Duke’s West Campus is the bigger of the two campuses and is home to the university's showpiece, Duke University Chapel. This breathtaking cathedral soars 210 feet above the campus and was designed in a neo-Gothic style by Black architect Julian Abele. It features four pipe organs that perfectly suit the arched stone acoustics. The chapel opened in 1930 and visitors can experience worship services, concerts and gatherings in this magnificent space. Tours are regularly available.
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Hours:
Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Lovely chapel in the heart of Duke's campus. We were able to park in nearby Bryan Parking Deck for $2 an hour. There was a person practicing the carillon bells in the tower during our visit. The bells cannot be heard inside the chapel.
Francis S
Apr 18, 2025
5
Beautiful place on campus. The students are so lucky to have this chapel. Park at the Bryan Center just off Science Drive near the University Store and the Chapel is a short five minute walk.
RobinJP
Apr 16, 2025
5
Lovely stop on a busy visit to Durham. This 100-year-old Chapel was modeled on the architectural style of English Gothic churches. It's peaceful and full of beautiful artwork. Perhaps the most impressive thing is very colorful, bright stained glass windows.
Stacie Dye
Apr 15, 2025
5
Absolutely stunning every time I visit. I stopped by Duke Chapel during the week and was immediately inspired by the breathtaking Gothic architecture—it’s impossible not to be in awe. As I walked in, an organ concert was underway, and the powerful music filling the space made the moment feel almost surreal. No visit here is ever disappointing; there’s always something new to appreciate, whether it’s the artistry, the peaceful atmosphere, or the unexpected joy of live music. A must-see if you’re anywhere near Duke’s campus.
Jose Toro
Mar 16, 2025
5
This is a beautiful church that resembles the gothic era. I live in Barcelona and this is very close to the cathedral construction I am familiar with.
Vicky L
Feb 10, 2025
5
Duke University Chapel was phenomenal!!! We visited Sunday morning service at 11:00am. The day was sunny and warm with a cool breeze air blowing. After the service, we had a great time walking around the Duke Chapel and enjoying our tour.
Damascus “Bishop” MEDICI
Jan 4, 2025
5
Waited years to come here!! It was worth it. The details to one of the finest Gothic chapels in America is right here!!! I will always remember the day I visited n prayed here.
SethBM
Dec 2, 2024
5
Wow, such a beautiful chapel. The campus is gorgeous, but the chapel is the prettiest building of them all. You can go in and walk through the whole thing, even down into the Crypt. The stained glass is gorgeous, and depicts Bible stories. Highly recommend to come and visit if you are close by!
Frederick Bradbury V
Nov 24, 2024
5
An absolute masterpiece of a chapel. It was one of the most beautiful campus chapels I have visited. The stain glass was amazing, and the chapel of the Holy sacrament was Immaculate. The faculty member in the Chapel was very friendly and informative. He gave me a whole run down of the history and the architecture. If you are visiting Duke, you must visit this masterpiece.
Anthony Couillard
Oct 27, 2024
5
It's a stunning Chapel, although Chapel may not be the best description. Chapel portrays a small little country building, and this more reminded me of the Canterbury cathedral in england. It's just a large, beautiful structure. The stain glass windows, architects, and small details, brings a brilliance to everything. The founder of Duke University is buried here. They have a Crypt where you can see everyone that is also buried here. I would imagine this would be an amazing place to have a service.
Marisca Lotz
Oct 10, 2024
5
It is always a peaceful and awesome place. A place where you find rest for your soul. The architecture takes one's breath away. Most beautiful, intricate carpentry and glass stained windows. The organ is also a beautiful piece. I almost can't believe that the building is not centuries old because it transports one back of days long gone.
Nelly F Kembaren
Sep 21, 2024
4
It was a great experience to visit this chapel around the Duke University. It has a beautiful architecture, well-maintained, and don’t forget to walk around to see their gorgeous garden. I enjoyed my walking here while enjoying the breeze
Scott Vickers
Sep 15, 2024
5
I had the pleasure of touring the Duke University campus during an open house event for potential students. The grounds and buildings are beautiful, while the students and faculty are friendly and informative. I you ever have a chance to attend an event on campus go early and experience the architecture and the culture that is Duke University.
John Kessler
Sep 10, 2024
5
A fantastic Neolithic Chapel with helpful staff. The nave, the alter, the stained. Glass windows and the pipe organ are well worth your time.
KC TW
Sep 8, 2024
5
Duke Chapel is nothing short of breathtaking. It stands as an iconic symbol of the university, with its stunning Gothic architecture and towering spire that can be seen from across campus. Every detail, from the intricate stained glass windows to the beautifully carved woodwork, creates an atmosphere that is both awe-inspiring and serene. Walking inside, you are immediately struck by the sense of peace and reverence that fills the space, making it a perfect place for reflection and contemplation.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Duke Chapel is a place that brings people together. It hosts a wide range of events, from inspiring worship services to captivating concerts that fill the chapel with music. Whether you are attending a special event or simply stopping by for a quiet moment, the chapel always offers a sense of community and connection. As a student, I often found solace and inspiration within its walls, and it quickly became one of my favorite places on campus.
The chapel is not just a landmark but a living, breathing part of the Duke experience. It stands as a reminder of the university’s rich traditions and its commitment to nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. I will always treasure my memories of time spent at Duke Chapel, a place where I felt both humbled and uplifted. Truly, it is a must-see for anyone visiting Duke University, and it remains one of the most beautiful and meaningful places I have ever been.
Gypsy Bee
Jul 23, 2024
5
On Sunday afternoons, you can take a free guided tour that we found completely worth it for the information it provided about this beautiful chapel. We felt like we had stepped into Europe. After the tour, you are free to explore on your own...or you can skip the tour entirely. Lovely place to visit and linger for a couple of hours.
