​Why You Should Go Behind the Scenes at Washington National Cathedral

Did you know that there is a place in Washington DC where you can find incredible stained glass windows, Gothic architecture, and intricately carved gargoyles? Just a few miles up the road from the popular National Mall and museums sits the massive Washington National Cathedral. Not far from the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, the cathedral, considered to be the 6th largest in the world, is an amazing place to tour. Visitors can spend time searching for gargoyles and grotesques
around the exterior of the cathedral, then explore details of the magnificent stained glass windows and beautiful chapels. If you are lucky, you might hear the ringing of the bells. These photos will allow you to experience some of its beauty and interesting features we found on the Behind the Scenes Tour and hopefully inspire a visit. Read on to see what else we learned during our guided tour at Washington National Cathedral, and see why the Washington National Cathedral is included in our 20 Things to Add to Your Washington DC Bucket List. 

*Updated June 2024
*This post contains affiliate links; if you purchase something familyTravelsUSA may receive a small commission. As always, opinions are my own. 

​What It's Like Behind the Scenes

The best way to maximize a visit at Washington National Cathedral is through a tour. Visitors will find several interesting specialty tours, including the popular Behind the Scenes Tour. It’s one of the more unique guided tours in Washington, DC, bringing you up close to gorgeous stained glass windows and interesting architectural features.  Keep in mind that many of these special tours do involve stair climbing and small spaces, and a few have minimum age restrictions for children. Tours and general admission to the cathedral may only be available on certain days of the week. It’s best to check the cathedral website for the latest information before planning a visit.  

For the Behind the Scenes Tour,  our small group of 6 spent over 90 minutes with our well-informed guide exploring the cathedral from various vantage points. To me, the best part of going on a guided tour at Washington National Cathedral was seeing some of the 215 spectacular stained glass windows up close.  While it’s true that the large windows are visible from the main floor, it was awe-inspiring getting a closer look at several of the bigger windows. My favorite spot was at the base of the 26 foot “Creation” Rose Window. We got a good view of the glass paperweight that artisan Rowan LeCompte added to commemorate his wife who died while he was working on the stunning Rose Window.

​Another window that visitors often see from below when entering the main floor gift shop depicts a golden tree on a vibrant blue background. Behind the scenes, we were close enough to see the words quoted by Winston Churchill in a 1941 radio broadcast, etched in stone at the base of the window. The back passageways are also home to many smaller, unique stained glass windows placed in memory of cathedral friends and family.  

Along the way we learned the history and stories behind some of the architectural components. This included some of the more than 700 carved boss stones (the largest weighing 5 tons). Not only do these decorative stones serve an important structural purpose, they are key to the support of the cathedral ceiling.  At one point we climbed a circular staircase which brought back special memories of climbing the stairs in Italy’s Leaning Tower of Pisa. Finally reaching the upper level, we  stepped outside briefly to take in the view and see some of the flying buttresses and towers up close.

​Note that the Behind the Scenes tour does not include climbing to the bell tower, which would also be a fascinating spot to visit. The tower houses both peal and carillon bells, which makes it one of a kind in North America. Our guide gave us an overview of the job of the cathedral’s talented peal bell ringers--definitely quite a process, played using mathematical patterns. Anyone with a serious interest is welcome to learn more through the Washington Ringing Society. Unlike the peal bells, the cathedrals carillon, made up of 53 bronze bells, is actually played using a keyboard and pedals. Here's an informative short video from the National Cathedral to learn more about the bells and carillon.    

Related post: 20 Things to Add to Your Washington DC Bucket List

​What Other Kind of Tours Are Offered

Besides the Behind the Scenes Tour, there are plenty of options for all ages and abilities. Admission fees are required unless you are attending a worship service. The self guided tour option uses the Bloomberg Connects app. The app provides details on topics like Art, Architecture, and History, or the outside Gargoyles and Grotesques. The Thematic Tours, like the  Stained Glass or Humor & Whimsy, offer visitors a chance for detailed learning focusing on certain aspects of the cathedral. If you don’t mind climbing, you might enjoy the Tower Climb: Angels and Monsters Tour.  It is recommended to book the specialty tours well in advance, as they often sell out. 

Binoculars are useful for spotting the gargoyles and grotesques around the outside of the cathedral—don’t miss finding Darth Vader! Use the Bloomberg Connects app to find more details or to help you locate certain features. ​When you are done, be sure to take a stroll through the Bishop's Garden. 

Learn more: Building Washington National Cathedral

​Other Things to Know Before You Go

The Sunday worship services are free and open to the public, while there is an admission fee to enter most days for touring. Before you plan a visit, check online for hours and other special events. If you are interested in taking a tour, advanced reservations are strongly suggested. Reservations can be made online.  And if all that sightseeing has made you hungry, step into Open City at the National Cathedral for a bite to eat or cup of coffee. ​

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