Is Michigan’s Wayside Chapel Still the Second Smallest in the World?

In researching this little chapel, I discovered that there are a handful of small chapels with the same name; so if you’re doing the same thing, you need to search for the Wayside Chapel in Michigan’s Antrim County.

Built in the 1960s, this tiny chapel can be found open 24 hours each and every day, including holidays, along US-31, almost 40 miles north of Traverse City.

Is this the smallest in the world? It was once listed as the world’s second smallest chapel by Guinness. It’s 12 feet by 8 feet and can seat four people, with standing room for a few. The Costello Memorial Chapel in Ireland is now said to be the 2nd smallest, but its dimensions are 16 feet long and 12 feet wide, making it larger than Michigan's. So where does ours fall in line? I'm still waiting for an answer...

Looking for a private place for a wedding? This is it. All you need is the couple, someone to officiate, a couple of witnesses, and.....well, that’s it. There is a guestbook inside, but anyone who wants to attend the wedding will have to wait outside, then come in and sign the book..

Get our free mobile app

There is also a donation box, religious literature, free gospel tracts, and free Bibles for the taking. This also makes a good place for someone to go by themselves for some quiet reflection time. You’ll find the Wayside Chapel located on US-31 north of Atwood Road.  Although it’s closer to Atwood, the chapel is listed as being in Ellsworth, which is six miles away.

If you’re using a GPS, it’s 10730 US-31, Ellsworth.