Dayton Religious Buildings Tour (Self Guided), Dayton

St. Joseph Parish Church, a Roman Catholic church built in 1847, is still open for daily worship. Its ornate façade includes Doric columns, statues and a carved coat of arms. This beautiful sanctuary is an impressive site, boasting a beautiful bell tower.

St. John's United Church of Christ was formed in 1840 by a group of German Evangelical Protestants. The current building was constructed in 1899 after a fire destroyed the former one. This Gothic Revival sanctuary features a 19th century water-powered organ, beautiful stained glass windows and frescoes. It has an educational center and hosts a variety of social events, including the Breakfast Club, the East Oak Circle and the Senior Club. Its stunning architecture, including bell tower, is quite eye-catching to passersby.

Sacred Heart Church, designed in 1888 by famous local architect Charles Williams in the Romanesque style, was built out of limestone and sandstone. The elaborate lines of this church, with various-shaped windows, towers, columns, and stained glass designs, are a beautiful sight. It was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

Westminster Presbyterian Church is home to a large congregation who enjoy this beautifully decorated sanctuary with a wooden chapel, classroom, children’s room and library. Built in 1926 featuring a prominent Neo-Gothic design by Ralph Adams, highlights of the main hall’s rich interior include intricate stained glass windows, wooden ceiling beams and columns, chandeliers, an illuminated altar and an impressive high ceiling.

First Lutheran Church, built by the architectural firm Peters, Burns & Pretzinger in 1906, has a unique Gothic Revival design that beautifully contrasts with the Dayton cityscape. In 1983 this stunning church was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

Founded in 1830 and moved to its current location in 1879, Christ Episcopal Church was established when Bishop Philander Chase invited Ethan Allen to Ohio to perform religious missionary work. During the Great Flood of 1913, the church’s basement was completely flooded and a full renovation subsequently took place. In November of 1967 the church was open to the public. The building itself is a fine example of the Gothic Revival architectural style, with a stunning tower at the front entrance. This church regularly organizes charity and other events.

Located in the heart of the city, First Baptist Church is a beautiful Gothic Revival structure built in 1827. The current church, which stands on Monument Avenue, was built in 1918 and is the fourth building to host services for the First Baptist Church’s congregation.

Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, home to a large congregation, is a beautiful architectural work with a large Byzantine style dome on top and a small one atop the tower. Working closely with numerous religious and cultural organizations in the city, it hosts special events and classes promoting Greek culture, language and history.