St. Patrick's Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral is a National Landmark visited by about 5 million people every year
Recognised as the center of Catholic life in the United States, St. Patrick's Cathedral is the seat of the Archbishop of New York with an active and vibrant parish. The Gothic Revival Roman Catholic cathedral is a National Landmark located across the street from Rockefeller Center.
The cornerstone was laid in 1858 with construction suspended until 1865 due to the Civil War. John Cardinal McCloskey, the first American Cardinal, opened the doors in 1879.
Each year over three million people visit St. Patrick's Cathedral to marvel at the beauty of its front towers and intricate stained glass windows crafted in Chartres, France modelled after the designs of its famous cathedral. The St. Michael alter and St. Louis alter were designed by Tiffany and Company with a third, the St. Elizabeth altar by Paolo Medici in Rome. A centerpiece of the artistic elements is the replica of Michelangelo's "Pieta," three times the size of the original.
St. Patrick's Cathedral is noted for its fine acoustics and houses two world famous organs installed in 1930 which still provide powerful accompaniment for church services. The Cathedral periodically hosts free concerts, the parish choir and guest artists. Visitors are also invited to join the congregation in mass celebrations held daily. Alternatively, between services, the building is open for self-guided tours. A gift shop is available at the rear of the Cathedral and benefit's the parish's charitable activities.
Nearby attractions include Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Avenue and the Museum of Modern Art
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: NoAddress: 5th Ave, New York, NY 10022, USA
Phone: (212) 753-2261
Official Website: St. Patrick's Cathedral
St. Patrick's Cathedral Reviews
Rated out of 5
Beautiful cathedral both outside and inside. The architecture is gorgeous from its high arches and pillars to the glass stained windows. To enter the cathedral is free to everyone but they do accept donations and even have a small gift shop you can get a souvenir from.
Walking around there is almost a feeling of peace and even if you're not religious it's still an amazing place to visit.
Definitely not a place to miss!
Maya Taurus - 2 weeks ago
Spectacular cathedral in the heart of New York Cty. Right across the street from Rockefeller Center. Often overlooked because it is not as tall as the surrounding skyscrapers, but one of the great cathedrals of the world. The stained glass is stunning, and the interior is huge. No admission charge. Ongoing masses throughout the day
Sally Trigg - 2 weeks ago
I am not Catholic or Christian but that did not stop me from admiring this stunningly beautiful building and the architecture. The place is so peaceful and quiet and people are praying and reading inside. So be respectful when you go in. It’s free to enter and if you have bags they must be checked before you’re allowed in.
Zack Wilkins - 2 weeks ago
Visiting St. Patrick’s Cathedral was one of the highlights of my trip to New York! The architecture is breathtaking, with incredible detail inside and out. The interior is filled with beautiful artifacts, stained glass, and history everywhere you look. I went early in the morning and it was almost empty, which made the visit even more special and peaceful.
Definitely a must-see if you’re visiting NYC — it’s not only a stunning landmark but also a great place to take a quiet break from the busy city.
Rob H - a month ago
Truly rivals any of the European cathedrals I've seen. Which is exactly what we were hoping for. It is truly a stunning place. Absolutely beautiful and serene.
I love that there were people there in prayer and lined up for confession too. It is wonderful to see this incredibly stunning place in full service to those coming for worship.
I wish the gift shop wasn't so tiny. Barely big enough for 3 people to squeeze in but I did anyway. 😆 Please don't miss this incredible place and be sure to give something back to it as well.
Autumn Springer - 4 months ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| B, D, or F | 47-50 Street / Rockefeller Center | 5 minutes |
| E or M | 5th Avenue / 53rd Street | 3 minutes |
| 1, C or E | 50th Street | 8 minutes |
| N, Q or R | 49th Street | 8 minutes |
| 6 | 51st Street | 9 minutes |
How to get to St. Patrick's Cathedral by Subway
Either take the B, D, of F train to 47-50 Street - Rockefeller Center, exit on West 49th Street and head east to 5th Avenue, or take the E or M train to 5th Avenue / 53rd Streetand walk south 3 blocks on 5th Avenue or take the 1, C or E train to 50th Street and walk east to 5th Avenue or take the N, Q or R train to 49th Street and walk east to 5th Avenue or take the 6 train to 51st Street and Lexington Avenue, head northwest on East 51st Street towards Lexington Avenue, turn left onto 5th Avenue.
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Photo Gallery
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And the equally amazing interior cc licensed photo by eviltomthai -
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Photo Credit: Olivier Bruchez - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Olivier Bruchez - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: julienmagne - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Olivier Bruchez - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Sharon Mollerus - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Gildardo - cc license via Flickr
