each capped with a gold-plated statue of the Angel Moroni blowing a trumpet, the temple commands attention. Visitors are free to walk around the perimeter, take photos (without flash), and appreciate the craftsmanship visible from ground level.
Visiting the Visitor Centers
The LDS Church maintains two main visitor centers on Temple Square:
- The North Visitors’ Center – Features exhibits on Jesus Christ, the Restoration of the Gospel, and the life and mission of the Prophet Joseph Smith.
- The South Visitors’ Center – Houses a large model of the Salt Lake Temple, audiovisual presentations, and personal stories from Church members.
Both centers are staffed by missionaries who welcome questions and provide tours. These interactions are friendly, informative, and designed to make visitors of all backgrounds feel welcome.
Temple Square Gardens and Grounds
Sprawling lawns, flower beds, and fountains surround the temple. The grounds are meticulously maintained year-round. Spring and summer boast vibrant tulips and perennials, while winter features holiday lights and nativity scenes during the “Christmas Lights” display.
Walking paths encourage quiet reflection, and benches provide space to pause and enjoy the serene atmosphere. The juxtaposition of a bustling city and the tranquil temple grounds offers a peaceful retreat.
Free Guided Tours
Free guided walking tours are available daily and cover the history of the temple, the migration of the Latter-day Saints to Utah, and the significance of various monuments and buildings on Temple Square. These tours are a great way for non-Mormons to deepen their understanding of the site without needing to enter the temple itself.
Historical Context: Why Are Temples Closed to Non-Members?
The reservation of temple access is not unique to Salt Lake—it reflects a long-standing tradition within the LDS Church. To understand why, it helps to explore the historical evolution of temple theology and practice.
Origins in Nauvoo and Kirtland
The concept of sacred, closed temples began with early Church history. The Kirtland Temple in Ohio, dedicated in 1836, was more open to public worship services, but secret rituals did not yet exist. However, by the time the Nauvoo Temple was built in Illinois in the 1840s, the Church began introducing sacred ceremonies like sealings and endowments—ordinances believed to connect individuals to eternal blessings.
Following the death of founder Joseph Smith and the subsequent exodus west led by Brigham Young, the pioneers settled in Utah and began work on temples that would serve as centers for these sacred rites—culminating in the Salt Lake Temple.
The Sealing and Endowment Ceremonies
The endowment is a sacred ritual in which participants make covenants with God, receive instruction about the plan of salvation, and are spiritually prepared for eternal life. The sealing ordinance binds families together for eternity—parents to children, spouses to one another.
These ceremonies include symbolic gestures, prayer, scripture, and clothing that reflect theological truths. Because these are considered deeply spiritual rites, the Church maintains that they should only be entered into by those committed to living the teachings of the gospel.
Protection of Sacredness, Not Exclusivity
Church leaders emphasize that the closed-access policy is not meant to exclude or look down upon non-members. Rather, it reflects a commitment to protect the holiness and reverence of the temple environment.
As former Church President Gordon B. Hinckley said, “We do not exclude people from the temple because we feel we are better than others. We do it because we believe that to enter into sacred covenants requires preparation and commitment.”
What Do Church Leaders Say About Non-Mormon Access?
Over the years, the LDS Church has maintained a respectful tone toward the curiosity of non-Mormons. The official website, ChurchofJesusChrist.org, offers extensive resources explaining temple worship and its purpose.
In 2020, Church spokesperson Erick Simpson stated, “We understand people are curious about our temples. While they are closed to the public most of the time, we look forward to open houses when they’re completed or renovated so everyone can see what we truly hold sacred.”
Leaders consistently extend kindness and hospitality to visitors on Temple Square, viewing their presence as an opportunity for open dialogue and goodwill.
Interfaith Engagement and Public Outreach
The Church has increasingly emphasized interfaith cooperation. In recent years, leaders have invited representatives from various religious traditions to tour Temple Square and participate in events surrounding temple rededications.
The 2024 open house included special tours for religious leaders of different faiths, including Christians, Muslims, Jews, and Buddhists, reflecting the Church’s desire for greater understanding across communities.
Cultural Impact and Tourism: The Temple as a Landmark
Though it’s a religious building, the Salt Lake Temple has transcended its ecclesiastical role to become a cultural landmark of Utah. It frequently appears in films, television shows, and travel guides as a must-see destination.
Visitor Numbers and Tourism Statistics
Each year, Temple Square welcomes approximately 3 million visitors from around the world. While many are Latter-day Saints, a significant portion are tourists, history enthusiasts, or individuals exploring religious sites.
| Year | Total Temple Square Visitors | Open House Attendance (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 3,000,000 | N/A |
| 2024 | 2,800,000 (pre-open house), +1.2 million during open house | 1,200,000 |
These numbers reflect strong public interest in the temple, even if interior access is limited.
Economic and Community Impact
The Salt Lake Temple and Temple Square not only enrich the spiritual life of the city but contribute significantly to the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, and tour companies benefit from the steady flow of visitors. Additionally, the Church funds all maintenance and operations at Temple Square, investing millions to preserve its historical integrity.
Future Access: Will Policies Change?
As the LDS Church continues to grow globally, with increasing diversity among its members, some wonder if access policies might evolve. However, there is no indication that the Church plans to allow regular public access to temple interiors.
The Role of Technology and Virtual Tours
To bridge the gap, the Church has invested in virtual experiences. Through the official Church website and apps, users can take 360-degree virtual tours of temples—including the Salt Lake Temple during and after its renovation.
While not a substitute for physical presence, these tech-driven options allow non-Mormons to get a sense of the interior layout and design.
Open Houses as the Primary Window
For the foreseeable future, public open houses will remain the main way for non-members to see inside the temple. These events are scheduled during significant milestones such as new construction, major renovations, or rededications.
Because temples are built to last generations, such open houses are rare—often occurring decades apart. The last full open house before 2024 was in 1963, underscoring how special these opportunities can be.
Respectful Visiting: Tips for Non-Mormons
If you’re planning a visit to Temple Square, here are a few tips to ensure a respectful and meaningful experience:
- Dress modestly out of respect for the sacred environment—even if not entering the temple.
- Ask questions of the missionaries; they are trained to be helpful and engaging.
- Avoid loud conversations or disruptive behavior—Temple Square is a place of reflection for many.
- Photography is welcome on the grounds, but flash and tripods are often discouraged near the temple exterior.
- Check the official website for any temporary closures, construction updates, or special events.
Conclusion: A Place of Wonder, Reverence, and Limited Access
The Salt Lake Temple stands as one of the most iconic religious structures in the United States. For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it is a sanctuary of divine connection and eternal promises. For non-Mormons, it is a captivating landmark offering historical, artistic, and spiritual insight.
While the temple interior remains closed to non-members, the surrounding Temple Square complex provides a welcoming space for learning, reflection, and appreciation. Public open houses represent rare, invaluable bridges between the LDS Church and the wider community—moments of openness in a tradition that values sacred privacy.
So to reiterate: Can non-Mormons go to the Salt Lake Temple? Not routinely. But they can experience its beauty, learn its history, and when available, walk its halls during special open house events. The Church’s commitment to preserving the temple’s sanctity does not diminish its invitation to friendship, understanding, and mutual respect with all people.
Whether you’re a curious traveler, a student of religion, or simply seeking a moment of peace in the city, Temple Square—and the Salt Lake Temple that stands at its heart—offers a space where history, faith, and hospitality converge.
What is the Salt Lake Temple, and why is it significant to the LDS Church?
The Salt Lake Temple is the most iconic temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located in Salt Lake City, Utah. Completed in 1893 after 40 years of construction, it sits at the heart of Temple Square and serves as a central religious and symbolic landmark for members of the Church. Unlike regular meetinghouses or chapels where weekly worship services are held, temples are considered sacred spaces reserved for special ordinances such as marriages, baptisms for the dead, and other spiritual ceremonies that Latter-day Saints believe are essential for salvation.
The temple’s significance goes beyond its architectural grandeur; it represents the pinnacle of personal faith and commitment for many Church members. Only individuals who meet specific religious standards—demonstrating belief in core doctrines, moral conduct, and adherence to Church teachings—are permitted to enter. This strict access requirement has historically excluded non-Mormons and underscored the temple’s role as a place of holiness and consecrated purpose within the LDS faith.
Could non-Mormons historically enter the Salt Lake Temple?
Historically, non-Mormons have never been allowed to enter the Salt Lake Temple during regular operations. Since its dedication in the 19th century, access has been strictly limited to Church members who possess a current temple recommend—a document issued by local leaders certifying the individual’s worthiness based on doctrinal interviews and adherence to Church standards. This policy reflects the belief that the temple is a sacred space where divine ordinances are performed, and only those committed to the faith’s teachings should participate.
While the temple itself was off-limits, non-Mormons could visit Temple Square, the surrounding grounds, and adjacent visitor centers to learn about Church history, culture, and beliefs. The Church also provided guided tours of the nearby LDS Church Administration Building and hosted open houses for newly constructed temples, which offered limited access to non-members. These exceptions allowed public engagement without compromising the sanctity of the temple ordinances held within.
Why are there restrictions on who can enter the Salt Lake Temple?
The restrictions on temple access are rooted in theological beliefs held by the LDS Church. Church teachings emphasize that temples are literal houses of God, akin to ancient biblical temples, where sacred and private ceremonies are conducted. These ordinances, such as eternal marriages and sealings of families, are considered spiritually binding and require participants to enter with faith, purity, and a commitment to live according to Church covenants. Allowing entry to those unfamiliar with or not committed to these doctrines could, in the Church’s view, diminish the sacred nature of the rituals.
Additionally, the Church maintains that restricting access ensures consistency in spiritual preparation. Members must undergo an interview with their local leaders to obtain a temple recommend, during which they affirm their belief in Church leadership, doctrinal foundations, and lifestyle standards like adherence to the Word of Wisdom and payment of tithes. These requirements are designed not as exclusivity measures, but as mechanisms to help individuals reflect on their spiritual readiness and deepen their commitment to their faith.
Has the Salt Lake Temple ever been open to non-Mormons?
The Salt Lake Temple has never been regularly open to non-Mormons during its operational history, but it did open its doors to the public during rare open house events prior to renovations. The most recent major opportunity occurred before its closure in 2019 for a large-scale seismic retrofitting and interior restoration project. Prior to rededication, the Church hosted an open house in 2024, inviting both members and non-members to tour the temple and learn about its history, architecture, and purpose. This temporary access was a special exception granted for educational and outreach purposes.
Open houses like these are traditional for all LDS temples after construction or renovation. They serve to introduce the community to the temple’s interior, dispel misconceptions, and share the Church’s beliefs in a respectful and open manner. Non-Mormons who attended the 2024 open house were required to make advance reservations and follow a guided tour, with no participation in sacred ordinances. These events are widely appreciated as rare chances for interfaith understanding and cultural appreciation.
What is a temple recommend, and how do people obtain one?
A temple recommend is an official credential issued by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints that certifies a member’s worthiness to enter any of the Church’s temples. To obtain one, individuals must meet with their local bishop and stake president—two lay clergy leaders—for a series of interviews that assess their faith, understanding of Church doctrine, adherence to commandments, and moral conduct. Topics discussed include belief in Church leadership, personal integrity, financial responsibility such as tithing, and commitment to principles like the Word of Wisdom (which prohibits alcohol, tobacco, coffee, and tea).
The recommend is valid for two years and must be renewed through additional interviews. It functions similarly to a religious passport, allowing access to holy ceremonies inside temples. Without a current recommend, even active Church members are not permitted to enter. The process is intended not to exclude, but to encourage self-reflection and spiritual accountability, reinforcing the idea that temples are places of sacred worship set apart from ordinary life.
Are there other LDS temples open to non-Mormons besides the Salt Lake Temple?
While all operational LDS temples are closed to non-Mormons during regular use, non-members have opportunities to tour most temples during open house periods that occur before a temple’s dedication or after extensive renovations. These open houses are global events hosted by the Church to welcome the public, explain temple purposes, and foster goodwill with local communities. For example, temples in cities like Rome, Nairobi, and San Diego have hosted open houses attended by thousands of non-Mormons and interfaith guests.
These tours are highly structured and include trained guides who explain the temple’s architecture, history, and significance without revealing sacred ordinances. Once the temple is dedicated, it reverts to restricted access solely for recommend-holding members. This temporary openness reflects the Church’s desire to be transparent and inclusive in its outreach, while maintaining religious boundaries necessary for the sanctity of its most sacred spaces.
What changes occurred to the Salt Lake Temple in 2024, and how do they affect access?
In 2024, the Salt Lake Temple reopened after a four-year closure for a comprehensive renovation aimed at strengthening its structure against earthquakes, updating mechanical systems, and restoring both exterior and interior elements. The $1 billion project preserved historic features while incorporating modern safety and accessibility enhancements such as improved lighting, flooring, and air quality. Most significantly for the public, the Church hosted a multi-month open house that allowed non-Mormons to tour the temple for the first time in decades, offering unprecedented access to its ceremonial rooms and art.
However, once the open house concluded and the temple was rededicated by Church leaders, access reverted to its traditional model: restricted to faithful members with a current temple recommend. The renovations did not change the doctrinal or policy basis for temple entry. Instead, the project reinforced the temple’s long-term viability as a place of worship for future generations, maintaining its role as a sacred sanctuary while briefly opening a window for broader public appreciation during the open house period.