Visitors on a spiral staircase during a tour sightseeing tour at the Cathedral

Tower Climbs

Climb to the dizzying heights of Washington National Cathedral with various tower climb options!

Experience Washington DC like never before with a climb to the top of the Cathedral towers, where you’ll experience panoramic vistas from the highest geographical point in the nation’s capital.

These adventurous climbs take you through hidden stairwells, past stunning stained glass and charming gargoyles, for a unique experience that will take your breath away. These once-in-a-lifetime experiences showcase the beauty of the Cathedral and the city we call home.

Please review the following information before purchasing tickets.

tower climb policies and restrictions
  • Prepare for rigorous activity
  • Not for those with a fear of heights or enclosed spaces, or for those with limited mobility – stairs include both enclosed stone staircases and also open metal, spiral stairs
  • Must be at least 11 years old; minimum height requirement: 48 inches (4 feet)
  • Infants cannot be carried on Tower Climbs
  • Dress appropriately for the weather, as conditions are more extreme than at ground level

Please note: Tower Climbs are scheduled according to docent availability; not all options may be available at a given time. See below for more details on types of Tower Climbs, or check upcoming availability now.

see upcoming tower climbs

Bell Tower Climb

Visitors looking up and taking pictures in the Cathedral tower during a sightseeing tourThe ultimate destination of this climb is the ringing chamber, 333 steps high in the Cathedral’s central tower. From here, visitors will find the best possible view of Washington, DC. 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.

Ages: 11+
Duration: 75–90 minutes.
Cost: $50/person
Tickets: check upcoming availability

Angels & Monsters Tower Climb

Climb the Cathedral’s two western towers! Enjoy an unprecedented close-up look at many gargoyles and grotesques while navigating the open-air walkway wrapping around these two towers—about 125 feet above the ground. The climb ends on the very top of the northwest tower, which provides the best views of the Cathedral itself, as well as 360-degree views of the surrounding area—over 200 feet above the ground!

Ages: 11+
Duration: 70–90 minutes.
Cost: $60/person
Tickets: check upcoming availability

Combination Tower Climb

For the ultimate climbing event! This extended experience goes back-to-back to combine all the highlights of the Bell Tower and Angels & Monsters climbs.

Ages: 11+
Duration: 2.5 hours
Cost:
Tickets: check upcoming availability