Published March 3, 2026
The Utah Historical Society announces a generous $1 million gift from the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation in support of the Museum of Utah. The Museum is set to open on June 27, 2026 on the Capitol Complex in Salt Lake City.
As Utah’s first dedicated state history museum, the Museum of Utah aims to engage people of all ages, and visitors from all over the world. The Museum is designed as a trailhead to invite visitors to explore Utah’s past and consider their place in shaping the state’s future.
“The George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation is a pillar of Utah’s arts and culture, and their support for the museum, and more specifically, the Utah Inspires Theater, is a natural extension of that incredible legacy,” said Jennifer Ortiz, Utah Historical Society director. “This theater is a dynamic, living space where the authentic voices of Utahns take center stage.”
The Utah Inspires Theater, a centerpiece of the Museum’s Inspiring Utah gallery, weaves together sweeping landscapes, landmarks, and the authentic voices of Utahns from the present, speaking to what makes Utah special. Through state-of-the-art immersive technology, visitors are transported to Utah’s slot canyons, the summits of our majestic peaks, and surrounded by the peoples of Utah.
“A museum dedicated to the people and heritage of Utah has been a long time coming! Our family has called Utah our home for generations and we’re deeply proud of the people who make this state such an extraordinary place,” said Spencer F. Eccles, chairman and CEO of the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation. “Partnering with the state to uplift these voices through the Utah Inspires Theater and film is especially meaningful to us, giving visitors a personal connection to the individuals and experiences that define Utah. As I always like to say, the best is yet to come, and I have no doubt the new Museum of Utah will become key to preserving our state’s wonderful history, art and culture for future generations.”
About the Museum of Utah:
As Utah’s first state history museum, the Museum of Utah celebrates our unique history, culture, and art through world class exhibits, programming, and community spaces. The Museum of Utah is an extension of the Utah Historical Society, fostering curiosity about the past, informing the present, and strengthening our shared future. Support the Museum of Utah by becoming a member of the Utah Historical Society and joining Seagull Circle. Learn more at: history.utah.gov/seagull-circle.
