Welcome to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, a historic Catholic landmark situated on the highest ground of Kansas City, Missouri. Serving as a co-cathedral for the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, this remarkable structure is a contributing property in the historic Quality Hill neighborhood. When you visit, you will step into a site rich with history dating back to an 1835 log church.
Construction on the present building began in 1882 under Bishop John Joseph Hogan, making it the tallest structure in the city at 150 feet during its early years. As you explore the exterior, make sure to admire the cathedral's famous spire topped with a dome, cupola, and cross covered in shiny 23-carat gold leaf, added in 1969. Don't forget to listen for the carillon of eleven saint-named bells installed in 1895, including St. Thomas, the largest bell rung most often.
Inside the nave, you can take in beautiful stained-glass windows created locally by the Kansas City Stained Glass Works Company in 1912. Following major interior renovations in 1955 and 2003, along with the 2024 addition of Father Donnelly Parish Hall, this iconic sanctuary offers visitors a peaceful, inspiring look into Missouri's rich religious heritage.
What to see at Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
- Dazzling dome, cupola, and cross covered in 23-carat gold leaf
- Historic nave stained glass created by the Kansas City Stained Glass Works Company in 1912
- An 1895 carillon of eleven bells named after historic saints
- Location on the city's highest ground within the Quality Hill neighborhood
Visiting tips
Look up to view the cathedral's striking tower topped with 23-carat gold leaf as you explore historic Quality Hill.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is easy to reach on Kansas City’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Kansas City travel guide.
See the full Kansas City travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.