National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe -- Dallas, Texas

Destination: The Cathedral Shrine of the Virgin of Guadalupe, located in the heart of downtown Dallas, has long been known as a landmark in the Diocese of Dallas for its enduring cultural and faith-filled significance, drawing pilgrims from across north Texas and beyond. 

Now, the long beloved diocesan landmark is also a national shrine. 

Bishop Edward J. Burns of Dallas announced Oct. 3 that the cathedral had been granted the significant designation of a national shrine by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. On Dec. 12, the parish community welcomed tens of thousands for a special Mass that day to honor the cathedral’s new status. 

On the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, all hours celebrate the cathedral's patron. Activities include mañanitas in the early morning, the Spanish colonial traditional matachines dance, and an evening blessing of flowers. 

Any day of the year, the cathedral is well worth a visit. 

Photos: Top — The National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, shown in an undated photo, was designated as a national shrine by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Dallas Bishop Edward J. Burns announced the new status Oct. 3 (OSV News photo/Gregory A. Shemitz).

Bottom — National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe (OSV News photo/Santos Martinez, courtesy The Texas Catholic)

Why to go: “This cathedral has been a sanctuary for countless souls, a place of worship and a center for spiritual growth,” says Father Belmontes, the cathedral’s rector. 

“Its architecture and history serve as an architectural analog of God’s grace as it continues the mission to serve the needs of its parishioners, the diocese, and the community at large.”

Admission: Parking fees may apply, and the parish has a gift shop open on Sundays, Tuesdays and Fridays; see times at https://www.cathedralguadalupe.org/giftshop/giftshop.html

Accessibility: An elevator is available for easy access to the floors, and although there are many stairs, a wheelchair ramp gives the campus full accessibility. 

The most convenient parking is located right next to the cathedral at Hall Arts Garage, with entrances on Pearl St. and Crockett St. Parking is validated if you visit the gift shop or attend a parish-sponsored Mass. Free street parking is available on Flora St. 

(Grand) Kid friendly: Of course! 

Info: Address — National Shrine Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 2215 Ross Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
Phone — 214-871-1362
Website — https://www.cathedralguadalupe.org/index.html

—By Michael Gresham, OSV News. Send Destination ideas to seasonedobserver@rockforddiocese.org