St. Cecilia Cathedral - white and brown concrete building under blue sky during daytime
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St. Cecilia Cathedral

4.8
·375 reviews·Omaha, United States

A magnificent Gothic Revival cathedral in Omaha, Nebraska, renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate details, and vibrant stained glass.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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St. Cecilia Cathedral - white and brown concrete building under blue sky during daytime

St. Cecilia Cathedral

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent Gothic Revival cathedral in Omaha, Nebraska, renowned for its stunning architecture, intricate details, and vibrant stained glass.

4.8
(375 reviews)

"The place is amazing. It's so beautiful, and the craftsmanship put into it is breathtaking."

Vertical photo
TIP

Free Admission & Parking

:moneywithwings: Entry is free! Parking is also easy to find nearby. :parking:

Drone Photography Allowed

:camerawithflash: Drones can capture stunning aerial views of the cathedral's exterior. :drone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Splendor

Architectural Splendor

Marvel at the breathtaking Gothic Revival architecture and intricate craftsmanship. A true masterpiece of design and devotion.

Stained Glass Windows

Stained Glass Windows

Gaze upon the vibrant, storytelling stained glass windows that illuminate the sanctuary with divine light.

Annual Flower Festival

Annual Flower Festival

Experience the cathedral transformed by stunning floral displays during this beloved annual event.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

Beat the crowds by visiting on weekdays, especially in the morning. Weekends, particularly during services or special events like the flower festival, can get busy. Consider checking the cathedral's schedule for events to avoid potential disruptions or to experience them firsthand.

Experiencing the Grandeur

St. Cecilia Cathedral is a stunning architectural marvel. While entry is free, consider a guided tour to fully appreciate its history and intricate details. Photography is generally allowed, but be mindful of ongoing services and respectful of the sacred space.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late January (Flower Festival)
Why
Spectacular floral displays
Crowd
High
When
During non-service hours
Why
Uninterrupted exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come take a virtual tour of the Saint Cecilia Cathedral in Omaha Nebraska! #cathedral #tour #church #architecture #building #sights #landmarks #traveling #tourist #thingstodo #nebraska #omaha #thingstodoinomaha #fyp
@kaylamariegabbard
134 likes • 4.8K views

Free Admission & Parking

:moneywithwings: Entry is free! Parking is also easy to find nearby. :parking:

Drone Photography Allowed

:camerawithflash: Drones can capture stunning aerial views of the cathedral's exterior. :drone:

Mass at St. Cecelia’s Cathedral in Omaha!! 9.7/10. Absolutely stunning interior, beautiful organ music, and a large, diverse congregation. The homily was about how you have to work to get into Heaven. Time was about an hour. I’ll be back!#churchtiktok #mass #catholic #historic #sundaymass
@mamajoestar5
30 likes • 469 views
We’re bringing Baroque back! At our first Symphony Cathedral concert inside the St. Cecilia Cathedral, the Omaha Symphony and St. Cecilia Choir will perform centuries-old music that has weathered the test of time due to its ornate orchestration, deeply moving melodies, and profound impact. You don’t want to miss the first concert, Vivaldi’s Gloria, on Thursday, September 18!
omahasymphony
248 likes • 33.8K views

Check Service Times

:clock1: Be aware of Mass times to avoid disrupting services or to attend one. :church:

Flower Festival Highlight

:bouquet: The annual flower festival is a must-see if you visit in late January! :sparkles:

BTS — Leah & Daniel • 08 02 25 . . . Planner: @poppyweddingevents Photographer: @phanguyenphotography Venue: @thewoolwortheventcenter / St. Cecilia Cathedral Catering: @attitudeonfood Florals: @jadenkay.designs Rentals: @thewallfloweromaha Entertainment: @imageentertainmentomaha Dress: @noabrides Veil: @misshouseofdeane Hair / Makeup: @satellitesalon @bungaloweightomaha . . . . . . . ....
phanguyenphotography
0 likes • 4.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Free Admission & Parking

:moneywithwings: Entry is free! Parking is also easy to find nearby. :parking:

Drone Photography Allowed

:camerawithflash: Drones can capture stunning aerial views of the cathedral's exterior. :drone:

Check Service Times

:clock1: Be aware of Mass times to avoid disrupting services or to attend one. :church:

Flower Festival Highlight

:bouquet: The annual flower festival is a must-see if you visit in late January! :sparkles:

Diverse Congregation

:peopleholdinghands: Known for its welcoming and diverse congregation. :heart:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(375 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise St. Cecilia Cathedral for its breathtaking architecture and free admission, making it a must-see landmark in Omaha. The annual Flower Festival is a particular highlight, drawing admiration for its stunning displays. While generally a peaceful experience, attending during busy services or events might mean navigating crowds.

"St. Cecilia Cathedral..one of the biggest of the top ten church in the Inited States. It’s free to go inside and enjoy the beautiful decor. A great place to visit. Easy parking"

Dawn

"We came here the other day and thoroughly enjoyed it. We had our infant with us, so we didn't join the tour, but we did explore and get to see the cathedral. The place is amazing. It's so beautiful, and the craftsmanship put into it is breathtaking. It's definitely a great spot to come for a tour, and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who hadn't been or is passing through."

Dustin Booth

"Visiting from out of town and went to the 8:30 service. It was very nice and not super busy. I wish they had a choir with the 8:30 service though. It sounds like they save the choir for the 10:30 service."

Connor Yakes

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Beautiful stained glass
Free admission

What People Dislike

Crowds during events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Cecilia Cathedral is located in Omaha, Nebraska. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also be available; check local transit schedules for routes serving the area. TikTok

Yes, visitors generally find parking to be easy and readily available near the cathedral. Reddit

Absolutely! St. Cecilia Cathedral welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds. It's a place of architectural beauty and historical significance that can be appreciated by everyone. Reddit

You can explore at your own pace or join a guided tour to learn more about its history and architecture. Many visitors enjoy simply walking through and admiring the intricate details. Reddit

Yes, St. Cecilia Cathedral is located in Omaha, which offers various attractions. Creighton University and its St. John's Church are also notable landmarks in the vicinity. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, admission to St. Cecilia Cathedral is free, allowing everyone to experience its beauty. Reddit

Visiting hours can vary, especially around Mass times and special events. It's recommended to check the official cathedral website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

Yes, St. Cecilia Cathedral holds regular Mass services. You can attend to experience a service or simply observe the spiritual atmosphere. TikTok+1

While the Flower Festival is a popular event, it's generally free to attend. However, it can get crowded, so arriving early is advisable. TikTok+1

Guided tours are often available, providing in-depth insights into the cathedral's history, art, and architecture. Inquire at the cathedral or check their website for tour schedules. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Filming

Photography is generally permitted inside St. Cecilia Cathedral, but it's important to be respectful of ongoing services and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography during Mass. TikTok+1

Yes, drone footage of the cathedral's exterior has been captured, suggesting it's permissible in the surrounding areas. Always adhere to local drone regulations. TikTok+2

The altar, stained glass windows, and the grand nave offer stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the scale and intricate details of the architecture. TikTok+1

While general filming for personal use is usually allowed, commercial filming or large-scale productions may require special permits. Always check with cathedral administration. TikTok

Visitors often capture the architectural grandeur, the vibrant stained glass, and the serene atmosphere. Drone shots of the exterior are also popular. TikTok+2

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

The atmosphere is reverent and inspiring, with stunning architecture and beautiful organ music often filling the space. Visitors often feel a sense of awe and peace. TikTok+1

While specific accessibility details should be confirmed with the cathedral, large cathedrals are often designed with accessibility in mind. It's best to contact them directly for detailed information. Reddit

The annual Flower Festival, typically held in late January, transforms the cathedral with elaborate floral arrangements, creating a breathtaking visual experience. TikTok+2

Yes, the cathedral hosts various events, including concerts by the Omaha Symphony and choir, as well as religious observances. Instagram

A visit can range from 30 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on whether you're attending a service, taking a tour, or simply admiring the architecture. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Cecilia Cathedral can be a wonderful place for families to visit. While it's a place of worship, its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows can captivate children's imaginations. Consider visiting during non-service hours for a more relaxed exploration. TikTok+1

If you have very young children, you might opt for a self-guided tour to allow for flexibility. While specific child-friendly amenities aren't widely advertised, the sheer visual spectacle of the cathedral often keeps younger visitors engaged. Remember to discuss respectful behavior in a place of worship beforehand. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, St. Cecilia Cathedral is a dream location. The Gothic Revival architecture provides endless opportunities for capturing dramatic shots, both inside and out. The stained glass windows are particularly photogenic, especially when the sun streams through them, creating vibrant patterns of light. TikTok+2

Don't forget to explore the exterior for unique angles, and consider using a drone for breathtaking aerial perspectives of the cathedral's scale and design. TikTok+2 Remember to be mindful of any restrictions and always respect ongoing services. The annual Flower Festival also offers unique photographic subjects. TikTok+1

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

St. Cecilia Cathedral offers a deeply spiritual experience for those seeking solace or connection. Attending a Mass service provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the community's faith and enjoy the beautiful organ music. TikTok+1

The cathedral's reverent atmosphere, combined with its awe-inspiring architecture, creates a profound sense of peace. It's a place where many find inspiration and a quiet space for reflection, regardless of their religious background. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel

St. Cecilia Cathedral is a magnificent example of Gothic Revival architecture, designed by renowned architect Thomas R. Kimball. Its construction began in 1905 and was completed in 1959, making it a significant landmark in Omaha. The cathedral boasts soaring vaulted ceilings, intricate stone carvings, and a grand facade that commands attention. Visitors are often struck by the sheer scale and the meticulous craftsmanship evident in every detail, from the ornate altars to the delicate tracery of the windows. TikTok+1

The interior is equally awe-inspiring, featuring stunning stained glass windows that depict biblical scenes and saints, casting a colorful glow throughout the sanctuary. The grand organ is another highlight, contributing to the cathedral's reverent atmosphere, especially during services or concerts. Many visitors describe the experience as breathtaking and deeply moving, a testament to the artistry and devotion poured into its creation. TikTok

For those interested in architecture, St. Cecilia Cathedral offers a rich visual experience. The use of local materials and the adherence to traditional Gothic design principles make it a noteworthy structure. It's a place where history, art, and faith converge, offering a profound sense of peace and wonder to all who enter. TikTok+1

Experiencing Mass and Services

Attending Mass at St. Cecilia Cathedral offers a unique opportunity to experience the spiritual heart of the community. Visitors have noted the diverse congregation, making it a welcoming place for people from all backgrounds. The organ music is often highlighted as being particularly beautiful and enhancing the worship experience. TikTokReddit

While the 8:30 AM service is noted as being less busy, some visitors mention that the choir is typically reserved for the later 10:30 AM Mass. This detail can be helpful for those who wish to experience the full musical grandeur of the services. The homilies are also described as insightful, adding to the enriching spiritual aspect of attending Mass. TikTok+1

For those planning to attend a service, it's advisable to check the cathedral's schedule for specific times and any potential special observances. Being mindful of the sacred nature of the space and dressing respectfully are always appreciated when attending religious services. TikTok

The Annual Flower Festival

The St. Cecilia Cathedral Flower Festival is a highly anticipated annual event that transforms the cathedral into a breathtaking floral wonderland. Typically held in late January, this festival draws crowds eager to witness the elaborate and artistic floral displays. Visitors consistently describe the arrangements as gorgeous and the overall experience as beautiful and inspiring. TikTok+2

This event is a unique way to experience the cathedral, offering a different perspective on its grandeur. The combination of the stunning architecture and the vibrant, creative floral artistry creates a truly memorable spectacle. It's a testament to the community's dedication to celebrating beauty and faith through art. TikTok

While the festival is a popular draw, it can lead to larger crowds. Some visitors have mentioned that it can involve waiting in pews for their turn to view the displays, but most agree that the beauty of the flowers makes it well worth the wait. TikTok+1

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