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!
In accordance with Phase Two Guidance for COVID-19 as issued by the District of Columbia Mayor’s Office and Health Department, the Basilica has adjusted operations, schedules, and protocols. View visitor guidelines for entry into the Basilica on the FAQ page.
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 Search and Views Navigation
List of Events
First Sunday of Lent and Vespers
As we draw near to the great Paschal Feast and the entire Easter Season, we invite you to join us…
Second Sunday of Lent and Vespers
As we draw near to the great Paschal Feast and the entire Easter Season, we invite you to join us…
Third Sunday of Lent and Vespers
As we draw near to the great Paschal Feast and the entire Easter Season, we invite you to join us…
Fourth Sunday of Lent and Vespers (Laetare Sunday)
As we draw near to the great Paschal Feast and the entire Easter Season, we invite you to join us…
Fifth Sunday of Lent and Vespers
As we draw near to the great Paschal Feast and the entire Easter Season, we invite you to join us…
Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord
As we celebrate Palm Sunday of the Passion of the Lord, we rejoice in Christ’s triumphant entry into Jerusalem. As…
There are a multiple ways to tour the National Shrine.
Individuals and small groups are welcome to attend Mass, take a tour, dine in the Cafeteria, and visit the Shrine Shops. Regularly scheduled guided tours for groups up to 15 people are free of charge and require no advance reservations.
If you desire to tour the Shrine with a large group, 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.
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.