Temples & religious sites
Roman Catholic Diocese of Arlington
Roman Catholic Diocese of Arlington
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Arlington is the administrative and spiritual jurisdiction for the Catholic Church in Northern Virginia. Travelers typically visit the diocese's principal church, the Cathedral of St. Thomas More, to observe religious services or view the ecclesiastical architecture of the seat of the bishop.
Getting There
The diocese is located in Northern Virginia, just across the Potomac River from the center of Washington, D.C. Depending on the specific office or church site, travel from the city center usually takes 20 to 40 minutes via car or public transit, depending on traffic conditions crossing the bridges into Virginia.
Visit Duration
For a visit to the cathedral or the administrative offices, allow approximately 1 to 2 hours. This provides sufficient time for a quiet walk through the grounds and a visit inside the main church.
When to Visit
Visitors should be mindful of the liturgical calendar, as the cathedral becomes crowded during Sunday masses and major religious holidays. To avoid the largest crowds, visit during weekday mornings or afternoons. There are no specific seasonal restrictions, though weather in Northern Virginia varies significantly between winter and summer.
Nearby Attractions
The location is positioned near several significant landmarks in the D.C. metropolitan area. You can combine a visit here with the following sites:
- Pentagon Memorial: 3.9km
- Theodore Roosevelt Island: 4.5km
- Lincoln Memorial: 5.1km
- Statue of Abraham Lincoln: 5.1km
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors