The Boise Idaho Temple has been a landmark in Idaho's capital city for more than four decades. With its distinctive six-spire design and prominent location along Interstate 84, it is one of the most recognizable temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. As the second temple built in Idaho, it has served members throughout western Idaho and eastern Oregon since its dedication in 1984.
A Brief History
The Boise Idaho Temple was announced on March 31, 1982, and groundbreaking took place later that year on December 18, 1982, with approximately 5,000 members attending the ceremony despite the winter weather. After an 18-day public open house that welcomed an incredible 128,716 visitors, President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple during 24 dedicatory sessions from May 25–30, 1984, making it the 27th dedicated temple in operation.
Because the temple quickly reached capacity, it underwent an expansion just two and a half years after opening and was rededicated in 1987. A much larger renovation followed in 2011–2012, modernizing the interior, expanding portions of the building, replacing the exterior stone with temple white granite, and enhancing the beautiful grounds before President Thomas S. Monson rededicated the temple in 2012.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
The Boise Idaho Temple is best known for its striking six-spire design. It was the first six-spire temple built since the Salt Lake Temple and the Washington D.C. Temple, and its efficient floor plan became the model for fourteen additional temples constructed during the 1980s. It is also considered a sister temple to the Dallas Texas Temple and the Chicago Illinois Temple.
Its location also makes it unique. Positioned beside Interstate 84, the temple has become a familiar landmark for travelers entering Boise. The beautifully landscaped grounds feature mature trees, colorful flower beds, a peaceful reflecting pool, and a large water feature that creates a tranquil setting despite being near one of Idaho's busiest highways.
One of the most remarkable stories surrounding the temple came during its original open house. Church leaders expected around 70,000 visitors, but nearly 129,000 people toured the building. Interest in the Church grew so dramatically that the number of convert baptisms in the area more than doubled during the following month.
Visiting the Temple
The Boise Idaho Temple is located at 1211 South Cole Road in Boise. Although there is no visitors' center or distribution center on the temple grounds, the beautifully maintained property is open for visitors to enjoy. Its reflecting pool, mature landscaping, and distinctive six spires make it one of the most photographed temples in the Pacific Northwest.
Fun Facts
- Second temple built in Idaho.
- 27th dedicated temple in operation.
- Announced on March 31, 1982.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley in May 1984.
- More than 128,700 people attended the original public open house.
- Features six detached spires topped by the angel Moroni.
- Served as the architectural model for fourteen additional temples.
- Approximately 35,868 square feet with four instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
Final Thoughts
The Boise Idaho Temple has become one of Idaho's most recognizable landmarks and has blessed generations of Latter-day Saints throughout the Northwest. Its unique architecture, rich history, and beautiful grounds make it a memorable destination for anyone visiting Boise or exploring the temples of Idaho.
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