Art & Architecture

Art & Architecture Close-up Tours

These tours offer a special, in-depth look at aspects of Cathedral artisanship for visitors aged 10 and older. The tour meets at the west-end docent station, nave level, just inside the main doors. The cost for this tour is $10 per person. Reservations are suggested as attendance is limited. All attendees must obtain a tour sticker at the Welcome Desk (located at the main entrance for walk-in visitors, adjacent to the underground parking elevators). Make your reservation »

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Sunday, June 2, 2013 1:30 PM

Close-up Tour: Needlepoint

Explore some of the 1,500 pieces of needlework in the Cathedral and how these exquisite treasures convey messages throughout the Cathedral. Order tickets

Sunday, July 7, 2013 1:30 PM

Close-up Tour: Remembering the American Civil War

Take an in-depth look at aspects of Cathedral artisanship for visitors aged 10 and older. Order tickets

Thursday, August 1, 2013 3 PM
Sunday, August 4, 2013 1:30 PM

Close-up Tour: Forged in Fire: Cathedral Ironwork

Explore the magic of wrought iron in the Cathedral—from fantastic creatures to stunning flowers, all unique and made by skilled hands. Order tickets

Thursday, September 5, 2013 3 PM
Sunday, September 8, 2013 1:30 PM

Close-up Tour: Symbols & Iconography

Discover the symbolism of Washington National Cathedral’s stone, stained glass, and fabric art, and learn to read the art’s unfolding stories by decoding the symbols’ meanings. Order tickets

Thursday, October 3, 2013 3 PM
Sunday, October 6, 2013 1:30 PM

Close-up Tour: Jewels of Light: Stained Glass

In this introduction to the stained glass windows, learn about the tales they tell from Creation to stories from American history. Order tickets

Sunday, November 3, 2013 1:30 PM

Close-up Tour: 20th Century American Gothic

Explore the Gothic style and its unique characteristics, purposes, and building methods—and learn why the Cathedral was built in the Gothic style. Order tickets

Sunday, December 1, 2013 1:30 PM
Thursday, December 5, 2013 3 PM

Close-up Tour: Angels High and Low

These tours offer a special in-depth look at aspects of Cathedral artisanship for visitors aged 10 and older. Order tickets

Sunday, December , : AM

Parking at the Cathedral

Parking in the Cathedral’s underground garage is free on Sundays for services and organ recitals; parking for concerts and programs is available for an event-parking fee. Learn more about parking options for individuals and groups.