Gargoyle Tours

Gargoyle Tours are available April through October.

As an art form, there’s nothing particularly “American” about gargoyles—they decorate many of the great cathedrals in Europe. However, the gargoyles and grotesques of Washington National Cathedral show a distinctly American interpretation of these whimsical carvings.

Take one of the Cathedral’s gargoyle tours and see our culture reflected in stone—from our hobbies and pastimes, from yuppies to hippies, to what frightens us in this modern era. Slide show followed by outdoor tour. The tour will include a selection of the many gargoyles that are part of the Cathedral; please be aware that for various reasons it may not be possible to include/view specific gargoyles.

Gargoyle Tour Dates May 22 at 6:30 pm May 25 at 2 pm June 22 at 2 pm June 26 at 6:30 pm July 24 at 6:30 pm July 27 at 2 pm August 24 at 2 pm September 28 at 2 pm October 26 at 2 pm

Meet at the west end docent station, nave level. No reservations required; binoculars recommended; cameras welcome. $5 per person. For ages 10 and older. Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate bus groups on gargoyle tours. If you have any questions, please e-mail tours@cathedral.org.

If you arrive at a time guided gargoyle tours are not offered, self-guided tour sheets are available at the information table.

PLEASE NOTE: Cathedral Tour and Tea is a tour program separate from the above Gargoyle tours. Available by reservation only, it offers a specialty or in-depth tour (themes vary depending on day) with seated afternoon tea in the 7th floor Pilgrim Observation Gallery. Tour and Tea is offered most Tuesday and Wednesdays at 1:30 pm, and costs $25 per person. For more details or to make a reservation, please go to the Tour and Tea page.