Located in the upscale Forest Hills Gardens neighborhood of Queens, New York City, St. Luke's Episcopal Church offers travelers a peaceful glimpse into local architectural history. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010, this historic sanctuary is well worth a visit to admire its unique design, which seamlessly blends Collegiate Gothic style with distinct Arts and Crafts influences.
As you explore the site, you will see how the building was thoughtfully constructed to harmonize with the surrounding residential homes in Forest Hills Gardens. Designed by local resident and church member Robert Tappan—who generously completed his architectural work without taking any fees—the church was built in three distinct phases finalized in 1925, 1929, and 1940. During your visit, you can also view the adjoining parish house, which was added to the complex in 1950.
Designed by architect Steward Wagner, another Gardens resident and member of the nearby Church-in-the-Gardens, the parish house completes this neighborhood landmark. Whether you are an architecture enthusiast or a traveler exploring Queens, stopping by St. Luke's Episcopal Church lets you appreciate a deeply community-driven landmark built by the very neighbors who lived and worshiped in this historic district.
What to see at St. Luke's Episcopal Church
- Collegiate Gothic architecture blended with Arts and Crafts influences
- Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2010
- Designed fee-free by local resident and church member Robert Tappan
- Built across three historical phases completed in 1925, 1929, and 1940
- Features a 1950 parish house designed by local architect Steward Wagner
Visiting tips
Take time to observe how the church's architectural details were styled to harmonize with the surrounding houses in Forest Hills Gardens.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
St. Luke's Episcopal Church is easy to reach on Queens’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Forest Park and Loew's Valencia Theatre. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Queens travel guide.
See the full Queens travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.