The St. Louis Missouri Temple is the first temple built in Missouri and the 50th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Located in the suburb of Town and Country, just west of downtown St. Louis, the temple serves members throughout eastern Missouri and southern Illinois. Surrounded by mature trees, beautifully landscaped gardens, and a peaceful circular fountain, the temple has become a prominent landmark in the St. Louis area.
A Brief History
President Gordon B. Hinckley announced the St. Louis Missouri Temple on December 29, 1990. The temple fulfilled a long-awaited milestone for Missouri, a state deeply connected to early Church history through locations such as Independence, Far West, and Adam-ondi-Ahman. Although temple sites had been dedicated in Missouri during the 1830s, the St. Louis Temple became the first temple ever completed in the state.
Groundbreaking services were held on October 30, 1993, with President Gordon B. Hinckley presiding. Nearly 5,000 people attended despite cold, windy weather. During his remarks, President Hinckley reflected on the difficult history of the Saints' expulsion from Missouri in 1838, expressing gratitude that the state now welcomed a temple. Construction received strong support from local civic leaders and the surrounding community.
The temple welcomed nearly 260,000 visitors during a 28-day public open house from April 26 through May 24, 1997. Due to overwhelming demand, tours were even offered on two Sundays that had originally been planned as closed days. President Gordon B. Hinckley dedicated the temple during 19 dedicatory sessions held from June 1–5, 1997, making it the 50th dedicated temple of the Church.
What Makes This Temple Unique?
One of the most interesting stories surrounding the St. Louis Missouri Temple is how its location was chosen. Church leaders evaluated six possible sites, and each member of the First Presidency independently selected the exact same property without consulting one another. That unanimous decision confirmed the location where the temple now stands.
The temple contains approximately 58,749 square feet and features four progressive instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and a baptistry. Its exterior is finished with cast stone and Bethel White granite with a thermal finish. A 150-foot single attached end spire, topped with the angel Moroni, rises above the surrounding landscape.
The beautifully landscaped 14-acre grounds feature dozens of mature trees, flowering shrubs, walking paths, and a peaceful circular water feature near the entrance. The tree-lined approach gives the temple a quiet, secluded atmosphere despite being located near Interstate 64.
Visiting the Temple
The St. Louis Missouri Temple is located at:
12555 North Outer Forty Drive
Town and Country, Missouri 63141
The temple does not have a visitors' center or patron housing. An arrival center is available for patrons, along with an on-site distribution center where temple clothing and garments may be purchased. Temple clothing rental is also available. Visitors are welcome to enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds throughout the year.
Fun Facts
- First temple built in Missouri.
- 50th dedicated temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
- Announced on December 29, 1990.
- Groundbreaking held on October 30, 1993.
- Dedicated by President Gordon B. Hinckley on June 1, 1997.
- Public open house lasted 28 days and welcomed nearly 260,000 visitors.
- Built on a 14-acre site.
- Approximately 58,749 square feet.
- Features four instruction rooms, four sealing rooms, and one baptistry.
- Stands 150 feet tall.
- Built with cast stone and Bethel White granite.
- The First Presidency independently selected the same temple site from six possible locations.
Final Thoughts
The St. Louis Missouri Temple represents both a significant milestone in Church history and a symbol of reconciliation. Built in a state where early Latter-day Saints experienced tremendous hardship, the temple stands today as a peaceful house of the Lord serving thousands of members throughout Missouri and Illinois. Whether you're attending an ordinance or simply enjoying its beautifully landscaped grounds, the St. Louis Missouri Temple is a meaningful stop on any temple journey.
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