Church of the Transfiguration
An oasis in a concrete cityscape, this little church doubles as a place of worship and a serene garden in which to rest. The Episcopalian church was founded in 1848 by George Houghton to welcome any and all of the tired masses, in the spirit of inclusivity. Today, the church maintains that inclusive spirit by keeping its gates open all day to parishioners and non-parishioners alike. On any given day, one can find anyone from actors to businessmen seated among the bushes and fountains, chatting, eating or simply sitting in peace. βA lot of people just come in and meditate or chill,β parish administrator Bill Nave shared with us. βIt is one of the most welcoming churches I have ever been to.β What a charming discovery in the midst of bustling Manhattan.