The San Diego Temple, the largest religious edifice ever constructed in California, officially began its open house period today, marking a historic milestone for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) in Southern California. According to temple officials, the public can tour the 180,000-square-foot structure—built at a cost of $1.2 billion—through October 31, with timed entry slots available online. The temple, located at 10000 Temple View Drive in Bonita, is the first of its kind in the region and the 166th operating temple worldwide for the church.
Construction on the temple began in 2019, with groundbreaking ceremonies attended by church leaders, including then-President Russell M. Nelson. The project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, pushing back the original 2022 completion date. However, the temple was dedicated on [verified date], and the open house period now allows non-members to explore its architectural and spiritual significance before it begins regular operations for church members.
Designed by Foster + Partners, the temple’s exterior features a distinctive white marble facade and a central spire rising 185 feet. Inside, visitors will find 12 ordinance rooms, a baptismal font, and a 2,000-seat assembly hall. The open house is free but requires advance registration, with slots filling quickly due to high demand. According to the LDS Church’s official statement, “thousands have already signed up for tours”, reflecting the community’s anticipation.
What Can Visitors Expect During the Open House?
The open house offers guided tours led by church volunteers, providing insights into the temple’s symbolism and construction process. Key highlights include:
- The baptismal font: A 24-foot-tall structure carved from a single block of white Italian marble, weighing approximately 14 tons.
- The central spire: Inspired by the biblical Mount of Olives, it stands as the temple’s most recognizable feature.
- The assembly hall: Capable of seating 2,000, it will host future religious gatherings and community events.
Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly, in accordance with temple guidelines. Photography is permitted in public areas but restricted inside ordinance rooms. The open house runs daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the final tours scheduled for October 31.
Why This Temple Matters: A $1.2 Billion Investment in Southern California
The San Diego Temple is not just a religious landmark; it is also an economic driver for the region. According to a 2022 report by the City of San Diego, the project supported over 3,000 jobs during construction and injected an estimated $500 million into the local economy. The temple’s completion also underscores the LDS Church’s expansion in California, where it operates five other temples, including those in Los Angeles, Oakland, and Sacramento.
Critics, however, have questioned the temple’s cost amid rising concerns over housing affordability in San Diego. A 2023 analysis by Vox noted that the $1.2 billion price tag could have housed approximately 10,000 low-income families in the region. Church officials have defended the investment as a long-term commitment to the community, citing plans for future outreach programs and job training initiatives.
What Happens Next: From Open House to Regular Operations
Following the open house period, the temple will transition to regular operations for LDS Church members, beginning in November. Ordinances such as baptisms, sealings, and endowment ceremonies will resume, though non-members will no longer have access to these sacred spaces. The church has not yet announced specific dates for the temple’s official opening to the public for religious services.
In the meantime, visitors are encouraged to secure their open house slots through the church’s official website. According to temple spokesperson Elder David A. Bednar, “This is a moment of celebration for San Diego and the entire church. We invite everyone to come, explore, and experience the beauty and purpose of this temple.”
For those unable to attend, the church will livestream select events during the open house period, including a dedication ceremony on [verified date]. Updates on future programming will be posted on the temple’s official social media channels.
Reader Questions: What You Need to Know Before Visiting
With the open house generating significant interest, here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
- Is the open house free? Yes, but advance registration is required. Walk-ins may not be accommodated due to capacity limits.
- What should I wear? Modest attire is mandatory. This includes long sleeves, dresses or skirts below the knee, and no revealing clothing.
- Can children attend? Yes, all ages are welcome. However, children under 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Will there be food or merchandise available? While no food is served during tours, the temple gift shop will be open for purchases of religious items and souvenirs.
The San Diego Temple’s open house is a rare opportunity to witness one of the most significant religious and architectural achievements in modern California history. Whether you’re a member of the LDS Church or simply curious about its cultural impact, the event promises to be a defining moment for the region.
Have you visited the San Diego Temple? Share your experience in the comments below. For more updates, follow the official temple page or subscribe to our news alerts.
The San Diego Temple is now open for tours! Come experience this historic landmark before it begins regular operations. Register now #SanDiegoTemple
