We noticed that you're using an unsupported browser. The TripAdvisor website may not display properly.
We support the following browsers:
Windows: Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome. Mac: Safari.

Washington National Cathedral

Massachusetts and Wisconsin Aves. NW, Entrance on Wisconsin Ave., Washington DC, DC (Upper Northwest)
202 537 6207
Website
Update attraction details
Ranked #12 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
Book a Tour

Type: Religious Sites, Architectural Buildings, Churches/ Cathedrals
Owner description: This Gothic-style cathedral is the sixth largest in the world and is put to all sorts of national purposes, such as President Wilsons funeral and a... more » Owner description: This Gothic-style cathedral is the sixth largest in the world and is put to all sorts of national purposes, such as President Wilsons funeral and a prayer vigil for American hostages during the Iranian crisis. « less
Useful Information: Wheelchair access
Write a Review

686 reviews from our community

Visitor rating
    522
    123
    36
    3
    2
Date Rating
Port Townsend, WA
Senior Contributor
24 reviews 24 reviews
7 attraction reviews
Reviews in 10 cities Reviews in 10 cities
9 helpful votes 9 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 22 May 2013 NEW

Well accustomed to the beautiful cathedrals of Italy and France in particular, we were totally unprepared for this magnificent cathedral in our own country. I don't even have the words to describe it. A bit out of the way but accessible by bus (Metro tickets works on busses as well) and SO worth it!

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 7 more reviews by topsie2 for Washington DC
Walnut Creek, California
Senior Contributor
39 reviews 39 reviews
29 attraction reviews
Reviews in 10 cities Reviews in 10 cities
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 21 May 2013 NEW

We had the greatest experience visiting here for graduation in 1978. This place was the most amazing experience ever. Graduation here was a great opportunity and we all had the best experience ever here because it was a great delight.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 9 more reviews by 92Mike92 for Washington DC
Atlanta, Georgia
Reviewer
3 reviews 3 reviews
2 helpful votes 2 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 20 May 2013 NEW

This was a highlight of the trip. It is truly on par with the great cathedrals of Europe! Worth seeing!

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by Henry A for Washington DC
Pensacola, Florida
Top Contributor
133 reviews 133 reviews
42 attraction reviews
Reviews in 21 cities Reviews in 21 cities
17 helpful votes 17 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 17 May 2013 NEW

What an awesome example of architecture. You cannot visit DC without seeing the Cathedral. Although it is not near the Mall, it can be accessed via the Metro and a short walk through some amazing neighborhoods (Cleveland Park is my favorite).

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 9 more reviews by Chris A for Washington DC
Rock Hill, SC
Senior Reviewer
7 reviews 7 reviews
4 of 5 stars Reviewed 15 May 2013

Although I made it through the doors a bit late for tours, I was able to wander around and enjoy the beautiful stained glass and prayer chapels. A choir was practicing for the Thursday evening service and the acoustics were fabulous. Staying for the service was a real treat. The choir was a wonderful mix of teens and adults. Very... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 6 more reviews by smcmanus215 for Washington DC
Mount Prospect, Illinois
Senior Reviewer
9 reviews 9 reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 15 May 2013

Our visit to the cathedral was on a sunny afternoon making the stained glass windows shine. We were a bit late so we did not get to see everything. There is a wonderful brochure with a guide to the highlights. The surrounding houses are great to look at as well.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 2 more reviews by nancy e for Washington DC
KY
Senior Contributor
26 reviews 26 reviews
10 attraction reviews
Reviews in 12 cities Reviews in 12 cities
14 helpful votes 14 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 11 May 2013

I have been to DC at least six times and never made it out to the Cathedral -mostly because you can't get there by Metro. This time I got off at Dupont Circle and not fifty feet to bus stop on Mass. Ave and caught the N2 bus (N3, N4 and N6 also go straight by). It wasn't a ten... More

Was this review helpful? Yes 1
See 12 more reviews by juliewillgreg for Washington DC
Budapest, Hungary
Senior Reviewer
6 reviews 6 reviews
Reviews in 3 cities Reviews in 3 cities
1 helpful vote 1 helpful vote
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 10 May 2013

I lived across the street for months and had the opportunity to observe this amazing and huge building at sunrise, at night, in fog under snow etc. It is spectacular and majestic and different every time. From the inside it feels even bigger, with beautifully designed and detailed ornaments. The earthquake caused some damage, a huge part that came down... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by LucyMartin for Washington DC
santa rosa
Contributor
14 reviews 14 reviews
6 attraction reviews
Reviews in 7 cities Reviews in 7 cities
4 helpful votes 4 helpful votes
5 of 5 stars Reviewed 9 May 2013

Off the "beaten path" but worth the effort! Beautiful church in a beautiful neighborhood. Gorgeous stained glass windows, view from the observation platform was good and a display about the effects of the 2011 earthquake was interesting. Reminiscent of a European cathedral.

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 5 more reviews by phantom12345 for Washington DC
Ontario, California
Contributor
11 reviews 11 reviews
9 attraction reviews
Reviews in 5 cities Reviews in 5 cities
6 helpful votes 6 helpful votes
3 of 5 stars Reviewed 9 May 2013

The National Cathedral is spectacular in its architectural beauty and wandering its ground was enjoyable, but one thing dampened my enthusiasm. The tour guides and directors, to a person, seemed like they were bothered by our presence, as if we were a hindrance. They were not personable or friendly. With such a magnificent edifice, it would be nice to meet... More

Was this review helpful? Yes
See 3 more reviews by Darin S for Washington DC

Travellers who viewed Washington National Cathedral also viewed

 

Been to Washington National Cathedral? Share your experiences!

Write a Review Add Photos Add Videos

Owners: What's your side of the story?

If you own or manage Washington National Cathedral, register now for free tools to enhance your listing, attract new reviews, and respond to reviewers.

Manage your listing