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.
Please enter the date of your visit to view events on or after the date of your choice:
Events
List of events in Photo View
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October 12We invite you to join us on Monday, October 12, as we mark the anniversary of the elevation of the National Shrine to the rank of a minor basilica. Monday, October 12 Time: Location and…
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Diocese of Paterson Pilgrimage
October 17On Saturday, October 17, 2026, the faithful of the Diocese of Paterson are invited to participate in their pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Saturday, October 17 Time: Location… -
Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 18We invite you to join us in celebrating the Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Saturday, October 17 Time: Location and additional information: 4:30 p.m. Vigil Mass - Crypt Church Sunday, October 18 Time: Location and… -
Our Lady of Pilar Pilgrimage
October 18 @ 2:30 pmOn Sunday, October 18, there will be a pilgrimage in honor of Our Lady of Pilar at 2:30 p.m. in the Great Upper Church of the Basilica. The Most Reverend Luis Miguel Romero Fernández, Auxiliary… -
Diocese of Richmond Pilgrimage
October 24On Saturday, October 24, 2026, the faithful of the Diocese of Richmond are invited to participate in their pilgrimage to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. More details to follow. -
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time
October 25We invite you to join us in celebrating the Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Saturday, October 24 Time: Location and additional information: 4:30 p.m. Vigil Mass - Crypt Church Sunday, October 25 Time: Location and…
There are a multiple ways to tour the National Shrine.
Individuals and small groups are welcome to attend Mass, take a tour and visit the Shrine Shops.
If you desire to tour the Shrine with a large group, we offer guided tours that last approximately one hour. Guided tours include visits to chapels on the Crypt Level and the Great Upper Church, and include information about the history of the Shrine, the architecture, and the sacred artwork.
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.
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.

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
Learn more about the Basilica’s architecture and sacred art.
Cafeteria
View cafeteria hours and make group arrangements.
Bookstore
View bookstore hours and search for resources online.
Gift Shop
Plan your visit to the National Shrine Shops and shop online.






