Shrine Courtyard
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Shrine of St. Anthony

4.9
·167 reviews·Ellicott City, United States

A serene Franciscan sanctuary with Tuscan-like rolling hills, offering daily Mass, peaceful trails, and a welcoming spiritual atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
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Shrine Courtyard

Shrine of St. Anthony

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, more peace

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Franciscan sanctuary with Tuscan-like rolling hills, offering daily Mass, peaceful trails, and a welcoming spiritual atmosphere.

4.9
(167 reviews)

"Beautiful and spiritual place with a warm community and stunning natural beauty."

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📸 Perfect Photo Spots

The grounds offer stunning views, reminiscent of Tuscany. Don't miss the Saint Anthony and Donkey statue!

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy a peaceful hike on the wooded trails behind the church. Great for nature lovers and a good workout.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Daily Noon Mass

Daily Noon Mass

Chapel

Join the welcoming Franciscan community for a daily noon Mass, open to all denominations. A spiritual cornerstone of the shrine.

Peaceful Walking Trails

Peaceful Walking Trails

Shrine Grounds

Explore serene wooded walking trails offering a tranquil escape and beautiful natural scenery. Perfect for a reflective hike.

Saint Anthony and the Donkey Statue

Saint Anthony and the Donkey Statue

Shrine Grounds

Admire the charming statue of Saint Anthony with his donkey, a beloved and picturesque feature of the shrine.

Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto

Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto

Shrine Grounds

Find a moment of quiet contemplation at the serene Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, a place of peace and devotion.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to the Shrine of St. Anthony

Discover the serene beauty and spiritual solace at the Shrine of St. Anthony. This Franciscan sanctuary offers daily Masses, peaceful walking trails, and opportunities for confession and adoration. Plan your visit to experience its Tuscan-like rolling hills and welcoming community.

Best Times for Reflection and Photography

For a truly peaceful experience and stunning photos, consider visiting during weekdays when crowds are minimal. Early mornings or late afternoons offer beautiful light for capturing the shrine's rustic charm and natural landscapes, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peace
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday Afternoons
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends (after noon Mass)
Why
Experience community spirit
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

good places to take pictures?

📸 Perfect Photo Spots

The grounds offer stunning views, reminiscent of Tuscany. Don't miss the Saint Anthony and Donkey statue! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy a peaceful hike on the wooded trails behind the church. Great for nature lovers and a good workout. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Solace

Seek confession, adoration, or simply a quiet moment of peace. The Franciscan community is very welcoming. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access

The shrine is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for visitors. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Perfect Photo Spots

The grounds offer stunning views, reminiscent of Tuscany. Don't miss the Saint Anthony and Donkey statue! Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Trails

Enjoy a peaceful hike on the wooded trails behind the church. Great for nature lovers and a good workout. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Solace

Seek confession, adoration, or simply a quiet moment of peace. The Franciscan community is very welcoming. Reddit

🚗 Easy Access

The shrine is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for visitors. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(167 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Shrine of St. Anthony for its serene beauty, often likened to Tuscany, and the warm, welcoming Franciscan community. Highlights include the daily noon Mass, peaceful walking trails, and devotional sites like the Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue. Some wish for more time to explore the extensive grounds and trails.

"Not only does its beauty remind you like you’re in Tuscany with the rolling hills and rustic setting, but the Franciscan community is warm and friendly. Best place for confession, adoration, peace, beauty and the mass."

Joe Lombardo

"This beautiful shrine of Saint Anthony is open daily for a noon Mass. Anyone is welcome regardless of your religion denomination. Also there's a great trial on the back of the church that can provide an excellent hike."

Marianne Dias

"Beautiful and spiritual place. Took my mom to the shrine and attended Mass when she was in town for a visit"

Craig Traverson

What People Like

Beautiful Tuscan-like setting
Welcoming Franciscan community
Peaceful walking trails

What People Dislike

Wish for more time to explore

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Shrine of St. Anthony is located in Howard County. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for visitors. Many find it a peaceful drive through the rolling hills. Reddit

Yes, the Shrine of St. Anthony is located in Howard County, which is part of the greater Baltimore metropolitan area, making it a convenient destination for those in the city. Reddit

Information on public transportation options is limited, and most visitors arrive by car. It's recommended to check local transit schedules or consider ride-sharing services if you don't have a vehicle. Reddit

Specific driving directions can be found using GPS navigation. The shrine is known for its scenic location, often described as having Tuscan-like rolling hills. Reddit

The Shrine of St. Anthony is situated on beautiful grounds that include walking trails and other devotional sites, offering a comprehensive spiritual and natural experience. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is typically no admission fee to visit the grounds or attend Mass at the Shrine of St. Anthony. Donations are always appreciated to support the Franciscan community and the upkeep of the shrine. Reddit

The shrine is generally open daily, with a noon Mass celebrated in the chapel. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check their official website for the most current hours. Reddit

Absolutely! The Shrine of St. Anthony welcomes everyone, regardless of religious denomination, to attend their daily noon Mass. It's a place of peace and spiritual reflection for all. Reddit

No, tickets are not typically required for the daily noon Mass. The shrine is open to all, and seating is usually available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reddit

The shrine hosts regular Masses and offers opportunities for confession and adoration. For specific event schedules, it's best to consult their bulletin or website. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can attend daily noon Mass, explore peaceful wooded walking trails, visit devotional sites like the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto and the Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue, and find opportunities for confession and adoration. Reddit

Yes, there are wonderful wooded walking trails on the grounds of the shrine, offering an excellent opportunity for a peaceful hike and to enjoy the natural beauty. Reddit

The shrine and its grounds are beautiful and offer many picturesque spots for photography, reminiscent of Tuscany. The Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue is a popular subject. Reddit

Absolutely. The serene atmosphere, rolling hills, and peaceful trails make it an ideal location for quiet reflection, prayer, and spiritual rejuvenation. Reddit

Key devotional sites include the Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue, the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, and the St. Maximilian Kolbe Shrine. There is also a relic to be seen. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Shrine of St. Anthony primarily focuses on spiritual and natural experiences. There are no on-site dining facilities, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks or plan to dine in nearby Ellicott City. Reddit

Visitors are generally welcome to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy on the grounds, especially if planning to spend an extended period exploring the trails. Please be mindful of keeping the area clean. Reddit

The shrine is located near Ellicott City, which offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to more formal restaurants. Exploring Old Ellicott City can provide a great culinary experience after your visit. Reddit

No, there are no cafes or restaurants directly on the Shrine of St. Anthony grounds. The focus is on the spiritual and natural aspects of the location. Reddit

While not explicitly designated picnic areas, the grounds offer beautiful spots where visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene landscape. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The grounds offer stunning, Tuscan-like scenery. Popular photo spots include the Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue, the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, and the rolling hills. The wooded trails also provide beautiful natural backdrops. Reddit

Photography inside the chapel during Mass or services may be restricted out of respect. It's best to inquire with the staff or friars, or focus your photography on the exterior and grounds. Reddit

Early mornings or late afternoons, during the 'golden hour,' offer the most beautiful light for photography, enhancing the rustic charm and natural beauty of the shrine and its surroundings. Reddit

While generally encouraged, it's always respectful to be mindful of other visitors and any posted signage regarding photography, especially in devotional areas. Reddit

Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to contact the shrine administration directly to inquire about regulations regarding drone photography to ensure compliance. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Shrine of St. Anthony offers a peaceful escape for families. The wooded walking trails provide a safe and engaging space for children to explore nature, while the Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue can be a fun point of interest for younger visitors. The serene environment is conducive to teaching children about quiet reflection and appreciation for nature. Reddit

While there are no specific playgrounds, the open grounds and scenic beauty offer plenty of space for families to relax and enjoy time together. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy amidst the rolling hills, making it a delightful day trip for all ages. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Retreat Seekers

For solo travelers or those seeking a spiritual retreat, the Shrine of St. Anthony is an ideal destination. The daily noon Mass offers a sense of community, while the peaceful walking trails and Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto provide ample opportunities for quiet contemplation and personal reflection. The welcoming nature of the Franciscan community ensures a comfortable and enriching experience. Reddit

Visitors can find solace in the serene atmosphere, engage in confession and adoration, or simply enjoy the beauty of the Tuscan-like landscape. It's a place to disconnect from the everyday hustle and reconnect with oneself and one's faith. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Shrine of St. Anthony is a photographer's delight, offering a unique blend of spiritual architecture and natural beauty. The rolling hills and rustic setting are often compared to Tuscany, providing a picturesque backdrop. Key subjects include the Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue, the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, and the expansive grounds. Reddit

For the best shots, aim for the golden hour during early mornings or late afternoons to capture the soft, flattering light. The wooded trails also offer opportunities for nature photography. Remember to be respectful of worshippers and any posted guidelines regarding photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Franciscan Presence and Spirituality

The Shrine of St. Anthony is a spiritual center managed by the Franciscan Friars. This order is known for its dedication to poverty, chastity, obedience, and service to the poor and marginalized. Visitors often remark on the warm and friendly nature of the Franciscan community, contributing to the shrine's welcoming atmosphere. The spirituality here emphasizes peace, beauty, and devotion, offering a sanctuary for prayer, confession, and adoration. The daily noon Mass is a central part of this spiritual offering, open to all who seek solace and connection. Reddit

This spiritual focus is reflected in the serene environment. The grounds are designed to foster contemplation, with quiet spaces and devotional sites. The presence of relics and the emphasis on sacraments like confession and adoration underscore the shrine's role as a place for spiritual renewal. Whether you are seeking a deeper connection with your faith or simply a moment of peace, the Franciscan friars and the shrine's atmosphere provide a supportive environment. Reddit

Exploring the Natural Beauty and Trails

Beyond its spiritual significance, the Shrine of St. Anthony is celebrated for its stunning natural landscape. Reviewers often compare the rolling hills and rustic setting to Tuscany, highlighting the picturesque quality of the grounds. This natural beauty is further enhanced by the presence of well-maintained wooded walking trails. These trails offer visitors an opportunity to engage with nature, providing a peaceful escape and a chance for a refreshing hike. Reddit

These trails are not just for exercise; they are integral to the shrine's mission of providing a holistic experience that nourishes both the spirit and the body. The serene environment of the trails complements the contemplative atmosphere of the shrine itself. For photography enthusiasts, these natural settings, along with iconic features like the Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue, offer ample opportunities to capture memorable images. Reddit

Key Devotional Sites and Photo Opportunities

The Shrine of St. Anthony is dotted with several points of interest that draw visitors for both spiritual reflection and photographic opportunities. A standout feature is the charming Saint Anthony and the Donkey statue, which is frequently mentioned and photographed. Another significant site is the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, offering a tranquil space for prayer and contemplation. Visitors also note the presence of a St. Maximilian Kolbe Shrine and a relic, adding to the devotional richness of the location. Reddit

These sites, combined with the overall rustic and rolling landscape, make the shrine a popular spot for photographers. The Tuscan-like scenery provides a beautiful backdrop, and the various statues and grottoes offer distinct subjects. The early morning or late afternoon light, often referred to as the 'golden hour,' is particularly recommended for capturing the best light and atmosphere. Reddit

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