NYC: St. Patrick's Cathedral Tour

St. Patrick's Cathedral is the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of New York and the seat of the Archbishop. Located on Fifth Avenue, across from Rockefeller Center, the sanctuary is the largest Gothic Catholic cathedral in the US. This New York City landmark, dedicated in 1879, welcomes more than five million visitors each year. With its 330-foot spires, it is one of the City's most spectacular architectural sights. Inside, it boasts a seating capacity of 2,400, numerous altars and stained-glass windows, and a giant organ with 7,855 pipes. Services are held daily and all are welcome, visitors and worshipers alike.

To enjoy the audio tour option- Present your pass at the Cathedral tour desk, located inside the cathedral. Collect your multilingual audio guide provided on Apple iPads. Alternatively, download the guide onto your personal device and use your own headphones.
Once inside, embark on an exploration at your own pace while listening to the narrated tour by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, lasting approximately 50 minutes. Pause the audio to admire the Lady Chapel, the soaring twin spires, and the impressive 9000 lbs bronze doors, operable by a single person.

Explore further to discover the main altar, intricate stained-glass windows, and the larger-than-life Pieta sculpture, surpassing Michelangelo's masterpiece in scale.

With 21 altars and 19 bells, each named after a different saint, immerse yourself in St. Patrick's Cathedral's rich history, hosting memorial masses for iconic figures like Babe Ruth, Andy Warhol, and Robert F. Kennedy.

If the VIP guided tour option is selected, the tour can also be led by a knowledgeable cathedral historian, offering exclusive access to areas typically off-limits to the public. Begin your adventure at a private entrance, where you'll meet your guide and fellow explorers.

Descend into the lower labyrinth of halls and staircases, uncovering the rich history and secrets of the cathedral. Visit the sacristy, located below the main altar, and get a rare glimpse of the crypt. Throughout the tour, your guide will share fascinating stories and answer any questions you may have.

As you ascend the marble stairs, you'll find yourself in the heart of the cathedral, surrounded by its stunning architecture and artistry. The tour concludes in a central location, allowing you to continue exploring the cathedral or the vibrant city of New York at your leisure.