Cathedral of St. John the Divine New York City
A colossal Gothic cathedral in NYC, still under construction, known for its art, events, and inclusive spirit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blessing of the Animals
Cathedral of St. John the Divine New York City
Best Time
Blessing of the Animals
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal Gothic cathedral in NYC, still under construction, known for its art, events, and inclusive spirit.
"It's yuuuuuuge! The facade hides the giant dome and flying buttresses."
⏳ Construction Continues
Remember, this cathedral has been under construction since 1892! Embrace its ongoing evolution. :construction_worker:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Events
The Blessing of the Animals is a must-see! Check dates for this unique NYC tradition. :dog2: :cat2:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Nave
Interior
Marvel at the sheer scale of this unfinished Gothic masterpiece, a testament to enduring architectural ambition.
Blessing of the Animals
Outdoor space
Witness a heartwarming spectacle as pets of all kinds are blessed annually. A truly unique NYC tradition!
Keith Haring's Last Artwork
Chapel of the Good Shepherd
See the poignant final artwork by the iconic artist Keith Haring, a powerful AIDS memorial.
Pride Lights Installation
Interior
Experience the breathtaking 'Pride Lights' installation, where stained glass windows are illuminated with the colors of the Pride flag.
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to St. John the Divine
Embrace the Scale and Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Construction Continues
Remember, this cathedral has been under construction since 1892! Embrace its ongoing evolution. :construction_worker:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Events
The Blessing of the Animals is a must-see! Check dates for this unique NYC tradition. +1 :dog2: :cat2:
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
A tour offers deep insights into the history and architecture you might miss otherwise. :walking:
✨ Art & Installations
Look for special art installations like the 'Pride Lights' or Keith Haring's memorial. +1 :art:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Construction Continues
Remember, this cathedral has been under construction since 1892! Embrace its ongoing evolution. :construction_worker:
🐾 Pet-Friendly Events
The Blessing of the Animals is a must-see! Check dates for this unique NYC tradition. +1 :dog2: :cat2:
🚶♀️ Guided Tours Recommended
A tour offers deep insights into the history and architecture you might miss otherwise. :walking:
✨ Art & Installations
Look for special art installations like the 'Pride Lights' or Keith Haring's memorial. +1 :art:
💰 Donation Appreciated
While entry may be free, a donation is requested to help with upkeep. :moneybag:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awed by the immense scale and architectural grandeur of the Cathedral of St. John the Divine, often describing it as a breathtaking and awe-inspiring space. The unique events, such as the Blessing of the Animals and art installations like the 'Pride Lights,' are frequently highlighted as memorable experiences. While the ongoing construction is noted, it adds to the cathedral's unique character rather than detracting from its appeal.
"I was able to take the C train up to 110th Street & then it was just a few blocks away. Well worth the stop to visit the cathedral, which is the largest on the island of Manhattan and is not as busy as St. Patrick's or some of the other cathedrals mid/downtown. They had 7 different mini-chapels that were connected to the main cathedral. The architecture was amazing as well as some of the displays, art & antiques. They also hold daily services that you can check out on their website or displayed out front."
Nathan June
"I was here for a choral concert that I was a part of. The staff were so amazing and attentive to our needs. It was a great concert.
The inside is so spacious and the reverberation from some of our music echoed for at least 10-15 seconds.
It is an amazing space."
Bradley Platt
"$15 Entrance fee for adults as of 7/19/25.
The Cathedral of St. John the Divine (sometimes referred to as St. John's and also nicknamed St. John the Unfinished) is the cathedral of the Episcopal Diocese of New York. It is at 1047 Amsterdam Avenue in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan in New York City, between West 110th Street (also known as Cathedral Parkway) and West 113th Street.
The cathedral is an unfinished building, with only two-thirds of the proposed building completed, due to several major stylistic changes, work interruptions, and unstable ground on the site. The original design, in the Byzantine Revival and Romanesque Revival styles, began construction in 1892. After the opening of the crossing in 1909, the overall plan was changed to a Gothic Revival design. The completion of the nave was delayed until 1941 due to various funding shortfalls, and little progress has occurred since then, except for an addition to the tower at the nave's southwest corner. After a large fire damaged part of the cathedral in 2001, it was renovated and rededicated in 2008. The towers above the western elevation of the facade, as well as the southern transept and a proposed steeple above the crossing, have not been completed.
Despite being incomplete, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is the world's fourth-largest church by area and either the largest or second-largest Anglican cathedral.[a] The floor area of St. John's is 121,000 sq ft (11,200 m2), spanning a length of 601 feet (183 m), while the roof height of the nave is 177 feet (54 m). Since the cathedral's interior is so large, it has been used for hundreds of events and art exhibitions. In addition, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine has been involved in various advocacy initiatives throughout its history.
The cathedral close includes numerous buildings: the Leake & Watts Orphan Asylum Building, the cathedral proper, the St. Faith's House, the Choir School, the Deanery, and the Bishop's House. The buildings are designed in several different styles and were built over prolonged periods of construction, with the Leake & Watts Orphan Asylum predating the cathedral itself. The cathedral close was collectively designated an official city landmark by the New York City Landmarks Preservation Commission in 2017."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral of St. John the Divine is easily accessible via public transportation. The 1 train to 110th Street-Cathedral Parkway is a convenient option. Several bus lines also stop nearby, including the M4, M5, and M104.
Driving and parking can be challenging in this area of Manhattan.
Yes, the Cathedral of St. John the Divine is located in the Morningside Heights neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City.
The most direct subway line is the 1 train, with a stop at 110th Street-Cathedral Parkway, putting you right at the cathedral's doorstep.
Yes, it's a pleasant walk north from the upper part of Central Park. It's about a mile and a half, taking roughly 30-40 minutes depending on your starting point.
Street parking in the area can be very difficult to find. There are a few parking garages in the vicinity, but they can be expensive. Public transport is generally recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to explore the cathedral's main spaces is often free, but a donation is highly encouraged to support its maintenance and ongoing construction. Special events, tours, and services may have separate admission fees.
Visiting hours can vary, especially on Sundays due to services. It's best to check the official Cathedral of St. John the Divine website for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
While you can often enter to admire the architecture without a fee, a donation of around $10 is suggested for visitors who wish to explore freely. This helps fund the cathedral's extensive upkeep and projects.
Absolutely! The Cathedral of St. John the Divine holds regular Sunday services and other liturgical events. Check their schedule online if you wish to participate.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended to fully appreciate the cathedral's history, architecture, and ongoing construction. They offer valuable insights you might otherwise miss.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find the immense nave, stunning stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and significant artworks like Keith Haring's memorial. The sheer scale of the unfinished architecture is a major draw.
Yes, construction on the Cathedral of St. John the Divine began in 1892 and is still ongoing, making it a unique living monument. This continuous building process is part of its fascinating story.
The annual Blessing of the Animals in October is incredibly popular, drawing crowds and many animal companions. +1 They also host concerts, holiday services, and art installations like the 'Pride Lights'.
The main floor of the cathedral is generally accessible for wheelchairs. However, due to its historic nature and ongoing construction, some areas might have limited accessibility. It's advisable to contact the cathedral directly for specific needs.
Photography for personal use is usually permitted inside the cathedral, but flash photography might be restricted, especially during services or events. Always be respectful of worshippers and other visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand nave offers incredible wide-angle shots. Look for dramatic lighting through the stained-glass windows, especially during the 'Pride Lights' installation. The exterior architecture, with its flying buttresses, is also very photogenic.
Tripod use might be restricted, especially during busy times or services, to avoid obstructing pathways. It's best to check with cathedral staff upon arrival or contact them beforehand if you plan on extensive photography.
Absolutely! The sheer scale, intricate details, and unique events like the 'Pride Lights' make it a fantastic location for photographers seeking dramatic and meaningful shots.
Late afternoon can offer beautiful light filtering through the stained-glass windows. For exterior shots, morning light can be lovely. Consider visiting during an event for unique photographic opportunities. +1
The 'Pride Lights' installation offers a unique, colorful experience. The annual Blessing of the Animals
provides a chance for charming and lively shots. Also, don't miss the chance to photograph Keith Haring's final artwork.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a guided tour if your children are old enough to appreciate the stories and history. The vast open spaces can be exciting for them to explore, but always ensure they are supervised. The cathedral's location also makes it a good stop when exploring other Upper West Side attractions. Remember to check for any family-friendly events or services happening during your visit.
🎨 Art & History Enthusiasts
Take advantage of guided tours to delve deeper into the cathedral's rich past, its architectural evolution, and the stories behind its many artistic elements. The ongoing construction itself is a historical narrative, showcasing the dedication and vision of generations. Don't miss the chance to explore the various chapels and alcoves, each with its own unique artistic and historical significance.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Visitors
Beyond the visual spectacle, the cathedral's progressive stance and welcoming atmosphere make it a comfortable and meaningful place to visit. It stands as a symbol of acceptance and a space where all are encouraged to feel a sense of belonging. Check their event calendar for any Pride-related or LGBTQ+ community events during your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living Monument: The Cathedral's Construction
This prolonged construction period has allowed for the integration of various artistic and spiritual elements over the decades. From intricate stained-glass windows to significant sculptural works, the cathedral is a repository of art and history. The fact that it's still evolving means each visit can offer a slightly different perspective, highlighting the dedication and craftsmanship involved in its creation.
Beyond Worship: Events and Art at St. John the Divine
Art plays a significant role in the cathedral's life. It has been a venue for powerful artistic statements, most notably housing Keith Haring's last artwork, a poignant memorial created before his passing.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit