St. John's Church Lafayette Square
Historic Episcopal church in D.C., visited by every U.S. president since 1816, known for its Greek Revival architecture.

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St. John's Church Lafayette Square
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Experience a vibrant service

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic Episcopal church in D.C., visited by every U.S. president since 1816, known for its Greek Revival architecture.
"A place where every sitting president has attended, steeped in history and architectural beauty."
Check Hours Before You Go
Visiting hours can vary; confirm on their website to avoid missing out.
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Architecture
Admire the stunning Greek Revival design and intricate stained glass windows of this iconic church.

Presidential Connections
Experience a place where every U.S. president has attended services since its consecration.

Inauguration Day Services
Witness a site steeped in tradition, having hosted numerous presidential inauguration day spiritual services.
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Planning Your Visit
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Hours Before You Go
Visiting hours can vary; confirm on their website to avoid missing out.
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship.
Visiting DC with daughter. Is "anyone" allowed to attend St. Johns church?
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of services; ask before taking photos inside.
Consider a Tour
Learn about the rich history and architecture from knowledgeable guides.
Catholic/Episcopal Churches for Young People?
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Hours Before You Go
Visiting hours can vary; confirm on their website to avoid missing out.
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly as it's an active place of worship.
Photography Etiquette
Be mindful of services; ask before taking photos inside.
Consider a Tour
Learn about the rich history and architecture from knowledgeable guides.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. John's Church Lafayette Square is lauded for its significant historical connections, particularly its ties to U.S. presidents and its beautiful Greek Revival architecture. Visitors appreciate its role as a place of worship and its welcoming, inclusive atmosphere. However, some guests have reported negative experiences with staff regarding basic needs, which contrasts with the church's stated mission.
"St. John's Episcopal Church, Lafayette Square is a historic Episcopal church located at Sixteenth Street and H Street NW, in Washington, D.C.
Every sitting president has attended the church at least once since it was built in 1816, starting with James Madison.
Many of the traditional Inauguration Day spiritual services have been held at St. John's. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960."
Bobby singh
"I am exploring the Episcopalian faith. I have never been before, but my grandmother suggested I go to St John’s. It has been very spiritually fulfilling but it came in such a quiet way. I visited the young adult group and their deacon, Eric was very engaging. He also is so nice and compelled people to bring families in, but in an inclusive way. I’m not a church person, but I think I found my spot. It made a difference."
Julia Block
"Their statement is: A church open to people of all races, ethnicities, genders, sexual orientations & viewpoints."
German Ab
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. John's Church Lafayette Square is located at Sixteenth Street and H Street NW in Washington, D.C. It's easily accessible by public transportation, with several Metro bus lines stopping nearby. The closest Metro stations are Farragut West and Farragut North. Parking in the area can be challenging and expensive, so using public transit is often recommended.
Yes, St. John's Church is situated adjacent to Lafayette Square, offering beautiful views and a central location. It's also within walking distance of the White House and other significant D.C. landmarks, making it a convenient stop on a sightseeing tour.
Lafayette Square and the surrounding area are very walkable. Many visitors choose to explore on foot to take in the sights. Ride-sharing services are also readily available, and the Metro system provides efficient access to and from different parts of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St. John's Church for services is generally free. However, if you wish to take a guided tour or visit during specific hours outside of services, it's best to check their official website for any admission fees or tour schedules.
Visiting hours can vary, especially on holidays or during special events. It's highly recommended to check the official St. John's Church Lafayette Square website for the most current and accurate hours of operation before your visit.
Absolutely! St. John's Church welcomes visitors to attend their regular services. They are known for being an inclusive church, open to people of all backgrounds. Check their website for the service schedule.
St. John's Church is a National Historic Landmark, and efforts have been made to ensure accessibility. It's advisable to contact the church directly if you have specific accessibility needs to confirm the best way to accommodate your visit.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautiful stained glass windows, impressive architecture, and a rich sense of history. It's a place where many significant events in American history have unfolded.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's important to be respectful of ongoing services and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography during services and always be mindful of your surroundings.
St. John's Church is historically significant as it has been attended by every sitting U.S. president since its consecration in 1816. It has also hosted many traditional Inauguration Day spiritual services and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960.
St. John's Church holds regular services, including Sunday services and often special services for national holidays or presidential inaugurations. Their website will have the most up-to-date information on upcoming events.
The atmosphere is generally one of reverence and historical significance. Visitors often describe it as spiritually fulfilling and peaceful, though some reviews mention less welcoming experiences with door attendants.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Lafayette Square and downtown D.C. offers a wide variety of dining options, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You'll find numerous choices within walking distance.
Typically, food and drinks are not permitted inside active places of worship to maintain the sanctity of the space. It's best to consume any food or beverages outside the church premises.
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior, with its grand Greek Revival facade and location by Lafayette Square, offers excellent photo opportunities. The interior, particularly the stained glass windows, is also very photogenic.
Photography is usually allowed for personal use, but always be respectful of ongoing services and other visitors. Avoid flash photography during services.
It's ideal for architectural photography, historical documentation, and capturing the ambiance of a significant religious landmark.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to plan restroom breaks beforehand, as public facilities nearby might be closed. If visiting with children, consider attending during less busy times or focusing on the exterior architecture and the adjacent Lafayette Square, which offers more open space.
🏛️ History Buffs
Explore the Greek Revival architecture and the stained glass windows to appreciate its historical and artistic value. The church's designation as a National Historic Landmark further solidifies its importance.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
Visitors seeking a peaceful place for reflection will find the church's ambiance conducive to spiritual exploration. Attending a service can provide a deeper understanding of the Episcopal faith and the church's community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Presidential Visits
Many significant presidential inauguration day spiritual services have been held within its walls, further cementing its historical importance. The church's designation as a National Historic Landmark in 1960 is a testament to its enduring legacy and architectural significance. Visiting St. John's offers a tangible connection to centuries of American presidential history.
Architectural Grandeur and Spiritual Ambiance
The church is described by visitors as a place that can be spiritually fulfilling, offering a quiet and reflective experience. While it is a place of worship, its historical and architectural merits also draw many tourists. The combination of its sacred purpose and its impressive design creates a unique and memorable visit for all who step through its doors.
Community and Inclusivity
One reviewer shared a positive experience with the young adult group and their deacon, finding the environment engaging and inclusive. This highlights the church's efforts to foster a sense of belonging for diverse individuals and families.
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