Knights Tower Tours

On September 10, 2026, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception will celebrate the 63rd Anniversary of the Dedication of the Knights Tower Carillon. To mark this special occasion, the Basilica will once again provide an extraordinary opportunity to journey up the Tower and view our nation’s capital from a spectacular vantage point. Visitors will ascend the Tower’s elevator to the observation level, which offers amazing panoramic views of Washington, DC.

Registration for this event will open in August 2026.

Important Information:

The Basilica offers ample free parking and is within walking distance from the Brookland-CUA Station on Metro’s Red Line.

Visitors must be able to climb 85 steps to reach the Tower’s Elevator. Visitors with mobility challenges are not advised to participate in this event. Guests with younger children should be aware that this experience involves stairs and may include waiting times of 10–25 minutes. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Strollers and wheelchairs are not permitted, and storage is not available at the Basilica. Use of the Tower’s elevator is required to ascend to the observation level. Visitors who experience claustrophobia, or any other condition which may be relevant to elevators or small spaces should not participate in this event.

Prohibited items cannot be stored. Please leave all prohibited items in your vehicle or at home.

Food and drink are not permitted.

Bags, suitcases, camera cases, large purses and other bulky items are not permitted.

The use of tripods is not permitted, though photography is permitted.

Strollers, wheelchairs, and other assistive mobility equipment are not permitted.