Joseph Smith Memorial Building - Joseph Smith Memorial Building
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Joseph Smith Memorial Building

4.8
·1k reviews·Salt Lake City, United States

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Joseph Smith Memorial Building - Joseph Smith Memorial Building

Joseph Smith Memorial Building

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.8
(1k reviews)

"It's a beautiful building and has been recently remodeled."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Throughout the building

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

The Garden Restaurant

The Garden Restaurant

Ground floor

Enjoy handcrafted sandwiches, soups, and salads in a beautifully decorated, welcoming atmosphere.

Legacy Theater

Legacy Theater

Second floor

Catch inspiring films that share the history and legacy of Joseph Smith and the Latter-day Saint movement.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building recently underwent a significant renovation, with select areas reopening. Check for current access before you go. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to fully appreciate the architecture and exhibits without crowds.

Parking and Access Tips

Parking can be a hassle. While validation is available with purchases at The Garden Restaurant, consider parking at City Creek Center mall for free for two hours or at the Conference Center. This avoids potential parking fees.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Theater shows are often scheduled
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Fun fact: Joseph Smith was born in Vermont! #mormon #latterdaysaint #church #tour
@dreamroulette
11.5K likes • 185.7K views

🚗 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. Reddit

✨ Appreciate the Details

Take time to notice the exquisite wood carvings, stone work, and art throughout the building. Reddit

First ever photo of Joseph Smith?? Maybe. #prolds #lds #josephsmith #mormon #latterdaysaint #churchofjesuschristoflatterdaysaints #ldschurch #ldschurchhistory
@scriptureplus
7.2K likes • 125.6K views
The Joseph Smith Memorial Building (JSMB) on Temple Square in Salt Lake City is entering the newest phase of its storied 114-year history, after a 2.5 year renovation. #meridianmagazine #latterdaysaintmag #josephsmith
latterdaysaintmag
950 likes • 10.5K views

🎬 Catch a Film

The Legacy Theater offers inspiring movies about church history. Check showtimes! TikTok

🍽️ Delicious Dining Options

The Garden Restaurant offers great food at reasonable prices in a beautiful setting. InstagramReddit

In Church News Today this Tuesday, July 1: Select areas of the Joseph Smith Memorial Building have reopened to the public after a two and a half year renovation. Guests can visit the lobby and mezzanine again. The building received upgrades that include energy-efficient lighting controls, seismic updates, increased accessibility and more elevators. The Nauvoo Cafe inside has also reopened, now na...
thechurchnews
1.1K likes • 43.3K views

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. Reddit

✨ Appreciate the Details

Take time to notice the exquisite wood carvings, stone work, and art throughout the building. Reddit

🎬 Catch a Film

The Legacy Theater offers inspiring movies about church history. Check showtimes! TikTok

🍽️ Delicious Dining Options

The Garden Restaurant offers great food at reasonable prices in a beautiful setting. InstagramReddit

🏛️ Historic Building Charm

This landmark was formerly the Hotel Utah, now beautifully renovated by the LDS Church. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Great dining options
Inspiring films

What People Dislike

Parking can be costly

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to the Joseph Smith Memorial Building is free. You can explore the lobby and common areas without a ticket. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ 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. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

📸 📸 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. Instagram

For professional photoshoots, it's advisable to contact the building management in advance to inquire about their policies and any necessary permits or fees. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building offers a family-friendly environment. The Garden Restaurant provides a good spot for a casual meal that kids will likely enjoy, with options like sandwiches and salads. Instagram The Legacy Theater also shows inspiring films that can be suitable for older children and teens, offering an educational and entertaining experience. TikTok

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. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Joseph Smith Memorial Building is an excellent choice. General admission is free, allowing you to explore the beautiful architecture and common areas without spending a dime. Reddit

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. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

History enthusiasts will find the Joseph Smith Memorial Building particularly fascinating due to its past as the Hotel Utah. Exploring the building allows you to appreciate the preservation of its original architectural elements and imagine its former life as a grand hotel. Instagram

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. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of the Hotel Utah

The Joseph Smith Memorial Building stands on a site rich with history, having previously been the grand Hotel Utah. This iconic hotel operated from 1911 until 1987, serving as a luxurious landmark in Salt Lake City. Its elegant architecture and storied past are still evident in the building's design today. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Dining at The Garden Restaurant

The Garden Restaurant, located within the Joseph Smith Memorial Building, is a popular dining destination known for its fresh, handcrafted offerings. Visitors frequently praise the quality of the sandwiches, soups, and salads, making it an ideal spot for a satisfying lunch. InstagramReddit

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. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

The Legacy Theater Experience

The Legacy Theater within the Joseph Smith Memorial Building offers a unique cinematic experience focused on inspiring films. These productions often delve into the history, teachings, and lives of significant figures within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, including Joseph Smith himself. TikTok

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. TikTok

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. TikTok

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