Bahá’í House of Worship

The Bahá’í House of Worship in Wilmette is the Bahá’í House of Worship for North America and one of eight continental Bahá’í temples in the world. Architect Louis Bourgeois brought together elements of religious architecture from around the world, and ornamental concrete expert John Earley built the dome from cast panels of white cement and crushed quartz. The temple opened to the public on May 2, 1953, with readings from five major religions. Nine gardens surround the building, and daily devotions, Bahá’í Holy Day commemorations and monthly meditations are open to all.

What to know

• The Welcome Center is fully accessible at ground level, with an elevator to the lower level.
• The temple auditorium is reached through a retrofitted elevator; ask at the Welcome Center desk.
• Accessible parking is next to the Welcome Center and by the temple’s rear entrance.
• Visitors coming only to take photos are asked to contact the temple first for an orientation.
• Group tours can be requested through the Bahá’ís of the United States website.