There’s something about seeing a massive church from a bygone era dwarfed by skyscrapers that sends your heart soaring. It’s like a little piece of history tucked into the heart of modern Manhattan and serving as a reminder that the city wasn’t always as big as it is today.
Whether you’re an avid churchgoer or just interested in learning more about Christianity, there are plenty of churches in NYC to explore. From historic sites in Manhattan to stunning architectural wonders across Brooklyn, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
If you’re looking for a church near me, start by searching by name or using the search icon in the upper right-hand corner (looks like a magnifying glass). You can also scroll through our list of churches by district. If you know where you’re going, click the “Find a Church by Address” button and enter your location to find all the United Methodist churches close to you.
One of the most impressive and recognizable churches in NYC is St. John the Divine, which serves as the official cathedral of the Episcopal Diocese of New York. It’s brimming with divine (ha!) features, including the single largest stained glass window in the country (yes, that really is it), historic 17th-century tapestries, and exquisite pieces of contemporary art by legends like Tom Otterness and Keith Haring.
For those who want to get more involved, the church has a number of programs to help you grow in your faith. For example, the church offers theological seminars and hosts a weekly lecture series on religious issues that affect our daily lives. Additionally, it has a variety of outreach ministries, such as feeding the homeless and assisting with the care of elderly people.
Even if you don’t have any religion, it’s still worth checking out the church, especially if you love cinema. The church is located at the former Loews Valencia Theater in Queens and was once one of the most luxurious movie theaters in town. It still retains much of its ornate, next-level awesome architecture, and it’s a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
Trinity Church may not be as well known as some of the other churches on this list, but it’s definitely a must-see for any history buff. The church is known as the final resting place for many of New York City’s most important figures, including Alexander Hamilton and his son Philip. It’s also where Pierre Toussaint, a famous advocate for the poor, is buried.
The church is open to visitors for tours and worship services, or you can swing by for one of the many Pipes at One organ recitals that are held throughout the year. In addition to its stunning exterior, this church is also home to an impressive collection of diaries and photographs that you can browse at your leisure. The church has been around since 1628, making it one of the oldest congregations in North America.