Located about 2 miles north of Georgetown, the upscale shopping district in the western part of Washington, D.C., where Wisconsin Avenue intersects with Massachusetts Avenue, stands a striking Gothic architecture: the Washington National Cathedral.
This cathedral is one of the most prominent in the United States and is a non-denominational church, meaning it is not governed by a specific religious sect. Christianity is divided into various denominations such as Catholic, Baptist, Methodist, Episcopal, each with its own beliefs, but the Washington National Cathedral is a special place where worship is practiced regardless of these denominational differences.
A Majestic Cathedral Nestled in a Quiet Residential Area
The Washington National Cathedral is quite distant from the bustling tourist attraction of the National Mall. To get there from the center of the National Mall, where the Washington Monument is located, you would head north on either 15th Street or 17th Street, then turn left onto Massachusetts Avenue. From there, you continue northwest on Massachusetts Avenue until you reach Wisconsin Avenue, where you turn right, and you’ll soon see the Washington National Cathedral on your right.
The area around the cathedral is a peaceful residential neighborhood, adorned with lush greenery, Victorian-style houses, and well-designed main roads, all harmoniously blending together. The cathedral’s extensive grounds are rich in greenery, making it a favorite spot for locals to take leisurely walks.
It’s truly delightful to take a leisurely stroll among the locals, away from the tourist crowds of the National Mall.
Massachusetts Avenue – Home to Embassies and the Vice President’s Residence
Many visitors to the Washington National Cathedral pass through Massachusetts Avenue. This street is lined with various embassy buildings, showcasing different national flags. It is also affectionately known as “Embassy Row” due to the concentration of diplomatic missions. When visiting the cathedral via Massachusetts Avenue, take the opportunity to appreciate the embassies along the way.
Moreover, beyond the embassies, you will notice a vast circular area on the left side of the road. This is the site of the Vice President’s official residence and the United States Naval Observatory. While visitors are not allowed inside, catching a glimpse of the white buildings amid the expansive green landscape offers a unique contrast to the White House.
Embrace the Green Oasis of the Washington National Cathedral
The Washington National Cathedral may be distant from the tourist hub of the National Mall, and it’s not as frequently visited by Japanese tourists. However, the joys of Washington, D.C., extend beyond the National Mall vicinity.
From the grand cathedral nestled in a residential area to the embassies and the Vice President’s official residence along the way, there is much to savor in exploring the deeper aspects of Washington, D.C. Why not take the opportunity to enjoy these hidden gems?
There are numerous cathedrals and churches in and around downtown Wash...
