Brooklyn Tabernacle
17 Smith St., Brooklyn, New York City, NY, 11201
Not far from Brooklyn’s well-known brownstones, gourmet restaurants, and cool-kid bars lies this multicultural, non-denominational megachurch. Located a few blocks from Fort Greene Park in downtown Brooklyn, this church offers Sunday worship services and nighttime prayer meetings for the borough’s diverse community. For the uninitiated, the highlight is typically the music of the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, a 300-voice Gospel choir with Grammys—among other awards—under its belt.
The Basics
With a congregation of around 10,000, Brooklyn Tabernacle offers three Sunday services and a Tuesday night prayer meeting. The church's 270-voice Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, winner of five Dove Awards and six Grammys, performs at many of the church’s services and around the world.
Things to Know Before You Go
If you're attending a service at Brooklyn Tabernacle, plan to arrive early, as the main sanctuary tends to fill quickly.
Check the calendar to confirm when the award-winning choir is performing.
The tabernacle theater company regularly presents live theatrical productions.
Services run for about 1.5 hours.
How to Get There
The subway is the easiest way to reach Brooklyn Tabernacle. Take the 2, 3, 4, or 5 train to Borough Hall/Court Street or the A, C, F, or R train to Jay Street–MetroTech/Fulton Street. Alternatively, the G train runs to Hoyt Street/Schermerhorn Street, but service on weekends tends to be slow. There are also several parking garages in the area.
When to Get There
Attend Sunday service at 9am, 12pm, or 3pm weekly in the main sanctuary. On Tuesday evenings, prayer services begin at 7pm, though doors open at 5pm. Services are held all year, and the church is busiest around the holidays, including Christmas and Easter, and just before prayer services begin.
Just for Kids
Brooklyn Tabernacle has a ministry just for kids. On Sunday afternoons and Tuesday evenings, young people are welcome to visit the BT Kids! Club. The club is run by volunteers, and guides kids in worship, lessons, and games that help them learn more about their faith. Just make sure to be on time—kids are not admitted after check-in.
Ways to explore
The Brooklyn Tabernacle is a working church with an open-door policy—you can visit during regular opening hours, attend weekly services (typically on Sundays and Tuesday afternoons and evenings), and participate in scheduled special events. To see the choir perform, you don’t need reservations or tickets, as they’re held regularly during Sunday worship services and on special events throughout the year. Worship services are on Sundays; check the official website for times before your visit.
Accessibility
If you use a wheelchair, enter via Livingston Street and ask for assistance.
Age limits
None
What to pack
Cash for donations, a light sweater or scarf if it’s chilly
What to wear
There isn’t a strict dress code, but guests should dress modestly to reflect the sacred setting; jeans and shirts are OK, though some dress more formally.
Not allowed
Leaving your cell on during services, loud conversations
Amenities
Restrooms, online book and music store, Access-a-Ride services for people with disabilities
Address
The Tabernacle is on the southern reaches of downtown Brooklyn on Smith Street, between Fulton and Livingston streets. It’s within walking distance of multiple subway stations and easily accessible by bus. Driving in Brooklyn is often slow and expensive (parking!). Rideshares and taxis are more convenient.
Driving
From Lower Manhattan, it’s almost a straight shot across the Manhattan Bridge. Drive past Dumbo and turn right off the bridge onto Concord Street. Turn left on Jay Street and head down to Smith Street. Discounted parking is available at several area garages with a validated ticket.
Public transportation
Take the A, C, F, or R subway lines to the Jay Street–MetroTech or the 2, 3, 4, or 5 to Borough Hall and walk a few blocks to Smith Street. Hoyt Street Station is also nearby. Buses run often along Livingston Street and Boerum Plaza.
Best times to visit
Arrive 10 minutes before Sunday worship services at 9am and 12pm (3pm for Spanish-speaking service) to find good seats.
Best days to visit
Sundays for services and concerts. Tuesday evening prayer meetings are an option for those who are more religiously inclined.
Best months to visit
Easter (April) and Christmas (December) offer powerful worship, special choir music, and a vibrant, spiritually rich atmosphere.
Special events
Around Christmas, the Tabernacle hosts a variety of special performances, including themed concerts and musical celebrations.
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