The tall spirals of the ornate Salt Lake Temple are a landmark in Temple Square. This gathering place is of great importance to Mormons and fascinating for all visitors interested in history and architecture. The 35 acres (14 hectares) includes some historical and sacred Mormon buildings. Explore the neo-Gothic temple, the domed Tabernacle, and the headquarters of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). Stroll among gardens and flowerbeds in summer.

The land on which Temple Square sits has been an integral part of the Mormon faith since 1847, when Mormon pioneers from Illinois arrived in Utah under the leadership of Brigham Young. The church president instantly picked this place to become the religion’s sacred center in Utah. Young’s gravesite is in the Mormon Pioneer Memorial, and a commemorative statue overlooks the square. His mansion, the Beehive House, is now a museum.

Visit the Temple, the centerpiece of the square. Go next door to the North Visitors’ Center to learn more about Mormon culture. The domed center was once a temporary annex to the temple. Volunteers point tourists in the direction of key attractions. The South Visitors’ Center focuses on family relations, which is an integral part of the Mormon religion.

The fascinating Church History Museum showcases Mormon artifacts and artwork. During summer, join a free tour of the colorful gardens with reflecting pool on the Main Street Plaza. The soaring Church Office Building, the LDS headquarters, offers superb views from its observation deck. At the end of the day, enjoy dinner inside the impressive Joseph Smith Memorial Building. You can also listen to a moving performance by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in the domed Tabernacle building or in the Conference Center.

Temple Square is open daily. Check the LDS website for visitor center opening hours. Most sites are closed on Sundays. Parking in the city center can be expensive and difficult to find, but there are numerous public transport options.