Four hundred feet above the streets of Chicago is an architectural gem, The Sky Chapel at the top of the First United Methodist Church at the Chicago Temple.

The Chicago Temple is the oldest church in the city; it was founded in 1831, six years before the city of Chicago was incorporated. The Sky Chapel, reached by two elevators and a set of stairs, is located under the church spire. The chapel was a gift from the Walgreen family, dedicated on Easter morning 1952.

As an architecture aficionado, I was delighted to be introduced to this tiny gem in the city. In the chapel, stained glass windows are themed to “transportation in the City of Chicago”, and you have everything from ox carts to jets. An unusual topic for a religious institution! They can open the windows, and it’s amazing how distant the city sounds up there. The view is excellent, too.

- Diane Fagen

The Chicago Temple is located at 77 W. Washington Street, directly across the street from Daley Plaza and the iconic Picasso sculpture. Tour information is available here.

Thanks to LAC member Diane Fagen, for sharing her insider knowledge!