The Orlando Florida Temple was the first temple built in Florida and became the 46th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in Windermere, just southwest of Orlando, the temple sits atop a peaceful knoll overlooking a chain of lakes. Its elegant white exterior, lush tropical landscaping, and central location have made it a beloved house of the Lord for members throughout Florida and beyond.
A Brief History
President Ezra Taft Benson announced the Orlando Florida Temple on February 17, 1990. In the official announcement, the First Presidency explained that Orlando was selected because of its central location and excellent highway access from every part of the state, making it an ideal location to serve members throughout Florida.
Groundbreaking and site dedication took place on June 20, 1992, with James E. Faust presiding. Following a 20-day public open house from September 10–30, 1994, President Howard W. Hunter dedicated the temple during multiple sessions held October 9–11, 1994, making it the 46th dedicated temple of the Church. The Orlando Florida Temple is one of only two temples dedicated by President Howard W. Hunter during his brief presidency, the other being the Bountiful Utah Temple.
After serving members for nearly three decades, the Church announced a major renovation in February 2024. The temple closed on July 1, 2024, for extensive interior and exterior improvements. Renovation work is continuing, and open house and rededication dates will be announced after construction is complete.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the Orlando Florida Temple's most distinctive features is its beautiful setting. The temple sits on a 13-acre hilltop overlooking nearby lakes and is surrounded by towering palm trees, flowering shrubs, fountains, and carefully landscaped gardens. Its white exterior of precast concrete with marble chips stands out brilliantly against Florida's blue skies.
The temple features a graceful single attached central spire topped with the angel Moroni and rises approximately 193 feet. Inside, it contains approximately 70,000 square feet, including four instruction rooms, five sealing rooms, and a baptistry. It remains one of the largest temples in the eastern United States.
Another unique aspect is the temple's broad area of service. Before additional temples were built in Florida, the Orlando Temple served members across the entire state as well as parts of the Caribbean. Even today, it continues to serve 22 stakes throughout central and northeastern Florida.
Visiting the Temple
The Orlando Florida Temple is located at 9000 Windy Ridge Road in Windermere, Florida. The temple is currently closed for renovation. Once renovation work is complete, the Church will announce public open house and rededication dates. The beautifully landscaped grounds remain one of the most recognizable temple properties in Florida. There is no on-site distribution center, and clothing rental is not available.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in Florida.
- 46th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on February 17, 1990.
- Groundbreaking held on June 20, 1992.
- Dedicated by President Howard W. Hunter on October 9–11, 1994.
- Public open house lasted 20 days.
- Built on a 13-acre property.
- Approximately 70,000 square feet.
- Features four instruction rooms, five sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Exterior finished with white precast concrete containing marble chips.
- One of only two temples dedicated by President Howard W. Hunter.
- Currently undergoing a major renovation announced in 2024.
Final Thoughts
The Orlando Florida Temple has served as a spiritual landmark for Latter-day Saints in Florida since its dedication in 1994. Its beautiful tropical setting, impressive architecture, and important place in Church history have made it one of the state's most beloved temples. As renovation work continues, members look forward to its reopening and many more years of sacred service.
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