The 10 Oldest Churches in the East Coast preserve stories of colonial settlement, faith, and resilience from the 1600s onward. These churches, built by Puritans, Anglicans, Catholics, and Lutherans, reflect the cultural mix that defined America’s earliest towns. From the Pilgrims in Plymouth to Spanish settlers in Florida, each sanctuary connects us directly to the beginnings of the United States.
San Miguel Chapel – Santa Fe, New Mexico (1610)
Although not directly on the Atlantic coast, San Miguel Chapel is often included in early church histories since it was built around 1610 by Spanish settlers. Its adobe walls have seen centuries of restoration, making it one of the oldest surviving churches in the continental U.S. Visitors today can still see the original bell tower and hand-carved altar screen. The chapel was part of the early mission system that sought to convert Native Americans in the Southwest.
Old Trinity Church – Church Creek, Maryland (1675)
Built in 1675, Old Trinity Church in Maryland’s Dorchester County is the oldest church in continuous use in the U.S. The small brick structure has weathered more than three centuries of history, including the American Revolution and Civil War. Its surrounding cemetery holds graves of colonial settlers and Revolutionary War veterans. The church sits along the Choptank River, which once served as a lifeline for early settlers.For more on the Chesapeake, see our feature on the 20 Most Beautiful Coastal Towns in USA.
San Juan Bautista Catholic Church – St. Augustine, Florida (1702)
St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is home to several early Catholic parishes, but the San Juan Bautista Church built in 1702 reflects the deep Spanish roots of Florida. Though reconstructed after fires and storms, it preserves the traditions of the original colonial mission. The church stands as a reminder of Spanish dominance in the region long before English colonies took root further north.You can also explore more of Florida’s charm in our guide to 10 Breathtaking Islands in the United States.
Bruton Parish Church – Williamsburg, Virginia (1715)
Located in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, Bruton Parish was established in 1715 and attended by early leaders like George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The church’s colonial box pews and ringing bells remain a centerpiece of Virginia’s colonial capital. It was also used as a hospital during the Revolutionary War, giving it both spiritual and military significance. Travelers often combine Williamsburg with coastal getaways like those in our 20 Most Beautiful Coastal Towns in USA.
Old North Church – Boston, Massachusetts (1723)
Famous for the “One if by land, two if by sea” lantern signal during Paul Revere’s ride in 1775, Old North Church was founded in 1723. It is Boston’s oldest surviving church and a landmark of the American Revolution. The tall steeple, rebuilt after storm damage, was once the tallest structure in Boston. Today, it stands as a living museum of patriot resistance and colonial faith.
St. Luke’s Church – Smithfield, Virginia (c. 1632)
Sometimes called the Old Brick Church, St. Luke’s dates back to around 1632 and is the oldest surviving brick church in the U.S. Its Gothic design, leaded glass windows, and 17th-century cemetery evoke England’s Anglican heritage transplanted to Virginia’s Tidewater. Inside, visitors can see a rare 17th-century altar rail and original English communion silver.
Gloria Dei (Old Swedes’) Church – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (1700)
Founded by Swedish settlers along the Delaware River, Gloria Dei was consecrated in 1700. Its Lutheran origins reflect the multicultural fabric of colonial Pennsylvania. The church later became part of the Episcopal Church, and visitors can explore its historic pews and burial grounds. It remains a symbol of Philadelphia’s diverse immigrant communities long before American independence.
Christ Church – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (1744)
Known as the “Nation’s Church,” Christ Church in Philadelphia opened in 1744 and counted among its worshippers Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross, and George Washington. The church played a significant role in the American Revolution and remains a symbol of religious and civic freedom. Its 196-foot steeple was the tallest building in the American colonies for decades.
Trinity Church – Newport, Rhode Island (1726)
Trinity Church, completed in 1726, is a fine example of colonial Anglican architecture. Designed with a central pulpit and high box pews, it welcomed worshippers from Newport’s bustling port community. The church’s steeple was famously built by ship carpenters. Its historic organ, imported from England in 1733, is still in use today.
King’s Chapel – Boston, Massachusetts (1754)
Originally built in 1688, King’s Chapel was replaced with its current stone structure in 1754. Known for its elegant Georgian design, it served Boston’s Anglican community and later became the first Unitarian church in America. Its historic bell, recast by Paul Revere, still rings today. The chapel’s crypt holds more than 1,000 bodies, making it one of the oldest surviving burial sites in Boston.
