Discover the Timeless Beauty of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in the Heart of New York City (2024)

Rising proudly into the sky with its soaring spires, St. Patrick’s Cathedral commands attention. This marble clad neo-Gothic marvel spans an entire city block and is the biggest Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral in North America.

Completed in 1879 and officially designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976, it draws over five and a half million visitors annually, making it a must-see destination in New York City.

Background on St Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral was designed in the mid-1800s to replace the old St Patrick’s Cathedral as a place of worship for New York’s growing Catholic community. It took over 20 years to build, and today it serves as the Archbishop’s headquarters for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York.

The cathedral has 21 altars and 19 bells in the northern tower, each named after a different saint. Aside from being a symbol of faith, the cathedral is famous for its impressive architectural beauty. It is truly one of the most beautiful churches in NYC.

The spires flanking the front door are over 320 feet tall. In 1949, the marble doors were replaced by decorative bronze doors weighing over 9,000 pounds. Additionally, some of the cathedral’s most impressive features are its stunning stained glass windows, inlaid marble tabernacle, historic pipe organs, and beautiful Pieta sculpture. There’s something that commands a second glance everywhere you look.

Where is St Patrick’s Cathedral and how to get there?

The main entrance is between 50th and 51st Street on Fifth Avenue in midtown Manhattan. The rear façade opens out to Madison Avenue.

If you’re driving, there is limited street parking available near the cathedral. Navigating traffic and finding paid parking nearby can be challenging especially if you’re not familiar with New York City roads.

You might find that taking public transport is often a better idea. You can take a cab or ride the M1, M2, or M3 southbound bus on 5th Avenue or the northbound bus on Madison Avenue. The 5th Avenue/53rd Street subway station is a 5-minute walk away.

What to expect when you visit

St Patrick’s Cathedral is an active Catholic church. While it is open to visitors from all faiths, a mass or other religious ceremonies may be taking place during your visit. Sunday is an exceptionally busy day. That’s why, it is better to plan your visit during the week. Arriving early, around 7 AM –almost– guarantees you a short line at the security checks and little time in the cathedral without too many tourists.

Anyone can enter St Patrick’s Cathedral during the day. There are no entrance fees to the place, but a guided tour would be the best way to truly understand its magnificence. Book your tickets online at least a few days in advance.

What else can you do when you visit St Patrick’s Cathedral?

Along with admiring the architectural beauty of St Patrick’s Cathedral, you can attend a mass or light a candle to say a prayer for your loved ones. Before you leave, treat yourself to a souvenir from the Cathedral’s gift shop.

Just outside the cathedral stands another popular New York icon –the Rockefeller Center with the statue of Prometheus. If you climb up to the top of the Rockefeller Center, you’ll be rewarded with exceptional views of the city as well as the cathedral. The famous Museum of Modern Art is also just a short walk away.

FAQs

What are the visitor timings?

St Patrick’s is open seven days a week from 6.45 AM to 8.45 PM. Masses are scheduled throughout the day, with the last mass at 5.30 PM.

What is St Patrick’s Cathedral famous for?

Along with its massive size, it is also renowned for its beautiful architecture, huge stained glass windows, pipe organs and a bronze door.

Can you take pictures inside?

Yes, you can take photographs inside as long as you do not use a flash. It is a house of worship, so be mindful of those who are praying.

With its rich history and remarkable architecture, visiting St Patrick’s Cathedral is a must. Whether you are religious or not, a visit to this majestic cathedral will take your breath away.