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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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Archdiocese of Washington Walk with Mary Pilgrimage in Honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe

December 14 @ 2:00 pm

On Saturday, December 14, 2024, the faithful of the Archdiocese of Washington will hold their annual Walk with Mary procession…

Advent Rorate Mass

December 20 @ 7:00 am

On Friday, December 20, 2024, at 7:00 a.m., please join the Basilica of the National Shrine and Monsignor Walter R.…

Banner image of the Basilica Choir singing in the Crypt Church

Choir of the Basilica Christmas Concert 2024

December 21 @ 6:00 pm

The Choir of the Basilica will offer a one-hour Christmas Concert on Saturday, December 21, at 6:00 p.m. in the…

Banner image featuring the Infant Jesus from one of the Basilica's Nativity Scenes

Blessing of the Bambinelli

December 22 @ 4:30 pm

Following in the annual Papal tradition in Saint Peter’s Square, the National Shrine will host its annual Blessing of the…

Image of the Great Upper Church decorated for Christmas

The Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord (Christmas Eve)

December 24

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord. The Solemnity of the…

An image of the Great Upper Church decorated with flowers for Christmas

Solemnity of the Nativity of the Lord

December 25

“For a child is born to us, a son is given to us; upon his shoulder dominion rests. They name…

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

Individuals and small groups are welcome to attend Mass, take a tour and visit the Shrine Shops.

nuns view mother teresa statue on tour

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.

woman touches gold cross on door

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.

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.