Chicago Temple Tours and Tickets

There are plenty of ways to experience the Chicago Temple. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:

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Chicago Temple (First United Methodist Church) is free to visit—it’s an active church that has services several times a week. However, if you’d like to tour The Chapel in the Sky, donations are appreciated. Ask about tours at the lobby desk, or simply take a peek at the stained-glass sanctuary, Monday through Friday, 10AM to 2PM.

Founded back in 1831, the Chicago Temple is known as the oldest church in Chicago. While the Methodist congregation first started as a log cabin, today's Chicago Temple is located inside one of the most distinctive skyscrapers in the Loop. Inside, there are multiple worship spaces, including the main sanctuary.

Yes, it is possible to visit the Chicago Temple on a guided tour. The church remains open to visitors Monday through Friday, and guided tours are offered from late morning until early afternoon (although you should confirm the exact timing ahead of your trip). Wednesday and Sunday services are livestreamed.

Yes and no. While Chicago Temple doesn’t offer its own free parking, visitors can sometimes find free street parking in the neighborhood, especially if attending a Sunday morning service. Otherwise, there’s a paid lot located nearby. Contact the Chicago Temple directly about reserving a parking space at a reduced cost.

There’s no official dress code for visiting most Methodist churches, but it’s a good idea to dress modestly and neatly as a sign of respect (e.g., no ripped or revealing clothing). If you plan on attending a service, then stick to your “Sunday best” as a good guide.

Unfortunately, the Chicago Temple is not accessible to visitors using wheelchairs or those with limited mobility, as visiting the church requires climbing up and down steps. However, those who can’t visit the church in person can view the Chicago Temple through a series of virtual tours available on the official website.

The best weather windows for planning a trip to Chicago are typically the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Avoid coming in winter, when the famously “Windy City” reaches arctic temperatures. Summers can be muggy, although still pleasant. However, July and August coincide with Chicago’s busiest season, so expect crowds.