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Welcome to America’s Catholic Church: Plan Your Visit

The National Shrine, also known as Mary’s Shrine, receives nearly one million visitors annually and has been visited by Pope Francis, Pope Benedict XVI, Saint Pope John Paul II, and Saint Mother Teresa of Calcutta, among others. We hope that you can join us in person and are here to help you as you learn more about the Basilica – America’s Catholic Church!

Don’t know what to do? Let us help you.

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Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

September 24

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage

September 30

The Dominican Rosary Pilgrimage is a full-day, national event celebrating Our Lady and the Rosary in Washington, D.C., led by…

Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time

October 1

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Twenty-Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Diocese of Wilmington Pilgrimage

October 7

On Saturday, October 7, 2023, the faithful of the Diocese of Wilmington are invited to join the Most Reverend William…

Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

October 8

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Twenty-Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time.

Anniversary of the Shrine’s Elevation to the Rank of a Minor Basilica

October 12

We invite you to join us Thursday, October 12, as we celebrate the Twenty-Seventh Week in Ordinary Time and the…

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There are a multiple ways to tour the National Shrine.
docent leading guided tour showing domes in great upper church

Guided Tour

If you desire to tour the Shrine, we offer guided tours that last just under one hour. Guided tours include visits to chapels on both levels, and include information about the background of the Shrine, the architecture, and the sacred artwork.

woman touches gold cross on door

Suggested Itineraries

Whether you are just stopping by for an introductory self-tour, are part of a School or Church Group Pilgrimage, or a one-day Diocesan Pilgrimage, view our sample schedules to ensure that your visit is a valuable spiritual experience.

great upper church with play button

Virtual Tour

Take our 360° Virtual Tours to see the Basilica’s Great Upper Church, the Great Upper Church Sanctuary, the Crypt Church and the Memorial Hall. With the click of your mouse, you can view the inside of the National Shrine!

What To Do & See

Learn more about the Basilica as you prepare for your next visit.

Hours & Location

We look forward to your next visit to the Basilica.

basilica front exterior aerial

Plan to visit the Basilica?

The Basilica is the largest Roman Catholic church in North America and is among the ten largest churches in the world. Review our hours and location details to help plan your next trip.

interactive map

Interactive Map

Learn more about the Basilica’s architecture and sacred art.

shrine cafeteria

Cafeteria

View cafeteria hours and make group arrangements.

books in shrine shop

Bookstore

View bookstore hours and search for resources online.

shrine rosary

Gift Shop

Plan your visit to the National Shrine Shops and shop online.