We decided to take the trolley car out to this attraction, so we came off the big red bus and waited like forever until the trolley bus arrived at our stop. It was worth the extra trip out to see, so if you got a hop on hop off tour ticket, take the time out to go and see this cathedral.
Definitely plan a stop at the Basilica during your trip to Washington, DC. This massive Catholic Shrine - the largest in North America - will be sure to impress you. Unlike many of the other great churches of the world, this shrine is a bit younger than the rest, but the artwork and the architecture rival its older peers. It's a bit out of the way if you spend most of your time on the National Mall, but it is easily accessible by Metro's Red Line (Brookland-CUA stop). It is open every day and should be one of the highlights of any trip to DC.
Doesn't take a whole lot of time to visit this site. Beautiful and moving to some may be boring and bland to others. Use your judgement about how you feel about these sort of sites as to whether or not you go. I found it interesting and appreciated visiting.
There's much more to this attraction than meets the eye. Plan on spending at least an hour here, although I would recommend two. There are a number of different sanctuaries throughout the basilica on multiple levels, and the crypt church, carved into the rock in the lower level, is especially interesting. Take time to look around the entire facility appreciating the incredible paintings, remarkable statues and icons, breathtaking sanctuaries, and interesting and often unexpected history behind it all (including Babe Ruth's name on the wall downstairs). It's a great side trip if you're in DC, especially if you are looking for a place to go to church over the weekend. You get a beautiful church and an unexpected tourist destination in one!
Huge and Gorgeous after attending mass went down below to Gift Shop and Catacombs many hours of viewing
A wonderful place to come if you love architecture and art, particularly mosaics and architecture; want an oasis in the city; love Jesus and Mary or are seeking a prayerful space. I love coming to the Basilica and gazing at the art, praying in the various chapels, checking out the books and prayer and worship items available, attending mass and soaking in the atmosphere.
We opted to take a cab to visit the Basilica instead of going to mass near our hotel. The Basilica took our breath away. The chapels and mosaic work are stunning. Wish we could have spent more time reflecting and praying before our flight.
So much to see! Take the time to visit the different shrines within the shrine like Our Mother of Africa. The virtual tour is good but next time, I would get a guided tour. Walking around on your own is very meditative and confessions were available!
I didn't have a tour. So I recommend getting a guidebook to go off on your own. There is so much to see and understand. Each chapel and the impressive room dedicated to the Irish. I want to go again to see Mary's garden, as I was travelling with snow on the ground. I waited along time to see this sight and I am so glad I did. So impressive. What a beautiful tribute to Mary and the Catholic faith.