Temple Lot Independence Missouri
A pivotal historical site dedicated by Joseph Smith, central to LDS beliefs about the New Jerusalem and the Second Coming.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Visitor center open, friendly staff
Temple Lot Independence Missouri
Best Time
Visitor center open, friendly staff
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pivotal historical site dedicated by Joseph Smith, central to LDS beliefs about the New Jerusalem and the Second Coming.
"This is holy land to Latter-Day Saints and other Mormon based traditions. "
🤝 Be Respectful of Ownership
Remember the lot is owned by the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), not the LDS Church.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
You can walk around the entire lot anytime. Park in the lower lot west of the chapel.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sacred Temple Lot
Independence, Missouri
This hallowed ground is central to LDS beliefs about the Second Coming and the future New Jerusalem.
Original 1831 Stone Markers
Church of Christ (Temple Lot) Visitor's Center
See the original markers left by Joseph Smith, a tangible link to the site's early history.
Worn Grassy Path & Markers
Around the perimeter of the lot
Walk the path and find cement markers detailing the lot's significance for various faiths.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understanding Ownership & History
Best Times to Visit & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Be Respectful of Ownership
Remember the lot is owned by the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), not the LDS Church.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
You can walk around the entire lot anytime. Park in the lower lot west of the chapel.
❓ Ask Questions!
Staff in the visitor's center are friendly and knowledgeable. Don't be shy!
📜 Understand the History
This site is holy to Latter-day Saints and other traditions.
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Be Respectful of Ownership
Remember the lot is owned by the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), not the LDS Church.
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
You can walk around the entire lot anytime. Park in the lower lot west of the chapel.
❓ Ask Questions!
Staff in the visitor's center are friendly and knowledgeable. Don't be shy!
📜 Understand the History
This site is holy to Latter-day Saints and other traditions.
🚫 Respect Parking Rules
Avoid using parking spots for activities like drawing, even if empty.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Temple Lot a place of deep historical and religious significance, particularly for Latter-day Saints. The grounds are accessible and the staff at the visitor's center are consistently described as friendly and informative. Some visitors note the complexity of the ownership and historical claims, which can be a point of interest or confusion.
"My wife and I visited here several years ago. Not in the large spiral building (Community of Christ) but in the small building which I guess is a chapel. We spoke to a man inside there about the property and asked if our church (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints) had made a recent offer to buy the property, he said they had but that no deal has yet been negotiated, so the property is still owned by the Church of Christ (Temple Lot). It is a little confusing. They claim descent from the 1830 Church but do not accept the name change the Prophet Joseph Smith revelated in 1838 which is what we currently use-something like that. The fellow was very nice and despite our doctrinal differences we had a nice and pleasant conversation."
Craig Johnson
"If you love the Book of Mormon and Joseph Smith, this is the place to come.
This is holy land to Latter-Day Saints and other Mormon based traditions. Appointed by the finger of the Lord himself for a Temple. DC 84:3, DC 57: 1-5, DC 98:8-21. A place for the pure in heart ❤️.
You can walk around the area, really any time. Park in the lower parking lot area west of the white chapel.
There is a worn grassy path close by to all four corners of the lot with cement in ground markers.
If you go into the visitor's center, the original 1831 stone markers left by Joseph Smith are on display by the Church of Christ Temple Lot.
I think it's open normally on Wednesday and Friday with someone who can answer questions. Very friendly, so don't be shy. Bathrooms available."
Steven Hamblin
"It's a joy to visit authentic history. The Church of Christ does a fine job of maintaining the property, and the staff in the visitor's center is courteous and friendly."
John Midgett
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Temple Lot is located in Independence, Missouri. Visitors can park in the lower parking lot area west of the white chapel. While specific public transport details aren't widely shared, it's a central location within Independence.
Yes, the Temple Lot is a well-known historical site in Independence, Missouri. Look for the white chapel and the surrounding grounds.
While not always advertised, some historical tours of the Kansas City area may include the Temple Lot. Inquire with local tour operators for specific options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, tickets are not required to visit the Temple Lot grounds. You can walk around the area freely.
The grounds are accessible for walking at any time. The visitor's center is typically open on Wednesdays and Fridays, with friendly staff available to answer questions.
The Temple Lot is owned by the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), not The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. While offers have been made by the LDS Church, no deal has been negotiated.
There is no admission fee for the visitor's center. It's a place to learn about the history and significance of the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can walk the grounds, see the original 1831 stone markers left by Joseph Smith in the visitor's center, and explore the worn grassy path with cement markers. It's a place to reflect on its historical and religious significance.
Yes, restrooms are available for visitors.
Photography is generally permitted on the grounds. However, always be mindful of any posted signs or specific areas where photography might be restricted.
The Temple Lot is considered holy land and the appointed site for a future temple, central to LDS beliefs about the Second Coming and the gathering of the righteous in the New Jerusalem.
The Church of Christ (Temple Lot) claims descent from the original 1830 church but does not accept the name change to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which was revealed in 1838. They have distinct historical and doctrinal interpretations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Independence, Missouri, offers various dining options. You'll find restaurants and cafes a short drive from the Temple Lot.
While there are no specific restrictions mentioned, it's generally good practice to be tidy and respectful of the historical site. Avoid leaving any trash behind.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire grounds offer a sense of historical reverence. Capturing the open space, the markers, and the visitor's center can provide meaningful shots.
Drone usage is typically subject to local regulations and may require special permission. It's best to check with local authorities or the site management before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🤓 History Buffs & Religious Scholars
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Complex History of the Temple Lot
Today, the property is owned by the Church of Christ (Temple Lot), a group that traces its lineage directly back to the original church established in 1830. They maintain the site and its historical markers.
For visitors, it's important to approach the Temple Lot with an understanding of this complex history. While the grounds are open for respectful exploration, the ownership by the Church of Christ (Temple Lot) is a crucial detail.
Visiting the Temple Lot: What to Expect
Inside the visitor's center, you can see the original 1831 stone markers left by Joseph Smith, offering a tangible connection to the site's origins.
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