The St. Patrick’s Cathedral Official Fully Guided Behind the Scenes VIP Tour offers a rare opportunity to explore the hidden depths of this iconic New York landmark. Led by a knowledgeable cathedral historian, guests can discover the archbishop quarters and gain unparalleled insight into the cathedral’s rich history and stunning Gothic architecture. However, the tour’s exclusivity and personal nature make it a unique experience that may pique the interest of discerning visitors seeking a deeper connection with this cultural treasure.

Contents show

Key Points

Offers a unique VIP guided experience with access to off-limit areas like the archbishop quarters at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City.
Limited to 12 participants per day for an intimate 60-minute tour led by a cathedral historian.
Includes reserved front-row seats for mass at the conclusion of the tour.
Wheelchair accessible and accommodates a range of fitness levels and abilities.
Priced at a special offer of $116.10 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.

Tour Overview

The St. Patrick’s Cathedral Official Fully Guided Behind the Scenes VIP Tour offers a unique opportunity for history buffs and spiritual travelers to explore the iconic cathedral in New York City.

This limited-capacity tour, with a maximum of 12 participants per day, provides a 60-minute VIP guided experience led by a cathedral historian. Guests will have the chance to explore areas typically off-limits to the public, including the archbishop quarters, and secure reserved front-row seats for mass at the conclusion of the tour.

The tour meeting point is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Gift Shop, and the experience ends back at the same location.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in New York City

Tour Features

Exploring areas not seen by the public, including the archbishop quarters, is a highlight of the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Official Fully Guided Behind the Scenes VIP Tour.

Participants receive reserved front-row seats for mass at the conclusion of the 60-minute guided experience. The tour begins at the cathedral’s gift shop and ends back at the same location.

With a maximum of 12 participants per day, the tour provides an intimate, VIP-level experience led by a cathedral historian. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Pricing and Availability

A special offer allows visitors to participate in the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Official Fully Guided Behind the Scenes VIP Tour for $116.10 per person, down from the original price of $129.00. Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours before the experience, and a lowest price guarantee is provided. Guests also have the option to reserve now and pay later.

Pricing	Availability	Accessibility
$116.10 per person (special offer)	Limited to 12 participants per day	Wheelchair accessible
$129.00 (original price)	Morning tours only	Most travelers can participate
Free cancellation up to 24 hours	Confirmation received at booking	Near public transportation

Accessibility and Participation

Is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Official Fully Guided Behind the Scenes VIP Tour accessible to all?

The tour offers:

Wheelchair accessibility, ensuring equal access for all visitors.
Participation by most travelers, with the tour catering to a wide range of fitness levels and abilities.
Confirmation of booking details received at the time of reservation, providing travelers with peace of mind.

Plus, the tour’s proximity to public transportation makes it convenient for visitors to reach the meeting point at the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Gift Shop.

Reviews and Ratings

The St. Patrick’s Cathedral Official Fully Guided Behind the Scenes VIP Tour has earned a 4.6 rating based on 16 reviews.

Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and the unique insights they provide during the tour. Notably, reviewers mention the depth of information shared and the special access to areas like the altar and crypt, which allow visitors to gain a deeper connection to the cathedral.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in New York City might interest you

Historical Significance of St. Patrick’s Cathedral

St. Patrick’s Cathedral is a landmark steeped in rich history and cultural significance. As a prominent Roman Catholic cathedral, it has played a crucial role in the religious and social fabric of New York City.

The cathedral’s history includes:

Its construction, which began in 1858 and took over 20 years to complete, showcasing the architectural prowess of the time.
Its dedication to Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland, reflecting the significance of the Irish-American community in the city.
Its status as a center of religious and community life, hosting notable events and serving as a hub for spiritual reflection.

Architectural Highlights of the Cathedral

Soaring spires and intricate Gothic architecture define the captivating design of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Visitors are awed by the stunning arched windows, towering columns, and ornate altars that showcase the cathedral’s commitment to craftsmanship and reverence.

The vaulted ceilings and stained glass panels flood the interior with a warm, ethereal light, creating a contemplative atmosphere.

Exquisite marble, bronze, and woodwork adorn the nave, while the pipe organ and choir loft contribute to the cathedral’s rich musical heritage.

Exploring these architectural marvels offers guests a profound appreciation for the cathedral’s timeless elegance and spiritual grandeur.

Spiritual Significance and Religious Practices

Beyond its architectural splendor, St. Patrick’s Cathedral holds immense spiritual significance as a sacred space for Catholic worship and religious practices.

As a center of faith, the cathedral hosts daily masses, sacraments, and other devotional observances that connect worshippers to the divine.

Visitors can:

Witness the awe-inspiring sight of the cathedral’s altar and sanctuary, where sacred rituals and ceremonies take place
Observe parishioners engaging in private prayer and reflection in the pews
Attend a mass or service to experience the cathedral’s liturgy and sacred music

The cathedral’s religious heritage and liturgical traditions invite guests to deepen their spiritual connection within its hallowed walls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

The tour allows participants to take photos during the experience, providing them with a chance to capture the unique behind-the-scenes access and architectural details of the site. Photography is generally permitted but may be restricted in certain areas.

Is Food or Drink Allowed Inside the Cathedral?

Food and drink are generally not permitted inside the cathedral, except for water. The tour experience is focused on providing an informative and reverent exploration of the sacred space without disruptions. Visitors are expected to respect the religious nature of the site.

How Much Time Is Allotted for the Front-Row Mass?

The tour includes reserved front-row seats for mass at the conclusion, though the exact duration of the mass is not specified. The experience is designed to provide a deeper connection to the cathedral through exclusive access and guided insights.

Are Restrooms Available During the Tour?

Restrooms are generally available during tours, as providing access to restroom facilities is a standard practice to ensure the comfort and convenience of participants. The specific availability and locations of restrooms would be best confirmed with the tour operator.

Can We Purchase Souvenirs at the End of the Tour?

According to the tour overview, visitors can purchase souvenirs at the end of the tour, as the tour ends back at the meeting point, which is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral Gift Shop.

The Sum Up

The St. Patrick’s Cathedral Official Fully Guided Behind the Scenes VIP Tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the hidden depths of this iconic New York landmark. Led by knowledgeable historians, the tour provides an intimate glimpse into the cathedral’s architectural and spiritual significance, culminating in a reserved front-row experience of mass. This exclusive experience is a must-do for those seeking to deepen their appreciation of St. Patrick’s Cathedral’s rich history and cultural impact.