Tips for Visiting the Washington National Cathedral

Touring the Washington National Cathedral is a must if visiting Washington DC. After living here for years, I finally made my way to the second largest cathedral in the United States of America. I was pleasantly surprised at how beautiful and progressive the Cathedral is. Between the stained-glass with remnants of the moon, to orthordox Ethiopian artwork, every inch of the cathedral has been thoughtfully designed and curated. If you plan on visiting, here is everything you need to know.

Hours, Tickets, and Location of the Washington National Cathedral

Tickets and Admission

Visiting the cathedral for religious services is always free but if you plan on visiting outside of that, tickets are $12 for adults, $8 for children between the ages of 5 through 17, and free for little ones 4 and under. Tours are available Monday through Saturday starting at 10:15 am, but these tours usually stop running before 4 pm.

Location

The Washington National Cathedral is located in the Cathedral Heights neighborhood of northwest Washington, D.C., at 3101 Wisconsin Avenue NW. This area is known for its peaceful, tree-lined streets, historic homes, and charming atmosphere, offering a contrast to the bustling city center just a few miles away. Cathedral Heights and the nearby neighborhoods of Cleveland Park and Georgetown are rich in history, with a mix of embassies, upscale apartments, and quaint local shops.

Beyond the cathedral itself, the neighborhood is ideal for exploring with scenic walking paths, nearby parks like Glover Archbold Park, and cozy cafes. The area around the cathedral has become a welcoming community space where residents and visitors alike can enjoy the serene gardens, beautiful architecture, and reflective atmosphere.

How to Get to the National Cathedral?

There are several ways to reach the National Cathedral. Public transportation offers a convenient option, allowing you to avoid the hassle of parking. You can take buses 31, 33, 96, N2, N4, or the Metro’s Red Line. Alternatively, you may use a rideshare app, bike, or drive. If you choose to drive, please note that the parking garage charges a fee and street parking is very limited.

Parking

The entrance to the parking garage is on Wisconsin Avenue. The garage is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., with rates that vary depending on the day and time.

History and Architecture Style

The Washington National Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture in Washington, D.C. It was built over 83 years, from 1907 to 1990. Like lots of other DC historical buildings, its design draws inspiration from medieval European architeture with soaring arches, intricate stone carvings, and beautiful stained glass windows. It stands as one of the tallest structures in Washington, D.C., with its grand, castle-like spires visible from miles away.

While the cathedral has traditionally served as a place of worship and national gatherings, it has also reflected the social changes in America. In 1976, the cathedral welcomed its first female clergy member, which was a groundbreaking step toward gender equality in religious spaces. In recent years, the cathedral has also hosted events and exhibits focused on racial justice, honoring figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who gave his final Sunday sermon there in 1968. Their art gallery features the lives of families in Gaza, migrants near the Southern border, and victims of police brutality. from These efforts show the cathedral’s commitment to reflecting a more inclusive and diverse community.

The Garden at Washington National Cathedral

The garden at Washington National Cathedral is such an amazing place to visit. It’s beautiful at any time of the year, but if you visit during fall, make sure to go when the fall foliage is at its peak. During the spring, I recommend visiting during Cherry Blossom season. It’s the perfect place for picnics or romantic strolls. You’ll find a koi fish pond, a cozy gazebo, and dozens of gorgeous plants, including evergreen plants and roses.

Where to Eat Near the Washington National Cathedral

One of the highlights of my visit to the Cathedral was their cafe. On the outside, it looks like a place where fairies live. It’s cute with lots of cottagecore vibes. Inside, it’s quaint and inviting. The food was pretty good, I ordered the lorraine quiche, dirty chai, and a big slice of pecan pie. The staff were quick and super helpful. It seems like a great place to get work done. During warmer months there are is outdoor seating that makes you feel like you’re somewhere in Europe.

If you prefer a more hearty meal, you can take a quick walk up the street to La Cantina for amazing tacos or Raku for fresh ramen.

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