The Neo-Gothic Scottish Rite Cathedral continues to be used as a go-to events space to this day by the Freemason community. Thanks to its impressive collection of stained glass windows and the pièce de résistance, the ‘Singing Tower’ which rises 212 feet into the sky, it ranks as one of the most popular buildings in the city.
Background on the Scottish Rite Cathedral
Built between 1927 and 1929 to provide the local Freemason community with a venue to host their meetings and ceremonies, the Scottish Rite is a true architectural gem.
The 95-year-old building was designed by George F. Schreiber, featuring an impressive tower, covered in 12 fleur-de-lis symbols which symbolize the universality of the Masonic world, and over 100 stained glass windows that contributed to the inclusion of the cathedral to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
What can you do at Scottish Rite Cathedral?
The historic Scottish Rite Cathedral is best known for its elegant wedding receptions. In the past few years, it’s welcomed around 100,000 visitors through its doors, who can take a guided tour around the Cathedral. Besides marveling at its beauty, thousands of twinkling candles will be lighting up this Indianapolis landmark to provide the enchanting setting for this series of Candlelight concerts.
Is there parking?
You can park your car at the West Parking Lot, which you’ll find at the West Entry of the building. Members and guests visiting the Cathedral for lunch or a scheduled event don’t need to pay any charge.
Can you tour the Scottish Rite?
For a $10 entry fee, you can tour the Cathedral Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. Children are also welcome to visit the venue for a $5 admission fee.
Is there a café?
Stop by and indulge in a hot cup of coffee at their Double Eagle Café and discover all the facts and tales that one of the largest Masonic buildings in the world has to offer.
Located just a stone’s throw from American Legion Mall in downtown Indianapolis, you can get the 2, 5, 10 or 39 buses to get here and it’s just a 20-minute walk from the Indianapolis Union Station. Hotels near the Scottish Rite include The Sheraton (0,5 mile), Residence Inn on the Canal (0.6 mile) and Hilton Garden Inn Indianapolis Downtown (0,6 mile).
Scottish Rite Cathedral is one of the many fabulous architectural triumphs of downtown Indianapolis, many of which are also Candlelight venues. They make for perfect backdrops to classical tributes celebrating iconic artists in an electrifying setting.