Central Presbyterian Church 🇺🇸

Located in downtown Saint Paul, Minnesota, Central Presbyterian Church offers a fascinating look into 19th-century American religious architecture. The congregation was originally founded in 1852 and constructed its first house of worship in 1854, which was later expanded during the 1870s. As the rapidly growing congregation outgrew its original home, they built the present structure in 1889. Today, this historic building is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places as a striking example of Richardsonian Romanesque design.

When you visit, take time to admire the building's exterior before stepping inside. The façade is crafted from coarsely carved Lake Superior brownstone and features a massive 90-foot gable looming over arched entrances adorned with carved floral and geometric motifs. Designed by architect Warren H. Hayes, the sanctuary interior utilizes the unique Akron Plan layout.

Step inside to see the raised semi-circular chancel placing the speaker at the front and center, surrounded by curved pews set in a semi-circular pattern across a sloping floor. This clever theater-style design ensures every visitor can easily see and hear the speaker, making it a wonderful stop for architecture enthusiasts exploring Saint Paul.

What to see at Central Presbyterian Church

• Listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• Richardsonian Romanesque façade made of Lake Superior brownstone
• Massive 90-foot gable rising above arched entrances
• Intricate carved floral and geometric motifs
• Interior Akron Plan layout with curved pews and a sloping floor

Visiting tips

Pay close attention to the unique theater-like Akron Plan interior design, which uses a semi-circular layout and sloping floor to optimize sightlines and acoustics.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Central Presbyterian Church is easy to reach on Saint Paul’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Minnesota State Capitol and Cathedral of Saint Paul, National Shrine of the Apostle Paul. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Saint Paul travel guide.