Joseph Smith Memorial Building
A landmark former hotel transformed into a vibrant complex featuring dining, theater, and historical exhibits.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Joseph Smith Memorial Building
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A landmark former hotel transformed into a vibrant complex featuring dining, theater, and historical exhibits.
"It's a beautiful building and has been recently remodeled."
🚗 Smart Parking Solutions
Park at City Creek Center for 2 hrs free or the Conference Center. Validation for The Garden Restaurant is also an option.
✨ Appreciate the Details
Take time to notice the exquisite wood carvings, stone work, and art throughout the building.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur
Throughout the building
Marvel at the intricate wood carvings, stone work, painting, and tile details from skilled artisans.

The Garden Restaurant
Ground floor
Enjoy handcrafted sandwiches, soups, and salads in a beautifully decorated, welcoming atmosphere.
Legacy Theater
Second floor
Catch inspiring films that share the history and legacy of Joseph Smith and the Latter-day Saint movement.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Smart Parking Solutions
Park at City Creek Center for 2 hrs free or the Conference Center. Validation for The Garden Restaurant is also an option.
✨ Appreciate the Details
Take time to notice the exquisite wood carvings, stone work, and art throughout the building.
🎬 Catch a Film
The Legacy Theater offers inspiring movies about church history. Check showtimes!
🍽️ Delicious Dining Options
The Garden Restaurant offers great food at reasonable prices in a beautiful setting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Smart Parking Solutions
Park at City Creek Center for 2 hrs free or the Conference Center. Validation for The Garden Restaurant is also an option.
✨ Appreciate the Details
Take time to notice the exquisite wood carvings, stone work, and art throughout the building.
🎬 Catch a Film
The Legacy Theater offers inspiring movies about church history. Check showtimes!
🍽️ Delicious Dining Options
The Garden Restaurant offers great food at reasonable prices in a beautiful setting.
🏛️ Historic Building Charm
This landmark was formerly the Hotel Utah, now beautifully renovated by the LDS Church.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Joseph Smith Memorial Building for its stunning architecture and the welcoming atmosphere, especially within The Garden Restaurant. Recent renovations have enhanced its beauty and accessibility. While parking can be a consideration, the free admission and enriching experiences make it a highly recommended visit.
"In July 2025, we visited the Joseph Smith Memorial Building in downtown Salt Lake City. This building has undergone significant upgrades during its existence, and another upgrade has just finished. The architecture, furniture, and other decorations are amazing. Skilled artisans have done significant effort to do the wood and stone carvings, as well as the painting, tile work, and other decorations. The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is a treasured asset of Salt Lake City and well worth the free admission visit."
John Cutler
"Praise to the man who communed with Jehovah.
Reopened June 2025
Validation parking with purchase at the Garden restaurant or else it’s $25
Tip: park at City Creek Center mall for 2hrs free or park at the Conference Center with Validation.
Building still under construction so only the Garden restaurant is open from 11am-3pm"
Anonymous
"It's a beautiful building and has been recently remodeled. The Garden Restaurant has really good food for reasonable prices"
Spencer Butler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Joseph Smith Memorial Building is located in downtown Salt Lake City, adjacent to Temple Square. It's easily accessible by public transportation, including buses and light rail. If driving, be mindful of parking options as mentioned in the tips section.
Yes, parking is available. You can get validation with a purchase at The Garden Restaurant. Alternatively, consider parking at City Creek Center mall for two hours free or at the Conference Center.
Temple Square is a central hub in Salt Lake City. Many visitors find it convenient to use the UTA TRAX light rail system, which has a stop nearby. Walking is also a great option if you're staying in the downtown area.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Salt Lake City and can drop you off near the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. This is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking.
The building has undergone renovations that include increased accessibility, such as more elevators and improved controls. It is designed to be welcoming to all visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to the Joseph Smith Memorial Building is free. You can explore the lobby and common areas without a ticket.
While entry is free, there are costs for dining at The Garden Restaurant and for tickets to films shown in the Legacy Theater. Parking fees may also apply if you don't secure validation or use alternative parking.
Operating hours can vary, especially as select areas have recently reopened after renovations. It's best to check the official website or call ahead for the most current hours for the building, The Garden Restaurant, and the Legacy Theater.
It is recommended to check the Legacy Theater's schedule and booking information online. Advance booking is often advisable, especially for popular showtimes, to secure your preferred seats.
The Joseph Smith Memorial Building houses a family genealogy center. While access to the building is free, specific services or research assistance at the genealogy center might have associated costs or require appointments.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the stunning architecture, dine at The Garden Restaurant, watch inspiring films at the Legacy Theater, and explore exhibits related to church history. There's also a family genealogy center.
Yes, The Garden Restaurant is located within the building and is known for its handcrafted sandwiches, soups, and salads. It's a popular spot for lunch.
The Legacy Theater typically shows films that focus on the history and teachings of Joseph Smith and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These are often inspiring and educational.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in common areas. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful and check for any posted restrictions, especially in areas with exhibits or during performances.
While not explicitly mentioned as a primary feature, some events like art shows may have items for sale. It's best to inquire upon arrival if you are looking for specific souvenirs or merchandise.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand lobby, the beautifully decorated dining areas of The Garden Restaurant, and any architectural details like carvings and artwork offer excellent photo opportunities. The exterior architecture is also quite striking.
For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact the building management in advance to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits or fees.
While personal photography is generally permitted, always be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage indicating restricted areas. Avoid flash photography in areas where it might be disruptive.
Visitors often capture the building's elegant interior design, the food at The Garden Restaurant, and sometimes art displays or events held within the building.
While the building is named after him and contains historical context, specific statues or prominent portraits of Joseph Smith might be limited. The focus is more on the building's history and its current function.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't dedicated play areas, the building's grand architecture and open spaces can be interesting for children to explore. The focus on history and positive messages in the films can also be a valuable takeaway for young visitors. Remember to check the film ratings and content for suitability for your specific family.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, consider packing your own snacks or a picnic to enjoy in designated areas, rather than dining at The Garden Restaurant. If you do plan to eat there, look for lunch specials or share larger items. Parking can also be a significant expense; utilize the free parking at City Creek Center or the Conference Center whenever possible.
🏛️ History Buffs
Pay close attention to the intricate carvings, stonework, and decorative details that speak to the craftsmanship of a bygone era. The exhibits and films in the Legacy Theater often provide deeper insights into the history of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its foundational figures, including Joseph Smith.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of the Hotel Utah
When the hotel ceased operations, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints acquired the building and transformed it into the Joseph Smith Memorial Building. This transition preserved the historic structure while repurposing it to serve new functions, including administrative offices, dining, and cultural venues. The renovation efforts have aimed to honor its past while embracing its future.
Visitors can still feel the echoes of the Hotel Utah's grandeur. The meticulous renovations have highlighted original architectural features, ensuring that the building remains a testament to both its historical significance and its current role as a welcoming complex for the community and visitors alike.
Dining at The Garden Restaurant
The ambiance of The Garden Restaurant is a significant draw. It's described as beautifully decorated, warm, and welcoming, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. The reasonable prices also make it an attractive option for those exploring Temple Square and downtown Salt Lake City.
While the restaurant is a highlight, it can get busy, especially during peak hours. It's advisable to consider visiting during off-peak times or being prepared for a potential wait. The restaurant's location within the historic building adds to its unique charm.
The Legacy Theater Experience
Attending a film here provides an opportunity to learn and reflect in a comfortable setting. The theater is designed to enhance the viewing experience, making it an engaging part of a visit to the building. It's a chance to connect with the narratives presented in a visually compelling way.
Showtimes and film selections can vary, so it's recommended to check the schedule in advance to plan your visit accordingly. This ensures you don't miss out on any screenings that align with your interests.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit