Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Landmark Byzantine-Romanesque-style Catholic church featuring mass, tours & a vast art collection.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is rated 4.9 / 5 from 6,448 Google reviews and sits about 2.1 km (26 min walk) from Georgia Ave–Petworth station.
General overview
About Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is a major Catholic church and pilgrimage destination in Washington, DC, known for its vast Byzantine-Romanesque architecture, mosaics, chapels dedicated to Mary, and the National Shrine Museum. Admission to the basilica is generally free, with donations welcomed. Details below are based on existing knowledge and have not been live-verified.
- One of the largest Roman Catholic churches in North America.
- More than 70 chapels and oratories honoring the Virgin Mary and Catholic communities from around the world.
- Extensive mosaics, including the Trinity Dome mosaic and the Our Mother of Africa Chapel.
- The lower level contains many chapels, devotional spaces, and the National Shrine Museum.
- Active place of worship with daily Masses, services, pilgrimages, and religious events.
- Located near The Catholic University of America and accessible by Metro.
Things to do here
Self-guided basilica visit
Explore the Upper Church and Crypt Church, chapels, mosaics, devotional spaces, and major artworks at your own pace. Visitors should be respectful of ongoing worship.
Guided tour
The shrine has traditionally offered guided tours, often covering the architecture, history, chapels, mosaics, and religious significance. Availability and schedules vary.
National Shrine Museum
A museum area presenting the history and art of the basilica and its Marian devotion. Exhibits and opening arrangements may vary.
Attend Mass or devotional services
Visitors may attend scheduled Masses and other liturgies. Check the current worship schedule before planning a visit, especially on holy days and during large pilgrimages.
View the mosaics and chapels
Notable areas include the Trinity Dome, the Christ in Majesty mosaic, the Crypt Church, and chapels representing Marian devotions and cultural traditions from around the world.
Gift shop visit
The shrine traditionally has a religious gift shop offering books, medals, rosaries, devotional items, and souvenirs.
Use Metro's Brookland–CUA station on the Red Line, followed by a walk of roughly 10–15 minutes. Arrive early for Mass, tours, or large events. Dress modestly and allow time for security or group check-in.
General admission normally does not require advance booking. Guided tours, group visits, school visits, and special programs may require reservations.
This overview is general knowledge, not confirmed against an official source — verify hours, prices and entry rules before you go.
Photo gallery
See it before you go
Most asked
How to reach
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is about 2.1 km (~26 min walk) from Georgia Ave–Petworth station on the Washington Metro.
Before you go
Good to know
Verify tickets, seasonal hours, entry rules, and special events on the official website before visiting.
Pair it up
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Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception from Georgia Ave–Petworth station?
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is about 2072 m (roughly 26 min walk) from Georgia Ave–Petworth station on the Washington Metro. Use the directions link on this page for turn-by-turn walking directions.
What is Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception rated?
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has a Google rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 6,448 reviews.
What's near Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception?
Also within a short walk of the same station: Smithsonian National Zoological Park, Omni Shoreham Hotel Washington D.C., Unconventional Diner.
Is Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception wheelchair accessible?
Yes — Google lists the following accessibility features for Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception: wheelchair-accessible entrance, wheelchair-accessible parking, wheelchair-accessible restroom.
Is admission to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception free?
General admission is generally free, with donations welcomed. Guided tours or special programs may have different arrangements.
Can tourists visit during Mass?
Yes, visitors may attend Mass, but the basilica is an active place of worship. Sightseeing should not interrupt services, and some areas may be closed or reserved during liturgies.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allow about one to two hours for the principal spaces and longer if you want to see many chapels, visit the museum, shop, or take a guided tour.
What is the nearest Metro station?
Brookland–CUA on the Red Line is generally the nearest Metro station, approximately a 10–15 minute walk away.
Is photography allowed?
Personal photography is commonly allowed when it does not disturb worship. Flash, tripods, commercial shoots, and photography during services may be restricted.
Is the basilica suitable for children?
Yes. Families are welcome, although children should be supervised and visitors should observe the quiet and reverent atmosphere.
Does the basilica have a museum and gift shop?
The site traditionally includes a National Shrine Museum and a religious gift shop, but their hours may differ from the main basilica and may change.
Do I need a reservation?
Usually not for an individual visit or prayer. Reservations may be needed for guided tours, groups, school visits, or special programs.
Data and photos from Google Places, generated August 23, 2026. Ratings, hours and prices can change — confirm anything time-sensitive before you go.