cathedral tours in nyc

Plan Your Visit

The Cathedral of St. John the Divine is the world's largest Gothic Cathedral, combining soaring architecture with intimate spaces that inspire awe and reflection.

Hours & Admission

Monday – Saturday 9:30 am – 5 pm Sunday 12 pm – 5 pm

Admission is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and $10 for students for those visiting the Cathedral for sightseeing purposes. All those who are seeking a place for prayer or meditation will be welcomed without charge.

What’s on Today

There are many ways to experience and explore the Cathedral of St. John the Divine. Join our experts for guided, on-site tours at the Cathedral.

We invite you to learn more about the art, architecture, and history of this historic landmark and find your place at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine!

The Cathedral Church of Saint John the Divine, the mother church of the Episcopal Diocese of New York and the Seat of its Bishop, is chartered as a house of prayer for all people and a unifying center of intellectual light and leadership. It serves the many diverse people of our Diocese, City, Nation and World through an array of liturgical, cultural and civic events; pastoral, educational and community outreach activities; and maintains the preservation of the great architectural and historic site that is its legacy.

Is the Cathedral the largest church in the world? St. John is the largest Cathedral in the world, meaning a church that is also the seat of a Bishop. Measured by length or internal volume, it is one of the five largest church buildings in the world.

How old is the Cathedral? Construction of the Cathedral began in 1892, making it over 125 years old.

Why is the Cathedral unfinished? When will it be completed? Like the great Medieval cathedrals and churches of the world, St. John the Divine will continue to be constructed over many centuries. Currently, funding is directed to prioritize serving the community through our programming and social initiatives, and to maintaining the architectural integrity of the Cathedral.

Is the Cathedral landmarked? The Cathedral and the Cathedral Close were landmarked by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission in February 2017. The Cathedral’s Madeleine L’Engle Library, located in Diocesan House, was designated a Literary Landmark by the American Library Association in 2012.

How to get here

The cathedral church of saint john the divine.

Driving Directions

From the North and East sides: FDR Drive to 96th Street; west on 97th Street; north on Amsterdam Avenue to 112th Street. From the North and West sides: Henry Hudson Parkway to 125th Street exit; east on 125th Street; south on Amsterdam Avenue to 112th Street. From the South or West sides: New Jersey Turnpike north or I-80 east to the George Washington Bridge; Henry Hudson Parkway South to 125th Street exit; east on 125th Street; south on Amsterdam Avenue to 112th Street.

Public Transportation

By subway: Take the 1, B, or C Train to the 110th Street / Cathedral Parkway station. By bus: take the M4 or M104 to Broadway at 112th Street or the M11 to Amsterdam Avenue at 112th Street.

There is no public parking on the grounds of the Cathedral. Individual cars may park at one of the garages listed below or find street parking. Scheduled groups may park their buses or vans outside the Cathedral on Amsterdam Avenue while they are visiting the Cathedral. Bus engines must be turned off. Champion Parking, 400 West 113th Street between Amsterdam Avenue and Morningside Drive. Can accommodate cars, mini-vans, and oversized vehicles. (212) 663-0113 Parking Garage Corp., 234 West 108th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue. Cars and mini-vans only. (212) 222-8800 Yorkshire Parking, 151 West 108th Street between Amsterdam and Columbus Avenues. Can accommodate full size vans. (212) 865-2314.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral - Since 1879

• • Buy Tour Pass •
• Guided Private Tours
• Groups and Guides
• Your Tour Begins Here
• Visitor’s Guest Pass

Since 1859, St. Patrick's Cathedral has stood as a beacon of American Catholicism. Distinguished by its captivating beauty, rich history, and profound religious significance, the cathedral surpasses all rivals. Whether guided by a VIP docent or opting for a self-guided tour, exploring St. Patrick's Cathedral is a vital component of any family visit to New York. Cardinal Timothy Dolan extends a warm welcome to visitors of all faiths when guiding them through The Official Audio Tour of St. Patrick's Cathedral. This enlightening journey showcases the extraordinary architectural achievements of James Renwick Jr., highlights the significance of The Bronze Doors, explores connections with The Kennedys, Mother Elizabeth Seton, Michelangelo, Our Lady of Guadalupe, William Partridge's Pieta, The Archbishops, Raphael, The Rose Window and Stained Glass by Tiffany. Immerse yourself in the splendor and cultural richness that only St. Patrick's Cathedral can offer.

Tour purchases directly support St. Patrick’s Cathedral. This Official Tour is the only tour available inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral. 

The fifty minute, self-guided audio tour is presented on Apple iPads with headphones provided. The tour can also be enjoyed on your own smart phone or tablet.

VIP Private Guided Tours are offered once daily (limited availability). Click for info.

The official audio tour is available in English, Spanish,

 Italian, French, and Portuguese. 

*We also offer a dedicated kid's version of the audio tour.

The Tour is open Monday-Sunday from 9AM - 6PM

Plan your spring visit and please book tours in advance.

Spring at st. patrick’s cathedral.

St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of New York City’s most popular springtime destination, please make tour reservations in advance. Please always remember that St. Patrick’s is an active Catholic church and it is likely that a wedding, mass or baptism will be taking place during your visit. Special events may require portions of the cathedral to be temporarily roped off. Please speak with an usher to find out when those areas will be re-opened for touring. Guests are welcome to return to complete any incomplete tour.

Our famous Christmas concert music is included with the audio tour

Morton® pro salt-based cleaning products, non-toxic cleaning.

The Apple ipads provided for the audio tour are cleaned and sanitized with Morton Pro. 

Supplying our guests with clean, sanitized tour equipment is a top priority. Morton® Pro is formulated from salt, ensuring our guests won’t experience any toxic chemical contact with the equipment while touring. Morton® Pro is hypoallergenic and free of skin irritants traditionally associated with commercial cleaning products.

Guests can also enjoy the tour on their own device with headphones provided.

TourPatron @ St. Patrick’s Cathedral

50th Street & 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022

(800) 920-3904 (tour information only)

Copyright © 2024 TourPatron at St. Patrick’s Cathedral - All Rights Reserved.

Catacombs by Candlelight Tour In New York

How would you like to explore the only Catholic catacombs in New York and discover the rich history and spirituality hidden beneath the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral?

Join tens of thousands of thrilled spectators who have already enjoyed this ⭐ 4.6-star fascinating tour. Follow your guide behind the scenes and discover the hidden areas that are off-limits to regular visitors.

The Catacombs Tour

Only catholic catacombs in new york city.

Cemeteries of Old St. Patrick's

Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral NYC

Catacombs by Candlelight tour Reviews

Great experience, the tour guide was very knowledgeable, the grounds are very well preserved, It was a great way to learn more about our city!

Very informative historical tour of the cemeteries, Basilica and Catacombs! Robert, our guide was terrific.

The guide made all the difference! All the history behind the tour was amazing. Could not recommend enough!

The tour was lovely. Our guide answers all our questions and really took his time. It didn’t feel rushed at all. Highly recommend!!!

Really interesting historical content and contemporary opportunities at this extraordinary portal. Our guide was great! Thank you!

Such a cool tour and worth every penny! We got insider information, saw places that were closed off to the general public. Tommy, our tour guide, was especially helpful; he answered every question we had and was so informed! I HIGHLY recommend this tour to anyone visiting NYC!

An amazing history lesson was given prior to seeing the catacombs. It sets the stage perfectly because once you eventually walk down your already well aware of the reasoning why they are there.

Great tour! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, as well as, fun! It was so interesting to learn more about NYC from the cultural and religious perspective. I grew up in the city but I had no idea this was something available to do at St. Patrick’s. I definitely recommend this tour!

Great tour! It was very informative and the tour guide was excellent. The guide took the time to answer all questions and was very knowledgeable.

Excellent tour! Will tell friends that it’s worth the money.

Practical Info

• Thursdays to Mondays, 10:30 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
• 👉 As this tour takes place in an active church, some time slots may be canceled with short notice due to weddings, funerals, etc
• Duration:  1 hour and 20 minutes
• Location:  266 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012
• Age requirement:  4+
• Accesibility:  the experience is ADA compliant
• Dress code:  Since this a sacred space and active Basilica, visitors are required dress respectfully when visiting. Therefore anyone wearing clothing that is profane or disrespectful will be turned away. Under no circumstances will anyone wearing a costume of any type be permitted to take the tour.
• Price:  starting from $32.00
• This tour will take place rain or shine. Please be aware that half of the tour is outside and there are no umbrellas or ponchos available on site

Where's the Catacombs tour NYC located?

Do you have any questions? Find our Frequently Asked Questions here!

THE EXPERIENCE

• On the Fever App, available on Google Play and the Apple Store.
• On the Fever website .

MISCELLANEOUS

An experience by:

St Patricks Cathedral

St Patrick's Cathedral Official Tour

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Gold Pass – Reserves time and equipment.

TourPatron is the app technology used for The Official Tour of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Guests can tour using their own smart device or one of our Samsung Tablets with headphones.

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St. Patrick's Cathedral Tickets and Tours

Our New York City tour guides are always being asked about NYC attractions like St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

In this post, we explain how to tour St. Patrick's Cathedral including what options are available, the best times to visit, directions, and more.

This post is a collaboration of our experience and thoughts from members of our popular NYC Travel Tips Facebook group.

This group of over 225,000 members consists of locals, regular visitors, and newbies to NYC who are happy to share their insights with others.

Take a look at the bottom of this post to see what they had to say about visiting St. Pats.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the most recognizable cathedral in New York, if not the world.

It is the largest neo-Gothic Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States.

It is a must-visit for those who love architecture and history, those who worship, and those who simply enjoy seeing a place of pure beauty.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Monica Heitmann (@monicaheitmann)

To learn about its history, read the section below .

How to Get Here

St. Patrick's Cathedral is located at 5th Avenue between 50th and 51st Sts, directly across from Rockefeller Center. Enter from the 5th Avenue side.

Use this link to get Google Maps directions from your point of departure.

If you join us on our  pay-what-you-like walking tour of Midtown Manhattan , we visit St. Patrick's so you will have no trouble finding it!

• 6 train to 51st St station
• E, M trains to 5th Ave - 53rd St station
• B, D, F, M to 47th-50th Sts - Rockefeller Ctr station

If you are new to the NYC subway, then you may find the 2 articles below helpful.

• Choosing the Best Subway Pass
• Tips on Riding the NYC Subway
• M1, M2, M3 southbound on 5th Ave and northbound on Madison Ave

TIP:  Hop-on, Hop-Off buses all make stops right near St. Patrick's. If you are considering taking a bus tour, read our detailed post on which NYC bus tours are best .

Best Times to Visit

The Cathedral is open from 6:30 am to 8 pm. Hours vary during holidays, so be sure to check their website before you visit.

With nearly 5 million visitors a year, the Cathedral can be crowded and the traffic flow is managed carefully.

You may have to wait in line at the Visitor's Entrance on 5th Avenue.

Based on St. Patrick's Facebook page, Mondays are the busiest day of the midweek with peak hours being from 11 am to 8 pm.

If you must go on a Monday, try to arrive by 10 am and give yourself 30 minutes to explore.

Tuesdays and Wednesdays are also somewhat busy, so try to arrive by 11 am to miss the crowds. Thursdays and Fridays are slightly less crowded.

Saturdays are less crowded with the peak time of 5 pm to 6 pm corresponding to the 5:30 mass.  

Sunday is even less crowded because you cannot take a tour. The busiest hours are 10 am to 2 pm, again, connected with mass times.

Visiting During Mass 

Here is the mass schedule, but check their website before you visit in case any scheduling changes have been made.

We also note when music or the choir are part of the service.

• Mondays-Fridays: 7 am (music), 7:30 am, 8 am, 12 pm (music), 12:30 pm, 1 pm (music), 5:30 pm
• Saturdays: 8 am (music), 12 pm, 5:30 pm (music)
• Sundays: 7 am, 8 am, 9 am (choir), 10:15 am (choir), 12 pm, 1 pm, 4 pm *Spanish Mass (choir), 5:30 pm

Note: No talking or photography is permitted during mass.

Conduct While Visiting

St. Patrick's requests that you conduct yourself in an appropriate manner for a visit to a house of worship.

This includes your attire, choice of language (no obscenity), and speaking volume.

If you are taking a self-guided audio tour, you must wear headphones.

Security and Bag Checks

All luggage and bags are subject to search by St. Patrick's Cathedral security. You must keep your luggage and bags with you at all times.

If you have large bags and want to store them nearby while visiting the cathedral, see our post Where to Store Luggage in NYC .

Hotels in the Area

St. Patrick's Cathedral is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, a neighborhood with so much to see.

Why not stay in the area for the convenience of visiting the many nearby attractions?

You can find some good prices in nice accommodations. For example, Pod 51 is very close by and is a highly-rated and affordable hotel.

Find other nearby hotels here .

DO YOU NEED TICKETS TO ST. PATRICK'S CATHEDRAL

You do not need St. Patrick's Cathedral tickets to visit and it is always free to enter.

St. Patrick's Cathedral prides itself on not charging an entrance fee nor requiring reservations for time slots to visit.

You can visit for free during the open hours listed above.

TOUR OPTIONS 

It is free to enter St. Patrick's and look around on your own.

You may want to plan ahead by looking at the busy hours above and choose a less crowded time.

There are no tours led by live tour guides. Your tour options include:

• Purchase their official self-guided audio tour
• Visit on your own
• Visit with us during our pay-what-you-wish  Midtown Manhattan Tour

Official Self-Guided Audio Tour 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral sells a self-guided audio tour you can listen to on your smart device. You are required to listen with headphones.

This tour is narrated by Cardinal Timothy Dolan who gives you an insider’s view of the cathedral’s history. It is similar to the video above.

It is approximately 30-40 minutes and you can move at your own pace.

The audio tour is available in English, Spanish, Italian & French and Portuguese.

There is also a children's version in English.

You should consider buying the audio tour before visiting to save time.

You can, however, buy it at the Cathedral at the Tour Desk which is open from 8:30 am - 6:00 pm (Monday-Saturday).

Audio Tour Price

• St. Patrick’s Audio Tour  - $25/ Adult; $20/Child (ages 3-11); You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

VISIT WITH FREE TOURS BY FOOT

Our pay-what-you-wish   Midtown Manhattan Tour  stops at St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Your guide will share with you a brief history, point out some architectural features and tell you some anecdotes.

If you can't take our guided Midtown Manhattan walk when it's offered, or prefer to explore at your own pace, consider our GPS-led audio tour version which also includes St. Patrick's Cathedral.

Here is a sample of the tour.

Here is how it works:

• Purchase our Audio Tour
• Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf, and an embeddable Google map.
• Enjoy the tour(s).

Visit our main  NYC audio tours page to see all the tours we offer and hear samples.

NEARBY ATTRACTIONS

St. Patrick's is in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. There are countless things to do in this part of the city.

Find out what other sites are nearby from our post on  things to do in Midtown Manhattan .

Here are some major sites within walking distance of St. Patrick's Cathedral:

Rockefeller Center 

Directly across from St. Patrick's Cathedral is  Rockefeller Center . For amazing views, visit  Top of The Rock , the observatory at 30 Rockefeller Center.

Museum of Modern Art

This world-class museum is just 2 blocks away from St. Patrick's Cathedral. The MoMA has free admission on Friday afternoons .

Central Park

St. Patrick's Cathedral is 9 blocks south of Central Park. Check out our  guide to Central Park  or our   GPS-enabled audio tour  to explore at your own pace.

We also offer  pay-what-you-wish   Central Park tours .

Times Square

Located about 5 blocks from St. Patrick's Cathedral, Times Square is a must-see New York City destination.

Our post on  things to do in Times Square  lists the many things to do and see in the area.

Grand Central Terminal

About a 15-minute walk from St.Patrick's is the stunning and historic Grand Central. It is a gem of New York City and should be seen while you are here.

Our guide to  Grand Central Terminal  points out what to see there.

You can also join us for a pay-what-you-wish Grand Central Tour or try ou  GPS-enhanced Audio Tour of Grand Central . 

New York Public Library

Another landmark building where you can take a free tour is the magnificent  New York Public Library  about a 10 block walk from St. Patrick's Cathedral.

TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS

Here are some thoughts on visiting St. Patrick's Cathedral from members of our New York Travel Tips group on Facebook.

You don't need to become a member to read the posts, comments, and advice.

So when you are done reading this post why not have a look? Perhaps even ask some questions yourself!

Overwhelmingly, members of our group loved visiting St. Patrick’s. Here are just a handful of the hundreds of opinions about the cathedral.

If you can visit during a mass when the choir is performing, do it!

These two group members felt that seeing St. Patrick’s was a must. But be prepared to have your bags checked.

In 1853, at Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Mulberry Street in Little Italy , Archbishop John Joseph Hughes announced that he would build a new, larger cathedral uptown.

The church had purchased a plot of land that St. Patrick's now stands on in 1810 but with no intention of building a new cathedral there.

People thought Hughes was crazy; the proposed site was considered near-wilderness and was far north of the existing city.

Hughes, however, insisted that the spot would someday be in the heart of New York City and that he would build the most beautiful cathedral in America. He turned out to be right!

The cornerstone for the new cathedral was laid on August 15, 1858. The architect was James Renwick, Jr., and the proposed budget was about $850,000.

The church is made of white Tuckahoe marble.

Though the building progressed very rapidly at the start, it came to a grinding halt during the American Civil War and then resumed when the war was over.

In 1878, when the structure was completed, a fund-raising fair was held in the new cathedral.  The budget had not allowed for the purchase of furnishings.

Fortunately, $172,625 was raised during the fair, and on May 25, 1879 St. Patrick’s Cathedral was formally opened.

Years of wear and tear, pollution and acid rain had caused the exterior to begin to crumble.

On March 17, 2012, Cardinal Timothy Dolan announced that St. Patrick’s was to undergo a massive, three-year renovation, both inside and out.

The massive renovation began in May 2015 and cost nearly $200 million. As of today, the Cathedral is looking better than ever and worth a visit.

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The most beautiful churches in NYC

From stunning architecture to gorgeous grounds, these beautiful churches in NYC are worth a visit

New York City is an architecture fan’s dream, chock full of iconic buildings and stunning skyscrapers. Even the less design-inclined can appreciate and admire the beauty of the city’s buildings, from classic to modern. Among these visual landmarks, many are beautiful churches that are architecturally stunning and worth checking out.

Locals and visitors alike can appreciate the sense of calm that these churches can induce, with their high ceilings and stained glass windows. These churches have interesting histories, intricate paintings and sculptures, lovely gardens and grounds, and tours to take it all in. Some offer a unique setting for concerts and other events.

When you’re planning a tour around NYC—or if you’re just looking for some new spots to check out on a city stroll—check out these NYC churches. They are on par with some of the best museums in the city, and you’ll be blown away by their beauty and history.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best New York attractions

An email you’ll actually love

1.  St. Patrick’s Cathedral

• Religious buildings and sites
• Midtown East

One of New York’s most famous landmarks, this neo-Gothic-style Catholic cathedral draws thousands of tourists each year—it can seat 3,000 of them at once. Located directly across from Rockefeller Center, it was first built by in the 1800s as a replacement for Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Chinatown. Taking up an entire block, its notable design elements include a block’s work of Tuckahoe marble, a detailed rose window and a large sculpture of the Pietà.

2.  Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine

• Morningside Heights

Believed to be the world’s largest Anglican cathedral-church, St. John the Divine was built by the Episcopalians, in part to compete with the Catholics’ St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Built in the traditional stone-by-stone construction (a mix of limestone and granite), the cathedral exemplifies France's High Gothic style and features seven separate chapels, each named for a different patron saint.

3.  Trinity Church Wall Street

• Financial District

With three centuries of history, Trinity Church is one of the most historical religious institutions in New York City. Built for the Church of England by charter from King William III, it was at one time the tallest building in the city due to its towering spire. Over the years, there have been various renovations and additions, joining together three separate buildings on the same lot. The church is constructed in the neo-Gothic style and boasts 23 bells which can be heard chiming through downtown Manhattan.

4.  Church of St. Mary the Virgin

• Special interest
• Midtown West

This Episcopal church was founded in 1868 for the neighborhood of Longacre Square, now called Times Square. Known for its heavy of use of incense, the church is sometimes called Smoky Mary’s. The main attraction here is the well-preserved Gothic architecture—with vaulting columns ideal for its famous booming organ pipes—along with the splashes of blue and gold added during a ’90s redecoration.

5.  Church of St. Luke and St. Matthew

Modeled after the basilicas of Italy, this Neo-Romanesque church was designed by famed Brooklyn architect John Welch. Sitting in the neighborhood of Clinton Hill, the church boasts a facade with grand arches, stone walls and a 28-foot diameter rose window over the main door.

6.  Judson Memorial Church

• Greenwich Village

An Evangelical-Baptist church, Judson became a famous performing and visual arts space in the 1900s. It has since showcased works by everyone from painter Robert Rauschenberg to Yoko Ono and choreographer Trisha Brown, founder of Judson Dance Theater. Long dedicated to social outreach causes, including women’s rights and AIDS resources for the LGBT community, the church now engages in the New Sanctuary Movement for immigrant rights.

7.  Church of St. Francis Xavier

This Flatiron institution has served the city’s Catholic community since 1851—today it caters to a more progressive congregation. Originally founded by Fordham Jesuits, the original building was torn down in 1878, with a replacement reconstructed in 1882. The exterior of the church was made in the Neo-Baroque style, with stained glass windows and religious paintings and sculptures on the inside.

8.  Church of St. Francis of Assisi

Located in the tourist-heavy Garment District, this Roman Catholic parish church was built in 1892 to cater to what was then a rapidly changing neighborhood. Constructed in the traditional Gothic Revival style, it’s known for being home to one of the largest mosaics in the country, The Glorification of the Mother of Jesus. The church is also known for operating one of the country’s longest-running breadlines, started during the Great Depression to feed the hungry.

9.  Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral

The original Cathedral of the Archdiocese of New York, the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral was built 200 years ago in what is now Chinatown. Steeped in history, the building was attacked by anti-Catholic rioters in 1836. Along with its sister church, the nearby Shrine Church of Most Precious Blood, Old St. Patrick’s is a must-visit when strolling through Chinatown. (Pro tip: Take a walk through history with a candlelit tour of the catacombs beneath the church.)

10.  Église St-Jean-Baptiste

Historically catering to the French-Canadian population of the Upper East Side, this Catholic parish church was designed by an award-winning Italian architect influenced by the styles of Mannerism. Named a city landmark in 1969, the church is distinguished as one of the only ones in NYC with a dome.

11.  Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton

This charming Financial District church is built in the neocolonial style. Built in 1965, it’s named after Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, the first native-born citizen to be canonized by the Catholic church. She also established the first Catholic girls’ school in America.

12.  Norwegian Seamen's Church

Belonging to the Church of Norway, this Midtown East institution serves as both a religious destination for Norwegian sailors and expats and a cultural center for folks wanting to know more about Norway. Inside, find models of Scandinavian seafaring vessels as well as a full-service cafe serving smoked fish and baked goods.

13.  Church of the Transfiguration

Built in 1901 in the Georgian style, this Chinatown church was first made for a Lutheran congregation that converted to the Episcopal denomination. It boasts narrow, Gothic-style windows, brownstone brick detailing and a copper octagonal tower designed by Henry Engelbert. Now a Catholic church, it caters heavily to local Chinatown residents.

14.  St. Ann & the Holy Trinity Church

• Brooklyn Heights

St. Ann's is a Brooklyn mainstay for classical music and opera. Most notably, it's a regular space for One World Symphony's frequent operas, performed as semi-staged concerts that rise above modest means.

15.  Park Church Co-op

• price 1 of 4

Greenpoint's Park Church Co-op is the occasional host of music events at its ornate space, but the crowd is more wine-sipping than beer-swilling.

Looking for more things to do in NYC?

The best historical attractions in NYC

Historical attractions like the Woolworth Building and Brooklyn Bridge provide a glimpse into NYC’s past

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We Toured New York City's Catacombs By Candlelight, Here's What It Was Like

We toured the catacombs underneath New York City, and learned all about the historic secrets they hold.

Quick Links

Experiencing the history of new york city's most famous catholic cathedral, the tour of the new york city catacombs, major takeaways from the new york city catacombs tour.

Deep underneath the typically bustling neighborhood of New York City's Northern Little Italy (or NoLita, for those in the know) lies a secret. Not only does NoLita serve as the original home for the Archdiocese of New York, but beneath the surface, there exists an entire system of catacomb tunnels.

The history of this cathedral can be felt from the moment one walks up to its front steps, as easily as when one strolls through its parish cemetery, where some of the earliest Catholic New Yorkers are still buried. For the macabre-inclined, anything from sarcophagi to crypts and (many) unmarked graves can be found here — and that's all before one descends the steps to its candle-lit catacomb tunnels.

We had the chance to tour the catacombs at the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral by candlelight , and this is what it was like.

Book This Tour

For history lovers, there's nothing more thrilling than knowing that the ground you're standing on was once such a significant part of its past. This sense of history is felt all around the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral , and it's one that's worth experiencing in person.

The New York Catacombs by Candlelight tour begins with an introduction of the Basilica itself, which includes a long, winding, and entirely fascinating history that would surprise even a native New Yorker (and it did!).

• What You Should Know: The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral should not be confused with its Midtown counterpart, known simply as St. Patrick's Cathedral . While the two are related, they are not the same.
• Why?: Catholicism first came to New York during the 17th century while it was still known as New Amsterdam. The Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral — which did not gain Basilica status by the Vatican until much later — has been open for more than 200 years. When the newer, more well-known St. Patrick's Cathedral was built in Midtown, the original cathedral underwent a name change in addition to earning the title of a 'Basilica' in the process.

These are several out of possibly hundreds of facts one will learn on the tour of this historic cathedral, helping to curate an experience that is educational, engaging, and altogether humbling.

After a brief intro to the Basilica and its current standing in New York, tour participants will move outdoors to begin the walking portion of the tour (the entire tour takes place on the church premises, so there's not too much walking involved).

The parish cemetery is the next stop on the tour, and we were lucky enough to be scheduled with Mike, who was a fantastic guide. With a jovial sense of humor and a knowledge base that was unbelievably extensive, there seemed to be no question that could not be answered, and no stone — no pun intended — was unturned during his talks.

He led us to the cemetery, where we learned as a group that it's home to more than 4,000 people buried — most in unmarked graves — around the church.

Many of the people buried at this parish cemetery were early Catholics who came to New York, including notable legal, political, and noble figures who existed during the 19th century .

Finding where those are buried, however, is a bit more complicated — over the years, some gravestones and markers have been worn down and are unreadable. This also adds to the overall unintentional atmosphere of the tour, which adds a layer of mystique and intrigue.

What is most fascinating — or disturbing, for some — are the unmarked graves which are, quite literally, everywhere... including where one might be standing while taking the tour.

In addition to the mix of century's old burial sites, there are newer crypts, as well as several final resting places for the ashes of modern notable families who have afforded their place within the parish cemetery for eternity.

After about 30 minutes of walking through the parish cemetery, participants will move to the front of the cathedral, where the tour takes an even more historic turn.

As it turns out, the original St. Patrick's had quite a history — and it was one that many people wouldn't be aware of unless they were privy to its origins and the cataclysmic events that occurred in New York City around the time Catholic churches began gaining recognition.

This also meant they were under attack and, while we won't give away too many spoilers, we were particularly floored to learn that at one point in time, the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral once had its own musket-guarded walls.

It's hard to picture the upbeat, colorful neighborhood of NoLita as a Protestant vs. Catholic war zone won over by none other than Bishop "Dagger John" John Hughes, but this is only one piece of New York City's unique history that one will learn on this incredible tour.

New York City's Catacombs: The Descent

After stopping by the original stairway that led down into the catacomb tunnels — which is just as creepy as it sounds — participants have roughly 10 minutes or so to spend within the cathedral. For those who have never been inside the Basilica of St. Patrick's Old Cathedral, the first steps inside are a humbling few.

Not many would know that such a breathtaking interior exists behind the tan stone facade that hides the inner chapel.

Beautiful stained-glass windows let through enough light to illuminate the altar and its religious artifacts, known well by anyone who is familiar with the Catholic Church and Pope-led ceremonies. The crowning jewel of the cathedral, however, is the Henry Erben Organ, which was part of a $15 million dollar renovation , found on the upper floor at the back of the cathedral.

From the cathedral, tour participants are led down a set of stairs where the final part of the tour begins.

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New York City's Catacombs: The Underground Tunnels

Without giving too much away, the catacombs are as fascinating, mind-blowing, and unique as one might imagine.

It's a whole other world that feels entirely detached from New York City, yet completely appropriate for the families who hold final resting places within the hallowed walls of this cathedral. Their stories, inscribed on sealed catacomb doors, vary from the most elite and famous Catholics of the city to tragedies that reveal how difficult life once was during the early 19th century in New York.

One of the most famous catacombs is that of the late General Thomas Eckert and his family. Inside this catacomb, fully-tiled walls, artistically pieced together by none other than engineer and builder Rafael Guastavino (known for his work in Grand Central as well as Ellis Island), along with original Thomas Edison light fixtures. And yes — Eckert did have electricity installed in his catacomb vault!

The New York catacombs were only opened to the public as recently as 2017, and have only garnered attention since then.

As one of the most impressive in the U.S., it's a rare treat to be able to walk the candlelight-lined halls where so much history has been kept for more than 200 years.

The tour of the parish cemetery and time spent within the cathedral are additional perks of the tour , and only help to add authenticity and significance to an already exceptional historic walk into New York City's past.

New York Catacombs By Candlelight Tour Details

• Duration: ~1.5 hours
• Cost: $37/person
• Location: The corner of 266 Mulberry and Jersey in the neighborhood of NoLita

As visitors raise their own candlelight to read each inscribed catacomb marker, it's one more step they take back into a world where New York City was transformed — and it's an experience that's worth having.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours for the Cathedral and the Parish House? St. Patrick's Cathedral is open from 6:45 AM - 8:45 PM

Parish House Hours of Operation:

Monday-Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM  Saturday & Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Gift Shop Hours of Operations:

Monday - Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM  Saturday & Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM 

What is the weekly mass schedule and confession times?

Mass Schedule:

Monday - Friday : 7:00 AM, 7:30, 8:00, 12:00 Noon, 12:30, 1:00, & 5:30 PM  Saturday: 8:00 AM, 12:00 Noon & 5:30 PM* (Fulfills Sunday obligation) Sunday: 7:00 AM, 8:00, 9:00, 10:15  AM - (Solemn), 12:00 Noon, 1:00, 4:00 PM - (Spanish), 5:30 PM

Confession Schedule: Monday - Friday :  After 8 AM Mass, 12 Noon - 12:45 PM Saturday :  12:00 PM - 12:45 PM & 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Sunday :  No Confessions heard on Sunday

How can I purchase a mass card? Please Visit our  Mass Card Page  or visit the Parish House to purchase in person. Please note that scheduled Mass Intentions are booked over a year in advance. The 2025 Schedule will be open in February of 2024. Which Masses Have Music?

Monday - Friday: 7am, 12pm, 1pm

Saturday: 8am, 5:30pm

Sunday: 9am, 10:15am (with Choir) 4pm

Questions regarding a special celebration Mass.

Please visit our  upcoming special Mass page .

Are tickets required to attend masses and what is the length of masses?

Tickets are not required to attend masses at St. Patrick's Cathedral, with several exceptions: Midnight Mass on December 25, Easter Sunday 10:15am, St. Patrick's Day 8:30am and Columbus Day Mass.

Weekday Masses: 30 minutes

Sunday Masses: 1 hour

When are the Cathedral bells rung?

On the hour, every hour

Can I bring my luggage and dogs into the church?

All luggage and bags are subject to search by St. Patrick's Cathedral security. You must keep your luggage and bags with you at all times. St. Patrick's Cathedral will not store any luggage for guests and are not responsible for any damage to luggage or personal items.  Is the Cathedral wheelchair accessible and where is the handicap ramp?

Yes, there is a wheelchair ramp on 51st street

Can I find out which priest is celebrating a particular Mass?

The Cathedral does not share the schedule of celebrants as it changes frequently.

What if I would like to speak to the Cardinal/Which masses are he celebrating?

All questions regarding Cardinal Dolan and/or his schedule must be made to his office at the Archdiocese of New York by calling 212-371-1000.

Questions regarding Hispanic Ministry (Spanish) masses unrelated to date and time.

Please contact the  Office of Hispanic Ministry  at the Archdiocese of New York: 212-371-1000 ext. 2982

Questions pertaining to financial assistance/housing and other Catholic Charities related matters.

Please contact  Catholic Charities : 888-744-7900

Questions pertaining to Cathedral tours i.e. cost, times, duration and how to purchase.

Please visit our  Tours Website  or email  [email protected]

Questions regarding name changes, address changes, updating payment information and Mass Enrollment Society

Please contact the Development Office:  [email protected]

How can arrangements be made to have blessings done by priest?

The Clergy Staff of St. Patrick's Cathedral is available for blessings every day from 2pm - 4pm at the Parish House: 14 E 51st Street Which masses are livestreamed?

Monday - Friday:7am

Saturday: 8am

Sunday: 10:15am and 4pm (Spanish)

View Live Stream Schedule What if I would like to have a baptism/wedding held here what is the process and cost?

Please contact Grace Baldizon: 646-537-7850 or  [email protected]

How can I get Holy Water?

There is a Holy Water Font inside St. Patrick's Cathedral near the St. Anthony Chapel