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How to Find a Latter-day Saint Temple and Its Visitor Center Near You

Discover the easiest ways to locate a Latter-day Saint Temple and explore its public-facing visitor center, understanding what each offers.

By Garret Merkley · Explainer · Jun 15, 2026
Branched from Preparing for Your First Visit to a Latter-day Saint Temple
Quick take
  • Locate temples and visitor centers using the official ChurchofJesusChrist.org website.
  • Temples are sacred spaces for members; visitor centers are public educational facilities.
  • Visitor centers offer free exhibits, films, and missionaries to answer questions.
  • Not all temples have visitor centers, so always check the specific temple's information online.

Latter-day Saint Temples are sacred buildings used by members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for specific religious ordinances and worship. Distinct from regular Sunday meetinghouses, temples are usually not open for general public entry, except during rare open house periods before dedication. Many, but not all, temples are accompanied by a visitor center, which serves as a welcoming, public education facility designed for anyone interested in learning more about the Church, its beliefs, and the purpose of temples.

Locating a Temple Near You

The most reliable and up-to-date method for finding a Latter-day Saint Temple is through the official Church website, ChurchofJesusChrist.org. The site features a dedicated "Temples" section that provides a comprehensive global directory. You can search by geographic location, view a map of all operating and announced temples, and access individual pages for each temple. These pages typically include the temple's address, contact information, operating hours, and current status (e.g., operating, under construction, or announced).

Finding a Temple Visitor Center

While many major temples feature visitor centers, it's important to remember that not every temple has one. To determine if a specific temple has an accompanying visitor center, navigate to that temple's individual page on ChurchofJesusChrist.org. If a visitor center exists, its details—including address, hours of operation, and contact information—will be clearly listed there. These centers are designed to be accessible and informative, offering a no-pressure environment for guests.

Visitor centers typically feature a variety of exhibits, films, and artwork that explain the purpose of temples, the history of the Church, and core tenets of the faith. You might see detailed scale models of temples, interactive displays, and often, beautiful gardens surrounding the temple grounds that are open to the public. Friendly missionaries are usually present to answer questions, offer guided tours, and provide additional resources, all free of charge.

Finding a Latter-day Saint Temple and its visitor center matters for several reasons. For members, it's about locating a sacred space for personal worship and covenant-making. For those outside the faith, a visitor center offers a unique opportunity for cultural and spiritual education. It allows curious individuals to learn directly about the Church's beliefs and practices in an inviting setting, without the need to enter the temple itself. It's an avenue for understanding, dispelling misconceptions, and experiencing a sense of peace often found on temple grounds.

Can anyone go inside a Latter-day Saint Temple?
Generally, no. Temples are reserved for faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for sacred ordinances. However, during an "open house" period before a new temple is dedicated, the public is invited to tour the interior. Temple visitor centers, on the other hand, are open to everyone.
Do all Latter-day Saint Temples have visitor centers?
No, many do not. Visitor centers are typically found at larger, more prominent temples or those in areas with significant tourist traffic. Always check the specific temple's page on the Church's official website to confirm.
What can I expect to see or do at a temple visitor center?
You can expect engaging exhibits, informative videos, beautiful artwork, and often a scale model of the temple. Missionaries are present to answer questions and provide guided tours, if desired. The gardens surrounding many temples are also open to the public for peaceful walks.
Is there an admission fee for temple visitor centers?
No, all Latter-day Saint temple visitor centers are free to enter and explore. There is no charge for the exhibits, films, or missionary assistance.

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