Church History Museum
A free, serene museum on Temple Square showcasing LDS Church history, art, and pioneer heritage with interactive exhibits for all ages.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Church History Museum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A free, serene museum on Temple Square showcasing LDS Church history, art, and pioneer heritage with interactive exhibits for all ages.
"Absolutely enjoyed the museum and the peace that I felt here."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich historical experience without any cost. A great value for families and history buffs!
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Look for hands-on activities and craft stations, especially during holiday seasons.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pioneer History Exhibits
First Level
Step back in time to witness the faith and resilience of early Church members.

International Art Competition
Third Level
Discover inspiring artworks from around the globe with themes of faith and upliftment.

Interactive Children's Area
Basement
Hands-on activities and crafts designed to educate and entertain younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission, Big Impact
Engaging for All Ages
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich historical experience without any cost. A great value for families and history buffs!
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Look for hands-on activities and craft stations, especially during holiday seasons.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can see highlights in an hour, but 2+ hours allows for deeper exploration.
✨ Peaceful Atmosphere
Many visitors note a feeling of tranquility and reverence throughout the museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy a rich historical experience without any cost. A great value for families and history buffs!
🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun
Look for hands-on activities and craft stations, especially during holiday seasons.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
You can see highlights in an hour, but 2+ hours allows for deeper exploration.
✨ Peaceful Atmosphere
Many visitors note a feeling of tranquility and reverence throughout the museum.
🛍️ Unique Souvenirs
The gift shop offers a lovely selection of faith-inspired items and books.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Church History Museum for its peaceful atmosphere, engaging exhibits, and free admission. Many highlight the interactive elements that make it enjoyable for all ages, and the helpfulness of the volunteers. The art exhibition is also a frequent point of positive feedback.
"Absolutely enjoyed the museum and the peace that I felt here. The volunteers were very helpful, answered questions and thought us things we didn't know. You can see things super quick or you can take your time and spend about an hour. There is also a very neat souvenir store. I would definitely go back."
Maria Cerda
"Free museum to attend. I learned so much here about the history of the church of Jesus Christ of latter-day saints. Lots of great artifacts and a great way to learn more.
They have different art on the third floor and a kid area."
Deanna Millett
"Beautiful! Loved the exhibits, the art was amazing. Lovely gift shop. The best part was the feeling of tranquility and reverence while I walked through the museum. If I ever make my way back to Salt Lake City, I will definitely visit the museum again."
Cindy Elledge
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Church History Museum is located on Temple Square at 45 N W Temple St, Salt Lake City, UT 84150. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including the UTA TRAX light rail system, with a stop conveniently located nearby. Parking is available in surrounding garages, though it can be costly.
Yes, there are several parking garages around Temple Square. The City Creek Center parking garage is a popular option. Be aware that parking fees apply.
Absolutely! The museum is open to everyone, regardless of religious affiliation. It's a place to learn about history and art.
Temple Square is very walkable. The Church History Museum is centrally located, making it easy to combine with visits to other attractions on the square.
While there are no specific discounts for museum visitors, utilizing public transport like TRAX can be a cost-effective way to reach Temple Square.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Church History Museum is completely free! This makes it an accessible and valuable experience for all visitors.
The museum typically operates from 9 AM to 9 PM daily, but it's always a good idea to check the official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially around holidays.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can simply walk in during operating hours.
The Church History Museum is typically closed on Sundays. It's best to verify hours on their official website before your visit.
All exhibits within the Church History Museum are included with free general admission. Special events like children's crafts are also typically free.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum features exhibits on the early history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including pioneer journeys, significant historical events, and the International Art Competition.
Yes, the museum is very family-friendly with interactive displays and a dedicated children's area offering hands-on activities and crafts.
Most visitors spend between 1 to 2 hours exploring the exhibits. However, you can easily spend longer if you wish to delve deeper into the displays.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use, but flash photography and tripods may be restricted in certain areas. It's best to check for signage within the museum.
While official guided tours might not be regularly scheduled, volunteers are often available to answer questions and provide insights into the exhibits.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Church History Museum does not have an on-site restaurant. However, there are numerous dining options available within the nearby City Creek Center and throughout downtown Salt Lake City.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside museum galleries to protect the exhibits. There may be designated areas for consumption outside the galleries.
The City Creek Center, adjacent to Temple Square, offers a wide variety of restaurants and food court options. Downtown Salt Lake City also has many diverse culinary choices.
There is no dedicated cafe within the museum itself. Visitors can find refreshments at nearby locations on Temple Square or in the City Creek Center.
While there aren't specific picnic tables inside the museum, Temple Square itself offers beautiful grounds where you might find benches for a picnic if you bring your own food.
📸 📸 Photography
The International Art Competition exhibits often provide visually striking backdrops. The architecture of the museum and Temple Square itself also offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, phone cameras are generally permitted for personal use. However, avoid using flash, as it can damage artifacts and disturb other visitors.
Flash photography and tripods are usually not allowed to protect the exhibits and ensure a smooth visitor experience. Always look for posted signs.
You can find many photos by searching for 'Church History Museum Salt Lake City' on Google Images or social media platforms like Instagram using relevant hashtags.
With careful composition and attention to lighting, you can capture artistic shots, especially focusing on the details of the artwork and historical artifacts.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🤓 History Buffs & Researchers
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring LDS Church History
One of the key aspects highlighted is the pioneer experience. Through dioramas, original documents, and personal belongings, the museum conveys the challenges and triumphs of the pioneers. This immersive approach allows visitors to connect with the past on a personal level. Beyond the pioneer era, the museum also touches upon the global expansion of the Church, showcasing how its message spread and communities were established in various parts of the world.
For those interested in a deeper dive, the museum often features rotating exhibits that explore specific themes or periods within Church history. These can range from the lives of prominent Church leaders to the development of Church programs and doctrines. The interactive elements throughout the museum, particularly in the children's areas, ensure that the learning experience is engaging for all ages, making complex historical narratives accessible and memorable.
The International Art Competition
The exhibition features a wide array of styles and perspectives, from traditional paintings and sculptures to contemporary digital art. This diversity offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression, reflecting the global reach and varied cultural influences within the Church community. Visitors often find the art to be deeply moving and thought-provoking, providing unique insights into how faith is perceived and represented by artists worldwide.
Beyond the physical exhibition, the museum often provides an online gallery where people can view the artworks and even vote for their favorites. This digital component extends the reach of the competition, allowing a global audience to engage with the art. The 'Lift Up the Hands Which Hang Down' theme from a recent competition exemplifies the inspirational nature of the art, encouraging viewers to find strength and hope.
Family-Friendly Exploration
During the holiday seasons, particularly Christmas, the museum often hosts special children's crafts and activities. These events provide a fun and festive way for families to engage with the museum's themes. Visitors can find free crafts, coloring pages, and opportunities to create ornaments, making it a memorable outing for kids.
The museum's layout and the clear presentation of information also contribute to its family-friendliness. The basement level is particularly noted for its kid-focused areas, ensuring that the entire family can enjoy their visit. The free admission further enhances its appeal as an accessible and enriching family activity in Salt Lake City.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit