Archbishops Curley and Keane at St. Mary's Seminary groundbreaking ceremony in 1927

St. Mary'S Seminary And University

St. Mary’s Seminary and University Baltimore: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Information

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

St. Mary’s Seminary and University, located in the scenic Roland Park neighborhood of Baltimore, Maryland, is the oldest Roman Catholic seminary in the United States, founded in 1791. As both a historic and academic institution, St. Mary’s stands as a vital center for theological education, a treasure trove for historians and genealogists, and a spiritual and architectural landmark. Its campus offers an immersive experience into the roots of American Catholicism, highlighted by grand Beaux Arts and neo-Baroque architecture, the renowned Chapel of St. Mary’s, and the largest specialized theological library in Baltimore.

Visitors to St. Mary’s can explore its beautifully landscaped 40-acre grounds, delve into rare archival collections, and appreciate the seminary’s pivotal role in shaping spiritual and academic life in the United States. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a spiritual pilgrim, or simply a traveler seeking Baltimore’s cultural gems, St. Mary’s Seminary and University is a must-visit destination. For the latest visiting information, check the official website and Baltimore Heritage.

Introduction
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility
Getting There
What to See and Do
Campus Highlights and Architecture
The Associated Archives
Marion Burk Knott Library
Ecumenical Institute
Guided Tours and Events
The Historic Paca Street Site
Tips for Visitors
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Nearby Baltimore Attractions
Summary and Final Thoughts
Sources

Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Address: 5400 Roland Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21210

Visiting Hours: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekend visits by appointment only.
Admission: Free entry for self-guided tours of the campus, chapel, and library. Guided tours and special events may require advance registration.
Accessibility: The campus is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators in key buildings.
Parking: Ample free parking is available on-site.
Public Transit: Bus routes 22 and 33 stop nearby.

For up-to-date hours, closures, or special programming, always check the official calendar.

Getting There

St. Mary’s Seminary is located north of downtown Baltimore in the Roland Park neighborhood. The main entrance is at 5400 Roland Avenue. The campus is easily accessible by car, with free parking for visitors. Public transit users can utilize Baltimore city bus routes 22 and 33.

What to See and Do

Campus Highlights and Architecture

The main seminary building, completed in 1929 and designed by Maginnis & Walsh, is a striking example of Beaux Arts and Classical Revival architecture (explore.baltimoreheritage.org). The grand limestone façade, approached by a winding drive shaded by mature oaks and elms, sets the tone for a stately and contemplative visit. Inside, visitors are greeted by a marble statue of Mary, Sedes Sapientiae (Our Lady Seat of Wisdom), symbolizing the seminary’s commitment to wisdom and faith.

The Chapel of St. Mary’s

As the spiritual heart of the seminary, the Chapel is notable for its Italian Renaissance design, intricate marble and oak interiors, and stained glass windows imported from Paris. The Casavant Frères pipe organ, installed in 1954, adds to the chapel’s grandeur. Pope John Paul II’s 1995 visit is commemorated by a plaque marking his pew (baltimoresun.com; wikipedia.org).

Campus Grounds

The 40-acre campus features landscaped gardens, a Marian grotto, walking paths, and recreational facilities. The great lawn served as a landing pad for papal visits, highlighting the campus’s ongoing significance. Other amenities include athletic courts and access to an Olympic-sized pool through neighboring schools (stmarys.edu).

The Associated Archives

The Associated Archives at St. Mary’s houses one of the nation’s most important collections of Catholic historical records, including documents from the Archdiocese of Baltimore and the Society of St. Sulpice. Researchers and genealogists can access these collections by appointment (Library of Congress; stmarys.edu).

Marion Burk Knott Library

Baltimore’s largest specialized theological library, the Knott Library holds over 20,000 volumes and nearly 400 periodicals. It supports academic research in theology, philosophy, psychology, pastoral counseling, and church history, and is open to visitors for study and exploration (stmarys.edu).

Ecumenical Institute

Founded in 1968, the Ecumenical Institute offers graduate-level theological education to clergy and laity of all Christian traditions. The institute fosters interfaith dialogue and offers special lectures, courses, and events (wikipedia.org).

Guided Tours and Events

Guided tours are available by appointment and provide a deeper understanding of St. Mary’s history, architecture, and spiritual mission. The seminary also hosts lectures, concerts, and seasonal events open to the public. For group visits or conference rentals, arrangements can be made in advance (stmarys.edu).

The Historic Paca Street Site

While the main campus is in Roland Park, the original St. Mary’s Seminary site on Paca Street in downtown Baltimore remains an important historic and spiritual destination. The Historic Seminary Chapel, completed in 1808, is the first neo-Gothic church in the U.S. and is closely associated with St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and the early African-American Catholic community (stmaryspacast.org; tclf.org). The Seton House and gardens are open for guided tours; check for current hours and availability (baltimoremuseums.org).

Tips for Visitors

Plan Ahead: Consult the official website for current hours, holiday closures, and event schedules.
Accessibility: The campus is wheelchair accessible. Contact visitor services for specific needs or accommodations.
Photography: Permitted in public areas; restricted during services or in private spaces.
Respect Sacred Spaces: Maintain a respectful demeanor in chapels and areas of worship.
Combine Visits: Consider visiting nearby sites such as the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary or the Baltimore Museum of Art for a fuller Baltimore experience.
Group Tours: Contact the seminary in advance for groups of 10 or more.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the visiting hours for St. Mary’s Seminary?
A: Monday through Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Weekend visits by appointment.

Q: Is there an admission fee or are tickets required?
A: No, admission is free for self-guided tours. Some special tours or events may require registration.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, available by appointment. Recommended for groups or those seeking an in-depth experience.

Q: Is the seminary wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, all main public areas have accessibility features.

Q: Can I access the archives or library?
A: Yes, by appointment. Researchers should contact in advance for access to the Associated Archives or Knott Library.

Q: What is the best way to get there?
A: The campus is accessible by car (with free parking) and by public transit (bus routes 22 and 33).

Nearby Baltimore Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring other landmarks such as:

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary
The Johns Hopkins University campus
The Baltimore Museum of Art
Roland Park shops and cafés

Summary and Final Thoughts

St. Mary’s Seminary and University is a cornerstone of American Catholic heritage, blending architectural magnificence, academic excellence, and a profound spiritual legacy. Its welcoming grounds, open archives, and engaging tours make it accessible and rewarding for all visitors. The seminary’s role in American history—through figures like Archbishop John Carroll, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and Blessed Fr. Michael J. McGivney—continues to inspire those who walk its halls and gardens. Whether your interest lies in history, genealogy, architecture, or spiritual reflection, St. Mary’s offers an enriching and memorable experience. For up-to-date information, always consult the official seminary site and Baltimore Heritage.