Think the grandest cathedrals are only found in Europe? Think you’ll never see such magnificent structures for yourself? Well, think again! There are many amazing cathedrals to see right here in the Midwest. You certainly won’t need to pack your passport!
As you might imagine, Christmastime means that many cathedrals are elaborately decorated. However, any time of year is the perfect time to tour these spectacular sites. Even if you are not necessarily religious, I think you’ll enjoy the architecture and workmanship each site offers. These are only three of the several Midwest cathedrals RVers you simply must visit.
Midwest cathedrals to visit
The Shrine Church of Saint Stanislaus
Cleveland, Ohio, is home to a stunning cathedral that reflects the city’s rich history and Polish heritage. Located in the heart of Cleveland’s Slavic Village neighborhood, this magnificent building dates back to its establishment in 1873. The church was founded to meet the needs of the growing Polish immigrant population. The original wooden structure was replaced by the current, stunning brick building in 1891.
The cathedral’s architecture is a blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles, featuring intricate details and towering spires. The interior is breathtaking with its stunning stained-glass windows, ornate altars, and beautiful artwork—all dedicated to Saint Stanislaus, the patron saint of Poland.
Call the shrine office to inquire about a self-guided tour and/or religious services at 216-341-9091 or visit their website.
Note: While in Cleveland, consider visiting these additional churches and cathedrals: St. Theodosius Cathedral, St. John’s Cathedral, and Saint Stephen Catholic Church.
The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
Nestled in the heart of St. Louis, Missouri, the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis stands as a testament to both architectural brilliance and religious devotion. Known for its stunning mosaics, awe-inspiring architecture, and rich history, the cathedral is a must-visit.
The interior of the cathedral is adorned with intricate marble work, stunning stained-glass windows, and a breathtaking dome that reaches a height of 225 feet. What sets the Cathedral Basilica apart is its remarkable collection of mosaics. Covering 83,000 square feet, the mosaics are an awe-inspiring display of craftsmanship.
Guided tours are available. Call 314-373-8242 for information or visit their website.
Note: While in the area, also visit the Old Cathedral located on the St. Louis Riverfront. Call 314-231-3250 for information.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is an architectural marvel. Perched on the highest point in downtown St. Paul, Minnesota, this magnificent structure is a testament to the dedication and craftsmanship of its builders.
Construction of the Cathedral began in 1906, and the building was officially completed in 1915. The exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures. Inside you’ll find a breathtaking nave, adorned with arches, columns, and a high-vaulted ceiling that reaches 175 feet in height. The Cathedral’s massive copper dome rises 306 feet above ground level and is plated with 24-karat gold leaf. You can take a guided tour to explore the dome and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
The Cathedral of Saint Paul is open to visitors and guided tours are available. Call 651-357-1327 or visit their website for information.
Can you add a Midwest cathedral that RVers simply must visit? Tell me about it in the comments below.
More Midwest travel inspiration:
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- Midwest presidential libraries to visit
- 5 charming Midwest Mississippi River towns you should definitely visit
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Thank you, Gail. I hope that we visit these one day. The pictures are stunning. If you ever return to Chattanooga despite your encounter with the roads of Lookout Mountain, there is a beautiful Catholic church downtown, the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul (https://www.stspeterandpaulbasilica.com/) that is worth a look. There also is an historic church in Cambridge, Massachusetts that we briefly attended called Harvard-Epworth United Methodist Church (https://harvardepworthchurch.org/) that might be worth a look if you’re in the vicinity of Boston. Leave the RV at the campground if you visit either of these. 😉
An alternative if you are traveling through the south are The Painted Churches of Texas. Immigrants in groups from a single area often arrived in the New World in the 19th century with few resources. They could not afford the stonework and sculptures of their homeland churches. So they used paint to imitate what they left behind. Several of these churches remain in a very rural region of Texas. No money or reason to remodel, but the painted interiors are lovingly maintained.
I totally agree with you, Jim. I’ve visited several of those painted churches more than once and am amazed at their beauty.
Gail, if you’re looking for a break while crossing Western Kansas on I-70 stop by the Cathedral of the Plains in Victoria Kansas. The town of Victoria was laid out by an English Lord who was lonesome for his childhood village in England. The church is beautiful and You can see the spires from the interstate. Victoria is only a few miles from Hays which has an excellent Dinosaur museum just off I-70 and the historic Fort Hays which was the last military installation that Custer stayed at prior to his death at the Little Big Horn. The fort is also worth stopping for and close by Hays maintains a small herd of Buffalo.
There’s Rv parks available in town but I haven’t stayed in any of them.
Northeast Missouri has quite a few very interesting old churches, some worthy of being cathedrals. Check out
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St._Mary%27s_Church_(Adair,_Missouri)
Bisonwings is absolutely correct – a stop to see the Cathedral of the Plains in Victoria Kansas just a couple of miles south of I-70 is unforgettable, & has always been open every time I’ve stopped.