New York: St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral Catacombs Candlelight Tour

Summary

Walk beneath Manhattan streets by candlelight and uncover hidden Catholic history

You’ll slip through locked gates and descend by candlelight into New York’s oldest Catholic catacombs with a local guide who knows every story and secret passageway. Expect cool air, flickering lanterns, two walled cemeteries, and moments that make you forget the city above—even if just for ninety minutes.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked off Mulberry Street, right where the city noise softens for a second, and met our group outside St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral. The guide—Tommy, I think?—handed out little lanterns that flickered in my palm. I didn’t expect to feel nervous but there was this hush as we stepped past the iron gates into the first cemetery. The grass was patchy, damp from last night’s rain, and you could smell wet stone and something old—like books left too long on a shelf.

Inside, Tommy paused by a wall of names I’d never heard before (except one—Delmonico? Like the steakhouse?). He had this way of telling stories that made you lean in closer, even when someone’s phone buzzed behind us. Then we went down into the catacombs themselves—candles making shadows wobble on brick arches overhead. It was cooler down there; you could almost taste the dust. Someone asked if it was haunted and Tommy just grinned, said he’d let us decide. I caught myself whispering without meaning to.

I still think about how quiet it got when we stopped by one of the bishops’ tombs. You could hear footsteps echo from far off—maybe another group or maybe just us breathing. There were moments when I forgot we were in Manhattan at all; it felt like being tucked inside the city’s memory for an hour or so. Afterwards, stepping back into daylight felt strange—like waking up from a dream you can’t quite explain.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore New York Catacombs by Candlelight

• Join group tour at Old Cathedral
• Enter two walled cemeteries
• Visit catacombs beneath cathedral
• Learn history of notable burials

Top questions

How long is the New York Catacombs by Candlelight tour?

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes.

Where does the catacombs tour start?

The tour begins at 266 Mulberry Street (corner of Mulberry St. & Jersey St.).

Is St. Patrick's Old Cathedral on Fifth Avenue?

No, this is a different St. Patrick's located in Manhattan on Mulberry Street.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; strollers are permitted.

Is the catacombs tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, but guests requiring wheelchair access should contact Tommy's New York in advance.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are welcome.

Does the tour include entry to restricted areas?

Yes, you'll enter off-limits areas like two walled cemeteries and the catacombs beneath the cathedral.

What’s included

Your ticket covers all taxes and fees plus entry to both walled cemeteries and exclusive access to the candlelit catacombs beneath St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral—with stories shared by a professional guide throughout your ninety-minute walk.