The first time I stepped onto Temple Square in Salt Lake City, I felt as though I had entered the very heartbeat of Utah’s cultural and spiritual life. I was struck by the serene elegance of the gardens, the intricate architecture of the Salt Lake Temple, and the palpable energy that seems to flow through every corner of the 10-acre campus.
Over multiple visits, I’ve taken guided tours, attended concerts, explored the historic buildings, and absorbed the stories behind the Mormon Tabernacle Choir, now known as The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, and the many landmarks surrounding it.
I will recount three personal experiences I had on and around Temple Square and also recommend four additional activities I found fascinating, with practical travel advice, transportation guidance, pricing, and my personal reflections.
My Personal Temple Square Experiences
- Attending a Live Tabernacle Choir Rehearsal
Location: Salt Lake Tabernacle, 50 N. West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
Admission: Free
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays, during scheduled rehearsals
Parking: Available on nearby streets; several paid lots within a 5-minute walk
My Experience
I arrived early on a brisk November morning, eager to see the choir in action. While many tourists only attend the final Sunday performance, I had discovered that weekday rehearsals provide an intimate experience that allows you to observe the artistry and discipline behind each note.
Walking into the Tabernacle, I was immediately enveloped by the incredible acoustics. The building itself is an architectural marvel: 150-year-old wooden roof beams, meticulously restored, and the iconic Aeolian-Skinner organ, which towers over the choir, capable of producing sounds ranging from thunderous power to delicate whispers.
During rehearsal, I watched over 300 singers harmonize with the organ, rehearsing pieces like “Come, Come, Ye Saints” and Handel’s “Messiah.” What struck me was the precision and warmth—each voice blended seamlessly, yet each singer contributed a unique timbre. The conductor, usually Mack Wilberg, interacted with the choir like a masterful painter guiding colors on a canvas.
Pros
• Free admission; no tickets required for rehearsals.
• Intimate, behind-the-scenes perspective of choir preparation.
• Spectacular acoustics.
Cons
• Limited seating; arrive early to secure a good spot.
• Rehearsals are quieter than performances, which some might find less dramatic.
Tips & Booking Info
• Check the Tabernacle Choir schedule on their official site for rehearsal times.
• Morning visits are ideal; rehearsals usually last 2–3 hours.
• Bring a notebook if you’re a music enthusiast; it’s fascinating to jot down observations on the choir’s techniques.
Personal Reflection: Watching the choir practice was meditative. I felt a combination of awe and inspiration, thinking about the decades of tradition and dedication behind every performance.
- Guided Tour of the Salt Lake Temple Grounds
Location: Temple Square, 50 N. West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150
Cost: Free guided tours (donations accepted)
Duration: Approximately 75 minutes
Parking: Multiple nearby lots; first hour often free
My Experience
I booked a guided walking tour through Temple Square, led by a volunteer guide who had spent over 20 years sharing the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). The tour began in the Tabernacle, moved to the Assembly Hall, and then to the North and South Visitor Centers.
What I loved was the storytelling aspect. For instance, I learned that the Salt Lake Temple, which took 40 years to build (1853–1893), was constructed from quartz monzonite quarried 20 miles north. Every detail has symbolic meaning: the six spires, the angel Moroni statue, even the floral carvings on the doors.
During the tour, I also explored the beautiful gardens surrounding the temple. The floral arrangements change seasonally—tulips in spring, vibrant begonias in summer, and evergreens in winter. Walking along the paths, I felt a deep sense of tranquility amidst the city’s bustle.
Pros
• Free and highly informative.
• Guides are passionate and knowledgeable.
• Beautiful gardens perfect for photography.
Cons
• Guided tours cannot enter the temple itself (restricted to members).
• Can get crowded during peak tourist seasons.
Tips & Booking Info
• Tours run daily, but it’s wise to check the official Temple Square schedule.
• Photography is permitted outdoors; indoors, some areas restrict photos.
• Arrive early to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Personal Reflection: The combination of history, art, and serene landscaping made this tour unforgettable. I left feeling connected to the city’s spiritual and cultural roots in a way I hadn’t anticipated.
- Evening Organ Recital
Location: Salt Lake Tabernacle, Temple Square
Admission: Free; donations accepted
Duration: 45–60 minutes
Best Time to Visit: Weekday evenings
My Experience
I returned in the evening for an organ recital. Unlike the choir, which fills the space with layered voices, the organ alone commands attention with monumental sound. As the first notes resonated, I felt the vibrations throughout my body. The recital included classical pieces by Bach, modern compositions, and a few traditional hymns.
Sitting in the Tabernacle, surrounded by the organ’s powerful timbre and observing the intricate craftsmanship of the instrument, I was transported into a sensory experience that was both spiritual and artistic. Between pieces, the organist shared insights about the instrument’s history, mechanics, and how certain sounds were designed to complement human voices in choir performances.
Pros
• Free and open to the public.
• Incredible musical experience.
• Unique opportunity to learn about organ craftsmanship.
Cons
• Seating is first-come, first-served; arrive early.
• Limited recitals per week.
Tips & Booking Info
• Check the Tabernacle organ recital schedule online.
• Combine with a dinner nearby in downtown Salt Lake for a full evening.
Personal Reflection: Experiencing the organ solo was mesmerizing. I was amazed by the precision, volume control, and the way each note seemed to reverberate in harmony with the building itself.
Recommended Activities Around Temple Square
- Family-Friendly Historical Exhibit at North Visitor Center
Why I Recommend: The North Visitor Center offers interactive exhibits perfect for kids and adults alike. I remember exploring multimedia displays showing the history of the LDS Church, with touchscreens, models of the temple, and guided narration.
Tips: Best for families; free admission; combine with a garden walk. - Photography Tour of Temple Square Gardens
Why I Recommend: Professional or amateur photographers will love the gardens’ seasonal blooms, fountains, and the temple’s iconic silhouette. I spent a golden-hour session capturing reflections in the lily ponds.
Tips: Bring a wide-angle lens and tripod. Weekday mornings are ideal for soft light and fewer crowds. - Evening Light Show and Choral Performance
Why I Recommend: During holidays, Temple Square hosts stunning light displays paired with choir performances. One evening I attended, the combination of thousands of lights and live choral music created a magical, almost cinematic atmosphere.
Tips: Arrive early; these events can be extremely popular. Warm clothing is recommended in winter months. - Attend a Special Concert at the Assembly Hall
Location: 50 N. West Temple
Cost: Varies; some events require reservations ($10–$40)
Why I Recommend: The Assembly Hall hosts a range of concerts from classical music to seasonal performances. I once attended a harp and organ duet—intimate, acoustically rich, and a welcome contrast to the large Tabernacle performances.
Tips: Check schedules on the Temple Square website; tickets can be booked online in advance.
Practical Travel Information
Getting There from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC):
• Taxi/Rideshare: ~20–25 minutes.
• TRAX Light Rail: Blue Line to Temple Square Station, ~40 minutes.
• Parking: Several short-term lots near the Square; first hour often free.
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible paths throughout the Square.
Dining Options Nearby: Several cafes and restaurants along Main Street. I enjoyed a lunch at The Garden Restaurant just two blocks from Temple Square—fresh salads, sandwiches, and local pastries.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and vibrant gardens. December brings stunning holiday light displays.
Visiting Temple Square and experiencing the Mormon Tabernacle Choir is, without exaggeration, one of the most enriching cultural experiences I’ve had in my 15+ years of travel. Beyond the beautiful architecture and gardens, the Square embodies a living history, where music, faith, and artistry converge. Each time I return, I notice something new—the way sunlight glints off the spires in the morning, the subtle change in the gardens across seasons, or the tiny details carved into the temple doors that I had missed before.
One of my favorite moments was simply sitting on a bench in the North Garden, listening to the distant rehearsals echoing from the Tabernacle. It’s a calm, reflective space amid the bustling city streets, and I often bring a small sketchbook or journal to capture impressions. The Square doesn’t feel like a museum; it feels like a living, breathing piece of art and history that invites participation rather than observation alone.
Temple Square is more than just a stop on a Salt Lake City itinerary—it’s a place where history, music, and culture converge in ways that are accessible to visitors of all ages and interests. I can confidently say that the combination of architectural beauty, sublime musical experiences, and peaceful gardens makes Temple Square a truly transformative destination.
Even after multiple visits, I continue to find layers of nuance in the choir’s performances, the organ’s intricate sound, and the careful landscaping of the gardens. Each experience leaves me inspired, reflective, and eager to return. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, history lover, photographer, or traveler seeking serenity, Temple Square and the Tabernacle Choir offer something unforgettable.
In my personal opinion, this destination deserves at least half a day—and if you have the time, a full day to fully immerse yourself in its wonders. I always leave with a sense of awe, gratitude, and a renewed appreciation for how music and architecture can elevate the human spirit.
