The 57 acres surrounding Washington national Cathedral are a rich landscape tapestry
The grounds, known as the Cathedral Close, consist of cultivated gardens, 5 acres of oak and beech forest, a terraced outdoor amphitheater, athletic fields, and the landscaped grounds of the institutions and schools. The original plan for the Cathedral Close was developed by Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., from 1907-1927. Olmsted's design has endured because its main features continue to meet the aspirations of a Gothic-style cathedral while allowing the gardens and grounds to grow and develop to meet the needs of the 21st century.
Click on the Map or List to Explore 17 Areas of the Cathedral Close:
Main Cathedral Map
Phyllis Nitze Garden
Cathedral College Gardens
West Front Oak Grove
- Bishop's Garden
- Bishop's Lawn and Borders
- Equestrian Statue of George Washington
- Olmsted Woods and the Pilgrim Way
- Robert C. Morton Border
- All Hallows Amphitheater
- Pilgrim Road Bed
- Glastonbury Thorn
- Peace Cross
- Landmark Memorial Sundial
- Phyllis Nitze Garden
- Kenney Garden
- Pollinator Garden
- Virginia Mae Center Gardens
- Cathedral Garth
- North Garth Fountain
- All Souls Memorial Garden
- West Front Oak Grove
- Bishop John Thomas Walker Court
- West Front plantings and plaques
- Baptistry - Baptistry Pool and garden
Help us Keep the
Gardens Growing
Partner with us to ensure that the 57 acres of gardens and grounds surrounding Washington National Cathedral continue to be a haven of peace and refreshment in the midst of the Nation’s Capital.
