How to Go Inside a Mormon Temple Without Being Mormon

The Mormon temple in Oakland, California, is one of more than 100 around the world.

Mormon temples are holy and sacred places for those in the Mormon faith. Because of the nature of the ceremonies and rites that take place inside, outsiders to the religion are not allowed inside once the temple has been dedicated. The general public may be allowed on the temple grounds, in a visitor center or in a special waiting room for relatives of Mormons undergoing sacred rites. If you are interested to see the inside of a temple, but are not a Mormon with a temple recommend, then the best time to visit is during the open house period before the temple is dedicated.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Printer
• Email address

Instructions

1. Visit the website for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (lds.org). Navigate to the "Temples" area listed in the menu.

2. Click "Find a temple" and review the list of temples around the world. Click to sort the temple dates in reverse chronological order, and review the locations listed as being under construction.

3. Look for a link to information about the scheduled open house. Tickets are required to attend an open house, and some temples allow online ticket requests using a reservation form. For large groups or for information about open houses that do not provide online ticketing, call the contact number provided for the temple.

Tips & Warnings

• A temple is different from Mormon meetinghouses, which number in the thousands and are always open to the public. In fact, the church placards in front of the meetinghouses expressly say "Visitors Welcome."

• While there is no dress code, wear Sunday dress when possible. Also, shoe coverings will be provided at the temple. These are to keep the floors clean.

References

• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: Temples Around the World