Chicago, United States of America
Fourth Presbyterian Church

A restful space in the heart of the city.

Andreas Faessler / Wikimedia Commons

Who says that church-going is only for the religious? If you happen to be passing by the Fourth Presbyterian Church on a casual stroll, its gorgeous medieval-looking architecture is sure to catch your eye and draw you in. Its façade is done in the neo-Gothic style, with a tall spire at the front, intricate arches and stained-glass windows. Green trails of ivy surreptitiously creep around the structure, making it seem more like a forgotten fairy-tale palace rather than a functioning place of worship for many in the city. It’s a breath of fresh air in contrast to the harsh lines of the concrete buildings surrounding it. Even if you are not a professing Christian, this Presbyterian church is inviting. Once inside, you will be blown away by the high ceilings and hollowed-out space. Low-hanging chandeliers give the interior a hallowed, consecrated atmosphere. But your attention is drawn down the aisles to the magnificent stained-glass panels at the end of the church, as well as the solemn wooden pulpit just below it. It’s a spiritual experience that will leave you refreshed after walking along Chicago’s Magnificent Mile.


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Tips Before You Go
If you are interested in the architecture of the church, do read up more or enlist the help of a local tour guide so that you will be better able to appreciate its subtle design. Alternatively, the church also offers its own tours on occasion.
41.8990487
-87.62518869999997
126 E Chestnut St, Chicago, IL 60611, USA