Chicago Temple

The basics

The Chicago Temple is both a place of worship and an office building, with the ground floor sanctuary and second-floor Dixon Chapel open to the public during worship services. The building’s Sky Chapel—a gift of the Walgreen family—is located on the 22nd floor just below the building’s steeple, putting the Chicago Temple among the world’s tallest churches. The temple’s distinctive design and history make it a popular stop on Chicago architecture walking tours. 

Things to know before you go

• Free tours of the Chicago Temple are offered Tuesday through Saturday at 2pm, plus after Sunday worship services.
• The First United Methodist Church welcomes all visitors to its worship services, special events, and ministries.
• Recordings of some live sermons are available on the Chicago Temple website.

How to get there

The Chicago Temple is located at 77 West Washington Street in Chicago’s downtown Loop district, just across the street from the Daley Center. It is accessible via every major CTA line, though the Blue line runs to the closest stop at Washington Station. 

When to get there

The Chicago Temple is open daily to the public. Worship services (in-person and via a live online stream) are held on Wednesdays and weekends; check online calendars for timings before you visit. The Sacrament of Holy Communion is also offered.

Opus 414

The Chicago Temple’s heritage pipe organ, named Opus 414, was built in 1924 by the famous pipe organ designer E.M. Skinner. With more than 5,500 pipes controlled by four different keyboards, it fills the sanctuary with rich vibrating sound during musical worship services and concerts. A restoration project aims to preserve this important part of the church’s history.