Experience the Cathedral

We Can't Wait to See You!

As we emerge from our temporary closure, the Cathedral continues to be an active place for worship, sightseeing, programs and restoration.

Our sightseeing hours vary day-to-day to accommodate the wide range of activities offered at the Cathedral. Please check the upcoming schedule to plan your visit and purchase sightseeing tickets.

We currently offer our principal Sunday worship service in-person and online at 11:15 am, as well as Sunday Choral Evensong at 4 pm.

At this time, masks are not required inside the Cathedral. Find answers to frequently asked questions or see the full schedule of events, programs and services on our calendar.

Experience the Cathedral

We’re thrilled to welcome back sightseeing visitors to the Cathedral!

Explore some of the most beloved Cathedral features at your own pace during our posted sightseeing hours. Self-guided tour brochures are included with admission. A limited number of audio tours are available for purchase upon arrival.
Advance reservations are not required, but are strongly encouraged. Booking your visit in advance will help ensure a smooth check-in.

Sightseeing Admission Tickets

Adults (18+): $15
Seniors (65+), students, active military and veterans (ID required), and youth (5-17): $10
Kids under 5: Free

sightseeing tickets

Check the upcoming schedule for available sightseeing hours.

book your visit

Sightseeing at the Cathedral

Sightseeing hours vary day-to-day to accommodate the wide range of activities offered at the Cathedral.

Explore the Cathedral at your own pace during our posted sightseeing hours. Self-guided tour brochures are included with sightseeing admission. Audio tours are available for purchase upon arrival.

get advance tickets

Sightseeing FAQ

When is the Cathedral open for sightseeing?

The Cathedral is offering sightseeing.

Sightseeing hours vary day-to-day to accommodate the wide range of activities offered at the Cathedral. Please check the advance schedule to view dates, times, and to purchase tickets.

Is the Cathedral offering docent-led and other specialty touring?

The Cathedral is currently offering self-guided touring, starting Oct. 18, 2021. Audio guides may be purchased for an additional $5.

Docents may be available to answer questions during your visit and tours may be offered the day of, subject to docent availability.

Do I have to pay admission to worship at the Cathedral?

Private prayer in-person at the Cathedral is available at no admission cost during posted sightseeing hours. Worship Services are always free.

Are face masks still required?

As of March 14, 2022, face masks are no longer required when visiting the Cathedral or attending worship. Individuals are, of course, still welcome to wear a mask if they choose.

Whatever decision you make about face masks, please respect the decisions that other people make. Whether a person chooses to wear a mask, or not, is entirely up to them. Whatever decision each person makes, and whenever they choose to make it, is entirely their own and should be respected.

Where is the Visitor Entrance?

Visitors to the Cathedral should enter at the corner door adjacent to the parking garage stairs.

Is the Cathedral gift shop open?

The gift shop remains closed for now.

Is the Cathedral Cafe open?

Yes. Please visit Open City at the National Cathedral’s website for hours and other information.

Is the Cathedral a Blue Star Museum?

Yes! Free admission is available for those currently serving in the United States Military–Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard–including Reservists, National Guardsman (regardless of status), U.S. Public Health Commissioned Corps, NOAA Commissioned Corps, and up to five family members. Qualified members must show ID to enter.

Learn more about Blue Star Museums here.

Can I bring a group to visit?

Yes! Groups of 20 or more require a reservation.