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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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Basilica of the National Shrine Upper Church

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

January 19

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Second Sunday in Ordinary Time. Saturday, January 18 Time: Location and…

Blessed Jerzy Beatification

Heritage Talk: Eucharist: Comfort of Martyrs

January 20 @ 5:15 pm

Easter Sunday 2024 marked the centennial anniversary of the celebration of the first Public Mass held inside the National Shrine.…

National Prayer Vigil for Life

January 23 @ 5:00 pm - January 24 @ 8:00 am

We invite you to join us both in person and virtually for the 2025 National Prayer Vigil for Life on…

Basilica of the National Shrine Upper Church

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time

January 26

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Third Sunday in Ordinary Time. Saturday, January 25 Time: Location and…

The Feast of the Presentation of the Lord

February 2

Join the Basilica as we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Saturday, February 1 Time: Location and…

Basilica of the National Shrine Upper Church

Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

February 9

We invite you to join us in celebrating the Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Saturday, February 8 Time: Location and…

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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.