Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center
Mon-Sat: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sun: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Address
7809 Joseph Street, Kirtland, OH 44094
Free parking is available.
Spring & Fall
The grounds are especially beautiful when the leaves are turning, and the moderate temperatures make for an excellent stroll.
Explore paintings by noted Latter-day Saint artists, stand beside the original temple finial that once crowned the spire, and see historical photographs and maps that bring the world of 1830s Kirtland vividly to life.
Walk all three floors of the first temple of the Restoration. See the original pulpits, the reversible pews, and the very room where the Savior appeared to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery on April 3, 1836. Tours begin every half hour, last approximately one hour, and are always free.
Just steps from the Visitors’ Center, the historic village invites you to tour the N.K. Whitney & Co. Store, the Newel and Elizabeth Ann Whitney Home, the Joseph and Emma Smith Home, a reconstructed ashery, a sawmill, and more. It’s a full day of history if you want it.
No, admission to the Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center is completely free. All visitors are welcome.
The Kirtland Temple Visitors’ Center is open daily:
Mon-Sat: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sun: 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM
The temple tour itself takes approximately one hour. Most visitors spend an additional 30–60 minutes in the Visitors’ Center and on the grounds. Allow half a day if you plan to explore Historic Kirtland Village as well.
Walk-ins are welcome. However, because tours are limited to 25 people and begin every half hour, we recommend arriving early during peak summer and fall seasons to secure your spot.
Yes. The Visitors’ Center is open to all visitors and features exhibits, artwork, and orientation for your visit. The temple itself is open to everyone for guided tours. Unlike most Latter-day Saint temples, the Kirtland Temple is not restricted to solely Church members and is open to all.
Casual, comfortable clothing is perfectly appropriate. We only ask that you dress modestly out of respect for the sacred nature of the location. The grounds involve some walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
The Visitors’ Center and temple grounds are accessible. The temple tour involves 66 steep stairs. An alternative experience is available for visitors who cannot access the upper floors. Please speak with a missionary guide upon arrival if you would like the alternate part of the tour.
Absolutely. Families are warmly welcome. The historic grounds offer space for children to explore, and the stories of Kirtland are engaging for all ages.
Yes, you’re welcome to take photos in the gardens and of the temple. We ask that you be respectful of other visitors seeking quiet reflection.
Weekday mornings tend to be quieter. Spring and fall offer the most beautiful grounds. Summer brings the most visitors, so arrive early if you’re coming on a weekend.
Free parking is available adjacent to the Visitors’ Center on Joseph Street. Accessible parking is available on the south side of the building.
Historic Kirtland Village is on site. The Holden Arboretum is about five minutes away. The James A. Garfield National Historic Site is 2.8 miles away. Cleveland is 30–45 minutes west, making Kirtland an easy day trip from the city.
Yes. We welcome tour buses and large groups. Please contact us in advance so we can coordinate your experience. Bus parking is available on site.
Yes. Many visitors come simply to experience a remarkable piece of American history, explore the architecture of one of the oldest surviving religious buildings in Ohio, or walk the grounds of a National Historic Landmark.
If you only have 20–30 minutes, step inside the Visitors’ Center to see the exhibits and the picture window view of the temple, then walk the grounds. The temple itself is worth scheduling a full hour for, but even a short stop here is worth it.
Yes. Missionary guides are present during all open hours and are happy to answer questions about the Church, the temple, or the exhibits. No pressure, just genuine conversation. Ask any staff member.
Regular worship services take place at local meetinghouses. We’re happy to help you find a congregation near you. Just ask a missionary, or visit churchofjesuschrist.org.
We’d love to welcome you. Book a free tour or reach out with any questions.