St. Patrick's Cathedral

Plan Ahead

If you don't have the time or energy to tour St. Patrick's, keep in mind that you can still get a great bird's-eye view of the cathedral from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center.

This sprawling cathedral sits amid the hustle and distinctively secular bustle of Rockefeller Center. But that doesn't take away from its otherworldly vibe. Whether you're religious or just making an architectural pilgrimage, you can't help but be impressed by St. Patrick's.

Highlights

Opened in 1879, the neo-Gothic cathedral spans the length of an entire city block and features 330-foot spires. Its interior is just as impressive thanks to its numerous altars, stained-glass windows, organs, and imposing 9,000-pound bronze doors. The church welcomes more than 5 million visitors annually.

Quick Visit Tips

Keep in mind: You won't need much time for a quick stop here; St. Patrick's pairs nicely with a visit to nearby attractions like Rockefeller Center, the Museum of Modern Art, and Radio City Music Hall.

Hours

You can visit from 6:45 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. daily. If you're hopping on the subway to reach St. Patrick's, take the B, D, F, or M train to the Rockefeller Center stop.

Admission

The church is free to enter, though there is a suggested donation of $5.

Tour

For a more formal tour, consider the church's self-guided audio tour, which is available every day from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and costs approximately $20 per person. The audio tour includes the use of tablets and headphones. Visit the church's official website for specific Mass times.