Grace Cathedral

Wow! This church is SUPER opened to visitors!!!
They even have a self-​guided tour map for you to explore and don’t care how many photos you take.
They don’t kick you out either when they have service.
I am so impressed with this place.
I find churches absolutely beautiful but always feel scared and awkward to visit. This was not the experience here at all.
i need to come back to do their tower tours!!!

Beautiful Episcopal Church! Top on Nob Hill across from Masonic Auditorium… Parking Structure you have to pay across the street. Church has parking. Street parking but meters get expensive. Checkout website…

Do not miss. Chances are, you haven’t been in a cathedral of this calibre. The Gothic building (parking below) is breathtaking. Start with a quiet walk around the outdoor labyrinth. As you enter, take a bit to admire the famous Ghiberti «Doors of Paradise.» Check the online calendar for special and unique events. The labyrinth inside is wonderful.
Thursday at 5:15 is Evensong. Make a point to sit on the altar… and breathe it in.

Grace Cathedral. The allure of this gentle giant’s architectural beauteousness, along with its tranquil darkness gradually immersing visitors upon each step– is a privileged experience for believers, and non-​believers. The enormous 1800 century structure demands attention immediately. As you walk up the (outside) stairs heading towards the entrance there is an outdoor labyrinth! This sets the tone for your visit inside (if you walk through the labyrinth) of relaxation, wholesomeness, open mindedness, and acceptance. Upon entering the dimly lit cathedral there is almost an overwhelming, but settle/​reassuring darkness which welcomes you inside. The holy water is presented in one large fountain bowl at the center of the entrance. Directly after the holy water there is an indoor labyrinth which is located center leading to the actually seats for mass. On the right and left walls there are universal religious and scientific (Big Bang theory) gold leaf style paintings. This allows all people to feel included no matter religion or lack of. As well as acknowledging scientific creation theory. The ceiling within are some to appreciate and admire. As you allow your eyes to flirt between the different amazing structures, you’ll soon realize the gorgeous stain glass windows. If there during a beautiful sunny day, you’ll find grace in the gentle shades of color beaming from the stain glass windows kissing the alter floors. The quietness inside allows for good reflection, prayer, meditation, and/​or silent peace.
There is so much to mention and love here. It’s a must see and an absolute, must-​experience.
«Grace is Home».

Beautiful cathedral in a lovely part of San Francisco!

What a wonderful architectural site to see.
I did not go in the church but I was amazed by how beautiful the building was.
It was my first time seeing Grace Cathedral and I cannot wait to come back and walk through the church.

Grace Cathedral is a must-​see for San Francisco visitors and locals, believers and non-​believers alike. Try to visit during a service or a special event, music definitely enhances the experience. Grace Cathedral ‘s 7,466 pipe Aeolian-​Skinner instrument, the Charles B. Alexander Memorial Organ, is one of the finest American classic style organs, and is among the largest church organs in the west.
Also suggested donation for visitors is $ 10, the price of a beer in San Francisco, yet many of the reviewers here take umbrage at a request for donation, do they think this place runs on prayer alone? With that said if you are truly hard up and don’t have a penny to spare the donation is optional.

If you’re in the Nob Hill area, you must come to Grace Cathedral. Situated at the top of a hill and across the street from a little park, this place is majestic and peaceful. Inside are lovely stained glass windows and even a labyrinth. Lovely place to visit in San Francisco!

I love this place. I live very close to it and I go there a lot just to experience a great Cathedral. Plus I love the yoga classes they have. It’s right next to Huntington Park which is great to chill out in observe some sun get some exercise, great location and I highly recommend. Plus they have a Pete’s coffee in the basement, Yum.

I mean. In the bigger picture of things I have no words to describe my experience. I just moved to the Bay Area not too long ago and anytime I would look at my map close of San Francisco «Grace Cathedral» always stuck out. So I found myself two nights ago working at Nordstrom off Market, it was raining, but I had an hour and a half to spare. I looked and saw the cathedral was about a 25 minute walk and I might as well enjoy a bit of the rain (I’m weird like that). Um, those hills in Nob Hill I was ready to just die and give up walking on lol they were a workout in themselves! At this point it went from a light drizzle to full on pouring and I didn’t have an umbrella. It’s okay because for some reason I was being pushed to visit this place. I finally got to the top of the hill and I look up and see the cathedral. Oh my gosh! It is so beautiful! And the stained glass was breathtaking! I picked my jaw up off the ground and crossed the crosswalk and began entering the building. I’ve been going through some extremely tough things lately and I just felt this place would give me some clarity and boy did it ever. I walked in, completely soaked, watching the colors of the stained glass dance around the lobby, and a few people praying in front of me, and I just cried. I’ve never felt such strong emotions as I felt this night. I walked around and saw all of its beauty and didn’t want to leave. It was an unforgettable experience and I highly suggest stopping by. They also do yoga here, I would recommend checking it out!

This place is beautiful! I came here right when I got to San fran and it was beautiful. It is public to for who ever wants to come in and see it. The glass windows are done perfectly.

Very beautiful church from both outside and inside. Quiet and peaceful, not a lot people if you visit early in the morning.

As an art historian from good old Europe my heart always leaps when I see some nice art or architecture. Also this time, I had to hop off the cable car immediately to take the stairs up to the cathedral and enter the warm darkness.
After a few seconds my eyes got used to the dim light and I could start my walk through the building. At the entrance they provide some flyers with information on it in different languages so you won’t be lost wandering around and wondering what you see.
For me it is always fun to see this sort of «fake architecture» that tries to imitate the medieval/​gothic century look that I’m familiar with. There are more things that are inspired or completely copied from the originals, therefore the big doors at the entrance are showing elements from florence and you can walk the labyrinth from Chartre cathedral.
The Grace Cathedral is a really nice building and definitely worth a quick visit.
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Als Kunsthistorikerin aus dem guten alten Europa macht mein Herz immer einen Sprung beim Anblick schöner Kunst und Architektur. So war es auch dieses Mal, und so bin ich gleich beim Anblick der Kirche aus der Cable Car gehopst und habe mich auf den Weg die Stufen hinauf und in die warme Dunkelheit des Baus gemacht.
Nach ein paar Sekunden gewöhnen sich die Augen an das leicht schummrige Licht und man kann seinen Rundgang durch das Gebäude beginnen. Am Eingang gibt es Informationsblätter in verschiedenen Sprachen, darunter auch auf deutsch.
Natürlich handelt es sich bei diesem Bau nicht um eine original gotische (oder zeitlich auch nur in der Nähe befindlichen) Kirche, und so ist es spannend und zugleich auch amüsant die künstliche Architektur zu sehen, die versucht die Originale zu imitieren, die mir sehr vertraut sind. Neben der Architektur gibt es weitere Elemente, die den europäischen Vorbildern nachempfunden oder schlicht davon kopiert sind, so ist das große Portal mit Elementen aus Florenz geschmückt und im Innern kann man das Labyrinth aus der Kathedrale von Chartre nachgehen.
Alles in allem ist die Grace Kathedrale ein schönes Gebäude und einen kurzen Abstecher wert.

Great place. Attended on a Sunday morning and loved it.

The most beautiful cathedral I’ve ever been to. It felt like a sanctuary. I enjoyed how quiet it was on the inside even if it’s right in the middle of the loud, fast-​paced San Francisco. When my boyfriend and I stopped by here, we felt really peaceful. On the inside, there were some historical things to read and view which felt like a museum and cathedral in one.
There were windows all around the building with beautiful color stained glass and art work. Being that I am not familiar with he Catholic/​Christian religion, I didn’t understand what each alter was for but aside from the main big one, there are all these beautiful little alters where you can burn candles, and little wooden sticks for.
There’s a huge labyrinth in front of the cathedral and on the inside as well. If you have some time on your hands and would like to try something calming and interesting, I’d say go for it!
This cathedral is overall beautifully breathtaking and a great historical place in San Francisco to visit.

Today 8÷2÷15 was the day I let go of energy I’ve had inside for a long time. I will admit openly that I rarely use a religious establishment for anything although Grace Cathedral has a reputation for producing some of the most beautiful energy one can encounter. I heard of it thru talks and research so I BM’D until I had time which was today.
Upon arrival the pit of my stomach started to give me the heebie jeebies and I knew I was going to be in for a confrontation within my mind. I approached the steps sizing up the wonderful beauty it is and I just breathed before I entered and just accepted what I knew I was going to do. 1^st off if you have no idea of Grace Cathedral you’ll not understand what’s happening to me plain and simple. This is a highly energetic spiritually filled church. Easily 50′ high supported by concrete pillars throughout that echo the music with GRACE. The initial visual is acceptable I saw the holy water followed by the labyrinth while trying to not recognize the amazing stained glass everywhere when at that point in between the labyrinth and glass was «The Organ»… I stared in wonder in thoughts of what can it create.
I made peace within and accepted this beautiful cathedrals ability to do what I experienced unexpectedly. I absorbed as much of the murals, stained glass, and the architecture put into its construction it’s really magnificent. I made a trip to, thru, and back from the labyrinth when my family and I decided to head out which was roughly 3ish. Headed out when their posted was a sign regarding a organ recital @4:00 on this day! So, I pleaded with and stuck around…
4:00 the hype was surpassed my expectations once I felt that organs volume of pure_​_​_​_​_​_​_​! (NO WORDS)! I knew I was called here and I patiently waited; to my luck I was humbled to grace the presence of the man who created the magnificent concert of him alone and maybe 100 attendees. I never write reviews of this caliber.
I was never intimidated, I absorbed the magnificence, I prayed for myself and those I love, released what I needed to at the labyrinth, and I felt what I didn’t know I thought I wouldn’t on my 1^st visit! I don’t believe in the same as so many on this planet but I will say that Grace Cathedral made me believe more in what I already do. Energy is what you want it to be so live true, believe in yourself, and most of all karma loves us and will deliver exactly what you deserve. I’ll be back here much much more!

Awesome! Stained glass windows, wall murals, and intricate stone and wood carvings everywhere. What a feast for the senses in this sacred space. Six of us went on a Sunday afternoon right after church services. We were all blown away be the beauty of the place.
Fyi – the entrance to the church has many stairs. This might be a challenge for the mobility impaired or small children. Regular attenders can probably tell you where the handicapped access is, but it was not obvious to me as a first time visitor.
I highly recommend this lovely cathedral if you are in SF.

My wife really wanted to see Grace Cathedral. I went along with my wife. We took the cable car to Nob Hill. We walked over to the Cathedral. When I got there, it was an amazing building. Its like a gothic style with beautiful arches. The architecture was beautiful and they really take care of the building. When we walked inside, I saw the beautiful color stained glass window on the side of the building with beautiful art drawing.

The largest cathedral west of the Mississippi — that’s a description of Grace Cathedral.
More than that it’s a place that is a community center: for religious service, for music, for talks; even for yoga.
The leadership at Grace are somewhat progressive and they’ve had gorgeous art installations inside. They have social events in the meeting rooms on the lower level.
If you live nearby, you know there are 2 labyrinths you can walk on meditate on.
People can strolls through the courtyards, walk through the cathedral and just admire the beautiful spaces.
At the front entrance to the cathedral are exact replicas of the Gates of Paradise, the doors of the Baptistry of Florence. This treasure glows brightly with its beautiful bronze hue.
If you love color, go inside and study the stained glass windows. Few places have the majesty, the friendliness and the openness of Grace Cathedral.
It is a very special place. Come and you’ll see for yourself.

It’s Good Friday and I had to go to confession or God would strike me down. I look-​ed up and saw that confession was at 1pm here. Midway through my walk uphill from the financial district I recalled that this church isn’t Catholic. When I saw the priest I asked him if it mattered and he said, I don’t think God cares. I had confession with him and I really appreciated that he took the time to counsel me. It was not a revolving door confession. I really appreciated that and felt renewed and refreshed. No matter what denomination you are or what religion you practice, we are all looking for the same thing. Forgiveness, affirmation, and a tasty sandwich.
Anyone who is so kind enough to listen to how much I like banging one out is awesome in my book.

Independently if you are religious or not, this is a must visit in San Francisco. Beautiful cathedral neo Gothic style, filled with so many wonderful details art wise. I loved the glass work and also details of the main doors, but what impacted me most were those threads coming from the ceiling in different colors simulating rays of light. Some people say is not the same as Sagrada Familia or Notre-Dame…please, compare pears with pears, this cathedral does not pretend to be the real Gothic deal, is from the 1960s and has a beautiful architecture. Enjoy that plus if you are into religion, peace and love. Very intimate space and a place to meditate.

The church is atheistically pleasing in many ways. The labyrinth brings me found memories of the most touching experiences. If you have a chance to walk it with someone, take the turns together to get the extra tingle of being synchronized throughout the journey.
The interior feels extra grandiose, and if Hamlet’s uncle cries to reach the heavens, this would be the place he prays. The ribbons are specially enjoyable and gives you a flavor of SF.

I’m sooo not religious, but there’s something about a church that soothes me.
After breakfast nearby, my husband and I found ourselves wandering through the park across the street and then climbing the steps to Grace.
I never felt unwelcome as I wandered the church and took copious photos.
It’s gorgeous! We walked the labyrinth outside, then headed indoors. The ribbons displayed inside were stunning.
Whether you’re religious, agnostic or even atheist, this is certainly worth the visit.

What a beautiful, amazing cathedral!!! It’s hard to believe there is something like this inside the heart of the city!
It was Saturday when we went. And it was busy!!! Not with tourists, but with weddings. There was one wedding going on inside and 2 other wedding parties gathering outside. Grace Cathedral is definitely a rotating door for weddings on a Saturday.
So just be warned, if you go there on a Saturday, you just might see a wedding, or two or three! Hahaha

This is an awesome place to pray. I like walking the labyrinth, particularly the outdoor one. On certain friday eves, they have organized services on the indoor labyrinth.
Downstairs there is an honest-​to-​goodness Peet’s Coffee with dining tables, and next to that is the Cathedral Gift Shop where you can purchase lots of memorabilia, CDs, religious articles, hymnals, and prayer books.
Very nice organ concerts at 4pm, usually first sunday of the month. Check the Cathedral’s website for actual dates because sometimes it changes.
I wish the colored spaghetti hanging from the ceiling would be removed, I know, it seems everyone likes it but me, but it just seems to detract from the natural beauty of the windows.
5 stars really, but minus one star because it saddens me that Rite I has taken a backseat, even at the Cathedral. I’ve seen many changes since the 70s, but personally I like the 1928 Prayer Book better which has been pretty much preserved in Rite I. But relegating it to the earliest morning Mass (and without music), is not doing it any favors.

I’m not a practicing Catholic, and that doesn’t keep me from testing out that age old theory of catching fire when I walk through the doors of Grace Cathedral.
I kid, I kid. Grace Cathedral is one of the most awesome gothic cathedrals I’ve ever not caught on fire inside. I feel a certain calm when I walk into the chapel. Located up on Nob Hill and surrounded by other SF landmarks (The Hotel Huntington, Fairmont, Mark Hopkins, etc.) and with sick views of the city, it’s a great spot to check out if you’re visiting the area or if you’re from here.
My roomie and I attend Yoga on the Labyrinth on Tuesday evenings which is really special (and donation based if you’re a poor peasant like myself). The ribbon art installation was recently taken down, but when it was up it was so beautiful. Worth checking out if you’re in the area.

Free!!!
The building itself is worth coming for. Our cathedrals might not be as old or as intricate as the grand cathedrals in Europe, but that is not a good enough reason to skip a visit.
The façade of this gothic styled house of worship, and it is still being used as a house of worship, has more than a striking similarity to the Notre Dame. The Ghiberti doors reminds you of the Duomo in Firenze and the stained glass windows are just sooooo pretty aren’t they?!?
It’s so cool how they have a cool little coffee shop and it is super cool tha they are wheelchair accessible.
But aside from the architecture, there are murals on the walls, art installations and tours as well!

On a lark, we climbed the hill to the Cathedral and attended a Sunday choral mass.
Whoa, those stone halls have some odd acoustics. I wish we could know in advance the good places to sit. And those Episcopalians, sinners all, asking for forgiveness. Depressing at first, but I am sure they got the mercy they asked for.
Then there was the insight I found in listening to the long version of some biblical stories I’d heard before. I didn’t even know I was only given the short version before. Prophets have their human side, it seems.
Thank you Episcopalians, for welcoming us. I liked the basketball court and the Peets in the basement, too. Who knew?

Magnificent.
I was born, baptized, and raised a Roman Catholic. Sadly I don’t make it to church as often as I used to. However, I must say visiting Grace Cathedral has made me rethink I should return to attending Sunday mass regularly.
Although this is a Episcopalian church of worship, the grandeur of this cathedral is sure to be enjoyed by all who walk thru its doors. I myself have never been in a church that was so grandiose. I was truly it awe at the high ceilings, the intricately designed stained glass windows, the grandness of the altar, as well as the seemingly endless rows of pews.
I took my time admiring my surroundings, snapping pictures, observing the detail of the stained glass windows, and enjoying this wondrous place of worship.
BOTTOM LINE: I imagine residents and tourists alike would enjoy a visit to Grace Cathedral.