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Temple Square historical landmark in Salt Lake City, UT
Photo: Mike C
View of Temple Square in Salt Lake City, UT
Photo: Kevin Nash
View of Temple Square in Salt Lake City, UT
Photo: Banja-Frans Mulder

Temple Square

4.7(20,024 reviews)FreePark
🕑 2-3 hours👶 Best for ages 4 and up. Younger children enjoy the open spaces, fountains, and seasonal flowers, while school-age kids and teens appreciate the fascinating history, architecture tours, and Tabernacle organ demonstrations. Stroller-friendly paths make it accessible for families with babies and toddlers.

About

Temple Square offers 35 acres of beautifully manicured gardens, historic architecture, and family-friendly exhibits in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. Kids will love exploring the peaceful grounds, watching the interactive visitor center films, and spotting the numerous reflecting pools and fountains throughout the property,all completely free to visit.

Highlights

  • The famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir rehearsals (Thursday evenings) and performances (Sunday mornings)
  • Interactive touchscreen exhibits and 3D films at the visitor centers
  • Seasonal flower displays with over 100,000 spring bulbs and rotating summer plantings
  • The iconic Salt Lake Temple grounds and reflecting pools for photos
  • Free daily organ recitals on the historic Tabernacle organ

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit during the daily free organ recitals at the Tabernacle (noon on weekdays, 2pm on weekends) for a truly impressive musical experience kids won't forget
  2. 2.The North and South Visitor Centers have interactive exhibits, restrooms, and water fountains,perfect for breaking up your outdoor exploration with curious kids
  3. 3.Park at the underground City Creek Center parking garage (paid) just a block away, which offers easy access and covered parking
  4. 4.Download a self-guided tour or ask for the family scavenger hunt at the visitor center to keep kids engaged while exploring
  5. 5.December is magical here with over 500,000 Christmas lights transforming the grounds into a winter wonderland

Best Time to Visit

Visit on weekday mornings (10am-noon) for the smallest crowds and cooler temperatures. Spring (April-May) showcases stunning tulip displays, while December evenings offer the spectacular Christmas light displays without daytime heat.

What to Know

Admission is completely free, including all exhibits and tours. Free guided tours are available every few minutes in multiple languages. Dress modestly (covered shoulders and knees) as this is an active religious site, and be prepared for lots of walking across the 35-acre campus.

Seasonal Notes

Spring features spectacular tulip gardens (April-May). Summer can be hot,visit early morning or evening. The Christmas light display (late November through early January) is a must-see family tradition with nightly concerts. Some outdoor areas may have limited access during winter weather.

Nearby Eats

City Creek Center food court is just one block away with multiple kid-friendly options including Chick-fil-A and Café Rio. The Roof Restaurant atop the Joseph Smith Memorial Building (adjacent to Temple Square) offers upscale buffet dining with spectacular city views and a surprisingly welcoming kids' menu.

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