Downtown Presbyterian Church
A historic Nashville landmark featuring stunning Egyptian Revival architecture and a rich Civil War past.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Community breakfast & outreach
Downtown Presbyterian Church
Best Time
Community breakfast & outreach

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Nashville landmark featuring stunning Egyptian Revival architecture and a rich Civil War past.
"The church is so rich in history and the Egyptian Revival architecture is fascinating."
🎯 Free Sanctuary Tours
Look out for free sanctuary tours; they offer a fascinating glimpse into the church's history.
🎶 Candlelight Concerts
Experience magical candlelight concerts featuring classical music for a unique evening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Egyptian Revival Architecture
Marvel at the unique and grand Egyptian Revival design, a true architectural gem in Nashville.

Civil War Hospital History
Discover its poignant past as a hospital during the American Civil War, a significant historical role.
Art Installations & Concerts
Experience vibrant art exhibitions and captivating classical music concerts held within its historic walls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History & Architecture
Check for Events & Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Sanctuary Tours
Look out for free sanctuary tours; they offer a fascinating glimpse into the church's history.
🎶 Candlelight Concerts
Experience magical candlelight concerts featuring classical music for a unique evening.
🖼️ Art Crawl Hotspot
Visit during Nashville Art Crawls for special exhibitions and a vibrant atmosphere.
🤝 Welcoming Community
Visitors are welcomed with open hearts; no tickets or strict dress codes required.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Sanctuary Tours
Look out for free sanctuary tours; they offer a fascinating glimpse into the church's history.
🎶 Candlelight Concerts
Experience magical candlelight concerts featuring classical music for a unique evening.
🖼️ Art Crawl Hotspot
Visit during Nashville Art Crawls for special exhibitions and a vibrant atmosphere.
🤝 Welcoming Community
Visitors are welcomed with open hearts; no tickets or strict dress codes required.
🍳 Saturday Breakfast
Enjoy a hearty breakfast and support community outreach every Saturday morning.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Downtown Presbyterian Church for its breathtaking Egyptian Revival architecture and rich historical significance, particularly its role as a Civil War hospital. The welcoming atmosphere and community outreach programs, like Saturday breakfasts, are frequently highlighted as positive aspects. While parking can be a challenge in the downtown area, the overall experience is described as deeply rewarding and spiritually uplifting.
"Beautiful Palm Sunday service. We were visiting and felt welcomed the minute we stepped inside. The curing is so neat and they have a beautiful outreach program on Saturday.
Real special parishioners.
So happy to have shared church here.
No tickets needed. Just an open heart.
No dress code. Come one, come all."
kelli k
"The 95th Holiday Waffle Shop was today and it was awesome. Waffles with Nashville hot chicken were a favorite of course. Silent auction and a bake sale too. Looking forward to next year!
The church is so rich in history and the Egyptian Revival architecture is fascinating. A great church to visit on Sunday or during the Nashville art crawls."
Kathy Fox
"I LOVE this church. I got married in this beautifully historic sanctuary, and also was so blessed to use almost all of the building for my wedding portrait. Michael Arwood, the wedding coordinator, was amazing, as well as Dena Swoner, who helped us with the contracts, scheduling, and many other details. The people here are so very kind and welcoming. We would not have wanted anything more for our special day. We also love to come here for speakers and live music. I have met Nadia Bolz-Weber here, as well as some of the most eclectic underground jazz pianists and instrumentalists. Patty Griffin recorded her album 'Downtown Church' in the sanctuary. The acoustics are incredible there and in the chapel. Many other artists have recorded in this sacred space, but the Patty one is extra special because my husband and I claim one of the songs, 'Little Fire' as our song. When we got married, I was able to sing it right where Patty did. And that's just a few of the great things about this church...LOVE. (Photo credit David and Bradley Thomas)"
jennie frank
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is centrally located in downtown Nashville at 5th Ave and Church Street. It's easily accessible by car, public transport, or even on foot if you're staying nearby. Parking can be challenging, so consider ride-sharing or public transit.
Parking can be limited and sometimes costly in downtown Nashville. While some street parking might be available, it's often metered or restricted. Nearby parking garages are a more reliable option, though be aware of potential ticketing if rules aren't strictly followed.
Yes, if you're exploring downtown Nashville, the church is within walking distance of many hotels, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. It's a great stop during a walking tour of the city.
From Nashville International Airport (BNA), you can take a taxi, rideshare service (Uber/Lyft), or a shuttle to downtown. The drive typically takes about 15-25 minutes depending on traffic.
Nashville's public bus system, WeGo Public Transit, serves the downtown area. Check their routes and schedules for stops near the church.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No tickets are needed to visit for regular services or to explore the sanctuary during open hours. Visitors are welcomed with an open heart.
Visiting hours can vary, especially on weekdays. It's best to check their official website or call ahead. They are typically open for services on Sundays and may have specific hours for tours or events.
Tours are often offered for free, though donations are always appreciated to help maintain the historic building. Keep an eye out for 'Free Sanctuary Tour' signs or inquire about tour availability.
There is no strict dress code. Visitors are encouraged to come as they are, with an emphasis on an open heart rather than formal attire.
Absolutely! The church warmly welcomes visitors to attend their Sunday services. It's a great way to experience the community and the historic sanctuary.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The church is renowned for its striking Egyptian Revival architecture, a distinctive style rarely seen in the United States. Its grandeur and unique design make it a must-see.
The church has deep historical roots, notably serving as a hospital for wounded soldiers during the American Civil War. Its architecture and history are a significant part of Nashville's heritage.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended. They provide in-depth information about the church's history, architecture, and notable events.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, especially during tours or events. However, it's always polite to be discreet and respectful of ongoing services or private events.
The church hosts a variety of events, including art exhibitions, classical music concerts (like candlelight concerts), speakers, and community gatherings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the church itself doesn't have a restaurant, it hosts special events like the Holiday Waffle Shop which offers unique food options. For regular dining, numerous restaurants are available in the surrounding downtown area.
Events like the Holiday Waffle Shop have featured popular items such as waffles with Nashville hot chicken, alongside bake sales and silent auctions.
Yes, the downtown area surrounding the church is packed with diverse dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets.
The church itself hosts a community breakfast on Saturday mornings, offering a great way to start the day. Many cafes and diners in the downtown area also serve breakfast.
The church offers its facilities for weddings and receptions, with staff like Michael Arwood and Dena Swoner assisting with coordination and details.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its grand Egyptian Revival facade, is a prime photo opportunity. Inside, the sanctuary's soaring ceilings, intricate details, and stained glass windows offer stunning shots.
The church has been used for wedding portrait photoshoots, utilizing various parts of the building. It's advisable to contact the church administration to inquire about permissions and any associated fees for professional shoots.
While personal photography is generally allowed, it's important to be respectful of ongoing services, private events, or any specific signage. Avoid flash photography during services or concerts.
Morning light can be beautiful for the exterior, while late afternoon can offer dramatic interior lighting through the windows. Check for any special lighting events like candlelight concerts for unique photographic opportunities.
Don't miss the towering columns, the grand organ, the detailed woodwork, and the unique hieroglyphic-inspired motifs characteristic of Egyptian Revival style. The acoustics are also noted as incredible.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during a Saturday morning community breakfast for a taste of local outreach, or check for any family-friendly events that might be scheduled. The church's central downtown location also makes it an easy addition to a family-friendly itinerary exploring other Nashville attractions.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Seek out guided tours to gain deeper insights into the building's construction, historical context, and notable figures associated with it. The church's rich narrative provides a compelling experience for anyone interested in American history and architectural styles.
🎶 Music & Arts Lovers
Keep an eye on their event schedule for art exhibitions, especially during Nashville's Art Crawls, and for any musical performances. The church's connection to artists like Patty Griffin, who recorded an album there, adds another layer of appeal for those interested in the intersection of sacred spaces and creative expression.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The Civil War and Beyond
Beyond its wartime service, the church has been a cornerstone of downtown Nashville for decades. It has witnessed the city's growth and transformation, adapting to changing times while preserving its architectural and spiritual heritage. The church has also been a hub for artistic expression, with musicians like Patty Griffin recording albums in its sanctuary, drawn by its incredible acoustics.
Recent discussions have highlighted the building's ongoing needs, with some parts of the structure, like the Hibbs Building, requiring preservation efforts. This underscores the importance of community support and awareness in safeguarding such historic landmarks for future generations.
Architectural Marvel: Egyptian Revival Style
Inside, the grandeur continues with soaring ceilings and intricate detailing. The sanctuary is designed to inspire awe and reverence, with elements that reflect the stylistic choices of its era. The church's acoustics are also noteworthy, contributing to its reputation as a venue for high-quality musical performances.
Visitors often express amazement at the church's distinctive appearance, with many calling it Nashville's most beautiful church sanctuary. The blend of historical significance and unique architectural vision makes it a compelling destination for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Community Hub: Events and Outreach
The church also serves as a popular venue for cultural events. It has hosted art exhibitions, such as installations during the Downtown Artwalk, and has been the backdrop for numerous musical performances, including classical candlelight concerts. The sanctuary's exceptional acoustics have attracted artists like Patty Griffin, who recorded her album 'Downtown Church' there, further cementing its role in the city's cultural landscape.
Special events like the Holiday Waffle Shop showcase the church's community spirit, offering unique culinary experiences alongside silent auctions and bake sales. These events not only bring people together but also support the church's ongoing ministries and preservation efforts.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit