Doors Open: Lakewood Memorial Chapel

Join Lakewood as we open the doors of our beautiful historic Memorial Chapel for Doors Open Minneapolis 2023! Walk through this stunning building and get a closer look at the beautiful mosaic interiors, the historic crematory and columbarium in the lower level, and the inside and outside of this beautiful building. Informational brochures will be provided and staff and volunteers will be onsite to answer questions as well.

About the Chapel

The Memorial Chapel is the centerpiece of the cemetery and a priceless architectural treasure—one of the most perfect examples of Byzantine mosaic art in the United States. When it was completed in 1910, it was the only building in America with an authentic mosaic interior. Through the years, visitors have been astonished to find such an outstanding architectural jewel in the heart of the Midwest. Many experts now believe that a work of such magnitude could not be recreated at any price today, as artisans possessing the necessary skills have passed into history.

Designed by prominent Minneapolis architect Harry Wild Jones and modeled after the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, Turkey, it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Learn more about the Memorial Chapel.

Signs will be posted directing you to the chapel or click here for GPS navigation through Google Maps.

About Doors Open Minneapolis

Lakewood is honored to sponsor Doors Open Minneapolis, produced by Rethos. This popular event invites visitors to explore the buildings that tell our city’s story. From theaters to business hubs, sacred spaces to private clubs, sports complexes to engineering wonders, historical gems to not-even-open-yet buildings, Doors Open Minneapolis will give you a FREE behind-the-scenes look at many exciting venues.

Parking

Parking is available on any of the roads inside Lakewood’s gates unless otherwise noted with a no parking sign. Handicap parking will be available near the chapel entrance. Lakewood does not have an onsite parking lot – it is street parking only. This means you may have to park a short distance and walk. We strongly encourage carpooling and taking public transportation.

Bussing 

There is a bus that stops right outside of Lakewood’s gates, which is a short walk to the chapel.

Biking

Please park any bikes at the bike rack to the west of the main entrance. Do not lock bikes to trees or signs, or leave unlocked bikes on the grounds.

Accessibility Notice

Due to the historic nature of this venue, there are limited accessibility accommodations that can be made. Accessibility notices are below:

• Handicap accessible parking will be available near the entrance of the chapel
• A ramp is available leading into the chapel
• Two single stall restrooms are available on the main level but cannot accommodate a wheelchair.