St. James Cathedral, Chicago

Saint James Cathedral, at the intersection of Huron and Wabash Streets, is the "mother church" of Episcopalians in the United States. Its roots trace back to 1834, making it the Windy City's oldest church of its kind. This historic place of worship narrowly escaped annihilation during the catastrophic Great Chicago Fire of 1871, with only the bell tower surviving, which was later incorporated into the present-day reconstructed building. The soot-darkened stones atop the tower serve as poignant reminders of that fateful day.

Saint James assumed the role of a cathedral in 1928, following the destruction of the Cathedral Church of Saints Peter and Paul. Its historical origins harken back to Juliette Kinzie, a Connecticut native and the wife of Indian agent John Harris Kinzie. Even Abraham Lincoln sought solace here shortly after his election as President in 1860. Fast forward to the mid-1980s, Saint James underwent an extensive restoration effort to return the building to its original late 1800s Arts-and-Crafts Gothic Revival design.

Stepping inside, you'll be greeted by a stenciled nave, an exquisite symphony of colors that ranks among the nation's most splendid Victorian interiors. Adding to the grandeur are stained glass windows that depict captivating Biblical scenes. For instance, the choir's rose window features Christ-in-Mercy, encircled by angelic musicians, while the marble altar and checkered marble floor are bathed in the luminance of the Transfiguration, Epiphany, Crucifixion, and Ascension.

And if that's not enough to pique your interest, don't miss Saint Andrew's Chapel, a creation of architect Bertram Goodhue, inspired by medieval Scottish abbeys. This addition to the Cathedral was completed in the early 1920s, adding yet another layer of interest.