Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis Reviews

Absolutely gorgeous mosaic ceilings. Serene, peaceful atmosphere. There is even a small museum in the basement.

Time: 1-2 hours.
Cost: FREE

Highly recommended.

This church is absolutely awe-inspiring! The size of the church and magnificence of the mosaics must be experienced to be truly appreciated. Anyone passing through St. Louis should definitely make time for a visit!

In town briefly, we took an Uber to 8am mass and found out we were there on the feast day of the patron saint: St. Louis! Truly beautiful mosaics and the organ is awesome too. Staying downtown, it was well worth the trip out to go.

Absolutely beautiful mosaics. Such a source for contemplation in each panel. Museum is informative, too!

I am not a member of the Catholic but wanted to visit for the artisan work...Amazing! The men and women who built this magnificent building and installed the millions of tiny tiles created a tremendous place of worship and reverence. A must see along with the arch.

The craftsmanship, the history, the reverence of the Cathedral is so very impressive. Take the free tour! We did go to the museum downstairs, and that helps put in perspective the talents, the time, and the vision that created the mosaic masterpieces you see in the cathedral. It's an amazing place to see no matter your faith is. I've been to St. Louis multiple times and never knew about this place.

The Cathedral is one of the biggest in the country. There are over 41.5 million pieces of mosaic used to decorate the inside of the building. A very nice Museum is located in the basement area which provides information regarding the placement of the mosaics, past ministers of the church as well as some of their vestments worn. Take the time to see this wonderful building. It's worth the time.

The Basilica is a must see stop in St. Louis, whether you attend mass there or simply tour the architecture. It truly feels like you're stepping into a massive church in Europe.

The place itself is amazing a beautiful you should see the artwork it is amazing you will never see a place like it it is not even busy at all the place is quiet and there are people for information at the desk I would recommend coming here.

I had read great reviews about this church, so I put it on top of our list. I wanted get here after arriving in the city before they closed. I am so thankful we visited. It was just draw dropping. The peacefulness and atmosphere. Everyone was able to keep a reverence while giving themselves a self tour of sorts. There was so much beautiful architecture and mosaics, and detailed design. Just gorgeous. You're allowed to just go inside. Don't miss this. They has small donation boxes in teh back of the sanctuary. One to help support the church. One to help the Poor.

I'm a born and raised South City gal, but hadn't been in this cathedral since graduating high school in 1981. I've been gone from St. Louis for 35 years, but come in a few times a year to visit family and friends. This time, I brought a few friends with me who have never been to St. Louis. They really wanted to go here, and I'm so glad they did! It's an absolutely stunning cathedral -- the mosaics inside are gorgeous! Highly recommend a visit!

This is peaceful and beautiful. My daughter goes to Rosati Kain and she is in the Choir and sings in this amazing Cathedral once a week. Moving experience to be in the presence of the Holy Spirit.

So where to begin, firstly what a stunning site filled good views and spiritual enlightenment. But let's say it doesn't end there. We arrived as a family of god only to be rejected by the pastor and have them smile at us in a condescending manor. "Your not Catholic" he says in a menacing tone .... Well pastor picky, normal pastors of god are meant to be welcoming to those of all creeds rather than scaring away people who want to find god..... No wonder the service was so small and insignificant when you have a pastor who turns away those who want to give religion a go..... This is why the modern world is filled with a can't be arsed mentality. Nice work....

The amount of art in this cathedral is always mind-boggling. I always forget just how big and beautiful it is when I go back. There are also I think 6 or 7 pipe organs in the building. Went on a pipe organ tour with the cub scouts years ago and was very impressed by that fact.

We enjoyed Mass here. This Cathedral is beautiful. We would highly recommend visiting while in St. Louis.

This is the first time visiting this Cathedral and the overall experience was excellent! The mosaics depict the life of our patron! The mosaics art is beautifully crafted! Just wow! Worth the visit! Parking is available in the back of the Cathedral.

We would like to go back and do a tour. Don’t let that stop you. Step inside and take in the breath-taking beauty.

The artwork is truly amazing. This basilica is gorgeous. Very ornate. There are tours available but we had walked the church by the time we found out about the tours. Did ask a few questions that were eagerly answered.

A must see for everyone.

We reached here in afternoon and spent quite afternoon. This place is very impressive. The mosaics are stunning. All the paintings are breathtaking. We always wanted to visit Cathedral and we were glad that we visited this place. They also have maintained history about it and is very informative.
One of the must see attraction in St. Louis.

Amazing church we wanted to visit and see the inside. We were fortunate to make the noon mass and have a greater experience.

As a lifelong Catholic and frequent visitor to STL I was amazed at how much I did not know about the Basilica. If you are Catholic or love history and architecture - you have to visit.

Very peaceful place. Incredible architecture. Well worth visiting for a morning with grandchildren. On my list to bring many more visitors.

A must see if you are visiting St. Louis. As others have mentioned the Mosaic work is simply phenomenal. Reportedly the largest Mosaic collection outside of Russia. The Church was open mid day and street parking was no problem.

Not exactly zillions of mosaic tiles, but some 41.5 million -- make the walls of the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis come alive! Visitors can''t help but stand agog at the complexity of the mosaics adorning every wall and ceiling of the cathedral. The cathedral, built in Byzantine style over 100 years ago, rivals the great churches of Europe. The soaring domes and spectacular mosaics are truly amazing. Visitors should not miss the "mosaics museum" in the lower level, accessed near the main entrance.

It was beautiful. Amazing craftsmanship! Worth a stop for sure! If you've never been overseas, this is about as close as you can get in this coutry!

Fascinating place! Don't miss the mosaics all around the ceilings, and the mosaic museum in the basement. GREAT gift shop if you're looking for religious things.

Beautiful church. Byzantine mosaics. Small museum in basement. If you like to
Visit churches this should be on your list

Ok so maybe not quite but majestic , stunning , sensational

There’s nothing more to say - the place speaks for itself

My cousin was in town and I’m always looking for something to do . We took the tour along with 12 4th graders . They were good and had some interesting questions . We enjoyed the tour . The basicalia is so ornate and all mosaics !

The art and architecture are spectacular. A beautiful place to pray and reflect no matter what faith you embrace.

We could not believe our eyes with all of the mosaic tiles that fill the church. We were lucky enough to hear Dr. Horst Buchholz perform is final program on the organ the day we went to visit. It was amazing to hear him play.
This is church is beautiful and a must see while in Saint Louis.

This is one of the most beautiful churches you will ever see. As gorgeous as any in Europe. St. Louis has many beautiful churches with stained glass, mosaics designed by master craftsperson’s. Some have called St. Louis the Rome of the West. Better hurry; the Archdiocese is closing more churches.

Went for the stations of the cross. Breathtaking art. Beautiful and classic cathedral. Highly recommend.

Start in the museum in the basement if you are not on a tour as it helps to understand the mosaics and history.

The mosaics are amazing and a little overwhelming. I wish there was a brochure/map audio tour/AR tour via an app to add to the learning. It would be a great addition to the experience. I understand that it is a religious space.

Use all the superlatives you know that apply to architecture and you will begin to describe the cathedral. This was just a quick stop on our tour but it is worth an extensive visit and study.

From the moment you walk through the front doors, you know that you are about to experience something very special. After Sunday's noon service and before the 5 pm service, the Basilica is open for self-guided tours.

Outside is nice but inside is spectacular. The mosaics are breathtaking and then to realize the last ones were in stalled in the 1980’s!

The detail throughout is amazing. The museum in the basement will take 15-30 minutes but highly recommend the visit!

Walking in this Cathedral and seeing the architectural work of art will leave you in awe. Words are hard to describe the Masterpiece this cathedral is. I have seen many cathedrals throughout Europe, and this one is as spectacular as the ones I have seen in Europe. A cathedral synthesized by the Byzantine and Romanesque design. It is displayed all through the cathedral as one will see color, light, arches, mosaics and domes. One will be amazed seeing how the dedication of the church is displayed in the artwork. The cathedral is dedicated to the Victorious Christ and Saint Louis IX, King of France and the patron saint of the City. The impressive Mosaics are completed with over 42 Million pieces of glass. It is heartwarming to learn that the Cathedral was visited by Pope John Paul in January of 1999. This cathedral should be a must see for anyone visiting the city - NO matter your religion.

It was well worth the time to visit here. We went to noon mass and observed the beautiful, artistic church. Very spiritual visit.

I don't know why it took us so long to discover this gorgeous Cathedral Basilica. This seriously rivals anything we've seen in Europe. I love mosaics and cannot believe this beautiful church with over 40 million mosaic tiles exists so close to home. As a Catholic, it felt like an especially sacred place. There are also two Tiffany windows in the church. We were lucky enough to be there when a tour was about to begin. Be sure to take a tour when you visit. There is so much history. Another thing to do is to visit the museum downstairs. The garden next store has the most unbelievable angel statue along with a little koi pond. This is a must see place for tourists and locals.

We walked in on Saturday during mass so we had limited time to explore. This is a beautiful church with golden mosaics on the ceilings and beautiful stained glass. We really enjoyed the art in this cathedral.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is a massive structure in the heart of the city. It’s ceilings are covered in impressive mosaic artwork—the second largest mosaic collection in the world, with St. Paul’s Cathedral in Vatican City. Free tours of the Cathedral are available, but call to get the times or arrange a private one. Allow an hour to visit the several interior chapel and soak in the magnificence of this gorgeous cathedral that was built between 1907 and 1914. It’s a gem.

We came as a time-filler, and were so so glad we stopped. The mosaics are stunning and abundant. Don't miss the museum in the basement to see how they were done.

Must see if you’re in St Louis! Free to the public and worth the visit. We stopped by on a whim and it was such a pleasant surprise. I would come again and again.

Not only is this a wonderous site, the history is very interesting. We arrived during a funeral so headed down to the basement to see the collection and learn about the process of the mosaics.

Not only is this a very historic church the work on the mosaics for so many years ended up with 41 million pieces of glass tesserae. It is breathtaking! You will not be disappointed in this. Time your visit right and they do a tour which I'm sure would be worth it.

We arrived there just when a docent was displaying and talking about the Saint John's Bible. they have. It is an amazing work of art and craftsmanship, as is the cathedral. This is a must stop.

The basilica is very impressive, with all of the over 80,000 sq ft of mosaics! It's like an art museum.

We went to Mass there during our visit. The echoing made it difficult to hear, but the mosaics that cover the walls and ceiling made up for that. There is a mosaic "museum" downstairs that explains the process...so time consuming! Gorgeous to see!

We had a great time but that was because we were able to go through the Basilica with Docent Maureen. Maureen was knowledgable funny and really made this experience. The Basilica is beautiful.

This is a bit out of the way, but well worth an Uber or Lyft trip out here. It is spectacular inside.

Wonderful historic cathedral, largest collection of mosaics in North America. This cathedral rivals St. Mark's Cathedral in Venice.

The Rome of the West. MASSIVE church in a city full of huge churches. A Cathedral plus Basilica- not many of those around. Beautiful inside and out. Serene inside and perfect for praying . Great museum about the mosaics in the basement area .

This is a very beautiful church. There was a guide who was giving small tours on the day I was there but I did the self guided tour. The artwork and mosaics are incredible! I took public transportation to visit from downtown St. Louis near the convention center and after taking the train it was a 15 minute walk- worth the effort for sure!

Note: The onsite store was closed and there were no public washroom facilities at the time I visited.

The architecture includes gorgeous stained glass and the mosaic inlays are spectacular. Many special chorales take place there weekly.

This church is very close to the arch. Worth visiting and spending some time. It was open for visitors on Sunday afternoon. Nice architecture.

Lived here for years and never knew the Cathedral was here that was as stunning as can be. The details of hard work and beauty we marvelous.

Beautiful and historic cathedral right in downtown St. Louis. Worth allowing some time to see both the exterior and interior with all its interesting architecture and art. Conveniently located right near the Gateway Arch (walking distance).

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, also known as the Saint Louis Cathedral, is a cathedral of the Roman Catholic Church. the Architecture is awesome , each wall as a beautiful design showing an event from the bible , the way of the cross is been beautifully designed on the wall , dome is lit .
everyone visiting St Louis should take time and visit this cathedral.

The Nearest Metro Link is Central West End , its just 10mins walk from the metro Link.

Beautiful cathedral. Rivals some of the European cathedrals we’ve visited in its beauty. Going in by yourself would be good. But go to the trouble to schedule a tour with a docent. Exponentially more informative. Only takes about an hour. Maybe a smidge linger, but you’ll get so much more history and symbolism. The price to tour this local gem is perfect = $0. They do suggest a donation at the end of the tour. You’ll be happy to make that donation. Great experience!

Larry the docent was just great. Super guy. He even made the recommendation of some spots on The Hill. ( Larry, you were right the bakery and meat shop were incredible! )

We were in St. Louis at the start of vacation. After the Botanical gardens, we needed a place to sit and get a cold drink...It was hot that day.
Asking the bartender he recommended this place.

Was close by relatively for StL.
Immense!!!!!

Remember a few churches near here I know it would be possible to place 4---5 ---6 of their worship space inside this.
Definitely reminded me or pictures have seen of the many churches in Europe.
BUT, the size hits you when you walk in.....But it's the detail....everywhere carvings...painting etc.....on every surface.
The ceiling is hard to take in because of size, but for this just being able to look up that long to grasp it.
On each side of the primary alter, there are secondary small chapels..

Take the time to look, BUT it is a church not a playground......There was a wedding rehearsal happening when we were there......but they took care of what they needed to do...The tourists were just ...props???

This is a must-see if you make it to Saint Louis. The mosaics inside this cathedral rival some of the churches I have seen in Italy. 41.5 million pieces of glass were used to create the incredible beauty inside this cathedral. The floors are marble, with gorgeous arches and hallways.
Beauty among serenity and quiet. Absolutely gorgeou!

A must see in St Louis. No words to describe the beauty of the Cathedral both inside and out. Very knowledgeable volunteers/ tour guides. A would love to go back and attend mass there some day!

Historic church. The mosaics are beautiful and lend an artful touch. The architecture is amazing. Worth a visit.

A beautiful time of worship for those who feel drawn to mass or a time of peace and quiet reflection. This house of worship is incredible and a stunning work of art. Mosaic tiles depict the life of Christ from wall art to a mosaic tiled dome and beautiful altar. The organ was skillfully played and the grounds beautifully kept. A stop on your St. Louis that is well worth your time.
Parking is available behind the cathedral. Free! I would love to return to the cathedral for a holiday or future music concert. I will definitely try and visit again on a return visit to the city for this very purpose.

This church is breathtaking! They do tours regularly (call for a schedule) they only ask for a minimum donation of $2 for children and $3 for adults. Tour takes about an hour and is well worth it!

Just came back from Europe have seen a few basilicas! St. Louis basilica is way more beautiful than many of them! Also a wonderful place to pray, none of ordinary churches give you the same atmosphere!

Another nice visit to a beautiful edifice, great architecture and an impressive layout and structure for visitors and worship.

Simply breathtaking...the mosaics throughout the Sanctuary are unbelievably beautiful. Have a guide walk you through the meaning behind all of the scenes. If you ever get a chance to hear a concert there...GO!!!

While in St. Louis, take a little time to visit the Cathedral Basilica. You will marvel at the mosaics. They are incredible.There is a small brochure which describes the interior of the cathedral. This is definitely worth the stop. Makes you feel like you are visiting one of the cathedrals in Europe.

Worth a trip to St.Louis if this was the only thing scheduled. We all want to go back, don’t skip this.

Jewel of St Louis! If you haven’t been here be sure to visit. The Basilica is absolutely beautiful- you won’t believe the intricate workmanship of the mosaics that cover the entire interior! Take a guided tour to learn about the most interesting aspects of the building and the history. Small museum downstairs with detail of the mosaics.

Whether on a guided or unguided tour, the architecture and interior mosaic art tells such vivid stories. Amazing!

This cathedral is stunning to see. Coming from an area that doesn't have any I've only seen a few across the U.S. but this one was the best. Inside it's like a cavern with gold decorations, beautiful art, and stained glass all around. Even if you're not religious it's a genuine wonder and hard to fathom how people created something this beautiful and complex. People in St. Louis who call this their church home are truly fortunate. If you're in town it's a must see.

This is a beautiful church building. Entrance to the exhibit museum is free there is a suggested two dollar donation beautiful architecture beautiful building

The Basilica is a superb tour! It is stunning in the amount of stained glass and the mosaics contained inside. Our docent offered a very detailed description of the artwork and many of the features contained in the Basilica. Definitely worth a trip!

Absolutely beautiful! So detailed and gorgeous, will definitely be back. It was just beautiful, the detail is just amazing.

There are not many things that are truly Free and impressive. But this one is an exception. Your trip to St. Louis will be incomplete without visiting Cathedral Basilica. It is absolutely Free (no strings attached). It is open throughout the year. We have visited it twice with friends and we have enjoyed both the times.

Parking:
Free parking is available on the back side of cathedral. Usually, there are always spots open.

Time:
It may take from about an hour to as long as you would like.

Don't forget:
to visit a museum in the basement. It does not take too long but it is a nice little history of the construction of the cathedral.

We happen to get there during mass which was very nice, we were able to receive communion. The church is very beautiful inside and so detailed in the inside. It is a free will donation.

Absolutely beautiful. If you enjoy visiting churches, don’t miss this spectacular church. The beauties breath taking and the gardens are peaceful as well. Even the teenage girls enjoyed it.

Just a few steps away from the Arch is a beautifully restored gem of this city.
Go through the front doors and enter quietly. My description of the beauty of this place will not do it justice so I will only say go. Stop a minute. Slow down.
The day before we visited. We lost a family member. We are not catholic but we lit a candle for him.

We went for morning Mass and then wandered around looking at all the gorgeous mosaics. This is an early 20th-century cathedral basilica, definitely worth a visit whether for prayer or art (or both).

This is a must see hidden gem. If your mouth does not drop as you walk in you are not looking around you. The mosaics are old world beauty.

So beautiful and a sermon that had stuck with me. Having grown up in St. Louis, I’m surprised I’ve never been here before. Enjoy taking the time to walk around and look say everything and say some
prayers.

My husband and I love to see different churches and attend Mass when we travel. I noticed this as a highly rated attraction on this site, so we decided to attend 10am Mass and see the church. We were not disappointed. The mosaics throughout the church were just amazing. This is the most beautiful church I have ever seen. After Mass we also visited the Mosaic Museum in the church basement. I highly recommend this stop on your trip to St. Louis!

Mr. Larry walked around and asked if people had questions and then gave us a detailed history of various details about the church. He made the church viewing an even better experience than just looking at the beautiful interior. A great visit.

We went here for my niece's wedding. The outside of the building is really beautiful, but the inside was even more impressive! It is a very large and beautiful church.

Unbelievable. We have visited some of the most famous churches in the world. But this was spectacular. 41.5 million pieces of glass tessare, mosaic tiles with gold leaf. There was a wedding when we first arrived. As we waited, we explored the museum and shop. Don't skip. Take time to explore and spend in the sanctuary.

Fabulous cathedral, huge, historic, only original surviving frescoes in West, sound fabulous as choir sang at wedding several times, acoustics fab

Incredible architecture that hits you as soon as you see the structure. The intricate design on such a scale is beautiful. Inside is no different. The tile work and the amount of hours it had to have taken is incredible. There is plenty to see and admire. Downstairs, there is a small museum that has some displays of some of the work that was done and some artifacts from some of their significant events.

Stepping into the Cathedral is just utterly awe inspiring, even just the antechamber alone is stunning. Then the main Cathedral? I didn't have words. I just kept muttering "wow" softly to myself. The mosaics are unlike anything I have ever seen before. The level of detail is just insane. The building itself is architecturally interesting enough on its own right, and then you add in the mosaics and it's just gorgeous. There is a sense of weight to it all. You find yourself remaining quiet and respectful not just because that's what the location demands, but because you're just so full of awe that you are left speechless. If you are in the area, take the time to go and see this masterpiece.

Every surface was covered with beautiful mosaics - most of them gilt. It rivaled any of the cathedrals we've visited in Europe.

What an incredible place! This is the most beautiful church I’ve ever seen, and we’ve visited plenty on our meandering road trips. With over 41.5 MILLION glass mosaic pieces, It is one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world, covering over 83,000 square feet. Begun in 1912, twenty different artists, like Louis Tiffany, contributed to this amazing place of worship. Definitely worth every minute of the nearly two hours we spent there, but can be done much more quickly. There is a brochure in the lobby, explaining every section of the church. So glad we decided to do this!

One of the most Cathedral I've ever been. i love the mosaic collections that is decorated all over the church. It is supposed to be one if not the one largest mosaic collection in the world when it comes to Basilicas.

Although we attended the Basilica to hear a concert the real star attraction in the Cathedral itself. We rank it's sheer beauty as greater than some of the famous churches we've visited in Europe, on a par with Paris' Notre Dame.

One word of caution for those who might attend Mass. The pews are uncomfortable almost beyond imagination.

Fascinating and absolutely beautiful! Nice small museum in the basement. This rivals any basilica I've seen in Europe.

Breathtaking. Perhaps one of the most beautiful places in America. Even our 6 year old was taken with it and stood mouth agape with his head tilted up to see all the mosaic artwork. Even if you aren't Catholic, it's worth seeing. Parking in the back is free.

Huge church on Lindell Boulevard that boasts an unparalleled use and display of mosaics. Well worth a visit if you are in the area.

We went to the ten o clock mass on Sunday. Great experience, wonderful mass. The cathedral is all set with mosaic stones. Obviously relatively new. Still impressive and quite beautiful. Yes, a must. Even if you are not religious. Outside a nice sculpture about harmony and the neighbourhood is nice too

Breathtakingly beautiful. Intended to inspire awe, and it makes good on that intention. Definitely worth a visit.

Absolutely beautiful basilica. We made it just in time for a free tour and our guide was really good. I learned a lot from our tour that I wouldn’t have found out in our own.

Definitely worth your time
We've seen many European churches and this one is comparable or better. I'm not Catholic, but the 12:05 Mass was worth my time.

Most mosaic tiles in the world. Beautiful place that is often not included in tours. Convenient location near the Central West End which has great restaurants

I had read that this is one of the most beautiful churches in the US and I was not disappointed. My parents and I made a quick stop here to see it and the inside was GORGEOUS. The entire interior is covered in mosaics. All the designs are different and it was just stunning. Definitely worth a stop and as much time as you can spare. There is a small parking lot in the back and ample street parking.

We booked a tour at the cathedral while in town visiting my daughters boyfriend. Our tour guide was strong in the faith and made sure that Christ in the most holy sacrament was the center of all that was shared.

I’ve seen many cathedrals from London, to Spain, to New York City, and I have to say that this one rates very high on the list. The mosaic work throughout the building is awe-inspiring and super unique. It’s free to visit and you can easily find street parking, so it’s a no-brainer to stop by.

Having travelled through Europe and around the US we have seen some amazing and beautiful churches. And while not at the top of the list (Notre Dame in Paris and St. Peter's in Rome claim those spots) the Cathedral of St. Louis should not be missed. Large, vaulted ceiling and beautiful color palette. Plenty of parking near the church.

Cathedral Badilica of St. Louis excites tremendously with its infinite amount of mosaics. very fascinating and thrilling. the place is gonna stand quite vividly in my memory

Even if you are not Catholic you will enjoy this. We took our 13 year old granddaughter and even she was in awe of the Basilica. It's worth checking out.!

Must see if visiting STL, Mo.
The art work, peacefulness, and sacred feelings are immeasurable. If possible call ahead to find out if you can have a tour guide which will explain all the history. Great story to know.

Completed in 1914, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis is an incredible example of a hybrid of Gothic and Byzantine architectural styles. The Cathedral is beautiful and well kept. It also houses the largest collection of mosaics of any single building on earth - over 83000 square feet of mosaics! This is a highly recommend stop if you're in the STL area.

The Pope visited here. This place is breathtaking. After you spend time looking around the first floor area make sure you visit the basement.

Attended mass Saturday 5pm and walked around the Basilica before hand. What a beautiful place. I could not get enough of the ceilings.

Breathtaking Basilica. Craftsmanship of the finest order. The problem is not owning a camera that can do it justice.

like all basilica churches , this one is huge, has a massive cathedral in the center, full of colorful tile work and stain glass, impressive to see and worth a visit if your in the area. if you are staying downtown, its not within walking distance so you will need to drive your car
open to the public , tours can be arranged in advance (did not do). free parking and has a public rest room. wheel chair accessible

There are no words to adequately describe the beauty, detail, and meaning of each mosaic. It is one of the most breathtakingly, beautiful churches we have ever toured. The staff was extremely informative, kind, and helpful.

Located in a residential neighborhood of St louis,the basilica was built during the early 19th century,the building is imposing,beautiful,but it is the mosaic work of the ceiling that is breathtaking,we went there on a Sunday,just when the service ended,and the people were leaving,the priest came out,shook hands with us,while the parishioners were making their way through the ailes,our senses were greeted by the smell of incense,the final hymn,we snuck in,sat in a pew,and soaked in the breathtaking mosaics in the ceiling.I wish we had more time to take a tour of this landmark

Found this during a walk and very glad we stopped to explore. The exterior is impressive and the interior beautiful. Very impressive. Was able to walk the aisles to explore the stained glass. Great to have air conditioning working also.

This Catholic church has one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world and it is worth a stop to either attend a service or to visit in the afternoon. There are tours on certain days, so do check their website. Of special note, they make their bathroom facilities available to visitors, which is very nice and considerate. I didn’t get to the museum on the lower level, but those who did said it was worthwhile.

As a Roman Catholic, this is an attraction which held both tourist and faith meaning. The mosaics are stunning as you walk into the main area. About an hour’s worth of staring up at the beautiful ceilings. Reverence is asked for, so perhaps not the best place for young or rowdy children. One mile from nearest Cortex metro link station. Must see location.

The church is covered with amazing Mosaics. and beautiful stained glass. There is a self guided tour but the Docent was very knowledgeable. She pointed out things that you might miss on your own.

I was on my way home to Florida and I made a point to stop to see this basilica. During the previous week I took my 90-year old Mother in Iowa to tour Saint Mary's Basilica in Minneapolis and the Cathedral of Saint Paul just a few miles away. This basilica in St Louis is just as magnificent as those, and those that I visited in Europe a year ago! What makes this one unique is the mosaic decoration/artwork on the walls and ceiling. I sat in the back row and used my image stabilized binoculars to see the mosaics up close, and they were amazing. The basilica is in a very nice neighborhood that has other really great architecture. The Mosaic Museum in the basement is very informative, and there is a gift shop.

My husband, granddaughter and myself visited the basilica about a year ago and were amazed at the beauty of the inside. We were told that even the Pope was amazed by the beauty - and he has undoubtedly seen some truly spectacular basilicas.

I am not normally in a church for hours. But I was. Its insanly pretty inside. Rivals Notre Damn Paris. Sorry not sorry. Lots of history. MUST GO.

Stunning inside and out. Worth going inside not only to escape the summer heat but to see the amazing architecture inside.

A massive and impressive cathedral that combines both Eastern and Western European architectural styles. As impressive as the exterior is, the interior is on a whole other level. Just seeing pictures of the interior was enough for me to want to visit. I wasn't aware though that the designs and artwork on the walls/ceilings were mosaics and not paintings. That made it all the more impressive just thinking of all the effort it took to finish it. There are free tours that occur throughout the day and we were fortunate enough to catch one. This is recommended as you are able to go to a few places that are inaccesible if not on the tour. There is also a small museum in the basement.

This is as beautiful a cathedral as you will find anywhere in Europe. Stunning. It was hard for me not to think about how much money the church spent building though.

A gorgeous structure with wonderful art work and design inside. As a functioning Catholic church remember to be respectful and follow the rules for photography posted and quiet. It is also important to make an offering, if possible, to offset the many maintenance costs associated with so many visitors.

I actually attended the 8a mass, and had a difficult time focusing because of the interior of the cathedral. Definitely recommend doing the tour before attending

I've been fortunate enough to visit some of Europe's most spectacular cathedrals, so I will admit that when I saw the Cathedral Basilica recommended as a must while in St. Louis, I thought, "How impressive can it really be?" Then I saw pictures and immediately added it to my itinerary.

The cathedral contains one of the largest mosaic installations in the Western Hemispheres, which intrigued me because I love mosaics, especially Byzantine-style mosaics. While visiting, I found it interesting and touching to see depictions of distinctly modern American images, such as a 1947 decree from the archbishop ending segregation in St. Louis parochial schools.

I would highly recommend a free visit to the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, perhaps the most striking cathedral I've seen in the United States. There is street parking available nearby, and restrooms can be found in the building.

With all due respect to Italy, the beauty of this basilica rivaled that of the one I visited in Rome (though it was a smaller one). The mosaics are breathtaking. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

Beautiful church with incredible mosaics. My favorite part was that you could look down any narrow aisle and see sculpture or art at the end. Gorgeous design! Definitely a must see!

This is an absolutely stunning church. You don't have to be religious to appreciate either. There were people/staff there on hand to answer question. I was in absolute aww of all the beautiful mosaic work done. Not surprising it took so long to complete it!

You truly have to see this place to believe it. Stunning architectural work. Especially considering the time it was built. Guides were knowledgeable and helpful.

We visited this church on June 20. You can park for free at the back. You are not allowed to take photos using a tripod. It is a beautiful church. You can find something interesting in every corner.

Go to mass, just to experience the art. Then spend time looking more into the mosaics and art in the cathedral. The place is massive! I've gone to the cathedral many times and am still amused by the beauty of it all.

We attended a Saturday evening mass during a July 2019 visit to St. Louis. The acoustics were not great for the mass but it is worth the experience to visit for a mass or just to take in the stunning artwork throughout the cathedral. We hung around after the mass just to take in the magnificence of it all. It's easy to see why it's one of the highest rated attractions in the area. The photos actually don't do it justice - it's awesome.

We are not Catholic, so I wasn't sure what to expect. The building is beyond impressive. We jumped into a group of Boy Scouts getting a tour, so the information presented there was so helpful.

Walking into the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis felt like stepping out of ordinary time.

I expected it to be beautiful—but I wasn’t prepared for how breathtaking it would be. The first thing that hit me was the light and the stillness, like the building itself was inviting me to slow down and breathe. Then the mosaics: endless, radiant, and unbelievably detailed. They don’t just decorate the space—they surround you. It feels like you’re standing inside a story of faith told in color and gold.

What moved me most was the sense of peace. Even with other visitors around, the cathedral carries a quiet reverence that settles over you. I found myself looking up again and again, not just in admiration, but in awe. It’s the kind of place that gently pulls your attention away from stress and noise and turns it toward something higher—something steady.

This wasn’t just sightseeing for me. It felt personal. Like a reminder that beauty can be a form of prayer, and that sacred spaces still have the power to soften your heart and lift your spirit.

If you’re in Saint Louis, don’t rush this visit. Sit for a moment. Look up. Let it speak to you. It’s truly unforgettable.

One of the amazing churches in the mid-west to see. It is one family recommended we see and so glad we did. If you like to visit great places to worship no matter what religion you practice this is one not to miss.

Incredible display of mosaics that create a remarkable walk through the finest museum. People of all faiths fall in love with the beauty and religious experience you feel with this this tour. A must see when you visit St Louis

Amazing architecture and workmanship at main altar ,pillars ,ceiling ,walls .
Mini altars for Mary ,Joseph ,Risen Lord and Blessed Sacrament.
.Parking is behind. Visitors/tourists are not appreciated during liturgical services / sacraments .
Wish there are some information displayed at all doors when services are being conducted at timings not mentioned on the website.

Coincidentally arrived just in time for the 2:00 guided tour with volunteer Claudia and had a lovely hour learning the history of this centenarian building and its unique interior. Very interesting even for the non-Catholic and I was charmed by her kind, warm and engaging manner. Well worth the drive out from our downtown hotel! The marvelous statuary in the west-side garden area (especially the “Angel of Harmony”) was also unique.

Wow! One of our favorite places that we saw on our visit to St. Louis. Absolutely Beautiful!! It is a real Gem!!

The interior is of remarkable beauty. All in mosaic. Exceptional work. The architecture is beautiful.
It deserves a little detour to visit

Amazing!! We did the tour following mass. We took our four children, ages 6 to 15. The entire family enjoyed. We continued to look around and discuss after the tour was over.

Even if you aren't Catholic - this place is well worth a visit and a tour. I think during the week you need to call ahead to schedule a tour. However, they always run one on Sunday at 1pm. The architecture is amazing and tells many different "stories" based on locations of colors, murals, etc. Could spend hours in here

If you love this type of architecture the Catherdral Basilica is one place you shouldn’t miss. If you have the chance to go to one of their concert series or attend a service, that makes your visit all the more special.

The mosaics are unbelievable straight from workers in Ravenna Italy, if I’m not mistaken. This is truly an old country treasure in the Midwest of America.

You must see this historic landmark in Saint Louis. The history is amazing and the inside is breathetaking.

I’ve seen many churches including some in Europe, but this one is truly spectacular and really something to see. The mosaics are breathtaking. Hard to describe until one sees them for themselves. Unbelievable the time and artistry that went into this beautiful, magnificent Basilica! Be sure to see the mosaic museum down below.

I was in total awe of this Cathedral. Very spiritual and enlightening visit.

We took a guided tour, it was very inspirational and interesting. Tour guide was highly knowledgeable.

Parking was available in their lot.

We stopped here quickly during a trolley tour, and the ceiling was awe-inspiring. We've seen some beautiful cathedrals and basilicas in Italy, and this one was just as amazing. Definitely don't miss the chance to stop in and gawk at the art!

So much detail in this church. Short visit, I would recommend 45 minutes to an hour. Was not very busy when we went. A must see.

When you step inside the church, it will take your breathe way the details in the art and the magnitude of colors! So much to see and take in. Definitely is a must see! The talents of the Craftsman & Artist is a true gift to all who see it!

This is a beautiful church. Definitely worth seeubg if you are in the area. Bring a few dollars and light a candle. We were there during a mass and lots of people were in attendance.

I try to make it down to the Cathedral every three to four years. I am Protestant, but this building knows no boundaries of religion. It is a gorgeous building.

We didn’t plan to stop here, but so glad that we did! It was beautiful! Next time, I want to take the guided tour

The basilica has become a standard visit spot when we’re touring out-of-towners around St. Louis. It never fails to impress! It rivals most cathedrals in Europe.

We drove over to this site and was immediately impressed with the beautiful domes and the garden adjacent to the cathedral. We walked around the musical garden & statuary after having no problem parking. Inside was gorgeous but the basement was a let down. Only good thing was that is no charge to view the few things down there. They do run regular free tours of the interior. Very nice!

The Cathedral has the largest collection of mosaics in a North American Church. Spanning many years, they change over time. You do not need to be a Catholic to admire this beautiful building which rivals many in Europe.

This was a breathtaking experience. As non-Catholics, we are more accustomed to traditional southern churches. The majesty of this basilica is beyond words. The mosaics are incredible and worth the visit alone. I have always been an admirer of Pope John Paul II and to stand where he once stood was an emotional experience for me. Take the time and experience the quiet and reverence of this place.

This is a must visit attraction in St. Louis ! I have not seen such mosaic work anywhere else. It's really beautiful. From outside it does not look so large. But inside it is breathtaking !!

Holds more stain glass than a famous church in Italy. Christmas they hold concerts and it sounds like angels are in the air. Don't miss this no matter what religion you are.

This has got to be one of the most beautiful churches I have ever visited. We have been to plenty, including the Vatican (now the Vatican is amazing) but this one is amazing. Take the tour if you want or just walk in awe. There is also a museum downstairs.

First of all, we're not Catholic but I'm so glad we visited the Basilica because it is absolutely breath-taking. The art is so good. I could spend hours looking in absolute astonishment. We take everyone who visits us there to share in the experience is they can be talked into it. I highly recommend a visit there if you're in the area. You won't regret it and you won't forget it.

I love seeing churches, and have visited hundreds in Europe. I love American churches but they rarely match the artistic beauty and scope and size of Europe. However, in the US the Cathedral of St. Louis reaches that European scale. It is simply amazing and stunning. The mosaics on the ceiling are incredibly beautiful and artistic. I have been to Ravenna and this is a rival to those churches and San Marco in Venice. This is one church you need to make every effort to see while you are in St. Louis. Again the original Cathedral in the shadow of the Arch is a beautiful American church; however, it in no way is near the artistic treasure as this Cathedral. This is a MUST SEE.

The interior is by far the most beautiful of any cathedral I have seen before [Chartres, Notre Dame de Paris for starters]. The glittering glass mosaics are absolutely breathtaking and stunning. Sadly, the side mosaics were finished at a much later date [1988 I believe] than the original and are sorely out of place, but they did not distract terribly. The museum and crypts below were not open when we visited so perhaps call first to find out when they are open. I highly recommend a visit.

Such a surreal place .... felt such a safe place . Travelled with a local who used live nearby ... but place has changed over the years

Exquisite mosaics and stained glass. A treasure indeed. Saint Louis is fortunate to have such a beautiful landmark.

Amazing tile work in the actual Basilica. Such a spiritual place. Make sure you request the tour of the musuem ahead of time, it is pretty amazing also.

I am a fan of cathedrals for their peace, serenity and beauty. I think it tells a lot about the culture of a city. The St Louis Cathedral is one of the most beautiful cathedrals I have ever seen. The inlaid mosaics that span the entire ceiling are amazing and worth a stop by to view.

We had relatives visiting from Italy and took them to the "Adoration of the Cross" on Good Friday. They were so impressed with our beautiful basilica and loved the service. Great place to visit!

Gorgeous and peaceful place to visit. Easy to spend an hour just admiring the interior and gorgeous exterior.

Looked like the church was recently renovated, it looks amazing inside and out, the color palette inside is really nice,beautiful Art and figurines.

The should be on the list for things to do in STL! The inside of the church is incredibly beautiful and everyone should take some time to visit. The tile work is awesome and the feel of the church is amazing!

This Cathedral Basilica rivals any in Europe as far as beauty and artwork. It is very much worth a stop and some time sitting in a pew enjoying the beauty. LOVED IT and we even were able to join a free tour that gave us so much interesting information. What a treat!

This basilica rivals great cathedrals of Europe in its design and beauty. The mosaics are exquisite! We happened to be there at a time that mass was occurring so we did not get to see as much as we’d hoped but it was still very impressive.

I would highly recommend a trip to this historic landmark also known as the Saint Louis Cathedral. This is the mother church of the Archdiocese. The architecture is Neo-Byzantine Romanesque The mosaic collection is one of the largest in the world.

Free. Walk through the front doors. Open 7am to 5pm. Walk around the sanctuary on your own. The entire ceiling is covered in brilliant mosaic tiles. Beautiful. Don't forget to donate at least a dollar to keep a free building.

No adequate words to describe the ornate interior of this place. We were lucky to listen in on an informal tour going on and learned a lot. Simply stunning.

Amazing interior. Positively glitters from every angle. Using ancient techniques for the mosaics, the cathedral is WELL worth visiting. Be warned: there are TWO cathedrals that google recognizes as "Basilica of Saint Louis." The one called "the old cathedral" is a lovely place from the 18th century which is very nearby The Arch. The mosaiced one (reviewed here) is not too far away.

The main floor is fully accessible for wheelchairs, but the basement museum is not. The museum is mainly devoted to the building of the Cathedral and the mosaics, but has a 14th century Choir book on display, as well as vestments and various liturgical items from the past couple of centuries.

The main chapel, rotunda, side chapels...everything...are covered in mosaics. gorgeous work that use both the medieval style figures and some really great more modern style, telling the story of the city. If you go, keep looking up...everything changes as you walk around. All of fascinating and VERY colorful. We were privileged to hear a lovely 10 minutes from the main pipe organ toward the end of our hour there.

While the mosaics are the main draw the stained glass windows are a pure delight.

If you can appreciate amazing craftmenship this is a must. 60 years to place all the tiles this type of workmenship no longer exists. This is a must ssee

It took many decades to completely cover the interior of this cathedral in mosaics by the same Italian company that ordained much of the Vatican.

A must stop in St. Louis! The mosaic tiles are very beautiful, the acoustics perfect, and the performances mesmorizing.

The mosaics in the Cathedral are STUNNING! The complexity of the art begins to close in on you as you get absorbed into each piece. When you look up, you are looking into the heavens. One experience at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis can be a once in a life time visit. The images will stay with you for a life time!

Couldn’t believe what I was seeing! Loved every corner of this beautiful place. The vibe and atmosphere was something else, would recommend everyone to visit here and leave in awe!

What a fantastic work of architectural design and art work! I had limited time but could have spent hours. Looking forward to a return visit.

Plan ahead to get the guided tour. This cathedral has a long and rich history. The doors are not always open. It is even better to visit when there is a Service, or when the Choir is singing

If you are in New Orleans this is a must-see. Perhaps you'll stay just 5 minutes, maybe 15 or even longer. But it's well worth at least some of your time.

Overall this is a place of worship but the art inside is nothing short of spectacular. Parking is available behind the building for free. To enter the church is free but it is suggested to donate the church. There is a gift shop down the stairs to the left and a mosaic museum down the stairs to the right. Once inside you spend most of your time looking up. You can also take a tour with a docent that can explain the history. We just walked around in silence enjoying all of the different mosaics, statues and stained glass windows. Even the outside of the building is beautiful. The green tiled roof glistens in the sun. There is also a small garden outside of the church.

Both the old and the new cathedrals of St. Louis are beautiful and wondrous in their own distinct ways.Aside from being houses of the Lord Jesus, just studying the architectural elements to the interior and exterior of both structures is rewarding to people regardless of their faith. As a student of cultural history, I found both places intriguing and beautiful in their own motifs and historical periods which spoke volumes about the area's early and later ethnicities.

If you are looking for a peaceful retreat from the world, visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis.

Wonderful amazing you must go and see and visit. It is a gem in Stl and you won’t be disappointed. Also visit the gift shop.

They do a very nice job with the tours, the history is very interesting, and the Basillica is beautiful.

this religious stuff isn't in my playhouse, saying that that building was fantastic, there were more places to sit than you could shake a stick at but to me it looked like there was about 10 little churches in this big church

Being Catholic made this all that much more impressive. I've had a lot of amazing churches to compare this to, Catholic and otherwise. This one is right up there with Hagia Sofia or even the Notre Dame. Beautiful, solemn and historical.

Simply wow! A must see when vising this area, the tile work is unbelievable s is the entire structure!

Visited here with a group of friends. Led by a docent, I have the tour book, have visited with a different docent before. I learn new things every time! Will be back again!

We self toured the cathedral and took time to pray. We also went to the mosaic museum downstairs and look at the exhibit down there. Such a beautiful, peaceful place.

Unfortunately it was close when we arrived but only from outside was beautiful. I went in August 2018

To see a beautiful, historic cathedral! You have to see it to believe it! So gorgeous with all the mosaics and stained glass you could hope for. This is a must-see in STL.

One of the world's largest mozaic collections. The detail of these are incredible. If you love art and have a couple of hours don't miss this.

We happened to stay at a hotel only one and a half blocks away from this magnificent church and had a chance to visit twice. My wife and I were simply blown away how beautiful this place was both inside and out. Arguably in my opinion, it is the most beautiful catholic church in the whole US. The construction began shortly after St. Louis world fair in 1904 and did not get totally completed until 1988. Pope John Paul II visited the place in 1999 and also obtained Basilica title as well. Words cannot describe how beautiful the whole place is and anyone coming to St. Louis should pay a visit. There is even a free parking lot dedicated for the visitors to the church(just west of the church). Typically open from 7 am till 5 pm daily, free admission, of course.

When in St Louis, be sure to stop in this Basilica. Inside are over 41.5 million pieces of mosaic titles to generate the scenes. The overall workmanship, architecture, and Catholic message are inspiring. This facility is better than several I've visited in Europe. Totally amazing.
Enjoy, Gene H

44 million pieces of mosaic tiles all coated with gold leaf. Need I say more? This place is spectacular - a must see.

We stopped by the Basilica as it was in one of the tour books as a place of interest. It was a beautiful building. The artwork was exceptional. We did have trouble finding parking, but it was worth the walk to see the inside of the building.

This cathedral was gorgeous! I'm glad we took a little side trip to check it out. The outside alone is impressive to look at but when you step inside and see all the mosaics, it is just breathtaking! We didn't take a guided tour, just explored on our own. If you have a chance to stop in here, it is worth a visit!

Cathedrals of this size and style are breath-taking. The view from the outside gives a sense as to the size of the place, and once you step inside....Wow! The painted ceiling is amazing. You have to see it to appreciate it. A must do while in St. Louis!

I've visited cathedrals around the world, and this is probably the prettiest one I've encountered. I believe it also has one of the largest mosaic collections in the U.S. There's a museum in the basement and a gift shop. Tours are available every day.

Lovely place to stop in! I have read it has the best mosaics in North America. And I agree! Many similarities with st marks in Venice. Don’t miss if you have time! Also museum in the basement - if you have time!

The views are amazing and we took so many photos! Very beautiful place! Love seeing all the art work here! Such beautiful work and very peaceful place!

This is a magnificent basilica in St. Louis. The dome is very large and amazing. There are all sorts of interesting and historical murals inlaid on the walls. Parking was readily available on a Saturday afternoon in the rear of the church.

Open for a quiet tour . Outstanding architecture. Mosaic work is quite spectacular . Worth a quick stop if you have been to a million other cathedrals around the world

The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, also known as the Saint Louis Cathedral, is the mother church of the Archdiocese of St. Louis, Missouri, and the seat of its archbishop. Located at 4431 Lindell Boulevard, at Newstead Avenue, in St. Louis' Central West End neighborhood, it was built in 1914 to replace the previous Cathedral of Saint Louis situated on the Mississippi River. It was designated a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1997 and has been declared a St. Louis landmark. Able to seat 5,000 people, the Neo-ByzantineRomanesque Revival style building with three domes and two spires is best known for its large mosaic installation, which is one of the largest in the Western Hemisphere, burial crypts and the addition of an outdoor sculpture to promote racial harmony. Completed in 1988, the mosaics collectively contain 41.5 million glass tesserae pieces in more than 7,000 colors and cover 83,000 square feet, the largest mosaic collection in the world outside Russia. In 1990, a 14-foot-high, welded stainless steel sculpture by Wiktor Szostalo was installed on the side lawn of the church. It features a winged angel with African-American features, standing behind three children with Hispanic, Asian and European features, playing a song of peace on their instruments. The sculpture, with quotations from the New Testament, Pope John Paul II and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., inscribed on its granite base, emphasizes a theme of harmony, peace and racial justice.

Went on an organized tour with another school group of small children. Our docent guide was Maureen and she was awesome. Very sweet, very knowledgeable, and very happy to answer questions. The church itself is absolutely gorgeous. Lots of local catholic history included, beautiful mosaics, but the hidden rose window was my favorite. The colors were so vibrant. Absolutely amazed to find something like this in the Midwest. Definitely worth a pop in!

The care and beauty of the mosaics and the Basilica are a must see. Lots of history to learn and enjoy one of the daily services.

I've been here more than once and it is breathtakingly beautiful. The tour is free and you may go anytime. Be respectful if there is a service going on, of course. Experts have called it the finest example of Byzantine architecture in the United States. Stained glass is lovely but my favorites are the mosaics. The usual Catholic symbols and statues are there including the stations of the cross. Acoustics are phenomenal. Check in advance to see if a concert might be scheduled (tickets required for concerts.) It's located in the City's Central West End with a vast number of excellent restaurants (no chains).

This cathedral has one of the largest mosaics in the Western Hemisphere, and is open to the public, free of charge. Just make sure to check the website for mass times and check to see if there are special events (there was a confirmation the day I went, but I was able to come back later).

The mosaics are sparkling, beautiful, expansive. They look different from each angle and with each shade & tone of light.

About 3 to 3.5 miles out of downtown. And don’t confuse it with another basilica with a similar name, which has King of France in the title.

I’m not religious, and could still appreciate it.

If you have a chance stop by the basilica to see one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world. Quiet and peaceful place of prayer.

It is simply gorgeous on the inside and actually nearly overwhelming. The architecture and artwork is impressive and in large scale. Take it in and do not miss this if you are in the city.

Parking is easy and free.

This is a must see if you are into looking at and admiring the building of old style stone structures, the architecture will amaze you, it is truly awe inspiring, worth a visit and does not take long to see.

Beautiful, moving experience. Been meaning to visit for awhile; so glad I finally did. Take time to walk to outside, it’s worth it.

We visited the Basilica and were stunned and awed at the truly remarkable art and beauty of this church. Worth a visit and will take you away from the "hurry up" of this world's newer buildings. A tiny bit of heaven.

This is the most beautiful church I have ever seen. The mosaics of the ceiling and walls are spectacular…there are over 42million pieces of glass in the mosaics. We were fortunate enough to have an impromptu tour of this amazing cathedral. It was a highlight of our trip to StLouis!

The new Cathedral, as opposed to the old Cathedral which is on the Riverfront, houses the largest collection of mosaics in a single building in the entire world. There are beautiful examples of various different styles of mosaics and the trip is well worth your time. Tours are available Monday thru Saturday by appointment but you can always take a self guided tour whenever no service is going on. On most Sundays after the noon mass a tour is given and you are not required to have a reservation unless you are bringing a large group.

We've been here several times in the past, and never cease to be in awe of the beauty of this Basilica. After checking the posted Mass times online, since visitors cannot freely walk around the church during a Mass, we were disappointed to find that there were Confirmations ongoing during the day/time that we visited. Feeling intrusive, we managed to squeeze in a short (crowded) visit between masses, but would have scheduled our visit for a different time if there had been some notice online that there were Sacramental masses going on at this time/day. It's still a Must-Visit in St. Louis!

This is a truly magnificent structure done in the eastern Mediterranean style. The mosaic interior must be seen and enjoyed. Saying this as a non catholic

History just a start to the beauty of this Church, very well maintained, services are a must if it fits your denomination, even it doesn’t, the house of God is as wonderful as New York, or the Notre Dame offering.

The architecture for this church is amazing: thousands of small mosaics. It is JUST AMAZING! I went with my wife, one son and his girlfriend. All of the were shocked with so much beauty!

Beautiful, historical, and active basilica in the middle of St. Louis. The mosaics are incredible. The church museum closed before we could finish viewing the displays.

One word BEAUTIFUL! You feel this immediate peace when you walk into the basilica. We jumped in on the free tour, said a prayer as a family, and walked around to marvel at all the beauty. Definitely worth a stop if you are in Saint Louis!

Constructed between 1907 and 1914, The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is likely best known for its expansive interior mosaics, and although it is now 105 years old the architecture remains impressive thanks to its Romanesque Revival style. Open from 7am daily, those planning in advance are encouraged to book a free tour which offers further insight into varios depictions.

This was my first visit and it was truly awe-inspiring. It is an architectural work of art. I'll add some photos but you must see it yourself to really see it.

You would have to travel to Europe to find a church with a more beautiful mosaic interior. Absolutely stunning mosaics and baldacchino.

Beautiful cathedral in St. Louis. It is free to enter and look around. The basement “museum” is also interesting and worth checking out for a few minutes (it is very small).

Pretty amazing cathedral...extremely beautiful!!

Attended a wedding there, but there was a small interruptive little ol' lady that worked there that kept interrupting everyone to ensure they wore a mask. Pretty obnoxious.

Most beautiful building I've ever seen, the history behind the cathedral is amazing. Tours also available during the day

We were passing thru St Louis and had mapped-out our stopping points (The Arch and a coffee stop) including the Basilica of St Louis in Walnut St near the Arch. Due to a boy of confusion we ended up at the Cathedral Basilica - and we were glad that we had made that mistake. There is plenty of free car parking at the rear. Outside it’s a massive and impressive building but it’s inside that it really shines. The main church and altar are stunning and there a number of side altars too. The stained glass windows were awesome and we really enjoyed a short visit here.

If you are religious or not, this basilica is an important architectural and artistic site to behold. Outside, the visual building is beautiful. Inside, the surfaces are covered with stunning mosaics. It is known as one of the worlds most beautiful mosaics display for good reason.

We visited after 14 years. This time brought both my kids and my mom. We went on a Sunday and we were lucky to go during mass. We sat through the 12 Noon mass. We are not Christians but we have a lot of faith in every God and higher power. We have had a lot of our troubles and challenges solved the last time when we visited this church 14 years ago. So this was a trip to give thanks - totally divine experience - and the church itself is amazing and gorgeous, the paintings on the wall, the stories across the church. We spent about hour and 15 min there. Felt an amazing sense of peace and calm when we were done.

The mosaics in this cathedral are spectacular - largest collection of mosaics in U.S., maybe in world? I was in awe the entire time. Beautiful craftsmanship!

The splendid mosaic artwork in this basilica is absolutely breathtaking. Everything is depicted, from biblical events to the history of the founding of St. Louis and more.

I was recently welcomed as a visitor at a weekday morning mass and felt honored to be in attendance. The late Pope John Paul II was also a visitor, and the chair and umbraculum that he used are carefully maintained.

The locals say that every time you visit, you'll find something new! I agree. Amen!

A breathtaking basilica! The mosaics are incredible. When visiting St. Louis, this is a must see. Wonderful Mass on Sunday.

The Basilica of St. Louis is gorgeous! The lighting inside highlights every one of the 40,000,000 gold tile inside. A local visiting the church stopped me and told me the Cliff Notes version of the history of the Basilica and it was thoroughly enjoyable. I plan to return again soon.

We have visited Cathedrals all over the world but this one rivals many of them. The mosaics were amazing! The colors are bright and vivid. It is a rare jewel that I recommend everyone to go see it.

The church is beautiful. Words cannot describe how beautiful it is. If you are in town, I definitely suggest going to see it.

Every visit to StL is not complete until we've paid a visit to this wonderful place! It is beautiful! It is so peaceful and quiet. Make sure you visit the museum downstairs with all the history of the church and the artifacts from it's building to the pope visits etc.

This church is beautiful. The mosaics are gorgeous. The small chapels inside the cathedral are good for quiet reflection. I especially liked the stations of the cross.

The visit here was beyond expectations. The Basilica is a stunning, magnificent, display of over 41.5 million mosiac tiles in the Naves and Altars around this Cathedral.
There is no way to experience this but to see it in person.
We attended the 12 noon mass to start our visit. I booked 4 of us for a 1PM tour. You can call the tour office directly and find our when tours are available. It varies by day. Our guide was so knowledgeable and made our tour a wonderful experience.
Everywhere we walked I saw something new I missed. I had gone inside before mass and walked around and took pictures. On the tour, well worth it, we learned so much of the history of Saint Louis, the history of St. Louis, religious figures, etc. The tour lasts about 1 1/2 hours.
Do not miss the opportunity to visit this Basilica that opened its doors in 1914.

The cathedral is extremely well preserved. It is ironic that 1800’s structure is right next to an engineering marvel. A nice side visit to that area.

This is an amazing place. So much history. The cathedral took almost a decade to build; the tiles took over six decades to install. Must see in Saint Louis.

This has to be seen if you are visiting St. Louis! Most breathtaking structure that I have ever seen. Our schedule did not allow us to attend Mass, but if I am ever in St. Louis again I think I would like to try to work attending a Mass here into itinerary. I would love to hear the organ in this place. My whole family took a knee and said a prayer while visiting here....makes you feel really close to God!

Absolutely gorgeous cathedral! It’s probably one of the most ornate basilica’s I’ve ever seen! We were easily able to just walk in and poke around.

Had heard others say this was a must see and how gorgeous it is but nothing can really prepare you for such an awe inspiring, architectural experience, and the mosaics are breathtaking. It is free to visit. Allow yourself some time bc the beauty will just astound you. From the time you walk in, keep your eyes to the ceiling and just marvel at the beauty that abounds. Downstairs there is a museum that is also free. Regardless of your faith, this is a must see while in St Louis. The Gateway Arch and this cathedral were our top two favorite things we saw in St. Louis. Don’t miss it.

Whenever I am in St. Louis near the Central West End I make time to go inside the Basilica. You don’t need to be Catholic to be overwhelmed by this artistic wonder. One of the great mosaic interiors. Stop in, say a prayer and donate, if you can, to help maintain this unique building.

The cathedral is jaw-dropping, so beautiful. We spent about 90 minutes here, and there is a small but fascinating museum to help with understanding the different mosaic styles and the process to create.
Easy to find and good parking too.

We stopped at the basilica as part of our post-river cruise tour of St. Louis from the American Duchess riverboat. This was an amazing church, and one of the most beautiful churches we have ever seen in the US. We are not Catholic, but this church will impress anyone of any faith. If you have time, go downstairs to the gift shop/museum and look at the pictures of how this church/mosaics were built. Very impressive.

dor & zac at the holiday inn suggested this stop and i am very glad that they did. the mosaics are the most beautiful i've ever seen. i would have liked to spend more time here and to attend mass also. you don't have to be religious to appreciate the gorgeous artwork. the volunteer i spoke with was very knowledgeable and friendly.

Although we went to see the intricate mosaics which decorate the cathedral's walls and ceilings, we spent even more time in the museum under the cathedral which detailed the building and mosaic designs plus more.

Beautiful cathedral in downtown Saint Louis. Well worth the stop to see all the beautiful mosaics. No fee to visit. We explored on our own but guided tours are available

This was incredible! There are clergy buried in the basilica. The artwork is amazing. There was a lot of historical information available too blots of opportunities to pray.

The Cathedral is a few blocks from where we are staying and discovered on my walk today. It is one of the most beautiful churches I’ve ever seen…in the USA as well as Germany or France. Photographs do not do it justice. Definitely worth visiting when in the area.

This amazingly gorgeous cathedral has the most spectacular tile work. It is stunning at every view and should not be missed. Moire beautiful than many European cathedrals by far

We just happened to walk by and go in. I am so thankful we did. Probably one of the most beautiful churches I have ever been in. If you are in the area you will not be disappointed.

It's one of the most beautiful (man-made) places I've ever seen, and I've done a lot of traveling around the country and to Southeast Asia. I think it's one of the most peaceful and meditative places I've been to also, when there's no mass, or not a 'tour group' coming through.

We visited the Cathedral on a week day morning between masses. The outside is an impressive structure. I found best photo views outside are from across the street.

Inside are a series of chapels on the both sides leading to the main altar and sanctuary. This cathedral would fit in with the best in Europe. If you are Christian, especially Catholic, find a pew and take some moments to say some prayers. You will feel, a peaceful calm come over you. If you are not Christian, still make a visit and appreciate the architecture and grandeur of this building; perhaps, you will be inspired to do a good deed.

Having lived in the state for many years, I had never had the occasion to visit this church that I had heard so much about from others. While showing international visitors around St. Louis, it was an opportunity for me to go a place I had never visited. We found good parking nearby and were overwhelmed by the beauty we found inside the cathedral. The mosaics are stunning and like no other in the US. In addition to sanctuary walls, they are also in the side chapels. Also of note is the sculpture called The Angel of Harmony on the side lawn. It emphasizes peace and racial justice.

I felt like I was inside one of the great European cathedrals, but in the middle of STL! Beautiful mosaics, architecture and a little museum make this a must-visit if you're in town.

Breathtakingly beautiful. Whether Catholic or not. Pictures don't do it justice. Even my teenagers loved being there. Didn't have time for a tour or mass.

The Basilica is amazing. Beautiful mosaics fill the church. Great history of a modern basilica built in 1900’s. Had a private tour group with knowledgeable guide.

Stunning in every way, inspirational, historic, reverent, very much worth a visit. My niece's high school graduation was in this amazing place---even the non-Catholics were speechless.

A Friend and I participated in the guided tour on Sunday afternoon and it was wonderful. Learned so much history and impressive information about the art and artists as well as the religious stories behind it all. And the beauty is truly one of kind awe-some! Highly recommend to anyone visiting or living in St. Louis! As a resident of the city I can’t believe I didn’t do this sooner.

Never seen anything like it before. A MUST if you go to St. Louis. Leave yourself enough time to see the entire Cathedral. Don't skip any part. Make sure you go to the basement.

I know that this is a place of worship but honestly it’s so beautiful that you can attend mass and never hear a word being said because you’re so caught up in the pictures and stories and beautiful artwork on the ceiling. This is truly a labor of love that if given the chance I highly recommend you take in.

This church is simply amazing for the USA. Mosaics are off the charts amazing. What made the stop the best was the excellent tour guide. I fail to remember her name but she was one of the best and most knowledgeable tour guides I have ever met.

I have been in cathedrals all over the world. You will be hard pressed to find better mosaic art anywhere in the world. The
craftsmanship of Catholic immigrant artisans is evident at every turn. Please be quiet and respectful in visiting as this is an active church and a house of God.

Visited with my bestie on a weekday afternoon. Just happened to get lucky. The docent wasn't busy with a group and started to tell us everything we wanted to know in about 30 minutes. A must see!

One of the most beautiful places I have visited. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the amazing artwork. I was so moved by the experience.

The mosaics are simply superb and everywhere. We were lucky to be able to join a superb guided tour and hear wonderful voices rehearse

This is one of the most beautiful cathedrals I've seen. I've been all of the world and this one is right up there. The mosaics are amazing and among the best in the world. This is a must see if you come to St. Louis. They also have tours as well and these are very good or just go on your own.

I'm not Catholic, but one can still appreciate the amount of craftsmanship and talent that went into this cathedral. We visited right before mass so we couldn't explore the entire cathedral, but it was still awe inspiring.

Beautiful and peaceful 💐 One of the best architecture I have seen in Church.Don’t miss this Church to visit if you are at St. Louis.

We spent a quiet afternoon in this amazing cathedral. Every turned revealed a breathtaking view. People were very courteous and polite while taking in the views. It is dark. Flash photography is allowed, just not during any service. Highly recommend.

Enjoyed the sacred feeling of the holy space. The mosaics have a way of pulling you in and the attention to detail is absolutely breathtaking.

Beautiful, a bit more intimate than the Hagia Sophia, give or take a few 1,000 years... Well worth a visit

There is a vivid contrast between the exterior and interior of the Basilica. The outside is forbidding and nothing special, but the inside will blow you away. Designed in the Byzantine tradition, it is way outside our traditional views of US churches. The 40+ million mosaics are sensational, and we've seen the mosaics in Ravenna (which are 2,000 years older to be sure). If you visit St Louis, don't miss this.

What a beautiful tribute to our God! 83,000 square feet of mosaics! the most of anywhere else in the world. The details are amazing! It's hard to believe they are not paintings. It is certainly a must see for any Christian or anyone interested in architecture.

I often travel, I make daily mass if possible. This is by far the most beautiful church I have ever been to. Not much more I can say that anyone else hasn't said already. Luckily, I went mid-week however, parking seems like it will be difficult if it maxed out.

The Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis (aka The New Cathedral) is truly remarkable, and too often forgotten when considering where to go in St. Louis. Prepare to be awestruck and inspired; even if you're not Catholic (or even religious.) AND it's only a mile from Forest Park must-visit destinations like the Zoo and Art Museum.

As soon as the door opens you feel the presence of holiness. It is absolutely beautiful. There was no one there when we were and walked the entire cathedral. The ceilings to Organ… all beautiful- if you have a chance this is a must see.

Absolutely amazing, comparable to European cathedrals. A must see while visiting STL, close to downtown and can take pics!

This Basilica is absolutely beautiful. Every wall space and ceiling is covered with a mosaic. I traveled with my daughters, ages 13 and 10, and they really enjoyed walking through every section of the building. Be sure to stop first in the basement to see how the mosaics were designed and installed. You will also see the chair that was made for and that the Pope used.

The cathedral’s mosaics are unbelievable, as each section has a theme. We walked through the cathedral in awe appreciating the work and craftsmanship that took over seventy years to complete. It's desirable to call for a tour, as we learned so much from our wonderful docent. We learned about the symbolism of the mosaic groupings and the cathedral's history. The sanctuary and the four surrounding chapels are quite impressive. Pope John Paul II visited the Cathedral in 1999 and prayed in the Blessed Virgin’s Chapel, where a plaque signifies his visit. A museum is located downstairs where you can view the throne used by Pope John Paul II and the crypt where four prominent cardinals are interred. The gift shop was closed on our visit but we ordered a superb book on their web site - The Great St. Louis Cathedral. The book has wonderful color pictures and descriptions of the mosaics and Basilica.

My friends and I were in St Louis last month, and the top item on our list was the Cathedral Basilica. NOTE: This is NOT the old Cathedral at the downtown Gateway Arch. The Cathedral Basilica was constructed later and is located on Lindell Blvd in the Central West End.

From the moment we walked in, we were entranced by the awe-inspiring mosaics, lovely statuary, and incredible artwork. The mosaic museum in the basement is well worth walking through, especially the exhibit comparing Byzantine and Italianate mosaics. It’s best to start one’s visit at the front of the Cathedral, in the narthex, to pick up brochures and other materials that describe the artwork, mosaics and statuary.

The Cathedral Basilica has its own parking lot, which is a real benefit in a city with limited street parking. Please know that you cannot visit when Mass is being celebrated, so it is beneficial to research the schedule of services. It is a working cathedral, with services held daily and often multiple times a day. We encountered a very nice security guard, and a kind and welcoming priest.

We liked the fact that there was no donation box, but we do suggest having some dollar bills as donations are requested when lighting the votive candles.
We recommend allowing at least 30 – 45 minutes for a visit. We found our time at the Cathedral Basilica to be very peaceful, and consider it a must-see for any visitor to St Louis, whether or not they are religious.

If you are in St. Louis, you need to make a stop here. The mosaic tile art on the ceiling and walls is beyond belief!

The largest & most stunning cathedral I've ever seen. This alone made our trip to St Louis worth the time!

The mosaics are stunning. As someone outside of the catholic religion, I was still very happy to go.

Some of the most beautiful stained glass you have ever seen. They also have stunning art! They offer tours. I am not sure when they are given.

I have been to several Roman Catholic diocesan cathedrals in the US, and this is in my top 5 favorite cathedrals. The church is huge, with beautiful mosaic artwork. Vey exquisite architecture.

This Cathedral rivals any European cathedral in beauty, majesty, and inspiration. We stayed for the tour after the noon mass, and got to appreciate all the beautiful symbolism and reverence of every corner of the basilica. I took many pictures and hope to come back soon.

Marvelous place. Serene, beautiful.
The private chapel, up front and to the right is a cosy, calm, spiritual place in which to pray.
If you are fortunate, you maybe able to enjoy mass.