About Washington National Cathedral

With its Neo-Gothic style blended with modern English flavor, the National Cathedral in Washington DC is one of the second largest cathedrals in the United States. It took around 83 years to get this church completed. This Episcopal Church is an American cathedral, the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington. Endorsed with classic Indiana limestone, the church is renowned for its artistic detailing. The hand-embroidered kneelers that commemorate the bravery and galore of the war heroes, stained glass windows and intricate creative work all over the ceilings are enough to mesmerize both religious and fun travelers. Carillon recitals are held each Saturday at 12:30 p.m. and the peal bells are rung on Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9 p.m. and after Sunday services. On Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m., a cathedral organist discusses the Great Organ here, followed by a mini-recital. The church with its adorning ambiance celebrates both the religious as well as artistic curiosities of the visitors.

Must See

  • Olmstead Woods
  • Old Bapistry building
  • Musical Performances at Cathredal
  • Seasonal gargoyle Hunts

How to reach

By Metro and Bus – The nearest metro stops to the Cathedral are the Tenleytown and Woodley Park Metro stops. Each is on the red line and is about a mile and a half from the Cathedral. From Tenleytown you can take any 30 series bus south on Wisconsin Avenue until you reach Woodley Avenue and see the Cathedral to the left; from Woodley Park take the 96, 97, or X3 bus toward McLean until you reach the cross streets of Woodley and Wisconsin Avenues and see the Cathedral on your right.

Tips

  • A guided tour will help you explore the place properly.
  • Gargoyle Tours - Available April through October. Take a tour with a gargoyle expert and learn the history of these fascinating creatures.
  • Tower Climbs - This climb takes 75 to 90 minutes and includes a close-up look at many gargoyles and grotesques while visiting the open-air walkway wrapping around two towers that are about 125 feet above the ground.
  • Garden Tours, Volunteer Work Days, Woods Walks, and Bird Walks - These special events are a part of the All Hallow Guild’s Olmsted Woods Restoration and Stewardship Project.
  • Dress respectfully to suit the religious place.
  • The cathedral is also a temporary home to several congregations.

Visit Time

Monday:       10.15 am to 1 pm
Tuesday:      10.15 am to 1 pm
Wednesday: 10.15 am to 1 pm
Thursday:     10.15 am to 1 pm
Friday:          10.15 am to 1 pm
Saturday:      10.15 am to 1 pm
Sunday:        Closed

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Waiting Time

No wait time

 

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Entrance Fee

Yes
  • $12 for adults
  • $8 for children ages 5 to 17
  • Free for kids 4 and under
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Time you can spend Icon

Time you can spend

30 minutes

 

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Weather

Overcast Clouds 2.22°C

 

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