Washington National Cathedral

Washington National Cathedral Review

Construction of Washington National Cathedral—the sixth-largest cathedral in the world—started in 1907; it was finished and consecrated in 1990. Like its 14th-century Gothic counterparts, the stunning National Cathedral (officially the Cathedral Church of St. Peter and St. Paul) has a nave, flying buttresses, transepts, and vaults that were built stone by stone. State funerals for Presidents Eisenhower, Reagan, and Ford were held here, and the tomb of Woodrow Wilson, the only president buried in Washington, is on the nave's south side. The expansive view of the city from the Pilgrim Observation Gallery is exceptional. You can even enjoy a traditional afternoon English tea in the gallery most Tuesdays and Wednesdays following a one-hour cathedral tour.

The cathedral is Episcopalian, but it's the site of frequent ecumenical and interfaith services. Be sure to take one of the docent-led tours. In addition to the daily Highlights Tour, other tours examine the cathedral's famous gargoyles (a favorite among families) and icons and other art that pays tribute to America's military, among others.

On the grounds of the cathedral is the compact, English-style Bishop's Garden. Boxwoods, ivy, tea roses, yew trees, and an assortment of arches, bas-reliefs, and stonework from European ruins provide a counterpoint to the cathedral's towers.

The cathedral's Flower Mart held annually on the first Friday and Saturday in May is one of Washington's premiere festivals. Each year, one Washington embassy is honored and festivalgoers are treated to the culture, traditions, food and art of the selected country. Traditionally, lobster rolls are on sale during the Friday festival. And, this is one of only two times during the year that you can climb the 333 steps to the cathedral's tower.