About this Event
With Lower Manhattan's population bursting at the seams by the 1860s, the parish of Saint Thomas Church decided to move north and build a new church in the Gothic style on Fifth Avenue and 53rd Street — at that time, a quiet and rural tract. Fast forward to today and the congregation's fourth church — built at that same location in 1913 — still stands. It's time to explore the historic halls, rooms, and tower of one of New York's most notable churches in a way few others have ever before.
Join New York Adventure Club for an exclusive tour and bell tower climb at Saint Thomas Church, a century-old church on Fifth Avenue built in the French High Gothic style and designed by the architectural firm of Cram, Goodhue, and Ferguson.
Led by a Saint Thomas Church tour guide, our special experience throughout the historic church will include:
- The history and story of Saint Thomas Church, from why the first church was built so far uptown in the 1820s to how their famed Choir of Men and Boys got its start
- A discussion around the most historic elements in the church including the magnificent 80-foot high reredos, one of the largest in the world
- Special access through various historic spaces and chambers in the church that are usually not accessible to the public
- An exclusive trip up the church’s historic bell tower for unique vantage points of the main sanctuary, church bells room, and attic above the nave — a total of nearly 95 feet
Click here to see pictures from one of our last visits to Saint Thomas Church!
See you there!
*If you plan on participating in the bell tower climb in the second half of the tour, please bring water and wear a comfortable pair of shoes as we’ll be doing a lot of walking and stair climbing
**Please note that the spiral stairwells up the bell tower are quite narrow, and can be uncomfortable for those with claustrophobia — if you choose to not ascend the church stairs, you may wait on the ground floor for the group to return
Disclaimer
By attending a New York Adventure Club experience, you accept our terms of service.
Categories: In-Person, Houses of Worship
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue (Parish Entrance on 53rd Street), 1 West 53rd Street, New York, United States
USD 35.00