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St. John's Church: A Historical Gem in Lafayette Square

Explore St. John's Church, a historic Episcopal landmark near the White House, rich in American history and stunning architecture.

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St. John's Church, a historic Episcopal landmark in Lafayette Square, offers tourists a unique glimpse into American history and architecture. Nestled near the White House, this serene space is perfect for reflection and exploration, showcasing beautiful Gothic architecture and a rich history closely tied to the nation’s leadership.

A brief summary to St. John's, Lafayette Square

  • Monday 9 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-3 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 7:30 am-12:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during a Sunday service to experience the church in full activity.
  • Check the church's website for special events and concerts that may be happening during your visit.
  • Take time to explore Lafayette Square afterwards, as it is filled with historical monuments.
  • Be sure to admire the stunning stained glass windows that depict significant moments in history.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Waldorf, head to the nearest bus stop for the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) bus. You can take the MTA Route 34 from Waldorf to the Branch Avenue Metro Station. The bus will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Once at Branch Avenue Metro Station, switch to the Green Line towards Greenbelt and ride for about 30 minutes until you reach L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station. Change to the Yellow Line towards Mt. Vernon Sq/7th St-Convention Center and proceed for one stop to Gallery Place-Chinatown. Finally, switch to the Red Line towards Glenmont and ride for about 2 stops until you reach Farragut North Station. From there, it's a short 10-minute walk to St. John's, Lafayette Square at 1525 H St NW.

  • Metro

    From Waldorf, take a local bus or taxi to the nearest Metro station, which is the Branch Avenue Metro Station. Once there, take the Green Line towards Greenbelt. After about 30 minutes, get off at Gallery Place-Chinatown Station. At Gallery Place, transfer to the Yellow Line towards Mt. Vernon Sq/7th St-Convention Center and ride for one stop. Then, switch to the Red Line towards Glenmont and ride for 2 stops, getting off at Farragut North Station. Upon exiting the station, it's a 10-minute walk to St. John's, Lafayette Square located at 1525 H St NW.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    If you prefer a more direct route, consider taking a taxi or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your current location in Waldorf to St. John's, Lafayette Square at 1525 H St NW, Washington, DC. The drive may take approximately 45 minutes to an hour, depending on traffic conditions. This option is the most convenient if you have luggage or prefer not to navigate public transport.

  • Bicycle

    If you enjoy cycling, you can rent a bike from a local bike share program in Waldorf. Head towards the Indian Head Rail Trail, which runs north towards Washington, DC. Follow the trail until you reach the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail. Continue to follow the trail until you can access the streets leading into downtown Washington, DC. Once you arrive downtown, navigate towards 1525 H St NW. The entire trip may take around 2 hours depending on your pace.

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Discover more about St. John's, Lafayette Square

St. John's Church, known as the 'Church of the Presidents,' is a historical Episcopal church located in the heart of Lafayette Square, Washington, D.C. This remarkable landmark has been a silent witness to many significant events in American history since its establishment in 1816. The church's striking Gothic Revival architecture features a stunning spire, intricate stained glass windows, and a beautifully maintained interior that draws visitors from around the world. The serene ambiance of the church offers a perfect retreat from the bustling activities of the nearby White House and the vibrant city. As you step inside, the rich history envelops you, with pews that have seen countless presidents and dignitaries worship and reflect on their call to service. Visitors to St. John's Church can take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of this site, especially during special events like services and community gatherings. The church also hosts various art exhibits and concerts, enhancing its role as a cultural center in the city. As a tourist, don’t miss the chance to explore the surrounding Lafayette Square, where you can find beautiful gardens, monuments, and statues that provide insight into American history. Whether you are a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect, St. John's Church offers an enriching experience that is both educational and spiritually uplifting. Making a visit to this historic church is an unforgettable part of any trip to Washington, D.C.

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