Visiting New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Because of it’s beautiful architecture, soothing atmosphere and range of programs open to the public, New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a popular destination for tourists and natives alike regardless of religious affiliation. It is also of significant historical interest, having been begun in 1858 and then put on hold during the American Civil War. The cathedral was then completed in 1878 and was dedicated on May 25, 1879. The rectory was completed in 1884. The spires at the front were added in 1888, and construction of the Lady Chapel began in 1901.

For those interested in spending time at New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral here is some basic and useful information.

If you’re looking to experience New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral purely as a non-religious tourist, it’s recommended that you not visit during mass times, as you are asked to refrain from photography or touring the St. Patrick’s Cathedral during services. You are, of course, however welcome to observe or participate as is appropriate, and many do.

Generally speaking, New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral itself is open from 6:45am until 8pm each day.

Mass times at New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral are 7:00am, 7:30am, 8:00am, 12 noon, 1:00pm and 5:30pm Monday through Friday. On Saturday’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral holds mass at 8:00am in the Lady Chapel, 12 noon, and 5:30pm. Sunday masses at St. Patrick’s Cathedral are at 7:00am, 8:00am, 9:00am and 10:15am, 12 noon, 1:00pm and 5:30pm. St. Patrick’s Cathedral has an even busier mass schedule on holy days, and also frequently adds additional masses for days of secular significance such as 9/11 (Often, they also play host to ecumenical services for 9/11 some of which are and some of which are not open to the public. If you’re looking to attend regular Mass around the 9/11 anniversary, it may be best to call St. Patrick’s Cathedral for any schedule changes). Devotions are held in the Lady Chapel at 5:30 pm each weekday after mass.

Features of New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral also include many saints’ chapels including those for St. Jude, St. Elizabeth, St. Michael, St. Louis and St. Anthony. The st. Michael and St. Louis altar was designed by Tiffany & Co., anf the St. Elizabeth altar was designed by Paolo Medici.

Music is a large part of the offerings at New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Aside from the volunteer cantors and the cathedral’s choir that present music during services, concert events are also occasionally held at the cathedral, especially around the holiday season.

New York City’s St. Patrick’s Cathedral also has two gift shops – one inside the cathedral and one outside at 15 East 51st Street, between Fifth and Madison Avenues.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral itself is located at 460 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10022 and can be reached at (212) 753-2261