Temple
In the Temple, visitors can follow the Worshiper’s Path, filled with symbolic artwork, or the 1,600-seat Temple Sanctuary, featuring a spiral ceiling rising 195 feet and the 102-rank, 5,685-pipe organ. The Temple also houses a Meditation Chapel which overlooks a garden designed by master gardeners from Japan, an award-winning stained-glass window, and the Library and Archives.
Auditorium
The Auditorium features a 5,800-seat chamber with an expansive domed ceiling rising 90 feet. The chamber features one of the largest free-standing organs in the United States with 6,334 pipes.
Plan a Visit
Hours
Sunday: closed
Monday: closed
Tuesday: closed
Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. by appointment
Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. by appointment
Friday: closed
Saturday: closed
Tours
Schedule a self-guided or guided tour for Wednesdays or Thursdays from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Central USA Time. Complete a Tour Request Form to schedule a tour.
Self-guided Audio Tours
Follow an audio tour using your smartphone and headphones. Audio wand devices are also available for $5 USD at the Information Desk. Audio tours are available in English, French, and Spanish and last approximately one hour.
Admission includes an introductory video and access to the Meditation Chapel and Garden, Worshipper's Path, and Temple Sanctuary, and museum.
Cost
Free for Community of Christ members
$10 per person for non-Community of Christ members
Self-guided Brochure Tours
Brochure tours are available at the Information Desk in the Temple and last approximately one hour.
Admission includes an introductory video and access to the Meditation Chapel and Garden, Worshipper's Path, and Temple Sanctuary, and museum.
Cost
Free for Community of Christ members
$10 per person for non-Community of Christ members
Guided Tours
Guided Tours for individuals and groups of up to 50 people are available. Guided Tours last approximately one hour. Groups larger than 50 persons can reserve a guide for each group of 50. We can accommodate tour groups up to 50 persons every 30-minutes.
Admission includes an introductory video and access to the Meditation Chapel and Garden, Worshipper's Path, and Temple Sanctuary, and museum.
A visit to the Community of Christ Auditorium Chamber can also be included. Groups must make an advance request to tour the chamber and requests are granted based on staff availability and weather.
Cost
Free for Community of Christ members and groups
$50 USD per group of 50 for non-Community of Christ groups
Organ Tours and Demonstrations
An organ tour and demonstration of the Temple and Auditorium organs can be arranged with one of our staff organists. Tours last approximately one hour. Requests are granted based on staff organist availability.
Cost
$75 USD
Reservations
Request a Tour
Submit a Temple Tour Request Form to request a tour. Advanced reservations are required for all tours and should be submitted at least two weeks in advance. Submitting a Temple Tour Request Form does not guarantee a reservation.
Payment
Once your Temple Tour Request Form is approved you will receive information on how to pay. Your reservation is secured once payment is received.
Cancel or Change a Tour
Contact Visitor Services as soon as possible to cancel or change a tour. Tour slots are limited.
Face Masks
Community of Christ seeks to protect the most vulnerable of our community and promote a safe environment for all visitors and staff. Face-coverings may be required or not required based on institutional policy guided by public health information and our community’s values.
Learn more about our face mask guidelines.
Amenities
Food and Drink
Groups are welcome to bring a snack or sack lunch and dine outside on the World Plaza before or after their tour. There are also dining options available in downtown Independence. The Temple does not offer catering options, at this time.
Accessibility
Please inform us of any special needs for you or your group on the Temple Tour Request Form or by contacting Visitor Services.
Wheelchairs
Wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Main Entrance.
Directions
ARrival
Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour time. Call the switchboard operator at +1 (816) 833-1000 and someone will meet you at the East/Main circle drive entrance. You will then continue to the Information Desk where you will check in and begin your tour.
Parking
Bus and car park is available in the parking lot at the Main Entrance of the Temple. The Main Entrance is located on the east-side of the building. Follow signs in the parking lot for visitor drop off points.