That Glowing White Castle Off the 5 Is About to Open Its Doors

If you have driven northbound on the 5 through La Jolla, you have almost certainly done a double take at those gleaming white twin spires rising dramatically above the freeway. For decades, San Diegans have asked the same question: what is that? Well, this summer, you will finally get the chance to find out from the inside.

The San Diego California Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is throwing its doors open for a rare public open house, running June 18 through July 11, 2026, Monday through Saturday, free of charge. After nearly three years of extensive renovations — the temple closed in July 2023 to address roof leaks, window seal failures, and interior reconfigurations — the iconic La Jolla landmark is back and better than ever.

The timing is genuinely rare. Once the temple is rededicated on August 23, 2026, access goes back to members-only status. That means this summer window is the only chance most San Diegans will ever have to walk through those doors.

And the history behind the building is worth knowing. Groundbreaking happened in 1988, dedication followed in 1993, and the original open house drew a staggering 720,000 visitors. The 72,000-square-foot structure stands 169 feet tall on 7.2 acres, its exterior wrapped in a marble chip plaster that practically glows in the Southern California sunlight.

Visitors touring this summer can expect an introductory video followed by a guided walk-through, covering the celestial room, sealing rooms, and the stunning art glass throughout the interior.

Mark your calendars. This is a once-in-a-generation look inside one of San Diego's most iconic and mysterious buildings.

Sources: Fox 5 San Diego | LDS Newsroom | Deseret News | Church News | LDS Temple Pics