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National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

339 South Seton Avenue · Emmitsburg, MD

Why you should go…

The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg, Maryland honors the first American-born saint, canonized in 1975. The site includes a basilica, a museum with interactive exhibits on her life, several of her original historic homes, and a cemetery, all open to visitors daily at no charge.

  • #shrine
  • #basilica
  • #museum
  • #catholic-history
  • #free

Good to know

General sightseeing guidance

Habits that pay off across this whole category, not rules for this one venue. Always check the official site for the specifics.

  • The forecast is part of the ticket

    Haze, low cloud, and rain flatten a view. Clear-day visits are worth rearranging your plans for.

  • Golden hour sells out first

    Sunset slots at observation decks and cruises are the first to go, so book those further ahead.

  • Dress a layer warmer

    It is always breezier up high and out on the water than it feels at street level.

  • Timed entry is common

    Plenty of landmarks release tickets in windows rather than at the door, so check before you walk over.

What's around here?

The closest stops to National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, ordered by straight-line distance. A few more like it, plus some different kinds of fun so you can build a full day.

  • Shopping
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    9.2 mi awaySwitch it up: Shopping

  • Museums
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    Civil War Tails at the Homestead Diorama Museum

    Under $25

    A Gettysburg diorama museum re-creating Civil War battles with hand-sculpted cat soldiers.

    9.9 mi awaySwitch it up: Museums

  • Sightseeing
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    Frederick, Maryland

    Free

    A walkable historic downtown of red-brick rowhouses, clustered church spires, and a lively arts and dining scene an hour from DC.

    20 mi awayMore like this

  • Sightseeing
    History Buff

    Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area

    Free

    Maryland heritage area covering Civil War sites across Frederick, Carroll and Washington counties, including Antietam.

    20 mi awayMore like this

  • Theatre & Events
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    $25–$50

    Restored 1,143-seat 1920s movie palace in downtown Frederick hosting concerts, comedy, dance and film.

    20 mi awaySwitch it up: Theatre & Events

  • Sightseeing
    Local Gem

    Hagerstown, Maryland

    Free

    A Western Maryland city surrounded by Civil War battlefields, state parks, and the Appalachian Trail.

    21 mi awayMore like this