Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum
Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum
Rockefeller Memorial Chapel: A Gothic Masterpiece
Explore Chicago's iconic Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a hub of cultural and spiritual life.
Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, a stunning example of Collegiate Gothic architecture, stands as the spiritual and ceremonial heart of the University of Chicago. Completed in 1928, this iconic landmark hosts diverse events, from religious services to concerts, and is renowned for its impressive architecture and world-class instruments.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Rockefeller Memorial Chapel
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Other nearby places you may find interesting
Explore places near Rockefeller Memorial Chapel
Getting There
Public Transport
From downtown Chicago, take the Metra Electric Line to the 59th Street station. From there, walk one block west to reach the chapel. Metra fares vary depending on the distance, but a one-way ticket from Millennium Station to 59th Street costs $2 to $5. Alternatively, several CTA bus routes, including the #2, #6, #15, and #28, stop near the University of Chicago campus. Bus fare is $2.25 per ride.
Walking
From the University of Chicago's main quadrangle, walk south along the main thoroughfare, passing Harper Memorial Library and Cobb Hall. Continue south towards 59th Street. The Rockefeller Memorial Chapel will be visible on your left (east side of the street). There is no cost associated with walking.
Driving
From Lake Shore Drive, exit at 57th Street (Museum of Science and Industry) and drive west four blocks to Stony Island Avenue, then south to 59th Street, and then two blocks west. Street parking is generally free and plentiful on evenings and weekends. The Lexington Parking Lot at 5835 S. University Avenue, immediately to the west of the chapel, has reserved handicapped spaces and a ramp to the designated entrance. This lot is generally restricted to pre-issued permit parking during the day, but open to the public on evenings and weekends when the gate will open automatically. There is no on-site parking at Rockefeller Memorial Chapel.
Local tips
✓
Check the Rockefeller Chapel website for events, including carillon recitals, concerts, and religious services.
✓
Take a tour of the carillon tower for a suggested donation of $5 (free with UCID).
✓
Visit during the academic year (late September through mid-June) when the chapel is open to visitors Tuesday through Friday.
Discover more about Rockefeller Memorial Chapel
Rockefeller Memorial Chapel, located on the University of Chicago's Hyde Park campus, is a monumental example of Collegiate Gothic architecture. Designed by Bertram Grosvenor Goodhue and completed in 1928, it was intended by John D. Rockefeller to be the "central and dominant feature" of the university. The chapel is built entirely of stone, with the exception of steel supports for the carillon and roof.The chapel's exterior is adorned with over one hundred stone sculptures by Lee Lawrie and Ulric Ellerhusen, representing both historical and contemporary themes. Inside, the interior ceiling is decorated with 100,000 pieces of colored Guastavino tile. The chapel also features impressive stained-glass windows and intricate woodcarvings.Rockefeller Chapel is home to two world-class instruments: a 72-bell carillon (the second-largest in the world by mass) and a large organ with over 10,000 pipes. The chapel serves as a cultural center for the university, hosting religious services, musical performances, academic events, and university-wide gatherings. Visitors can explore the chapel's architecture, attend events, and take carillon tower tours.
A brief summary to Rockefeller Memorial Chapel
Use Rockefeller Memorial Chapel as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
Get the app
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
More about Naperville
Discover Naperville: A picturesque suburban oasis in Illinois offering historical charm, scenic riverwalks, and a vibrant cultural scene just 28 miles from Chicago.
Tell me more about Naperville
