St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of those places that instantly makes you slow down and take everything in. I've always had a special appreciation for the architecture of Catholic churches, and the craftsmanship here is truly remarkable! The high vaulted ceilings, stained glass, and intricate details make it feel both grand and peaceful at the same time. Even though it sits right in the middle of the city, the moment you step inside there's a sense of calm that almost feels grounding. It can get busy but you can still find quiet moments to sit, reflect, or simply admire the beauty of the space. read more

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I visited St. Patrick's for the first time last weekend. I didn't put two and two together to realize that I was visiting St. Patrick's Cathedral the weekend before St. Patrick's Day. Probably not the best day to visit, but since I'd already pre-paid for the self-guided audio tour, I decided to brave the crowds and go. I want to be clear - St. Patrick's is beautiful. But my three star review is really about the tour experience, and my experience may have been worse than it would have been on a less busy weekend. The self-guided audio tour is $20. You can do it on your phone or on an iPad they'll provide you at the cathedral. However, especially on a crowded day, the tour was confusing. There was weirdly no way to cross from the north side of the cathedral to the south side of the cathedral. You had to in the door on the north side to see that side and then back out and in the door on the south side of the cathedral to see that side. There were may roped off areas that were on the audio tour. Probably half of the stops on the audio tour were behind roped off areas - I didn't know if I was supposed to get access to them or not. The staff at the cathedral - who I'm sure were overwhelmed by the crowds (I was!) - weren't helpful. One security guard member of staff saw my confusion and tried to help me. He opened the ropes and let me over to the other side. He told me to ask someone to do that again when I was ready to see the other side of the cathedral. But when I asked, the response was a pretty unfriendly "you have to go outside and come back in." Maybe my experience was worse than usual because of my bad timing. But I can't recommend the audio tour. $20 for an audio tour on your phone - and one where half of the stops aren't accessible to you - is too much. I suggest popping in, looking around, and leaving them whatever is a reasonable donation to you. (Note: The reason I wanted to visit St. Patrick's Cathedral was to see the new mural in the cathedral's narthex. I had read about it in the Times and wanted to see it in person. The mural - painted by Brooklyn-based artist Adam Cvijanovic and titled "What's So Funny About Peace, Love, and Understanding" - is 25 feet tall and spans several walls. It features the 1879 Apparition at Knock, saints, and modern immigrant processions. It's beautiful and thought-provoking and definitely worth a visit. Pop in and drop a donation in the box.) read more

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I always stop in St. Patrick's when I'm up in the City to say a prayer, light some candles and reflect a bit. I was there last week during the day and the Cathedral had its usual bustle of tourists and congregants. While there noon mass started so I stayed. I'm not much the practicing Catholic any longer but in all my years living in NYC I never attended mass here so this was a first for me. It was nice and I'm glad I did. They did a nice job with the renovation. The murals at the entrance are a nice addition. They no longer accept change for candle lighting and the donation is made through a QR code. The suggested donation is now $3.00 per candle. There are now QR code stickers on the back of the pews to donate during mass. The ushers still come around with the baskets. St. Pat's is still a gem in midtown and an iconic symbol of NYC. It's definitely a stop if you happen to be in town. read more

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My love for exquisite architecture is limitless! The photos of St. Patrick's Cathedral do not compare to its breathtaking beauty in-person. From my viewpoint, not much can compare to the architectural elegance of an edifice. On this particular day, it was more overcrowded than I'd prefer. But to be fair, mounds of people are to be expected during holiday season in nyc. Still, the warmth and calm felt upon entering was unmatched. There's ample seating to sit and just... be. Look around, take it all in, pray, meditate, whatever works for you. I also took a stroll around the building and the 'noise' fades the more you observe. read more

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This was a fantastic stop just to admire the beauty of Cathedral. It's no wonder it had constant crowds around it every time we went by. Even for those who are not religious by any means can take in the historical architecture and beauty of this place. From both the inside and out. They did have Christmas wreaths/decor up for the holiday. Despite the large crowds it did not feel crowded at all with plenty of space inside. They also had many stations for candle offering with a suggested $3 donation. So much history and beauty contained here that it is an absolute must visit on your adventure down 5th Ave of NYC. read more

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**St. Patrick's Cathedral -- the one place in Midtown that actually makes you stop and look up** Midtown Manhattan is not exactly known for quiet moments. It's traffic, horns, tourists, and people speed-walking like their life depends on it. Then you walk through the doors of St. Patrick's Cathedral--and the entire atmosphere changes instantly. My first reaction when I stepped inside was basically: *"Holy shit."* Pictures don't really prepare you for the scale of this place. The vaulted ceilings stretch endlessly upward, the marble columns line the nave like a forest of stone, and the stained glass windows glow above the sanctuary in a way that almost feels surreal. It's massive, ornate, and unbelievably detailed, yet somehow still peaceful. What made the visit even more memorable for me was that this was **my first time attending Mass at St. Patrick's**. By pure luck, I ended up with a **front-row seat**, which gave me an incredible view of the altar and the entire sanctuary. The celebrant was outstanding--engaging, thoughtful, and clearly passionate about what he was saying. It made the whole experience feel much more personal than you might expect in a cathedral of this size. The contrast with the outside world is striking. Step outside and you're back in Midtown chaos; step inside and everything slows down. People lower their voices, sit quietly in the pews, and take in the architecture. Even if you're not religious, the craftsmanship alone is worth seeing. The carvings, the altar, the statues, the chapels--every direction you look reveals another remarkable detail. New Yorkers walk past a lot of incredible things every day and barely notice them. St. Patrick's Cathedral is one place where you really should stop, walk in, and take it all in for a few minutes. It's genuinely awe-inspiring. read more

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I always come into this church with my bestie who is a devout catholic and this is her favorite church. She makes sure to pray inside whenever possible, i also pass by when at the Victoria's Secret across the street. It's a beautiful church but def a very crowded area read more

I'm really surprised that this is my first review of this amazing cathedral in the heart of Manhattan. I took my BFF here. We went through security and they checked our bags to make sure everything's OK. We lit some candles & enough time allowed him to make some prayers. It really is amazing architecture, and all the details of the different alters and even the gift shop was chock full of so many things. Rosaries, some stationary of the new painting from 2024. They don't sell postcards. I am very grateful for all the helpful staff. They are very, very busy every time I've come here and they just have a gentleness to care for each person's special question. read more

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Catholic Church and prob the most know in manhattan Located across 30 rock it's easy to bump into Beautiful outside and inside with the virgen Guadalupe proudly displayed If you need time to contemplate here ya go read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

Nice we did a free self guided tour . Just walk in thru NW corner. Lots of hx to read and ushers happy to answer Qs too. read more

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What isn't there to like? It's an absolutely gorgeous Catholic cathedral. I am not religious, but I can definitely still appreciate churches and their beauty. St. Patrick's is only a couple of blocks away from Rockefeller Center. We erected lucky enough to be there on a day when there wasn't an event, so we could walk around at our leisure. It's breathtaking. read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

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I am so glad I was able to experience a mass at St. Patrick's Cathedral. I feel like it is a church unlike any other in America. When you walk in to it, it feels like you are in some European church built in the Middle Ages. it is absolutely stunning both from a religious and an architectural standpoint. The mass itself was wonderful. However, I do wish the priest spoke a little louder and with some more conviction/power in his voice. He was, unfortunately, the only downside to the whole time we were there. I hope the other priests at this church give better homilies that are more fitting for such an inspirational space. Even if you are not Catholic or religious in any way, I would highly recommend visiting St. Patrick's. You could easily spend hours going through and taking in all of the intricate carvings, the huge vaulted ceilings, the beautiful stained glass. There really isn't a single area of this church that feels like they cut corners or dropped the ball. It's just a fantastic thing from the foundation to the top of the steeple. read more

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St. Patrick's Cathedral is one of New York's rare landmarks that truly lives up to its reputation. Located on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, it is both an architectural masterpiece and a deeply reverent space for prayer, reflection, and worship. During the Christmas season, the cathedral feels especially moving. The nativity they present is epic--beautifully done, reverent, and elaborate. One of my favorite features is the Lady Chapel, tucked away at the eastern end of the ambulatory, behind the sanctuary (a sanctuary within a sanctuary). It is a dedicated space for quiet prayer and contemplation, noticeably more serene than the main nave. The rules against talking and photography are appreciated and help preserve the chapel as a true sanctuary. Architecturally, it is stunning--a later addition built between 1901 and 1906 in a 13th-century French Gothic style that harmonizes perfectly with the main cathedral. The stained-glass windows are extraordinary, often described as "flaming jewels of light," and the artwork, including the statue of Our Lady of New York and the Annunciation mosaic on the altar, is both beautiful and spiritually resonant. Outside, automobile traffic seems a thousand miles away. The glass doors added during the 2015 conservation project strike a thoughtful balance between privacy and accessibility. The cathedral itself is awe-inspiring. Designed by James Renwick Jr. and modeled after great European Gothic cathedrals, it occupies an entire city block, seats 2,400 people, and has twin spires rising more than 300 feet. Inside, the scale is breathtaking--the long nave, soaring vaulted ceilings, magnificent stained glass (including the large rose window), and powerful pipe organs all contribute to a sense of grandeur. Notable works of art, such as the massive Pietà sculpture and the Tiffany-designed altars, add to the experience. The Cathedral balances its role as a world-class landmark for five million visitors with its active mission as a thriving congregation offering 18 weekly services. Beyond its beauty, the history here is compelling. From Archbishop John Hughes' once-mocked vision to the cathedral's opening in 1879, and the crypt beneath the high altar where New York's archbishops and notable figures like Pierre Toussaint are laid to rest, the building carries immense cultural and spiritual weight. Admission is free. The cathedral is open daily, and donations are encouraged. Whether you are visiting as a person of faith, a lover of architecture, or simply someone seeking a quiet place amid the city's intensity, Saint Patrick's Cathedral is absolutely worth the visit. read more

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Timing was great as it was close to St. Patrick's Day 2025. Catholic or not, this is a must see. We dropped in and had a quick, respectful viewing of the marvelous archicture and stained glass, as service was starting. Beautiful on the inside as well as the exterior. Took lots of beautiful photos! read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Thank you God - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

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St. Patrick's Cathedral is absolutely breathtaking and deeply powerful. Stepping inside, the noise and pace of Midtown instantly fade away, replaced by an overwhelming sense of peace, history, and awe. The architecture is stunning, from the towering ceilings to the intricate details throughout, and it truly makes you pause and reflect. Whether you're religious or not, this is a must-see in New York City. It's a rare and beautiful contrast to the city surrounding it, and an experience that feels both humbling and inspiring. Five stars without question. read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

My first time going inside and I was honestly amazed at how beautiful it is in here. I can say that I am glad I stopped in here at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York! I feel like the interior as well as the exterior is really pretty. I'm not religious at all but I can still appreciate different religions and also the buildings and structures. This building has so much history and has been around since the 1860s. So if you are in the area it is worth a stop by. read more

I am reviewing St. Patrick's Cathedral not as a religious institution (which is more definitely is), but as a must-see tourist attraction, even if you are not Catholic or religious. St. Patrick's Cathedral is conveniently located near Rockefeller Plaza, NBC Studio Tour, Radio City Music Hall, and Times Square, so if you are in that area, I recommend seeing this beautiful Cathedral. The outside architecture is splendid (gothic), as are the beautiful stained glass windows, and late 1800's interior. While we were there, a wedding took place. The center part of the church was roped off, but you could watch from either side, and still get a full view of the church. I really do think this is a most worthwhile stop while you are seeing the other close by sites of New York City. read more

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Visiting New York was an adventure in itself, the landscape of modern man is better experienced and enjoyed when walking the streets, dining at their restaurants and engaging others who come from all over the world. But there is one thing that is iconic in the city itself, they have beautiful cathedrals, synagogues, churches, chapels and other centers of worship like no other. Since it was Lent, I decided to head to St. Patrick's Cathedral to pay homage to the God that allowed me to live, serve and follow his teachings. St. Patrick was full at the time, I have to sit towards the from to participate in the Holy Mass on a Tuesday and like many other faithful, sing and praise the Lord. St. Patrick's Cathedral is certainly a towering Neo-Gothic church from 1879 with twin spires & storied history opposite Rockefeller Center. The building itself is marvelous, Roman in its architectural design, altar of course showcases the Roman Catholic platform and is surrounded by saints, Virgin Mary and other iconic representations of the church canonical history. The cathedral is maintained by a platoon of guards in every corner of the church and they police everyone's behavior from phone use, bathrooms, clothing, food consumption to noise behavior...which to me, if a necessary component of keep the church clean and safe for everyone. The cathedral is located in the city center on 5th Avenue and is surrounded by much of the major American brands, I.e., Trump Tower, the Rockefeller Center etc... So, if you're in New York, drop by the church and pay your homage to the church and also enjoy the wonderful architecture and beautiful landscape of this institution. read more

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What a beautiful church! Passed by multiple times while on vacation and came for a Sunday mass before we headed home! So glad we got to finish our trip to NYC here! read more

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So much is written down I'll paraphrase: - largest gothic revival church in North America, located on Fifth Avenue in Midtown East--currently a district of mostly a commercial shopping and office buildings - built over the original St. Patrick's Cathedral on this site, work completed in 1878 and church dedicated in 1879, designated a national historic landmark in1976 - the exterior of the building is marble and a couple of its main design features are its two towers (one of which is a bell tower), bronze front doors, many stained glass windows - the crypt beneath the church is where many important figures in local church history are buried, as well as the Delmonico family who opened one of New York's earliest restaurants still open today (you can Yelp search "Delmonico's" which has a few locations in the city) - major renovations and restoration done in 1940s, 1970s, and 2010s - the cathedral is the seat of the Archdiocese of New York and the Archbishop's office are located here - the cathedral is free to visit, open 9-6pm daily. self-guided audio tours are available for $19.99, VIP tours with an in-person tour guide are $99, both are available to book online in advance. In-person tours have limited availability. Audio tours are available in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and Portuguese. A combo ticket with St. Patrick's audio tour and Top of the Rock general admission is $52.99. - regular mass is held and anyone can attend, more info on the cathedral website. - there are certain parts of the church at may be cordoned for private events and in the past few years there has been construction in certain parts of the interior as well. read more

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Absolutely breathtakingly beautiful! We stumbled upon the church on our walk in the city and just had to see if we could go inside. It's huge! They offer tours and the have a small gift shop at the front entrance. You can take a self guided walk around the entire cathedral. read more

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St. Patrick's Cathedral is the largest Gothic revival Catholic Church in North America. I love the detailed, ornate exterior and the stained glass is incredible. It's the least busy and crowded in the mornings before 10am. read more

It's hard to not give a perfect 5-star to a magnificent establishment like the St Patrick Cathedral- it is magnificent in many ways : from the architecture to the history. It is a great place to visit for visitors as they are open to the public; but for the same reason it can be noisy and crowded. If you plan to visit and you're reading this review, try to avoid weekends... and please be respectful to the church and the worshipers inside - stay as quiet as you can so all visitors can enjoy the experience. Other than that, it will not disappoint! read more

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I had to stop here, and all I can say is that my experience was spiritual and healing. The cathedral is gorgeous, absolutely breathtaking, and was what my soul needed. Experience beyond words. read more

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A trip to NYC should include this beautiful -- outside and inside - Church, regardless of your faith. Architecture ... wow! Stained glass windows ... so impressive. Great light inside. Renovation inside underway. read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

Stopping at St Patrick's Cathedral around st Patrick's day is a magical and spiritual experience. The cathedral is beautiful and has to be one of the biggest in the United States. A great place to spend a couple of hours while you are in NYC. read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

I visited St Patrick's Cathedral to see the controversial murals that were recently installed. I don't normally review churches but I'll make an exception. The murals are part religion, and part real life. They are a nod to immigrants past and present. They also honor 9/11 responders. My feeling is that they brighten up the somewhat dreary space. I said a prayer and made a donation. A must see for the faithful ! read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

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We visited here on a Saturday afternoon visiting MOMA and on our way to visit Rockefeller Centre, and we were amazed by the beautiful architecture and details inside the cathedral. It's a massive cathedral that you can spend hours walking around and see and cherish every little detail in the architecture and never get bored. While we were there, we saw a few couples coming here to officiate their wedding. read more

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Beautiful temple and lovely structure nice town New York is actually my favorite town in the entire world Just my New York is way different than your New York P.S : so much love for Saint Patrick's Cathedral read more

This church is across the street from Rockefeller Center and is absolutely breathtaking to see in person. It is the largest Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral in North America and takes up an entire city block. This church was built in the 1850's and is now surrounded by skyscrapers. I have only been inside of it once and it was towards closing time. So my time to walk around and explore the cathedral was short. I was able to walk down the aisle towards the alter and enjoy the craftsmanship and design of the interior before leaving. St. Patrick's Cathedral has two pipe organs and 19 bells located in the north tower. The construction of St. Patrick's Cathedral in the 1800's became necessary due to increasing population in the city and the continuous arrival of immigrants from the Catholic religion. It was designed by James Renwick Jr and construction was completed in 1879 (work was halted briefly during the American Civil War). St. Patrick's Cathedral is still an active Parish within the Archdiocese of New York and opens daily during the week for visitors. Even if you are not a religious person, stand outside this renowned city landmark and marvel at its architectural beauty. read more

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We have been to Mass at Saint Patrick's Cathedral countless times and will now never experience it the same again! Sophia was our tour guide and she was amazing. Her genuine excitement about every detail and story she shared filled us with the same spirit! To literally walk the same steps as Saints, Venerables, Popes, Cardinals and Bishops so inspiring. HIGHLY encourage anyone and most especially the faithful to take this tour! read more

I consider myself a retired Catholic, but I still appreciate the architecture of a beautiful church. It's hard to tell how big it is without very many people in the picture. This church is huge. Not as big as some of the churches in Rome, but probably the biggest church in NYC. Worth a visit, especially if you're a practicing Catholic. read more

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I had only ever seen the outside of st pats and over thanksgiving the group I was with wanted to go inside and check it out, which i was very happy to do. Since it's in fact a cathedral, it's massive, and has so much to look at. I was able to take my time and check out each side chapel (no sure of the technical term, Sunday school was awhile ago) Each area focuses on a different Saint, and has information plaques as well. Truly all beautiful, I hope to be able to attend Mass here one day! read more

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Friday Mass at noon is 30 minutes with communion. Security ropes off the aisle so only people sitting in pews for Mass can walk down the aisle which is smart. People are still walking on the sides of the church as Mass is going on. The cantor did a lovely job and the priest's homily on the feast of Saints Timothy & Titus was meaningful. After Mass we stopped in the gift shop. It's small and we didn't need anything so we headed out. Every time we come to the Cathedral we enjoy the beauty. read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

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We so enjoyed our visit to St Patrick's Cathedral, glorious place of worship dedicated in 1879 to accommodate the growing number of parishioners . It is a beautiful, welcoming, peaceful place ( however, they do have to check your bags upon entry). Areas are roped off for prayers and mass and all were most respectful. We spent over an hour here marveling at the architecture and magnificence, while admiring the artwork and devotional stations for the saints. The stained glass windows are mesmerizing. There are self guided and private tours. A marvel to behold regardless of your religious beliefs or practices. read more

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St. Patrick's Cathedral is where the legendary F. Scott Fitzgerald married his bride in 1920. What a grand venue, it is one of the largest cathedrals in the country. This Cathedral is just across the street from the Rockefeller Center, so why not come see its beauty when you're across the street. Beautiful is an understatement. I just didn't know which way to look, there was so much to see, no matter where you're standing. The gothic style is pretty obvious. First, the very high ceilings are a work of art. There are so many arches and beautiful stained glass windows. This Cathedral was built in 1878, which makes it just under 150 years old. Honestly, its style and craftsmanship made it look like it's been standing there for a lot longer, while holding on to its pristine condition. They even have a restroom, from the outside you would think it's a confession room, with its huge, heavy wooden doors. Inside is just your average restroom. This cathedral is very tourist heavy. They host mass at specific times. There is security at the entrance checking your bags. This is a beautiful cathedral that everyone should visit. You will feel peaceful within these walls, even if for a moment. read more

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It's big and cavernous. A lot of blind spots to the alter. I see why there are TV screens. Beautiful details on the columns, the stained glass is gorgeous and the relief depictions are so amazingly detailed. Lots of smaller alters on each side of the cathedral, since the main alter is blocked off for prayers. read more

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Very impressive art work, sculptures, history in the cathedral. When the Mass is in session, please be as quiet as you can. read more

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Excellent TourPatron small group tour of the premises. 90 minutes of unique information and a chance to take photos on the altar. History of the crypt was also very intriguing. read more

St. Patrick's Cathedral - Churches Near Me - New York, New York

Beautiful architecture and several little grottos to check out and see the Christmas decorations. I wasn't able to catch mass here, but was able to see the Cardinal on his way out from the previous mass (from the Spanish mass). I would find it a little odd that tourists are able to come in and wander around during the mass and several pews roped off so that the visitors cannot disturb the mass. 2023 #113 read more

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