The main building was not open yet when I visited. The grounds look like a nice spot for a class or a memorial service. Majority was a cemetery. Somber and interesting.
Trip Snapshot
Best Time to Visit
Evenings in spring & fall for ranger talks; September for Grand Canyon Music Festival
Open
Varies by scheduled program; typical ranger Evening Programs 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM (Oct – Apr)
Price Range
Free (public programs); rental fees for private events
Parking
Parking Lot A; Village Route (Blue) shuttle stops at front entrance
Ideal For
250‑seat auditorium with stage & projection screen, wheelchair‑accessible entrances, seating & restrooms, drinking fountains, accessible restrooms, bicycle racks, outdoor courtyard with picnic tables
Beautiful place but unfortunately it was closed so I didn’t get to come in.
Multiple church services on Sunday. Interdenominalional, Baptist, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Has large chapel/congregational room, 2 group rooms, a foyer space, and offices. Church meeting times posted in lobby of Bright Angel Lodge.
The actual building wasn't open when we went, but exploring the Grand Canyon Pioneer cemetery was really cool. There are a lot of fascinating people burried here. It is also mostly shaded, and just outside of the cemetery are some nice benches to sit on. You can also reach the rim trail from here if you follow the path towards the park headquarters building, there will be a turn off.
The Grand Canyon Branch of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints meets here at 1pm, Sundays. If your traveling and would like to orient yourself to the church, please stop by and meet our friendly group. On the fifth Sunday there is a Speaker event. Thank you for stopping by.
Why Visit Shrine of the Ages
Multi‑purpose, 250‑seat auditorium hosting ranger talks, concerts, worship services, and community events on the South Rim.
Highlights
Nightly ranger Evening Programs (Oct – Apr) covering geology, wildlife & canyon history.
Annual Grand Canyon Music Festival each September.
Mid‑century design with 20‑ft T‑shaped wooden arches and limestone walls.
Description
The Shrine of the Ages is a one‑story limestone and timber structure completed in 1970 to serve as Grand Canyon’s first inter‑faith chapel and community hall. Today the 250‑plus‑seat auditorium is managed by the National Park Service and used for ranger‑led Evening Programs, lectures, concerts, symposiums, religious services, and private ceremonies such as weddings. Centrally located between Market Plaza and Mather Campground, the venue is within walking distance of lodging, dining, and shuttle stops, making it an easy add‑on to any South Rim itinerary.
History
1917
First proposal for an inter‑faith chapel at Grand Canyon.
1952
Shrine of the Ages Chapel Corporation established; fundraising begins.
1965
Architect Harold E. Wagoner submits final kiva‑inspired design.
1970
Building completed and dedicated as “Shrine of the Ages.”
1975
Ownership and operations transferred to the National Park Service.
1983
Inaugural Grand Canyon Music Festival held in the auditorium.
2022
39th annual Grand Canyon Music Festival hosted at the venue.
Features
250‑seat auditorium with stage & projection screen
Wheelchair‑accessible entrances, seating & restrooms
Drinking fountains
Accessible restrooms
Bicycle racks
Outdoor courtyard with picnic tables
Nearby Parking Lot A & shuttle stop
Getting There
Car: Follow South Entrance Road to Parking Lot A; signed walkway leads to the building. Shuttle: Village Route (Blue Line) stops at “Shrine of the Ages.” Bike/Foot: Paved Greenway Trail connects from Market Plaza and Mather Campground.
Insider Tips
Local advice to help you make the most of your visit.
01Good to know
Evening Programs are indoors
perfect for cold or rainy nights.
02Be prepared
Check sandwich boards around the village for last‑minute program topics.
03Local tip
The courtyard’s wooden arches make a memorable wedding photo backdrop.
04Save time
Restrooms here are less crowded than those at the Visitor Center.
05Stay connected
Combine a program with sunset at Mather Point; it’s a ten‑minute walk.
Want the perfect day plan?Checkout our planning guides.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation to attend an Evening Program?
No. Seating is first‑come, first‑served and free with park entry.
Is the building heated or air‑conditioned?
Yes, the auditorium is climate‑controlled year‑round.
Can I hold my wedding here?
Yes. You’ll need a Special Use Permit and must follow NPS guidelines.
Are pets allowed inside?
Only service animals are permitted in the auditorium.
Where can I find the current schedule?
Check the park’s online calendar or the Visitor Center information desk.
