Lakewood Church Houston
A former sports arena transformed into one of America's largest churches, offering inspiring sermons and vibrant worship.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Lakewood Church Houston
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former sports arena transformed into one of America's largest churches, offering inspiring sermons and vibrant worship.
"The atmosphere is beyond beautiful!!!!! I can't say enough great things about my experience."
Arrive Early for Seats
Beat the crowds by arriving at least an hour before Sunday services to get the best seats. :admission_tickets:
Check Service Schedule
Confirm service times and any special guest speakers on the official Lakewood Church website. :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Auditorium
Main Sanctuary
Experience the awe-inspiring scale of this former sports arena, now a vibrant worship space seating thousands.
Uplifting Sermons by Joel Osteen
Main Sanctuary
Hear powerful messages of hope and positivity from Pastor Joel Osteen, a renowned speaker.
Inspiring Worship Music
Main Sanctuary
Immerse yourself in contemporary Christian music that fills the vast space with energy and spirit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Lakewood Church
Getting There and Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Seats
Beat the crowds by arriving at least an hour before Sunday services to get the best seats. :admission_tickets:
Check Service Schedule
Confirm service times and any special guest speakers on the official Lakewood Church website. :iphone:
Dress Comfortably
While respectful attire is appreciated, comfort is key for long services. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Campus
Take time to walk around the expansive campus and soak in the positive atmosphere. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Seats
Beat the crowds by arriving at least an hour before Sunday services to get the best seats. :admission_tickets:
Check Service Schedule
Confirm service times and any special guest speakers on the official Lakewood Church website. :iphone:
Dress Comfortably
While respectful attire is appreciated, comfort is key for long services. :athletic_shoe:
Explore the Campus
Take time to walk around the expansive campus and soak in the positive atmosphere. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lakewood Church for its incredibly positive and uplifting atmosphere, powerful sermons by Joel Osteen, and inspiring worship music. Many describe the experience as deeply moving and spiritually fulfilling. While some express disappointment at not being able to meet Pastor Joel due to large crowds, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the church's grand scale and welcoming environment.
"I flew into Houston to visit Lakewood after running in for 5 years. When I tell you it is better in person!!!! It was an unexplainable feeling. The Atmosphere is beyond beautiful!!!!! I can't say enough great things about my experience. And I got the opportunity to meet Pastor Joel! How exciting is that!"
Yamile Garcia
"I love coming to this church. Joel Osteen’s sermons and Nick Nilson’s are always nice and fill the whole building with positivity. Valuable perspective from the bible are easily applied to current events. My family and I feel safe. We love the music and the love for god is everywhere. Pastors from around the US visit the church and it’s very good for perspective. What they do for people in times of devastation is also very wonderful. I came here with my dad since I was little. Love it here for real."
Lucis Ferre
"I’m a big fan of Joel Osteen and love all of his uplifting sermons! 🥰🤗😍
Being at the Lakewood Church to experience Joel’s spiritual guidance is EPIC!
Highly recommend everyone to come here to experience the AURA of Lakewood Church!! 🙏🙏👏👏👍👍😇😇👼👼🪽🪽❤️❤️"
J Y
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lakewood Church is located at 3700 Southwest Freeway, Houston, TX 77027. It's accessible by car and public transportation. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing services due to potential parking challenges on Sundays.
Yes, parking is available, but it can fill up quickly, especially for Sunday services. Arriving early is recommended if you plan to drive.
Yes, Houston's public transit system serves the area around Lakewood Church. Check METRO Houston for specific bus routes and schedules.
Attending weekday services or using ride-sharing services can help you avoid peak traffic times.
The church is a prominent landmark in Houston, formerly known as the Compaq Center, making it relatively easy to locate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, general admission to Lakewood Church services is free. However, for special events or reserved seating, tickets might be required. Check their website for details.
Lakewood Church typically holds services on Saturdays and Sundays. Specific times can vary, so it's best to check the official Lakewood Church website for the most up-to-date schedule.
Pastor Joel Osteen often greets attendees after Sunday services, but due to large crowds, it's not always guaranteed. Some visitors have reported not being able to meet him due to the number of people.
There is no strict dress code, but most attendees dress in smart casual or business casual attire. Comfort is key for the services.
While not formal tours, visitors are welcome to explore the main sanctuary and common areas during non-service hours. Some social media content shows glimpses of the campus.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is described as incredibly positive, uplifting, and filled with hope and faith. Many visitors feel a strong spiritual presence.
The music is contemporary Christian worship, often described as energetic and inspiring, led by a talented worship team.
Lakewood Church offers programs and facilities for children, ensuring a family-friendly environment.
Lakewood Church has a massive capacity, seating thousands of people, as it was formerly the Compaq Center.
Services typically include contemporary worship music, a message from Pastor Joel Osteen or another speaker, and an overall atmosphere of positivity and spiritual encouragement.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the church itself may not have extensive dining facilities, there are often concessions available. Some visitors mention juice bars with healthy options.
The area surrounding Lakewood Church in Houston offers a wide variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining.
It's generally advisable to check the church's policy on outside food and beverages, but small personal items might be permissible.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted, but flash photography might be restricted during services. It's always best to be discreet and respectful.
The grand auditorium, the exterior architecture, and the welcoming lobby areas offer great photo opportunities.
Video recording policies can vary. It's recommended to be mindful of others and avoid disruptive recording during the service.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
✈️ Day-Trippers from Out of Town
💖 Couples and Spiritual Seekers
Many visitors describe an 'aura' and a strong spiritual presence that can be profoundly moving. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Lakewood Church
The church's growth has been remarkable, with Pastor Joel Osteen's messages of hope and positivity resonating with millions worldwide. The conversion of the Compaq Center into Lakewood Church is a striking example of repurposing a large-scale venue for a completely different purpose, highlighting the church's significant presence and influence in Houston and beyond.
Experiencing a Service at Lakewood
The sheer scale of the auditorium, a former sports arena, contributes to the unique atmosphere. Many visitors are struck by the aura of the place and the palpable sense of faith.
Beyond the Services: Community Impact
The church's impact is amplified through its media presence, reaching millions globally with its messages. This broad reach allows Lakewood to extend its positive influence and provide spiritual guidance to a diverse audience.
The emphasis on hope, faith, and restoration resonates with many, making it a significant spiritual center for a vast number of people. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit