Beautiful architecture, and a legendary pipe organ, but I have never felt more unwelcome in a so-called house of worship. This church says that everyone is welcome but given the terrible attitude of their staff, those are clearly empty words.

We had not been to this church before but stopped by to look at the interior since it was listed as one of the top activities in the area. There was a food bank event going on so much of the church, including the sanctuary, was roped off, presumably due to the event. We did notice that there was a small and interesting display of important visitors over history. There was also a poster advertising a concert on New Year’s Eve and another sign we saw indicated that tickets could be purchased from the welcome center. We mistakenly went to a small kiosk (rather than the welcome center that was closed) in the church to inquire. This inquiry was interrupted by someone who had the singular goal of getting us out of the church. He indicated that we should go on line to get the tickets and proceeded to interrogate us on where we saw the poster, indicating that we weren’t supposed to be there (it wasn’t roped off), when the concert was, etc., giving the impression that we weren’t welcome. We will not attend any concert here. Very disappointing reception.

Riverside Church is a magnificent structure and an inspiring house of worship, especially when they have the handbell and choir concerts. The Church is situated adjacent to a park along the Hudson River offering a wonderful sunny day outside venue.

We traveled from NJ with a group to this wonderful event. The church itself if magnificent. The stained-glass windows alone are worth the trip. There are tours all year of the church as well as the Bell Tower Tour, which was just recently launched. We arrived when the doors opened at 2:30pm and got an excellent seat. The ombiance of this church is awsome. All of the choirs and well as the bell choir performed and the congregation sang many carols. The highlight of the performance was the singing of Silent Night while each person's candle was lit throughout the whole church (thousands of people) How awsome. After the candles were extinguished, there was a final instrumental performance while just kept you in the moment instead of rushing out.. We can't wait to go again next year.

Riverside Church is a gorgeous church, inside and out. The nave is huge and has amazing acoustics and beautiful stained glass. Viewing from the balcony is breathtaking. It is located right at Columbia University and at Riverside Park. Nearest subway stops are 116th or 125th on the 1, 2, 3 lines. I personally thought it was more impressive than St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the National Cathedral in DC.