Located at 170 East Jefferson Avenue in Downtown Detroit, Mariners' Church is a captivating historic sanctuary founded in 1842 to serve maritime travelers of the Great Lakes. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this independent congregation adheres to Anglican liturgical traditions, making it a unique spiritual and historical destination. You will be visiting a site deeply tied to Detroit’s heritage; it served as a stop on the Underground Railroad before the Civil War and famously survived a massive relocation in 1955, moving 880 feet to sit atop part of the Detroit–Windsor Tunnel.
When you step inside this Gothic Revival structure, made from Wisconsin Lannon stone, you can admire its beautiful sanctuary featuring exposed wood ceiling beams and striking stained glass windows installed by J&R Lamb Studios. Look closely at the west facade’s rose window, designed to replicate a ship's compass in honor of Great Lakes shipping. Outside on the church grounds, you will also find a historic bronze sculpture of George Washington wearing a master mason's apron.
Whether you are drawn by its famous connection to the Edmund Fitzgerald memorial services or its rich architectural history, Mariners' Church offers you an inspiring glimpse into Detroit’s maritime past.
What to see at Mariners' Church
- Gothic Revival architecture crafted from Wisconsin Lannon stone
- Compass-themed west rose window honoring Great Lakes shipping
- Historic Underground Railroad stop prior to the Civil War
- Grounds featuring a 1959 bronze statue of George Washington
- Annual March Blessing of the Fleet and November Great Lakes Memorial Service
Visiting tips
Be sure to examine the west facade's rose window, which is intricately designed to replicate a ship's compass.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: March or November
How to get there & what’s nearby
Mariners' Church is easy to reach on Detroit’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Detroit Institute of Arts. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Detroit travel guide.
See the full Detroit travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.