Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
North America's largest Catholic church, a stunning national shrine dedicated to Mary, featuring breathtaking mosaics and architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
North America's largest Catholic church, a stunning national shrine dedicated to Mary, featuring breathtaking mosaics and architecture.
"A breathtaking masterpiece of faith and art, this basilica is a must-see for its grandeur and spiritual depth."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this vast basilica! :athletic_shoe:
Check Mass Times
Plan your visit around Mass schedules if you wish to attend a service. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Great Upper Church
Main Sanctuary
Marvel at the breathtaking mosaics, soaring architecture, and the iconic dome. A true masterpiece of religious art.
Shrines to Mary
Throughout the Basilica
Explore over 80 chapels and shrines dedicated to Mary from various countries and cultures.
Crypt Church
Lower Level
Discover a more intimate space for prayer and reflection, featuring beautiful artwork and a serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to the Basilica
Understanding the Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this vast basilica! :athletic_shoe:
Check Mass Times
Plan your visit around Mass schedules if you wish to attend a service. :admission_tickets:
Allow Ample Time
This place is huge! Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to truly appreciate it. :clock1:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly out of respect for this holy place. :dress:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this vast basilica! :athletic_shoe:
Check Mass Times
Plan your visit around Mass schedules if you wish to attend a service. :admission_tickets:
Allow Ample Time
This place is huge! Give yourself at least 2-3 hours to truly appreciate it. :clock1:
Respectful Attire
Dress modestly out of respect for this holy place. :dress:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception for its breathtaking beauty, awe-inspiring architecture, and profound spiritual atmosphere. Many are captivated by the intricate mosaics and the vast collection of Marian shrines. While generally a positive experience, some note that the sheer size can be overwhelming, and it can get crowded during peak times.
"Love this church and it’s the same name as mine in Fairbanks Alaska! This place with the wonderful Catholic school reminds me of life in the 60’s with truly wonderful people running it!"
Kathleen Brennan
"ICC Church As a Catholic Community in the Church of the Diocese of Tucson, they strive to be a united, welcoming, compassionate community who brings Jesus to others through education, prayer/worship, sacramental living and works of Charity, inspiring all to use their time, talents and treasurers to celebrate God’s presence in the world with Mary as the model of this journey.
That’s their Missionary Core Value.
The Vision of This ICC Church is a Catholic Community within the Diocese of Tucson, that strives to grow through the Gospel's Values. We seek to be disciples of Jesus, working on our own unity among us; so everything that we want to share and teach, will be reflected in our Worship; our Prayer Life; our Actions, and our Works of Charity, in a way that it will fulfill our Proclamation of the ONE LORD, Jesus, our Saviour.
Very Traditional and Holy Church in Yuma"
NS Raju
"I did my 1st communion in this church a few
years ago, when Dicon Nixon was there. 👍🏻📿🙏🏼😔🙂"
Lucy Rubio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Basilica is located in Washington, D.C. It's accessible by car, with parking available. Public transportation options include Metrobus and Metrorail, with the closest Metro station being Brookland-CUA. Many visitors arrive via organized tours or as part of church groups.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's advisable to check the official website for current parking fees and availability, especially during peak times or special events.
Yes, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is accessible via public transport. The Brookland-CUA Metro station on the Red Line is a short walk away. Several bus routes also serve the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Basilica is typically free, allowing visitors to explore the main church and grounds. However, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain this historic site.
The Basilica's hours can vary, so it's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Generally, it is open daily, but specific times for the church and chapels may differ.
For general visits, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you are planning a group visit or a special event, it's recommended to contact the Basilica administration in advance.
Guided tours are often available and can provide a deeper understanding of the Basilica's history, art, and architecture. Check the official website for tour schedules and booking information.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Take your time to wander through the Great Upper Church, admire the mosaics, and visit the various shrines dedicated to Mary. The Crypt Church offers a more serene atmosphere for prayer.
Yes, Mass is celebrated regularly at the Basilica. You can find the most current Mass schedule on their official website.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but be mindful of Mass times and respectful of worshippers. Tripods and flash photography may be restricted in certain areas.
The Immaculate Conception is a dogma of the Catholic Church stating that Mary, from the moment of her conception, was preserved from original sin. This basilica is dedicated to this belief.
The Basilica hosts numerous special events, including ordinations, vigils, and national celebrations. It's advisable to check their events calendar online for upcoming happenings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be extensive dining facilities directly within the Basilica, the surrounding Brookland neighborhood offers various cafes and restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The Great Upper Church, with its stunning mosaics and dome, is a prime photography location. The exterior architecture and the various shrines also offer excellent photo opportunities.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed, but it's important to be respectful of ongoing services and other visitors. Professional photography or the use of tripods may require special permission.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great opportunity to teach children about religious art and history in a grand setting. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover. If attending Mass, ensure children are prepared for the duration of the service. The Crypt Church might offer a quieter space for younger ones who need a break from the main sanctuary's grandeur.
🙏 Devout Catholics
Consider attending a Traditional Latin Mass if that is of interest to you, as it is offered here. The opportunity to pray in such a magnificent and sacred space, surrounded by fellow believers, can be deeply moving and spiritually enriching. Many find the atmosphere conducive to deep prayer and reflection.
🏛️ Architecture & Art Enthusiasts
Pay close attention to the details in the mosaics, the stained-glass windows, and the statuary. The sheer scale and craftsmanship involved are astounding. It's a place where you can spend hours simply admiring the artistry and contemplating the stories depicted.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels and Artistic Grandeur
The most captivating feature is undoubtedly the extensive mosaic work. The dome of the Great Upper Church alone is adorned with over 2.1 million pieces of glass and gold, depicting scenes from the life of Christ and Mary. Throughout the basilica, you'll find numerous chapels and shrines, each dedicated to a specific aspect of Catholic devotion or a particular country's Marian tradition. These spaces are rich with symbolism and artistic craftsmanship, offering a unique visual journey for every visitor.
Beyond the mosaics, the basilica features stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and impressive statuary. Each element contributes to the overall spiritual and aesthetic experience. Whether you're interested in religious art, architectural history, or simply seeking a place of profound beauty and tranquility, the Basilica offers a rich and rewarding experience.
A Place of Prayer and National Significance
The Basilica is a hub for significant religious events. It has hosted major ordinations, national vigils, and other important gatherings, underscoring its role as a focal point for American Catholicism. The traditional Latin Mass is also offered here, attracting those who appreciate this ancient form of liturgy.
For many, a visit to the Basilica is a pilgrimage, a journey to a sacred space that connects them to their faith and to a larger community. The dedication to the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary is central to its identity, inviting contemplation on Mary's role in salvation history.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit