Guide to Visiting Washington National Cathedral: Tours and Tips

Introduction

The National Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, is the sixth largest cathedral in the world. Located in Washington, DC, it is the seat of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington and serves as a national house of prayer for all people. Renowned for its stunning architecture, the Cathedral, with its English Gothic style, features exquisite sculptures, intricate wood carvings, eerie gargoyles, vibrant mosaics, and over 200 stained glass windows. Notably, the Gloria in Excelsis Tower is the highest point in Washington, providing breathtaking views of the city from the Pilgrim Observation Gallery located in its two west towers.

Moreover, the Cathedral is a significant venue for national memorial services and celebrations, having hosted events such as state funerals for four U.S. presidents and memorial services for countless others, including tributes to victims of national tragedies.

Tours of the National Cathedral

Visitors can choose from guided or self-paced tours to fully appreciate the Cathedral’s artistic and architectural grandeur. The guided tours last approximately 30 minutes and occur throughout the day, allowing visitors to check the Cathedral’s official calendar for availability. Reservations are not required. Additionally, the sprawling 59-acre property boasts beautiful gardens, schools, a gift shop, and a cafe, contributing to an enjoyable visit.

Here are some unique tour options:

• Tour and Tea Program: Offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. (with some exceptions for holidays). Cost: $40 per person. Participants enjoy a guided tour that highlights the cathedral’s art, architecture, and rich history, followed by tea and scones in the St. Paul Room, featuring stunning views of Washington, DC. Reservations are required. Make a reservation online.
• Gargoyle Tours: Available from April through October. This tour, led by a gargoyle expert, includes a slideshow followed by an outdoor tour, allowing participants to spot the Cathedral’s whimsical gargoyles and grotesques. Admission is $22 for adults, $18 for children (12 and under), students, and seniors. Reservations are recommended. Check the updated schedule.
• Tower Climbs: A 75 to 90-minute climb via the 333 stairs of the bell tower or Western towers. Participants can enjoy a close-up look at various gargoyles while exploring the open-air walkway approximately 125 feet above ground, providing spectacular views. For a more extensive experience, consider combining the tower climb with the Gargoyle Tour for a 2.5-hour grand tour. Reserve your spot online.
• Garden Tours, Volunteer Work Days, Woods Walks, and Bird Walks: These events are part of the All Hallow Guild’s restoration and stewardship project. These tours do not require reservations and are free of charge. For scheduling information, contact (202) 537-2319 or visit All Hallows Guild.

The Cathedral Grounds – Bishop’s Garden and Olmsted Woods

All Hallows Guild has maintained the Cathedral’s 59 acres since 1916, with landscaping designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. This beautifully crafted landscape offers a park-like atmosphere with open spaces and native plants. Bishop’s Garden, named after the Cathedral’s first Bishop, Henry Yates Satterlee, provides a peaceful retreat along with the 5-acre Olmsted Woods, which features stone footpaths, contemplative circles, wildflowers, shrubs, and migratory bird habitats. An outdoor amphitheater is available for services amidst this scenic backdrop.

Holiday Programs

During the Christmas season, visitors can partake in guided tours, listen to festive music, or participate in religious services. To plan your visit during the holidays, be sure to check the calendar for special events.

Address

The National Cathedral is located at 3101 Wisconsin Ave, NW, Washington, DC 20016. For inquiries, call (202) 537-6200. The nearest metro station is Tenleytown-AU, with the parking garage entrance at Wisconsin Avenue and Hearst Circle.

Admission

Admission fees are as follows:

• $12: Adults (17 and up)
• $8: Youth (5 – 17), Senior (65 and older), Students and Teachers (with ID), Military (current & retired)

There is no admission fee for tours on Sunday. Groups of 15 or more must reserve in advance to visit the Cathedral or its grounds. For group visit information, please refer to the Cathedral’s website.

The National Cathedral hosts daily services open to the public and features special events throughout the year, including organ recitals, choir performances, and concerts. For a complete listing of upcoming events, check the official website.

Hours

• Monday–Friday: 10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
• Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.; Sunday: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Tours: Monday – Saturday: 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.; Sunday as available.
• Gardens: Open daily until dusk.