Capture the iconic landmark’s best photo spots.
An architectural marvel, the National Cathedral provides both professional and amateur photographers with incredible opportunities to capture stunning images, from its intricate facades to its lush surroundings.
As you visit the National Cathedral, have your camera ready to document the interplay of light and shadow throughout the day. You can be assured that you will leave with remarkable photos that showcase the beauty and history of this iconic landmark.
Below are the best photo spots which you shouldn’t miss.
The West Front
The main entrance showcases a majestic façade that is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, providing excellent photo opportunities. Visit the National Cathedral during the early morning or late afternoon to capture the way light casts dramatic shadows, highlighting the intricate textures of the stone.
The entryway features a stunning array of detailed stone carvings, including intricate floral patterns, statues of saints, and majestic gargoyles, each telling its own unique story. This level of craftsmanship invites photographers to explore every detail, from the delicate flourishes to the grand sculptures.
The West Front is perfect for wide-angle shots, allowing you to capture the full scale of the cathedral against the expansive blue sky. Don’t forget to include the vibrant greenery of the surrounding gardens in your composition; the contrast between the cathedral’s stonework and the lush landscape creates a visually striking image. Whether you’re capturing the grandeur of the entrance or the subtle details, the West Front offers endless possibilities for stunning photography.
The Nave
National Cathedral. Washington DC. Credit: Carry on Caro
The Nave of the National Cathedral offers some of the most beautiful photographic opportunities within the building. As you enter, you will immediately notice the towering ceilings that soar high above.
Among the standout features of the Nave are the stained-glass windows, which depict a variety of religious themes and historical narrative as well as provide excellent lighting for interior shots. I recommend you capture the sunlight filtering through the windows during the afternoon.
Featured tours
The Garden
The view from the garden towards the cathedral is particularly beautiful when the flowers are in bloom during spring. Tulips, daffodils, and other seasonal blooms create a breathtaking backdrop against the cathedral’s stonework.
I recommend you experiment with different perspectives—including framing the cathedral through blooming branches or capturing close-ups of the flowers with the cathedral in the backdrop.
This spot is usually less crowded, so take a moment to enjoy the serenity of the gardens.
The Bell Tower
If you want to capture a unique perspective of Washington, DC, the Bell Tower at the National Cathedral is a must-visit. Climb the 333 steps to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Washington, DC’s skyline along with the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol visible in the distance.
The climb includes multiple views inside the Cathedral itself, up-close views of stained glass, and access to some of the Cathedral’s oldest stairs. The view is particularly enchanting during golden hour, creating a magical atmosphere for your shots.
To explore the Bell Tower, you’ll need to participate in a special guided tour, which can be easily booked through the official National Cathedral website. These tours often provide insights into the history and significance of the tower, adding depth to your experience. Remember to check the schedule in advance, as tours may fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. This tour takes around 70-90 minutes.
The Bishop’s Garden
Nestled behind the National Cathedral, the Bishop’s Garden is a hidden gem that features beautiful flowers, a serene pond, and unique sculptures. This enchanting garden is a testament to thoughtful horticulture, showcasing everything from delicate spring blossoms to lush summer perennials. Capture close-ups of the flowers or alternatively frame them against the majestic stone backdrop of the cathedral as you wander the walking paths.
In addition to its stunning floral displays, the garden boasts a tranquil pond that reflects the surrounding greenery and architecture. This peaceful water feature attracts various wildlife, including birds and butterflies, enhancing the garden’s charm.
Scattered throughout the garden are unique sculptures and art pieces. Ranging from classical statues to contemporary installations, each work tells its own story and adds a layer of intrigue to the landscape.
Space Window
This is the Cathedral’s best-known stained-glass window which contains a piece of moon rock donated by Neil Armstrong. Located on the middle level of windows on the south side of the nave, this window is dominated by large circles, creating the impression of gazing into the void of space.
Do you have any other photo spots that you like? Let us know in the comments below!
We are part of several affiliate programs including Amazon and Viator which means that we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through the links included in this post.