First United Methodist Church

The First United Methodist Church, Chicago's skyscraper church

Across the street, this neo-Gothic skyscraper is in fact a church. The First United Methodist Church, housed in the Chicago Temple, is even reputed to be among the tallest churches in the world. The Chicago audio-guided tour stops here to reveal this unique curiosity, where faith is lodged at the top of a tower.

A spire rising to 173 metres

The building, nicknamed the Chicago Temple, houses the congregation both at its base and at its top, where a chapel sits at the very summit. Its neo-Gothic spire rises to about 173 metres, making it one of the tallest churches in the world. This superimposition of a place of worship and a skyscraper illustrates Chicago's architectural boldness in the early twentieth century.

What to see

From the street, you look up at the neo-Gothic spire standing out among the towers of the Loop. Inside, the sanctuary and, higher up, the small chapel at the top offer an unusual experience, between contemplation and vertigo. The congregation, welcoming and inclusive, carries on the life of this unique place of worship in the heart of the business district.

Practical information

The First United Methodist Church lies in the Loop, in the centre of Chicago, reachable on foot and by metro. A working place of worship, it can be visited with respect for services; access to the sanctuary is generally free, while the chapel at the top may be subject to guided visits, with variable hours, to be checked before coming.

Why is the First United Methodist Church famous?

Because it is housed in a neo-Gothic skyscraper, the Chicago Temple, whose spire rises to about 173 metres, making it one of the tallest churches in the world.

Can you visit the chapel at the top?

The chapel at the very top of the Chicago Temple may be subject to guided visits, with variable hours; it is best to enquire before coming.