Basilica of the National Shrine
The largest Catholic church in North America, a mosaic-saturated basilica by Catholic University — free.
The call
Worth it if you are watching the budget and you are traveling as a couple.
Why
- 01
An overwhelming sweep of color — acres of glittering mosaics and dozens of chapels, and entirely free.
Our read - 02
The catch: it's well out by Catholic University (though Metro-accessible), and its modern Byzantine-Romanesque style is more dazzling than soulful for some visitors.
Our read
Is it a fit?
Go if
You are watching the budget
On a budget, Basilica of the National Shrine still earns its price.
You are traveling as a couple
As a couple, Basilica of the National Shrine works.
You are traveling solo
Solo, Basilica of the National Shrine works.
You care about the visual experience
For beauty & photography, Basilica of the National Shrine delivers.
Think twice if
You only have one day
Basilica of the National Shrine is a real time commitment — fit it in only if it's a priority.
You are traveling with kids
With kids, it depends on the day.
You want the trip to feel easy
For relaxation, Basilica of the National Shrine is hit or miss.
Plan it well
- Cost
- Free
- Timing
- Weekday daytime outside Mass times
- Booking
- Free entry
- Allow
- 1–1.5 hrs
- Accessibility
- Fully accessible and step-free
- Getting there
- Near the Brookland-CUA station on the Red Line