St. Paul's Chapel, New York City - a large cathedral with a statue on the front of it
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St. Paul's Chapel New York City

4.6
·2k reviews·New York, United States

Manhattan's oldest public building, a colonial gem that survived 9/11 and served as a refuge, offering a profound connection to history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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St. Paul's Chapel, New York City - a large cathedral with a statue on the front of it

St. Paul's Chapel New York City

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Manhattan's oldest public building, a colonial gem that survived 9/11 and served as a refuge, offering a profound connection to history.

4.6
(2k reviews)

"A moving testament to resilience, history, and hope nestled amidst NYC's skyscrapers."

Vertical photo
TIP

Visit the 9/11 Exhibit

Don't miss the moving 9/11 exhibit inside; it's a powerful reminder of resilience. :pray:

Explore the Cemetery

Wander through the historic cemetery for a glimpse into NYC's colonial past. :gravestone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 9/11 Memorial Exhibit

The 9/11 Memorial Exhibit

Inside the Chapel

A poignant tribute to the victims and heroes of September 11th, featuring artifacts and personal stories.

George Washington's Pew

George Washington's Pew

Main Sanctuary

Sit in the very pew where the first U.S. President worshiped, a tangible connection to early American history.

Colonial-Era Cemetery

Colonial-Era Cemetery

Chapel Grounds

Explore historic gravestones, including an obelisk honoring a pioneer of modern chemistry.

The Four-Faced Clock

The Four-Faced Clock

Chapel Exterior

Admire the unique, four-sided clock atop the chapel, a historic timepiece that has watched over the city.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to St. Paul's Chapel

To avoid the biggest crowds at St. Paul's Chapel, aim for weekday mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and midday can get busy, especially with tour groups. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more reflective experience.

Understanding St. Paul's Chapel's Significance

St. Paul's Chapel is more than just an old church; it's a symbol of resilience, famously surviving 9/11 when it served as a refuge for recovery workers. Its history dates back to colonial times, making it a vital piece of New York City's past.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoons
Why
Golden hour light, less busy
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

living the dream 🥹 nyc transition idea WELCOME TO NEW YORK 📍 times square 📍 st. patrick’s cathedral 📍 louis vuitton building 📍 statue of liberty (staten island ferry) #newyork #newyorkcity #newyorkli...
@adultingwithgm
160.5K likes • 951.8K views

Visit the 9/11 Exhibit

Don't miss the moving 9/11 exhibit inside; it's a powerful reminder of resilience. :pray:

Explore the Cemetery

Wander through the historic cemetery for a glimpse into NYC's colonial past. :gravestone:

St. Paul’s Chapel: A Historic Landmark and Symbol of Resilience in New York City! 🕊️✨
vegas_mariner
14 likes • 634 views
St. Pauls Chapel in Lower Manhattan's Financial District has been there almost as long as New York City. #lowermanhattan #financialdistrict #newyork #worship #citylife #newyorkcity #manhattan #Captai...
captainztravels
28 likes • 1K views

Look for Washington's Pew

Find the pew where George Washington sat during services. A true historical moment! :star-struck:

Admire the Architecture

Appreciate the beautiful Georgian architecture, a stunning contrast to modern skyscrapers. :building_construction:

🇺🇸 NYC 💕 St. Paul's Chapel in New York: The oldest church in Manhattan. Church of Hope. She survived 9/11. Ground Zero and The One World Trade Center 🤍 • • • #newyorker #oneworldtradecenter #groundzer...
travelwithus.tp
51 likes • 3.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Visit the 9/11 Exhibit

Don't miss the moving 9/11 exhibit inside; it's a powerful reminder of resilience. :pray:

Explore the Cemetery

Wander through the historic cemetery for a glimpse into NYC's colonial past. :gravestone:

Look for Washington's Pew

Find the pew where George Washington sat during services. A true historical moment! :star-struck:

Admire the Architecture

Appreciate the beautiful Georgian architecture, a stunning contrast to modern skyscrapers. :building_construction:

Check for Events

Sometimes there are free concerts or events. Check their schedule! :musical_note:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Paul's Chapel for its profound historical significance, its role as a symbol of resilience after 9/11, and its beautiful colonial architecture. Many are moved by the 9/11 exhibit and the tangible connection to figures like George Washington. Some note that it can get crowded, and occasional services might limit access.

"Beautiful chapel near the World Trade Center memorial fountains. This church survived the attacks & stood as a center for respite for all of the first responders and volunteers. Lovely garden and cemetery and some inspiring artifacts from the 9/11 attacks including a priests stole covered in patches from fire departments around the world"

Sami Ostendorp

"Very close to the 9/11 memorial. Seems to still be an operating church. While small it has beautiful artifacts and stories. You can also walk through the cemetery around the back. There is no price or ticket for entering."

Marlon Blake

"I love coming here to meditate—it’s clean, warm, and has a great atmosphere. Plus, on certain days, the security guards are surprisingly friendly.

I stopped by on Friday, January 31st, after 2 PM, and the pianist/organist was having an absolute jam session. He was going all out, which was a pleasant surprise. So if you’re looking for some impressive organ music, this seems like the best time to go!"

Troy Gordon

What People Like

Moving 9/11 exhibit
Historic architecture
Connection to George Washington

What People Dislike

Can get crowded
Occasional service closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Paul's Chapel is conveniently located in the Financial District at 209 Broadway. You can easily reach it via several subway lines. The closest stations are City Hall (4, 5, 6 trains) and Cortlandt Street (1 train). Many bus routes also serve the area. :subway:
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Yes, St. Paul's Chapel is situated right next to the World Trade Center site, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring Ground Zero. It's a short walk from the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. :world_map:
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From Times Square, take the downtown 1 train to the Cortlandt Street station, which is just a few blocks from St. Paul's Chapel. Alternatively, you can take the R or W trains to City Hall. :train2:
TikTok

Parking in the Financial District can be challenging and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transportation to visit St. Paul's Chapel. If you must drive, there are several parking garages in the vicinity, but expect to pay premium rates. :car:
Reddit

Absolutely! St. Paul's Chapel is located at the foot of Wall Street, making it a very short and easy walk from the heart of the Financial District. :walking:
Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to St. Paul's Chapel is free. Donations are gratefully accepted to help maintain this historic landmark. :heart:
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St. Paul's Chapel is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, hours can vary due to services or special events, so it's always a good idea to check their official website before your visit. :clock3:
Instagram

The 9/11 exhibit within St. Paul's Chapel is free to visit as part of your entry to the chapel. It's a deeply moving experience that is accessible to all. :pray:
Reddit

Yes, St. Paul's Chapel holds regular services. You are welcome to attend any of their worship services. Check their schedule for times and types of services. :church:
Instagram

St. Paul's Chapel strives to be accessible. While it's a historic building, efforts have been made to accommodate visitors with mobility challenges. It's best to contact the chapel directly for specific accessibility information. :wheelchair:
Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find beautiful Georgian architecture, George Washington's pew, the moving 9/11 exhibit, and a serene atmosphere. The chapel's history is palpable in every corner. :statueofliberty:
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Photography is generally permitted inside St. Paul's Chapel, but it's important to be respectful. Avoid flash photography and be mindful of ongoing services or visitors who may prefer not to be photographed. :camera:
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Most visitors spend about 30-60 minutes exploring St. Paul's Chapel and its grounds. If you plan to deeply engage with the 9/11 exhibit or sit in quiet reflection, you might want to allocate a bit more time. :stopwatch:
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The cemetery is one of Manhattan's oldest burial grounds, with graves dating back to the colonial era. It offers a unique historical perspective and contains the tomb of Dr. William James McNevin, considered the father of modern chemistry. :skullandcrossbones:
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While official guided tours might not always be available, the chapel often has docents or volunteers who can share historical insights. You can also explore at your own pace and read the informational displays. :scroll:
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📸 📸 Photography

The exterior architecture, especially with the contrast of modern skyscrapers, makes for great shots. The cemetery also offers unique photographic opportunities. Inside, focus on the architectural details and the 9/11 exhibit respectfully. :camerawithflash:
Instagram+1

Drone photography is generally prohibited in most of Manhattan, especially in densely populated areas like the Financial District and near sensitive sites like St. Paul's Chapel and the World Trade Center. Always check local regulations. :noentrysign:
TikTok

Late afternoon often provides beautiful light for exterior shots, creating a warm glow on the historic building. Early mornings can also be good for fewer crowds and softer light. :sunrise:
Instagram

While photos are generally allowed, avoid using flash, especially during services or when photographing the 9/11 exhibit. Be discreet and respectful of other visitors. :iphone:
Instagram

Look for the four-faced clock, the historic gravestones in the cemetery, the contrast between old and new architecture, and the details of the chapel's interior. :art:
Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Paul's Chapel offers a unique opportunity to introduce children to history in a tangible way. The story of its survival during 9/11 is a powerful lesson in resilience and community. Pointing out George Washington's pew can spark their imagination about early American history. The cemetery, with its old gravestones, can also be a point of interest, though it's important to approach it with respect.

Keep the visit concise to maintain their attention. Focus on the most engaging aspects like the 9/11 exhibit (age-appropriately) and the visual contrast between the old chapel and the surrounding skyscrapers. Consider making it part of a larger Lower Manhattan exploration to avoid overwhelming younger children. Reddit

🏛️ History Buffs

For history enthusiasts, St. Paul's Chapel is an absolute must-visit. As the oldest public building in Manhattan, it's a living museum of colonial and early American history. You can delve into its role during the Revolutionary War, its connection to George Washington, and its significance as a place of worship for centuries.

Don't miss the opportunity to explore the colonial cemetery and learn about the figures buried there. The 9/11 exhibit also adds a crucial layer to its historical narrative, showcasing its role as a sanctuary during a modern-day crisis. Take your time to absorb the atmosphere and read the informational displays to fully appreciate its rich past. Reddit+1

🕊️ Those Seeking Solace

St. Paul's Chapel offers a profound sense of peace and reflection, especially given its history. The chapel itself provides a quiet sanctuary from the bustling city, allowing for moments of contemplation. The 9/11 exhibit, while somber, is also a place of remembrance and a testament to human resilience, offering a space to process and reflect on loss and hope.

Many visitors find the chapel's atmosphere incredibly calming and moving. It's a place where you can connect with history and find a moment of quietude amidst the urban landscape. The simple act of sitting in the historic sanctuary can be a deeply restorative experience. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Survivor's Story: St. Paul's Chapel and 9/11

St. Paul's Chapel holds a profound place in the narrative of 9/11. While the Twin Towers collapsed just blocks away, the chapel miraculously survived the devastation. For months following the attacks, it became a vital sanctuary and respite center for the recovery workers who tirelessly sifted through the rubble. The chapel provided a place for them to rest, eat, and find solace amidst the immense grief and exhaustion.

Inside, visitors can experience a deeply moving exhibit that chronicles this period. It features artifacts like the workers' boots, personal notes left by first responders, and photographs that capture the spirit of community and resilience. The stories shared within these walls are a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of places of worship as centers of hope during times of crisis. Many visitors describe the exhibit as incredibly emotional and a crucial part of understanding the aftermath of 9/11. Reddit+1

The chapel's survival and subsequent role in the recovery efforts have cemented its status not just as a historic landmark, but as a symbol of hope and endurance for New York City and the nation. It stands as a quiet, powerful reminder of what was lost and what was rebuilt. Instagram

Stepping Back in Time: Colonial History at St. Paul's

Founded in 1766, St. Paul's Chapel is the oldest public building in Manhattan and the only remaining colonial-era church building in the city. Its Georgian architecture stands in stark contrast to the surrounding modern skyscrapers, offering a visual journey back in time. The chapel was built as a chapel of ease for Trinity Church, serving congregants who lived further uptown. During the Revolutionary War, it was occupied by British troops, and later, it became a significant place of worship for the nascent United States.

One of the most compelling historical connections is to George Washington. He regularly attended services at St. Paul's Chapel during his presidency in New York City, and his pew is still preserved and marked within the sanctuary. Standing in that spot offers a tangible link to the founding of the nation. The chapel's cemetery also holds the remains of notable figures from the colonial period, including Dr. William James McNevin, an Irish physician and chemist. InstagramReddit

Exploring St. Paul's Chapel is like walking through layers of New York's history. From its colonial origins and its role in the early republic to its survival of 9/11, the chapel is a living testament to the city's enduring spirit and its rich past. Instagram

Architectural Gems and Unique Features

St. Paul's Chapel boasts exquisite Georgian architecture, characterized by its symmetry, classical proportions, and elegant detailing. The exterior features a prominent steeple and a distinctive four-faced clock, a historical timepiece that has kept watch over the bustling streets for generations. This clock is a unique feature that draws the attention of many visitors. Instagram

Inside, the chapel's design continues to impress with its soaring ceilings, ornate woodwork, and beautiful stained-glass windows. The main sanctuary is bathed in a warm, inviting light, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to reflection. The preserved pew of George Washington is a focal point, offering a direct connection to a pivotal figure in American history. The overall ambiance is one of quiet dignity and historical reverence, a stark contrast to the urban energy just outside its doors. Instagram+1

Beyond the main sanctuary, the chapel grounds feature a historic cemetery filled with weathered gravestones that tell silent stories of past generations. The juxtaposition of this ancient burial ground against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers is a visually striking element unique to this location. Instagram

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