Beneath the bustling streets of New York City lies a hidden world of the dead – the catacombs of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. For those brave enough to venture underground, a captivating 1.5-hour guided tour promises to uncover the city’s rich religious history. Visitors will explore the final resting places of notable figures, immersed in the haunting ambiance of candlelight. While the focus is on education rather than the macabre, the experience offers a unique glimpse into a sacred and often restricted domain. What secrets might these ancient crypts hold?
Key Points
- This guided tour offers exclusive access to the off-limits areas of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral and its active Catholic Catacombs in New York City.
- The tour provides an educational and immersive experience, focusing on the city’s religious history and the significance of the notable figures interred in the catacombs.
- Participants can explore closed cemeteries and learn about the Delmonico family and Bishop John Connolly, who are buried in the catacombs.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 80 years old, and certain attire and video recording are prohibited.
- The overall tour experience is praised for its knowledgeable and engaging storytelling, though some customers desired more spookiness.
Tour Overview and Details
The New York City: Catacombs by Candlelight tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the off-limits areas of the historic Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral.
Priced from $38 per person, the 1.5-hour tour provides access to closed cemeteries and the only active Catholic Catacombs in New York City.
While the tour is wheelchair accessible with limitations, it’s not suitable for those over 80 years old. Guests should wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing, as well as cash.
Video recording isn’t allowed, and respectful behavior is required.
With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 452 reviews, the tour is known for its knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling.
Experience Highlights
Notably, the tour grants access to off-limits areas of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral.
Participants will walk through two closed cemeteries, seeing the resting places of prominent Americans, including the Delmonico Family and Bishop John Connolly.
The highlight of the experience is exploring the only active Catholic Catacombs in New York City.
These underground tunnels provide a unique opportunity to learn about the city’s religious history and the individuals interred there.
While the tour promises an engaging, educational experience, it’s important to note that it may not meet expectations of overt spookiness some visitors may anticipate.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes complimentary tea lights, a walking tour, and a professional guide, though gratuities are not included. While the catacombs are wheelchair accessible with limitations, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people over 80 years old. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, and bring cash. Video recording is not allowed, and certain attire like shorts and sleeveless shirts is prohibited.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Complimentary tea lights | Not suitable for wheelchair users |
| Walking tour | Not suitable for people over 80 years |
| Professional guide | No video recording allowed |
| Gratuities not included | No shorts or sleeveless shirts |
Meeting Point and Important Information
Visitors should check in at 266 Mulberry Street, on the corner of Mulberry Street and Jersey Street, to join the Catacombs by Candlelight tour.
This guided tour takes place at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, not the famous St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue.
Participants should be mindful that the tour is in an active parish, and respectful behavior is required.
Adjustments to the tour may occur for operational reasons, as it’s subject to availability.
Wheelchair users and individuals over 80 years old aren’t recommended for this experience.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
The Catacombs by Candlelight tour has received a respectable 4.3 out of 5 rating based on 452 reviews. Customers were particularly impressed with the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling, awarding them an impressive 4.8 out of 5 rating. However, some reviewers felt the overall value for money could be improved, with a 4.1 out of 5 rating in this category. The service and organization of the tour also received high marks, at 4.4 and 4.6 out of 5, respectively. While a few guests expected a more "spooky" experience, the majority praised the unique and educational nature of the tour.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4.3/5 |
| Guide | 4.8/5 |
| Value for Money | 4.1/5 |
| Service | 4.4/5 |
| Organization | 4.6/5 |
Exploring the Catacombs
Descending into the dimly lit catacombs, visitors embark on a captivating journey through New York City’s rich history. Beneath the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, the only active Catholic catacombs in the city await.
Guiding the way with flickering candles, the tour explores the resting places of high-profile Americans, including the Delmonico family and Bishop John Connolly. Visitors discover these off-limits areas, gaining a unique perspective on the city’s past.
The experience offers a rare glimpse into the sacred and solemn nature of the catacombs, fostering a sense of reverence and wonder. Through immersive storytelling, the tour transports participants back in time, unveiling the hidden treasures that lie beneath the bustling metropolis.
Significant Resting Places
The catacombs beneath the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral contain the resting places of several notable historical figures.
Visitors can see the burial sites of the Delmonico family, renowned restaurateurs, as well as that of Bishop John Connolly, the first Irish-born bishop of the Diocese of New York.
These esteemed individuals now lie in the only active Catholic catacombs in the city, providing a glimpse into the history and significance of this hallowed ground.
The guided tour allows participants to explore these off-limits areas and learn about the lives and legacies of those interred within the catacombs’ sacred walls.
Accessibility and Policies
Although the Catacombs by Candlelight tour is generally accessible, it does have some limitations.
The tour is wheelchair accessible with restrictions, as certain areas may not be fully navigable. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 80 years old.
Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as the tour takes place in an active parish.
Video recording isn’t permitted, and respectful behavior is required throughout the experience.
It’s important to note that the tour is subject to availability, and adjustments may occur for operational reasons.
Cancellations can be made free of charge up to 2 hours in advance for a full refund.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Photography and Video Recording Permitted During the Tour?
Videotaping and photography are not allowed during the tour. The tour guidelines specifically state that "video recording" is not permitted. Visitors must respect the active parish and follow the rules set by the tour organizers.
Can Children or Minors Participate in the Tour?
Children and minors are permitted on the tour, but it’s not recommended for those under 12 years old. The tour involves navigating tight spaces and may not be suitable for younger participants.
Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Claustrophobia or a Fear of the Dark?
The tour may not be suitable for those with claustrophobia or a fear of the dark, as it involves exploring closed, dimly lit cemeteries and catacombs. Participants should consider their comfort level with confined spaces and low lighting before booking.
Are There Any Special Requirements for the Use of the Complimentary Tea Lights?
The tour provides complimentary tea lights, which guests can use to light their way during the exploration. However, there are no specific requirements for their use beyond being careful and respectful in the historic spaces.
Can Visitors Explore the Catacombs on Their Own Outside of the Scheduled Tours?
No, visitors cannot explore the catacombs on their own outside of the scheduled tours. The catacombs are only accessible as part of the guided tour, which provides access to the off-limits areas of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral.
Recap
The Catacombs by Candlelight tour offers a unique and immersive experience, delving into New York City’s rich religious history. Visitors can explore the final resting places of notable figures while learning about the city’s sacred spaces. With a focus on education and a dimly lit, sacred setting, this tour provides an opportunity to experience the haunting beauty of the catacombs. The tour’s accessibility and educational approach make it a compelling option for those interested in the city’s religious heritage.