Space Window Celebration
Celebrate 50 years since the dedication of the Cathedral's Space Window • July 19 and 20, 10 am–5 pm
The Cathedral’s Space Window—which includes a piece of moon rock brought back by Apollo 11 astronauts—was dedicated 50 years ago this July! You’re invited to celebrate with kids free* admission and special sightseeing activities for the whole family.
Kids Free Ticket Offer
On July 19 and 20, kids 12 and under get in FREE* (terms) with the purchase of at least one adult Self-Guided Sightseeing Admission!
Included with Sightseeing Admission
Special space-themed activities are scheduled on both July 19 and 20. Learn more details below, including times and locations.
Check out the Space Window and other Cathedral Favorites
Open Sightseeing Hours: 10 am–5 pm
Explore iconic features of the world's sixth-largest Cathedral! Using our app, you can also dive deeper with an audio tour and access digital guides, including a special Cathedral Space pathway. Or, grab Explorer Pack to go on a hunt for must-see spots for kids and families.
Space Explorers Family Story Time
10:30-11:30 am • 7th Floor Pilgrim Observation Gallery
Join us for story time followed by space-themed craft and coloring activities. Books include topics like the Apollo 11 space mission, the moon landing, and more. Foster your whole family’s love of reading and learning as we blast off to space together! Open to children of all ages but designed especially for children ages 3-8.
Curator Show-and-Tell: Darth Vader at the Cathedral
11:30 am • Outside by visitor entrance ADA ramp
Just why is Darth Vader at the Cathedral? Where exactly can you spot him? Learn all about the Cathedral’s most famous grotesque from an expert staff member. Binoculars will be available so that you can see the looming Star Wars villain yourself.
Space-Themed LEGO® building
10 am-5 pm • LEGO® Exhibit (main level)
Stop by the LEGO® exhibit for a special space-themed building activity! The whole family can help us build the Apollo 11 Lunar Lander, astronauts, and space shuttles out of LEGO® bricks! Due to small pieces, this activity is best for kids and teens ages 5 and up.
With an additional donation toward earthquake repairs, you can also build the LEGO® model of the Cathedral! Learn more about the project at: cathedral.org/LEGO.
Carillon Recital: Journey to Space
12:30 pm - Saturday 7/20 only • Cathedral Grounds (outdoors)
Stroll through the Cathedral grounds or pick a quiet spot to listen as Cathedral Carillonneur Edward M. Nassor plays a special space music-themed recital. You may even recognize some of your favorite tunes!
The carillon can be heard from most areas of the Cathedral grounds; it is played via a keyboard and pedals, situated high in the Cathedral’s central tower (150 feet above the nave floor) and directly amid the bells.
Guided Tours
Want to upgrade your visit with a guided tour? Purchase a ticket for your desired tour, and you are welcome to enjoy the rest of the day's celebration before or after your tour. See available tours or browse below. Note: kids free admission does not apply to Guided Tours.
Guided Spotlights Tour: Space Edition!
Tickets: $20 Adult | $15 Youth (age 5-12)
Upgrade your sightseeing experience and celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Space Window with a Guided Spotlights Tour: Space Edition! Your admission includes an hour-long tour with an expert guide and features the stories behind must-see Cathedral favorites on the main and lower levels with a special look at the Space Window and other space-themed art! Available both days at: 10:30 am, 12:30, 1:30, and 3:30 pm.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Tickets: $35
Discover the Cathedral’s hidden stories as you journey through stone stairwells and passageways to see stained glass windows up close. Step out secret doors to witness magnificent views from the heights. Available both days at 2 pm.Please note age, height, and other conditions before purchasing.
Thematic Tour: Stained Glass
Tickets: $30
In this introduction to the stained glass windows, learn about the tales they tell, from God’s creation of the universe to stories from American history to the Last Judgment. While walking through the Cathedral, you will witness the stylistic evolution of Cathedral windows from 1911 to the 2000s and learn about the creation process, which combines artistry and technical skill. Available Friday at 3 pm and Saturday at 11 am.free ticket offer
*Offer available July 19 – 20, 2024. Children ages 12 and under receive free admission with the minimum purchase of one regular-priced Adult Self-Sightseeing ticket. Offer cannot be combined with other discounts and subject to availability. The Cathedral reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time. Please inquire about separate fees for guided tours. By participating, you acknowledge and agree to these terms and conditions.