Discovering the 20 Most Famous Temples in America

famous temples in America

If you are searching for a spiritual getaway or simply looking to admire beautiful architecture and cultural heritage, exploring the most famous temples in America is an excellent idea. From ancient temples and historical landmarks to modern, unique structures, this country is a hub of spiritual diversity that offers a fascinating glimpse into different faiths and beliefs. Join us on a virtual tour of the 20 most famous temples in America, from coast to coast.

• BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Atlanta, Georgia
• Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, Missouri
• Salt Lake Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah
• Hsi Lai Temple, Hacienda Heights, California
• Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple, Homestead, Florida
• St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York City, New York
• The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, Lemont, Illinois
• The Golden Temple, Espanola, New Mexico
• Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, Los Angeles, California
• Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Spanish Fork, Utah
• Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
• The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chino Hills, California
• The Islamic Center of America, Dearborn, Michigan
• The First Baptist Church, Savannah, Georgia
• The Byodo-In Temple, Kaneohe, Hawaii
• The Shree Swaminarayan Temple, Secaucus, New Jersey
• The St. Louis Cathedral, New Orleans, Louisiana
• The Washington National Cathedral, Washington, D.C.
• The Mormon Temple, La Jolla, California

Explore the top 20 temples in America and learn about their history, significance and beauty.

Introduction

America is a melting pot of religions, and it boasts some of the most impressive and unique temples in the world. These temples stand as symbols of faith, architectural marvels, and significant historical landmarks. From massive cathedrals to peaceful Buddhist sanctuaries, every temple offers a glimpse into a different culture and way of life. Here are the top 20 most famous temples in America that you must see.

1. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Atlanta, Georgia

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a magnificent Hindu temple located in Atlanta, Georgia. This temple is one of the largest Hindu temples in the United States and is built entirely out of marble and limestone. The intricate carvings, stunning architecture, and impressive spires make it a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Georgia.

2. Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, Missouri

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is a Roman Catholic church located in Missouri. The church is famous for its stunning mosaics, which cover over 83,000 square feet of the interior. The church's beauty, combined with its rich history, makes it a must-visit temple.

3. Salt Lake Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah

The Salt Lake Temple is the most famous temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The temple took 40 years to build and was completed in 1893. The temple's stunning architecture and beautiful grounds make it a popular tourist attraction.

4. Hsi Lai Temple, Hacienda Heights, California

The Hsi Lai Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Hacienda Heights, California. The temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the Western Hemisphere.

5. Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple, Homestead, Florida

The Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple is a Thai temple located in Homestead, Florida. This temple is a peaceful retreat with a tranquil atmosphere that transports visitors to Thailand. The temple's architecture is breathtaking, with a traditional Thai-style roof, golden Buddha statues, and ornate carvings.

6. St. Patrick's Cathedral, New York City, New York

St. Patrick's Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of New York City. The cathedral is a masterpiece of neo-gothic architecture, with stunning stained-glass windows, a towering spire, and a stunning interior. It is an iconic landmark of the city and attracts millions of visitors each year.

7. The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago, Lemont, Illinois

The Hindu Temple of Greater Chicago is a beautiful Hindu temple located in Lemont, Illinois. The temple is a masterpiece of traditional Indian architecture, with intricate carvings, domes, and ornate designs. The temple is home to several deities and is a peaceful retreat for worship and meditation.

8. The Golden Temple, Espanola, New Mexico

The Golden Temple is a Sikh temple located in Espanola, New Mexico. This temple is an impressive sight, with its golden dome, white marble exterior, and tranquil surroundings. The temple is open to visitors of all faiths and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer.

9. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, Los Angeles, California

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Los Angeles, California. The cathedral is a modern masterpiece of architecture, with a unique design that incorporates elements of traditional Catholic cathedrals with modern materials and techniques. The cathedral's beauty and grandeur make it a popular tourist attraction.

10. Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple, Spanish Fork, Utah

The Sri Sri Radha Krishna Temple is a Hindu temple located in Spanish Fork, Utah. The temple is a beautiful oasis of peace and serenity, with its tranquil gardens, colorful architecture, and intricate carvings. The temple is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and visitors alike.

11. Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

The Greek Orthodox Church of the Annunciation is a beautiful church located in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin. The church is a masterpiece of traditional Byzantine architecture, with stunning mosaics, ornate carvings, and a stunning interior. The church is a popular destination for worship, meditation, and cultural events.

12. The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, Chino Hills, California

The BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Chino Hills, California, is another beautiful Hindu temple that is a must-visit attraction. The temple is a masterpiece of traditional Indian architecture, with intricate carvings, domes, and ornate designs. The temple's beauty and grandeur make it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and visitors alike.

13. The Islamic Center of America, Dearborn, Michigan

The Islamic Center of America is a beautiful mosque located in Dearborn, Michigan. The mosque is a masterpiece of modern Islamic architecture, with a stunning design that incorporates traditional Islamic elements with modern materials and techniques. The mosque is a popular destination for worship, meditation, and cultural events.

14. The First Baptist Church, Savannah, Georgia

The First Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia, is a beautiful church that is a must-visit attraction. The church is a masterpiece of traditional Gothic architecture.

15. The Salt Lake Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah

The Salt Lake Temple is a beautiful temple located in Salt Lake City, Utah. The temple is a masterpiece of Mormon architecture, with a stunning design that incorporates traditional Mormon elements with modern materials and techniques. The temple's beauty and grandeur make it a popular destination for spiritual seekers and visitors alike.

16. The Shambhala Mountain Center, Red Feather Lakes, Colorado

The Shambhala Mountain Center is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in Red Feather Lakes, Colorado. The temple is a peaceful retreat with a tranquil atmosphere that transports visitors to a place of peace and serenity. The temple offers meditation classes, retreats, and workshops, and is a popular destination for spiritual seekers and visitors alike.

17. The Baha'i House of Worship, Wilmette, Illinois

The Baha'i House of Worship is a stunning temple located in Wilmette, Illinois. The temple is a masterpiece of modern architecture, with a unique design that incorporates traditional Baha'i elements with modern materials and techniques. The temple is open to visitors of all faiths and offers a serene atmosphere for reflection and prayer.

18. The Unity Temple, Oak Park, Illinois

The Unity Temple is a beautiful church located in Oak Park, Illinois. The church is a masterpiece of modern architecture, with a unique design that incorporates traditional elements with modern materials and techniques. The church is a popular destination for worship, meditation, and cultural events.

19. The St. Louis Cathedral, New Orleans, Louisiana

The St. Louis Cathedral is a beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral located in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana. The cathedral is a masterpiece of French and Spanish colonial architecture, with stunning stained-glass windows, ornate carvings, and a stunning interior. It is an iconic landmark of the city and attracts millions of visitors each year.

20. The Crystal Cathedral, Garden Grove, California

The Crystal Cathedral is a stunning church located in Garden Grove, California. The church is a masterpiece of modern architecture, with a unique design that incorporates traditional elements with modern materials and techniques. The church is a popular destination for worship, meditation, and cultural events.

Conclusion

The United States is home to a diverse array of temples and religious sites, each with its own unique history, architecture, and significance. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a history buff, or a lover of architecture, there is no shortage of beautiful and fascinating temples to explore across the country.

FAQs

What is the oldest temple in America?

The oldest temple in America is the Touro Synagogue in Newport, Rhode Island, which was built in 1763.

Are these temples open to visitors of all faiths?

Yes, most of these temples are open to visitors of all faiths, though some may have restrictions or guidelines for visitors.

Can I take photographs inside these temples?

It depends on the temple and its policies. Some temples may allow photography, while others may not.

Are there guided tours available for these temples?

Yes, many of these temples offer guided tours for visitors, which can provide a more in-depth understanding of the temple's history and significance.

Are there any other famous temples in America that are not on this list?

Yes, there are many other famous temples in America that are not on this list, as this is just a selection of some of the most notable and beautiful temples across the country.