The 7 Best St. Patrick Pilgrimage Sites in America

Written By Annie Joy

St. Patrick's Day is once again upon us, which means the rivers will soon turn green, and everyone will drink beer in honor of Ireland's most famous saint... but is the day really about drinking beer and the color green? Au contraire! In fact, too few know the story of the humble St. Patrick and his devotion to God, which is why a local pilgrimage may be in order. 

If you do a quick Google, you can almost certainly find a church in your state named in honor of St. Patrick. However, if you have the means, we highly recommend visiting one of these 7 St. Patrick pilgrimage sites around America: 

1. Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

  • Address:  400 Michigan Avenue, Northeast Washington, D.C. 20017

  • Phone:  (202) 526-8300

  • Website: nationalshrine.org

While the church itself may not be named after St. Patrick, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception features many nods to this great saint, including:

  • Visitors will find a marble carving of St. Patrick in The Founders Chapel with his name engraved underneath. 

  • In Mary, Queen of Ireland Oratory, keep your eyes peeled for St. Patrick carved in gold on the green marble wall.

  • Keep your eyes peeled on the North Façade, as St. Patrick can even be seen outside the Basilica! 

  • What would the St. Brigid of Ireland Chapel be without an ode to another one of Ireland's greatest saints? Here, you can find a colorful St. Patrick constructed of intricate stained glass. 

2. St. Patrick’s

  • Address:  724 Camp Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130

  • Phone:   (504) 525-4413

  • Website: oldstpatricks.org

Old St. Patrick's Church - named for the one and only St. Patrick - is a gem in New Orleans' business district that echoes the city's expansion from its French Quarter roots. Recognized as a National Historic Landmark, this early 19th-century sanctuary near Lafayette Square showcases exquisite craftsmanship, marking a distinctly American cultural footprint separate from the Creole traditions of the old city.

3. St. Patrick's Cathedral

What is a list of the best St. Patrick pilgrimage sites without mentioning THE St. Patrick's Cathedral? Located in the heart of Manhattan, St. Patrick's Cathedral is an architectural marvel and spiritual haven amid the city. This iconic Gothic Revival masterpiece, standing opposite Rockefeller Center, is a place of worship and a symbol of resilience and faith for New Yorkers and visitors alike.

4. St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church

  • Address: 242 S 20th St, Philadelphia, PA 19103

  • Phone: (215) 735-9900

  • Website: stpatrickphilly.org

St. Pat's in Philly is as historic as it is beautiful, as the church - and its proudly Irish community - was founded in 1839. When you visit, look around and explore the church's incredible architecture and intricate interior, including multiple stained glass windows and mosaic stations of the cross. 

5. Old St. Patricks 

  • Address: 700 W Adams St, Chicago, IL 60661

  • Phone:  (312) 648-1021

  • Website: stpatrickphilly.org

Ah, Old St. Patrick's Church in Chicago - it's not just any old church, but a beacon of history and community! This place has seen it all, from its founding in 1846, surviving the great Chicago fire, to becoming a vibrant hub where traditions and modern vibes mingle. Have you visited this classic?

6. Shrine of St. Patrick

In Missouri, St. Patrick's isn't only a shrine but an entire town with a rich Catholic heritage. Established around 1834 with a simple log church, the community now boasts the Shrine of Saint Patrick, built in 1956 on the historical church grounds. This shrine, inspired by the Saint Patrick's Memorial Church in Ireland, features a Celtic design with distinctive architectural elements like semi-circular doorways, a central rose window, and a traditional round bell tower, embodying the spirit of Ireland in Missouri.

7. Cathedral of St. Patrick

Nestled in Norwich, the Cathedral of St. Patrick is more than just a place of worship; it is a historical gem with a story to tell. Imagine stepping into a space where every stone and stained glass window echoes the faith and dedication of those who built it, a testament to the enduring spirit of the community. That's the Cathedral of St. Patrick - a must-see for all Catholics.

As always, make sure to check with the church or site before you go, as tours and hours of operation are subject to change. Happy travels!

Annie Joy
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