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Washington National Cathedral

4.8
(6824)
•
4.7
(3143)
4.8
(6824)
•
4.7
(3143)
•#5 on "Top 50 things to do and attractions in Capitolio"
Cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Historical landmark
Religious destination
Wedding venue
Architectural Buildings
Sacred & Religious Sites
Churches & Cathedrals

Booking options

General Admission - Adult
$17.00
Official site
Official
Washington National Cathedral
Washington DC Hidden Highlights App Guided Driving Tour via Uber
$35.00
Evendo

About

The Washington National Cathedral is a grand and historic landmark, ranking as the sixth-largest cathedral globally. It holds significant architectural importance and is listed on America's National Register of Historic Places. As the designated House of Prayer for the USA, it welcomes people from all faiths worldwide. The cathedral has been a venue for various national events, including memorial services and funerals for notable figures like Dwight Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan.
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Why you should go
    1
  1. Marvel at the awe-inspiring architecture both inside and outside
    2. 2
  2. Experience the immense size of the cathedral with its unique cross-shaped design
    3. 3
  3. Discover surprising elements like a Lego model being built in the gift shop and a Darth Vader gargoyle on the exterior
Map
Address
3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
Website
https://cathedral.org/
Phone
(202) 537-6200
3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
(202) 537-6200
https://cathedral.org/

Highlighted reviews

Slide 1 of 3
The Washington National Cathedral is one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Washington, D.C.—a true showcase of beauty, history, and inspiration. Its magnificent façade, with detailed carvings, statues, and soaring towers, makes a striking first impression. The Gothic architecture is remarkable, with flying buttresses and intricate stonework that rival the great cathedrals of Europe. Inside, the grandeur continues. The vaulted ceilings, luminous stained-glass windows, and ornate chapels create a space that is both awe-inspiring and deeply peaceful. The famous Space Window, holding a piece of lunar rock, is just one example of how art, history, and faith converge here. Equally enchanting are the Cathedral’s gardens. Nestled beside the building, they provide a quiet and beautifully landscaped retreat—perfect for reflection, a peaceful walk, or simply taking in the serene surroundings. The combination of the grand architecture and the tranquil gardens makes every visit feel balanced between majesty and calm. The Cathedral is more than a place of worship; it is a cultural treasure, hosting concerts, interfaith gatherings, and community events that welcome people from all walks of life. For anyone who appreciates architecture, art, or simply a beautiful and uplifting experience, the Washington National Cathedral and its gardens are unforgettable.
Washington National Cathedral — Where Stone Meets Spirit Of all the stops on our D.C. trip, the Washington National Cathedral may have been the most breathtaking. Rising from the city like a Gothic prayer carved in stone, it’s hard not to stand in awe beneath those vaulted ceilings and kaleidoscopic stained-glass windows. Sunlight pours through in blues and reds that feel almost alive — as if light itself is worshiping. For a Marine who’s seen both the best and the worst of humanity, places like this hit differently. The craftsmanship, the patience, the vision it took to build something so enduring — it’s a reminder of what people can create when they’re united by faith and purpose instead of fear and politics. I sat quietly for a while in the nave, letting the organ notes roll through the arches. It wasn’t about religion so much as reverence — for creation, for sacrifice, for beauty itself. The cathedral is still under restoration in some areas from the 2011 earthquake, but that somehow adds to its message: even sacred things can crack, and still stand tall. If you visit, take your time. Look up. Breathe. Remember that every piece of glass and stone was placed by hands that believed in something lasting.
You will need to sign up online in advance for self-guide sightseeing. This is not a walk-in place. I strongly recommend signing up for the Behind the Scenes tour and the Spotlight tour online before you visit this cathedral. I went to the Behind the Scene tour (1.5 hour long), and it was a fantastic experience to learn about the sides of this cathedral that the general public don’t know. The tour guide was so knowledgeable and soft spoken. I spent three more hours walking around the cathedral after the tour. This place is definitely to spend a whole afternoon to visit. You will see many stunning stained glass artworks, fabulous sculptures and other architectural elements. You can take the elevator to the 7th floor to view the city. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to see the LEGO model of the cathedral as well as the Bishop Garden next to the Cathedral as well.
The Washington National Cathedral is one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Washington, D.C.—a true showcase of beauty, history, and inspiration. Its magnificent façade, with detailed carvings, statues, and soaring towers, makes a striking first impression. The Gothic architecture is remarkable, with flying buttresses and intricate stonework that rival the great cathedrals of Europe. Inside, the grandeur continues. The vaulted ceilings, luminous stained-glass windows, and ornate chapels create a space that is both awe-inspiring and deeply peaceful. The famous Space Window, holding a piece of lunar rock, is just one example of how art, history, and faith converge here. Equally enchanting are the Cathedral’s gardens. Nestled beside the building, they provide a quiet and beautifully landscaped retreat—perfect for reflection, a peaceful walk, or simply taking in the serene surroundings. The combination of the grand architecture and the tranquil gardens makes every visit feel balanced between majesty and calm. The Cathedral is more than a place of worship; it is a cultural treasure, hosting concerts, interfaith gatherings, and community events that welcome people from all walks of life. For anyone who appreciates architecture, art, or simply a beautiful and uplifting experience, the Washington National Cathedral and its gardens are unforgettable.
Washington National Cathedral — Where Stone Meets Spirit Of all the stops on our D.C. trip, the Washington National Cathedral may have been the most breathtaking. Rising from the city like a Gothic prayer carved in stone, it’s hard not to stand in awe beneath those vaulted ceilings and kaleidoscopic stained-glass windows. Sunlight pours through in blues and reds that feel almost alive — as if light itself is worshiping. For a Marine who’s seen both the best and the worst of humanity, places like this hit differently. The craftsmanship, the patience, the vision it took to build something so enduring — it’s a reminder of what people can create when they’re united by faith and purpose instead of fear and politics. I sat quietly for a while in the nave, letting the organ notes roll through the arches. It wasn’t about religion so much as reverence — for creation, for sacrifice, for beauty itself. The cathedral is still under restoration in some areas from the 2011 earthquake, but that somehow adds to its message: even sacred things can crack, and still stand tall. If you visit, take your time. Look up. Breathe. Remember that every piece of glass and stone was placed by hands that believed in something lasting.
You will need to sign up online in advance for self-guide sightseeing. This is not a walk-in place. I strongly recommend signing up for the Behind the Scenes tour and the Spotlight tour online before you visit this cathedral. I went to the Behind the Scene tour (1.5 hour long), and it was a fantastic experience to learn about the sides of this cathedral that the general public don’t know. The tour guide was so knowledgeable and soft spoken. I spent three more hours walking around the cathedral after the tour. This place is definitely to spend a whole afternoon to visit. You will see many stunning stained glass artworks, fabulous sculptures and other architectural elements. You can take the elevator to the 7th floor to view the city. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to see the LEGO model of the cathedral as well as the Bishop Garden next to the Cathedral as well.
See all reviews

Know before you go

  • Take public transportation like Metro or Uber due to limited parking near other sights
  • Bring binoculars to spot hidden details like Darth Vader on one of the northwest towers
  • Consider joining guided tours with docents for a more engaging experience
  • Visit during special events such as Holy Week or Flower Mart for unique displays and performances

Reviews

The Washington National Cathedral is described as an awe-inspiring structure both inside and out, with stunning stained glass, stone-tiled floors, and breathtaking columns. Visitors are amazed by the immense size of the cathedral, its cross-shaped design adding to the grandeur of the interior space. Unique features like a Lego model being built in the gift shop and a Darth Vader gargoyle on the exterior add unexpected charm. The cathedral's beauty is compared to marquee cathedrals in Europe despite being completed in the 1990s. Tourists appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable docents and recommend visiting during special events like Holy Week or Flower Mart for added experiences.
Review score
4.8
out of 5
Exceptional
6824 reviews
From Google
Review score
4.7
out of 5
Exceptional
3143 reviews
From Tripadvisor
5 stars
5779
4 stars
713
3 stars
164
2 stars
46
1 star
122
5/5Aref Z
•
Sep 3, 2025 from
Google
The Washington National Cathedral is one of the most breathtaking landmarks in Washington, D.C.—a true showcase of beauty, history, and inspiration. Its magnificent façade, with detailed carvings, statues, and soaring towers, makes a striking first impression. The Gothic architecture is remarkable, with flying buttresses and intricate stonework that rival the great cathedrals of Europe. Inside, the grandeur continues. The vaulted ceilings, luminous stained-glass windows, and ornate chapels create a space that is both awe-inspiring and deeply peaceful. The famous Space Window, holding a piece of lunar rock, is just one example of how art, history, and faith converge here. Equally enchanting are the Cathedral’s gardens. Nestled beside the building, they provide a quiet and beautifully landscaped retreat—perfect for reflection, a peaceful walk, or simply taking in the serene surroundings. The combination of the grand architecture and the tranquil gardens makes every visit feel balanced between majesty and calm. The Cathedral is more than a place of worship; it is a cultural treasure, hosting concerts, interfaith gatherings, and community events that welcome people from all walks of life. For anyone who appreciates architecture, art, or simply a beautiful and uplifting experience, the Washington National Cathedral and its gardens are unforgettable.
5/5A. H
•
Oct 4, 2025 from
Google
Washington National Cathedral — Where Stone Meets Spirit Of all the stops on our D.C. trip, the Washington National Cathedral may have been the most breathtaking. Rising from the city like a Gothic prayer carved in stone, it’s hard not to stand in awe beneath those vaulted ceilings and kaleidoscopic stained-glass windows. Sunlight pours through in blues and reds that feel almost alive — as if light itself is worshiping. For a Marine who’s seen both the best and the worst of humanity, places like this hit differently. The craftsmanship, the patience, the vision it took to build something so enduring — it’s a reminder of what people can create when they’re united by faith and purpose instead of fear and politics. I sat quietly for a while in the nave, letting the organ notes roll through the arches. It wasn’t about religion so much as reverence — for creation, for sacrifice, for beauty itself. The cathedral is still under restoration in some areas from the 2011 earthquake, but that somehow adds to its message: even sacred things can crack, and still stand tall. If you visit, take your time. Look up. Breathe. Remember that every piece of glass and stone was placed by hands that believed in something lasting.
5/5Enjoy E
•
Sep 3, 2025 from
Google
You will need to sign up online in advance for self-guide sightseeing. This is not a walk-in place. I strongly recommend signing up for the Behind the Scenes tour and the Spotlight tour online before you visit this cathedral. I went to the Behind the Scene tour (1.5 hour long), and it was a fantastic experience to learn about the sides of this cathedral that the general public don’t know. The tour guide was so knowledgeable and soft spoken. I spent three more hours walking around the cathedral after the tour. This place is definitely to spend a whole afternoon to visit. You will see many stunning stained glass artworks, fabulous sculptures and other architectural elements. You can take the elevator to the 7th floor to view the city. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop to see the LEGO model of the cathedral as well as the Bishop Garden next to the Cathedral as well.
5/5Mark B
•
Oct 17, 2025 from
Google
We booked the guided tour in advance for the four of us. It was $22 apiece and worth every penny! Our guide was a delightful lady that was a wealth of information. The building and its history is amazing as are the various stained glass windows and chapels. Be sure to visit the observation area on the seventh floor for some stupendous views out over the city and surrounding neighborhoods. Finding the Darth Vader gargoyle wasn’t super hard, and as I understand that they do have binoculars, but we didn’t need one because our phone was able to pick him up. The building is rich with history and really a must visit when you are in Washington DC. The surrounding area is also very nice for a stroll either before or after visiting the cathedral.
5/5Emily H
•
Oct 21, 2025 from
Google
The guided tour is worth every penny! Seriously one of the best experiences we had in DC - our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly loved this place. I have seen cathedrals all over the world and this one took my breath away. Absolutely worth a trip! Can’t recommend it enough.
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Map
Address
3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
Website
https://cathedral.org/
Phone
(202) 537-6200
3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
(202) 537-6200
https://cathedral.org/
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