University Chapel and Galleries
University Chapel
Completed in 1868 at the request of Washington College President Robert E. Lee, University Chapel (first known as “the College Chapel”) has been a gathering place for the campus community since its inception. The building, which originally included an auditorium for weekday worship services as well as the president’s and treasurer’s offices and the YMCA headquarters, has evolved over more than 150 years to incorporate historical gallery spaces and the Lee Family crypt. It continues to be used for university events.
Museum Open Hours
- Wednesday – Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
(Please note the University Chapel will be closed beginning Saturday, October 4, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. and will reopen early spring 2026.)- While we strive to have attendants on hand whenever University Chapel is open, it is not always possible due to inclement weather and scheduling conflicts. However, visitors are always welcome to take self-guided tours during normal operating hours if the building is open.
- Access may also be subject to unexpected restriction due to its use as a campus event space. Please consult the university calendar ahead of your visit to note any potential conflicts.
- University Chapel is closed on all university holidays.
Policies
Attire: The university’s stated practice has been, and continues to be, that individuals or groups not affiliated with the university may not use our campus as a platform for their own personal or political displays or statements. This includes, but is not limited to, historical or replica uniforms.
Security Measures: Visitors will be asked to open large bags or purses for inspection by the Public Safety Officer on duty. Additionally, all visitors to campus must comply with the University weapons policy, which prohibits the use, possession and storage of all firearms, dangerous weapons, explosives or other dangerous articles on all properties owned, leased or otherwise controlled by Washington and Lee University. Law enforcement officers duly authorized to carry such instruments are excepted.
Flags: University policy does not allow flags on campus.
Photography: The Museums staff wants to insure you enjoy your visit to the Chapel and share the experience with your friends. In order to make it a pleasant experience for all our visitors and to protect the parts of our collection that are under copyright, the photography policy must be observed.
Group Tours
Group tours (youth and adults) of the University Chapel and Galleries are available with advanced notice and are dependent upon staff availability. To request a group visit, please send an email to historymuseum@wlu.edu.
Street Address
The address for the University Chapel parking lot is 100 North Jefferson Street.
Directions
From the North, South, or East:
- Travel interstate 81 to Exit 188-B
- Exit onto Route 60 West
- Follow 60W into Lexington (approximately 3 miles)
- Turn right onto Main Street
- Turn left onto Henry Street
- Cross Jefferson Street and pull into the Chapel parking lot.
From the West:
- Travel interstate 64 to Exit 55.
- Turn right onto Route 11 South.
- After you cross the Maury River Bridge, Route 11 will split. Bear right onto Route 11 Business.
- After you pass the VMI campus, turn into the Chapel parking lot through the brick columns on the right at the intersection of Henry Street and Jefferson Street.