Holy Rosary Church 🇺🇸

As you travel along Interstate 5 through Tacoma, Washington, you cannot miss the striking silhouette of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Church. Often described as Tacoma's Notre Dame, this century-old Roman Catholic landmark holds a deeply rich architectural and community history. Established in 1891 to serve the city's German-speaking population under the care of Benedictine monks, the parish built its current impressive structure in 1920. Designed by local parishioner C.

Frank Mahon, the church stands as an iconic piece of local heritage. While you view its commanding exterior today, you are looking at a site defined by remarkable resilience. Following severe water damage in 2018, the structure was declared unsafe, leading to a temporary decree for demolition and a place on the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation's most endangered list. However, in May 2024, a pivotal Vatican decree declared the demolition orders null and void, paving the clear way for future restoration.

Although services inside have ceased and the original parish has merged into Pope St. John XXIII Parish, visiting this soaring highway landmark allows you to appreciate a beloved historical treasure saved from destruction.

What to see at Holy Rosary Church

• Famous city landmark often referred to as Tacoma's Notre Dame
• Prominently visible to travelers driving along Interstate 5
• Historic 1920 architecture designed by parishioner C. Frank Mahon
• Listed on the state's most endangered places list since 2020
• Saved from planned demolition by a 2024 Vatican decree

Visiting tips

Look for the imposing silhouette of this historical landmark as you drive along Interstate 5 in Tacoma.

How long: 15-30 minutes · Best time: Daytime

How to get there & what’s nearby

Holy Rosary Church is easy to reach on Tacoma’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Museum of Glass and Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Tacoma travel guide.