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Mon-Sat: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sun: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Free Admission
Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center Monday–Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Address
155 N Wells Street, Nauvoo, IL 62354
Free parking is available off Young Street.
Weekday Mornings
Fewer crowds, quieter experience
Late Afternoon
Warm light over the temple and the Mississippi River bluff, beautiful for photos
Experience interactive exhibits and historical artifacts that invite you to explore the story of Nauvoo’s original temple, the sacrifices of the early Saints, and the significance of houses of the Lord today.
Discover the grounds of the Nauvoo Illinois Temple, standing on a bluff overlooking a bend in the Mississippi River, a peaceful setting for reflection, with sweeping views across to the plains of Iowa that the early Saints once crossed on their journey west.
The Visitors’ Center offers a self-guided experience, with missionaries stationed at the welcome desk to answer questions along the way. For a deeper dive into Nauvoo’s history, guided tours of the surrounding historic sites and more.
No, admission to the Nauvoo Temple Visitors’ Center is completely free. All visitors are welcome.
The Visitors’ Center is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
Most visitors spend 30-45 minutes exploring the exhibits at their own pace, plus time for the short film in the theater. You’re welcome to stay as long as you’d like on the temple grounds.
Walk-ins are welcome during all open hours. However, we recommend booking a guided tour in advance if you’d like a more in-depth experience, especially during peak tourist season.
Walk-ins are welcome during all open hours. The Visitors’ Center is a self-guided experience, so no reservation is needed to explore the exhibits. Booking a tour with a volunteer is helpful for getting the most out of your experience and is highly encouraged!
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.
Yes. The Visitors’ Center is designed to be easy for many visitors to access.
Absolutely! Families are very welcome. The gardens provide peaceful space for children to explore, and our exhibits include interactive elements that engage younger visitors.
Yes, you’re welcome to take photos in the gardens and of the temple exterior, no drone please. We ask that you be respectful of other visitors seeking quiet reflection.
Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be quieter. The lighting is also beautiful for photography during these times.
Yes, free parking is available in the lot north of the Visitors’ Center, off Young Street.
Nauvoo is a small, walkable town. Many other Historic Nauvoo sites, including the Brigham and Mary Ann Young Home and the two other Historic Nauvoo Visitors’ Centers, are just minutes away.
Yes! We welcome groups. For groups of 20 or more, please contact us in advance so we can ensure the best experience.
Yes. Many visitors come simply to experience the history, architecture, and the beauty of the temple grounds. You don’t need to share our faith to find value in your visit.
If you only have 15–20 minutes, we recommend viewing the Tiffany art-glass panel and stepping outside briefly for a view of the temple.
Yes, missionaries are available during all open hours and are happy to answer questions about the Church, the temple, or the exhibits. Just ask any staff member.
Regular worship services take place at local meetinghouses rather than the Visitors’ Center. We’re happy to provide information about service times and locations if you’re interested.
We’d love to welcome you. Book a free tour or reach out with any questions.
