Second Presbyterian Church: A South Loop Sanctuary of Art and History

Discover a hidden gem of Gothic Revival architecture and Arts and Crafts artistry in Chicago's South Loop, featuring Tiffany windows and stunning murals.

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Second Presbyterian Church

Second Presbyterian Church, a landmark in Chicago's Prairie District, stands as a testament to Gothic Revival architecture and Arts and Crafts interior design. Following a devastating fire in 1900, the church was meticulously redesigned, boasting stunning stained glass windows, intricate murals, and a serene atmosphere that draws visitors and worshippers alike.

A brief summary to Second Presbyterian Church

1936 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, Prairie District, Illinois, 60616, US
+1312-225-4951
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Local tips

Take a docent-led tour to fully appreciate the art and architecture; tours are available on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
Visit on a Sunday morning to experience the vibrant church service and enjoy a complimentary tour afterward.
Check the church's website or contact Friends of Historic Second Church for information on special events and concerts.
Street parking is free on Sundays, but be aware of parking restrictions during Chicago Bears games and Wintrust Arena events.

Getting There

Public Transport

Second Presbyterian Church is accessible via the CTA bus routes #3 and #4, which stop at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Cullerton Street. Alternatively, you can take the Red Line 'L' train to the Chinatown stop, which is a short 0.4-mile walk to the church. CTA bus and train fares are $2.25 and $2.50, respectively. Consider purchasing a 1-Day CTA Pass for $5 for unlimited rides.
Walking

From many points in the South Loop, Second Presbyterian Church is easily reachable by foot. From the intersection of Michigan Avenue and Roosevelt Road, walk south on Michigan Avenue for approximately 0.4 miles. The church will be on your left, at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Cullerton Street.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft provide a convenient way to reach Second Presbyterian Church. A short ride from downtown Chicago (e.g., the Loop) will typically cost between $10 and $15, depending on traffic and demand. Be sure to confirm the fare estimate before booking your ride.

Discover more about Second Presbyterian Church

Second Presbyterian Church, located in Chicago's South Loop, is a remarkable architectural and artistic treasure. Founded in 1842, the congregation has a rich history, reflected in its two landmark buildings. The current structure, a late Gothic Revival masterpiece designed by James Renwick Jr., was completed in 1874. Its exterior, crafted from distinctive limestone, hints at the beauty within. In 1900, a fire ravaged the church's interior, leading to a transformative redesign by architect Howard Van Doren Shaw in the Arts and Crafts style. This renovation resulted in one of the most well-preserved Arts and Crafts church interiors in America. The sanctuary features exquisite stained glass windows by Tiffany Studios and other notable artists, along with murals by Frederic Clay Bartlett, creating a harmonious and inspiring space. The church's collection includes twenty-one stained glass windows, nine of which are Tiffany windows dating between 1892 and 1918. Visitors can admire the 175 angels incorporated into the design in glass, wood and plaster, along with other recurring motifs like the grapevine and pomegranate. The church has a Hutchins-Votey organ that was reworked in 1917 by the Austin Organ Co. Second Presbyterian Church has played a significant role in Chicago's social and cultural history, attracting prominent families and serving as a community hub. Today, the church continues to be an active congregation and a welcoming space for all. Docent-led tours are available, offering insights into the church's architecture, art, and history. These tours provide a deeper appreciation for the intricate details and the stories behind the stained glass windows and murals.

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Second Presbyterian Church: A South Loop Sanctuary of Art and History

A brief summary to Second Presbyterian Church

Local tips

Getting There

Public Transport

Walking

Taxi/Ride-Share

Unlock the Best of Second Presbyterian Church

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Second Presbyterian Church

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Second Presbyterian Church

Elbridge G Keith House

St. Charles Air Line Bridge

Jewel-Osco

The Blues Trail: Mississippi to Chicago

Pete Chicago Memorial Walkway

Ludington Building

Shedd Aquarium

Americas' Courtyard

Dearborn Station

Grant Park

Unity Hall

Morton Building

Loop Mural

Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain

Unmissable attractions to see

Clarke-Ford House

Glessner House

The Battle of Fort Dearborn Park

Chicago's Chinatown Gateway

Chinatown Square Plaza

McCormick Place

Chinese American Museum of Chicago

Soldier Field

Monument To The Great Northern Migration

Field Museum

South Loop

Northerly Island Park

Museum Campus

The Museum Campus

Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island

Essential places to dine

The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant

Mercat a la Planxa

Exchequer Restaurant & Pub

The Berghoff Restaurant

Kindling | Downtown Cookout & Cocktails

S.K.Y.

The Village

Hot Woks Cool Sushi

The Gage

Acanto

Cherry Circle Room

Roanoke Restaurant

Double Clutch at Millennium Hall

Millennium Hall

Casa Bonita at Millenium Park

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Gifts R Us

The Sue Store

Roosevelt Collection Shops

Bye Bye Chicago

The Symphony Store

Feelings Gift Shop

My Chicago!

Chicago Athletic Association Gift Shop

Buddy

YoGoe

After School Matters Gift Shop

I Love Chicago

PRIMITIVE

Tribeca Boutique

Kyrgyzstan

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Best Bar

Kasey's Tavern

Panchos Rooftop Cantina