38 Best Monastery Retreats In The U.S. (Orthodox, Catholic, Anglican)

Looking to visit a monastery near you? There is likely one monastery retreat on our list that is in your area.

Monasteries are well-known for their simplistic beauty. Monks and nuns reside in the monastery where they dedicate their lives to God through service.

They reflect and pray for others. They take care of the property and make beautiful crafts and delicious food for their community.

If you’ve visited a monastery nearby, you know that it’s a peaceful place where you can gather your thoughts and focus on what’s important on life (without the distractions of phones and television).

We’ve listed 38 monastery retreats in the United States. It’s our hope that you discover one in your region and plan a visit.

Included on our list are monasteries that offer visitations and retreats.  You’ll notice that some monasteries are fairly new (established in the past 20 years) while others have been around since the 1800s.

I’m sure we’ve missed some of the many monasteries in the United States. You can also view my list of Christian Marriage Retreats.

38 Peaceful Monastery Retreats In The U.S. – Find One Near You

1. Benedictine Sisters of Florida – St. Leo Florida

The Benedictine Sisters of Florida got its start in 1889 and is now well-established. 14 Sisters work to serve the community in a monastic way, focusing on prayer, work, community, solitude, and ministry to others.

The monastery is home to Christian women who live according to the Eucharist, liturgy of the hours and Lectio Divina. Benedictine offers visitations, private retreats, directed retreats and group retreats which include reflections, reading, prayer, journaling, walking, rest, and other spiritual activities.

You can opt for a silent retreat or to enjoy meals and conversation with the Sisters.

For more information: Benedictine Sisters of Florida

2. Saint Leo Abbey – St. Leo

Also based in St. Leo, Florida, this abbey broke ground in 1932, building on their existing structures (school and dormitory) to create an Abbey Church complete with a bell tower.

What stands today is a wonderful place of worship amongst a beautiful property.

The property is visitor friendly and offers tours and retreats. The Abbey provides plenty of silence to gather one’s thoughts.

Enjoy the quietness of Lake Jovita or enjoy meals with the monastic community. Guests have access to a private study, kitchen and microwave, as well as a refrigerator. There are fixed rates for guest and options for youth retreats as well.

More information: Saint Leo Abbey

3. Conception Abbey – Conception, Missouri

Conception Abbey is one of the grandest monasteries in the U.S. The monastery has a church, seminary, printer house, and welcomes visitors from all faiths.

Visit Conception Abbey to pray, explore, and grow in faith (learn ways to spend time with God). The guest center has hosted over 8,000 people each year for retreats and seminars.

Choose a personal or directed retreat, attend one of the sponsored retreats, or use the facilities for your church function. The abbey takes pride in hosting others and has beautiful grounds.

4. Saint Joseph’s Abbey – Spencer, Massachusetts

Saint Joseph’s Abbey is a Roman Catholic monastery based just outside of Spencer, Massachusetts. The picturesque setting is between anticultural land and native oak and maple.

Monks at this monastery, reside in silence and solitude. They live a simple life, yet they promote hosting visitors and retreats.

There are 11 private rooms for retreat visitors. The retreats begin on Mondays and Fridays and include meals, accommodation, and guided days (see their schedule). It’s a beautiful, quaint monastery, and a perfect place to visit for those who live nearby.

Want to become a monk? Have questions for a monk? Saint Joseph’s Abbey will meet with you and share their way of life.

For more information: Saint Joseph’s Abbey

5. Monastery of Christ in the Desert – Abiquiu, New Mexico

The Monastery of the Desert was founded in 1964 by Fr. Aelred Wall with help from monks from Mount Saviour Monastery in New York. Since 1996, the monastery has become an autonomous Abbey. Its setting, amongst geological formations makes for an idyllic location

It follows the Benedictine life, answering the call to holiness which is rooted in biblical faith. The monks live a contemplative life, free from worldly things. A relationship with God is their only ambition.

The minimum stay at the Monastery of the Desert is 2 days and 2 nights. One day is simply not enough to experience the monastery. Week-long visits and more are common, just make sure to communicate with the guestmaster.

The monastery is located at a high elevation, 75 miles north of Santa Fe. Winters are cold and summers are often wet, so dress accordingly (and always dress respectfully with long sleeves and pants).

For more information: Monastery of Christ in the Desert

6. Our Lady of Guadalupe Trappist Abbey – Carlton, Oregon

The Abbey is located in the beautiful Willamette Valley of Oregon and is currently home to 19 monks. The community aims to follow monastic values which include prayer, reading, and manual labor.

The monastery makes income in several ways (bookbinding, fruitcake bakery, book shop etc.), and hosts visitors to share their way of life.

Retreats are offered for men and women. Typically, retreats are undirected but monks can provide spiritual direction if requested.

One thing I really like about this monastery is there are several miles of hikes to enjoy during your stay. Enjoy the silence and solitude, and enjoy God’s nature while you’re there.

For more information: Our Lady of Guadalupe Trappist Abbey

7. Mepkin Abbey – Moncks Corner, South Carolina

Mepkin Abbey is Roman Catholic, following the Order of Cistericians of the Trappist. It sits on the Cooper River, just north of Charleston, South Carolina.

These monks adhere to prayer, study, work, and hospitality. Although the Abbey was established in 1949, there are many modern buildings to complement their original structure.

Mepkin Abbey has several activities for the monks outside of their main purpose. They raise mushrooms and participate in regenerative agriculture which heals land and improves the overall health of the soil.

The Abbey offers 12 retreats each week from Friday-Monday or Monday-Friday. Participants are allowed to set their own format and a 30 minute meeting with a monk is available. Group retreats are also available.

Prayer services, group meals, and book readings are all part of attending a retreat.

For more information: Mepkin Abbey

8. Abbey of Gethsemani – Trappist, Kentucky

The Abbey of Gethsemani was established in 1848, on many acres of rolling hills. It’s the perfect place for reflection, observation, and prayer. Although speaking is permitted in designated areas, silence is necessary and fundamental to the retreat experience. 

Guests are invited to stay in one of 30 rooms on the property. Both men and women are permitted and accommodation has towels, showers, air conditioning and beds.

Retreats are offered twice weekly (Monday-Friday and Friday – Monday). There is a library, many areas for walking.

For more information: Abbey of Gethsemani

9. Abbey of New Clairvaux – Vina, California

The Abbey of New Clairvaux follows the Roman Catholic order. Today they are known as Trappists and serve others in hospitality and charity vowing a life of silence and solitude.

The Abbey and church are located in Vina, California, just north of Chico. The property is surrounded by an agricultural landscape with plenty of natural vegetation to walk and enjoy time outdoors.

New Clairvaux offers directed and self-directed retreats, weekend retreats, long term guest programs, and day visits. Visitations are allowed for men and women.

While there, enjoy time in the library, write your thoughts, nap, and walk. You can even talk to monks at the Abbey.

For more information: New Clairvaux

10. Saint Vincent Archabbey – Latrobe, Pennsylvania

Saint Vincent Archabbey is based in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, a town of 8,000 residents. The Archabbey was founded in 1846, making it one of the older properties on our list and the first Benedictine monastery in North America.

Over the years Saint Vincent has added a seminary, college, education foundation, gift shop and more. The Archabbey still hosts visitors and retreats (since 1913) for men and women. There are preaching group events and retreats for individuals (all with full accommodations).

For more information: Saint Vincent Archabbey

11. Holy Cross Abbey – Berryville, Virginia

Located in the hills of Berryville, Virginia, Holy Cross Abbey is Roman Catholic and part of the Cistercian Order.  They strictly follow Saint Benedict’s Rule of “Let nothing therefore be put before the Work of God”.

Here, monks wake up before sunrise for prayers and reading of scripture. Manual labor is a part of life at Holy Cross Abbey. They service guests and buildings on the property.

They also have a bakery, gift shop and cemetery.

All faiths are welcome at Holy Cross Abbey. You can spend the weekdays or weekend at the monastery. There are books, walks along mountains and a river and you can participate in communion. Silence is required when visiting.

For more information: Holy Cross Abbey

12. Mount Saviour Monastery – Pine City, New York

Four monks,under God’s guidance, helped create Mount Saviour. The location of the monastery is in the hills of upstate New York with a valley view. The property has working farms and several dozen monks.

The monastery is active with pottery, artistry, farming, their orchard, gardens, apiary, tailoring, cooking, reading, sculpturing.  They take pride in hosting guests (individuals, couples, and groups).

You are allowed to make your own retreat and to pray with monks as they pray.

For more information: Mount Saviour Monastery

13. Saint Andrew’s Abbey – Valyermo, California

Saint Andrew’s Abbey is located in Valyermo, just East of Los Angeles in the Mojave Desert. The Abbey was established as a result of monks in Chengtu, China, who were thrown out of the country by the Chinese Communist Regime.

St. Benedict’s Priory of Chengtu was relocated to St. Andrews in Hidden Springs Ranch in Valyermo.

This monastery has an amazing history and it’s worth a visit. Monks produce ceramics, food, and other gifts. They maintain a library and host visitors for retreat.

Preached retreats are led by a host monk, but there are private retreats, a youth center, and group options.

For more information: Saint Andrew’s Abbey

14. Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey – Dubuque, Iowa

Don’t be confused by the name, Our Lady of the Mississippi is actually located in Iowa! It is a monastery for nuns, under the Order of Cistercians and open to single women 18-40.

For retreats, Our Lady has two houses. Although there are no directed retreats, visitors are able to speak with a sister and their chaplain is available on request for spiritual guidance.

There is no set fee to stay at the Abbey, however, there is a free-will offering. Enjoy a stay here in solitude and silence.

For more information: Our Lady of the Mississippi

15. Our Lady of the Angels Monastery – Crozet, Virginia

Crozet, Virginia is home to another Our Lady Monastery. It is nestled among rolling hills and acres of agricultural land. The sisters at Our Lady of the Angels work hard and pray hard.

They are well-known in the community for their cheese-making (they provide tours and teachings of their process).

For visitors, the monastery offers private retreats during Spring, Summer, and Autumn seasons. Reservations must be made in advance with a letter from a spiritual pastor.

A deposit is required but the actual cost done so at your own free-will.

For more information: Our Lady of the Angels

16. Santa Rita Abbey – Sonoita, Arizona

Santa Rita Abbey enjoys the wide vistas of Southern Arizona. The monastery is located in the hills of the Santa Rita Mountain Range. Similar to many others on this list, it follows the Cistercian order, practicing reading, prayer, and hard work.

The monastery produces altar breads, sculptures, and wonderful food (taste when you visit). Retreats are individual and sisters do not provide spiritual counseling or talks – it’s your opportunity to talk with God.

Meals are provided and rooms are furnished. There is a $40 per night request.

For more information: Santa Rita Abbey

17. Holy Trinity Monastery – Jordanville, New York

The Holy Trinity Monastery and church was completed in 1935. However, shortly after completion it burned to the ground and the brotherhood was forced to rebuild. In 1949 the church was completed for the second time.

The grounds have several buildings on the property. They have a seminary, an icon studio, a candle factory, museum, and host visitors year-round.

The guest house is nearby the monastery and cost is $40 per night. Groups of 5 persons or more need to contribute a non-refundable deposit.

For more information: Holy Trinity Monastery

18. Saint Meinrad Archabbey – St. Meinrad, Indiana

Saint Meinrad is the prize of St. Meinrad, Indiana. It was established in 1854 by Swiss monks who arrived to help a growing German Catholic population. It now boasts over 85 monks!

The monastery operates a seminary school and provides high school courses to locals. There are also summer programs and leadership learning opportunities. 

Saint Meinrad tends to a fantastic library collection, gift shop, and makes caskets available for sale. They even organize a 5k run each year!

Guest can visit for the day or for a retreat where they will enjoy the 250-acre campus. This monastery is larger than most others on our list.

For more information: Saint Meinrad Archabbey

19. Our Lady of Clear Creek Abbey – Hulbert, Oklahoma

Clear Creek Abbey was officially established in the year 2000, making it one of the youngest monasteries in the U.S. It’s location in Oklahoma is set amongst rolling hills – it’s a beautiful setting for a monastery.

The property is still being developed but is now fully operational and a home for 50 monks.

Guests can assist with Mass and other daily activities. Those who request a retreat can stay for a week or longer. Time is spent reading, praying, and reflecting on life and God.

Guest are encouraged to interact with monks when they are available. The property is open to men, women, and families with an approximate cost of 45-60 dollars per night.

For more information: Our Lady of Clear Creek

20. Holy Resurrection Monastery – St. Nazianz, Wisconsin

Holy Resurrection was established in St. Nazianz in 2011 by way of another monastery in Newberry Springs, California. Monks in St. Nazianz have helped grow the new monastery and focus on God’s will of prayer, hospitality, evangelization, spiritual direction, and labor.

Monks work on the historic building and milk cows each day.

Retreats are one of the favored ways for the monastery to share their faith. There are group retreats and day retreats for groups up to 50 persons.

A schedule is provided, but guests are encouraged to create their own schedule as well and should expect interaction with the monks.

Private retreats are also available for individuals or couples, however, private retreats are strongly advised to join the monks in their regular schedule of services. A suggested donation is 35 dollars for a day retreat, while the requested fee is significantly more for a retreat that last several days. 

For more information: Holy Resurrection Monastery

21. Saints Mary and Martha Monastery – Wagener, South Carolina

This is a sisters monastery which was founded in 1989 and is associated with the Orthodox Church of America. Established in Wagener (population under 1000) this monastery sits on 60 peaceful acres. It is 30 miles southwest of Columbia.

The sisters living at Saints Mary and Martha focus on prayer and hospitality. They also make 100% beeswax candles with cotton wicking. Subscribe to their free quarterly newsletter “One Thing Needful”.

If you’re wondering if they host visitors, you’re in luck. They host yearly Clergy Wives Retreats, as well as individual and “mother and daughter” retreats.

The grounds are beautiful, highlighting nature and gardens. Reservations for overnight visits should be made in advance.

For more information: Saints Mary and Martha

22. Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America – Washington DC

The Franciscan Monastery might be the most unique monastery on our list. It’s based in Washington D.C. and it’s a national shrine that serves as “Little Jerusalem” in the United States.

The monastery’s activities include education, fundraising, recruiting, vocations, pilgrimages to the Holy Land, and pastoral ministry.

For people who cannot make the pilgrimage to the Middle East, the monastery acts as a U.S. pilgrimage site. 42 acres make up the property with 100-year-old gardens. 50,000 tourists make their way to the monastery each year.

If you’re visiting the capitol, this is an underrated place to visit.

Most people visit for the day, but there are guided tours and overnight retreats, and group opportunities.

For more information: Franciscan Monastery

23. Saint Anthony’s Greek Orthodox Monastery – Florence, Arizona

In 1995 six monks began to establish a monastery in the Sonoran Desert of Arizona. In less than 30 years, they have built chapels, gardens, a vineyard, citrus orchards, pathways, and gazebos.

The setting is beautiful with fountains and desert palms.

Monks at Saint Anthony’s focus on prayer, reading and the Divine Liturgy. Physical labor includes construction, woodworking, publishing, and food preparation. The monastery also enjoys hosting visitors from all over the world.

Men and women are allowed to visit for the day or for overnight retreats. Day visits are permitted during 10:30am to 2:30pm each day. On their website is a comprehensive list of rules and expectations.

For more information: Saint Anthony’s Greek Orthodox Monastery

24. New Camaldoli Hermitage – Big Sur, California

The most scenic location of all the monasteries on our list, the New Camaldoli Hermitage overlooks the Pacific Ocean in Big Sur, California. It’s a community of Roman Catholic monks who commit to prayer and contemplation – it’s the perfect place to appreciate God’s work.

Monks at New Camaldoli make fudge, honey, fruitcakes, tee shirts, and holy granola.

Retreats and day visits are a popular occurrence. There are several guesthouses that require a minimum stay of 2 nights. Retreats are directed but day visitors can also simply stop by during daylight hours.

Accommodation cost more expensive than other monasteries we’ve listed. Cell phones and internet are not permitted on the property.

For more information: New Camaldoli Hermitage

25. Belmont Abbey – Belmont, North Carolina

Belmont Abbey is located 10 miles west of Charlotte, North Carolina. It’s listed as a National Historic site and was founded in 1876. The Basilica of Mary Help of Christians held a cathedral rank until 1977.

At the monastery, approximately 25 men help care for a 700-acre campus. Monks serve various roles on the college campus and with ministry.

The campus offers spiritual retreats to visitors and the experience is free of charge. Day visits can be arranged as well to view the church, the college campus, and the wooded property.

More information: Belmont Abbey

26. Holy Assumption Monastery – Calistoga, California

If you’ve never been to Calistoga, this is your chance to visit its beautiful landscape and a picturesque monastery.  Located in the heart of Calistoga, Holy Assumption Monastery welcomes faiths from all backgrounds and is part of the Orthodox Church.

Many of the sisters who reside here tutor children at the local elementary school and visit others who are ill. Sisters care for rescued animals and support families in need with temporary housing, fuel, and food.

At their store, sisters sell caskets, chalice wine, and icon commissions. Visitors are always welcome from dawn to dusk. Mondays are reserved for sisters’ personal retreat days.

If you’re interested in speaking with a sister, call ahead and make an appointment. There are beds for overnight accommodation. Contact the monastery to inquire.

More information: Holy Assumption Monastery

27. Monastery of the Holy Cross – Chicago, Illinois

At first thought, you might believe this is an old monastery because it’s in an established U.S. city. The Monastery of the Holy Cross, however, was established in the 1980s to fill a need of faith in desert cities (a brilliant idea).

The structure is a former parish church and has been restored.

From its early beginnings, the monks who now number 10, worked in evangelization using liturgy. The Benedictine monks offer warmth and hospitality to travelers in Chicago.

Whether a tourist or business person, you can enjoy the silence and solitude in the city (Bridgeport neighborhood). There are modern amenities here, including Wi-Fi and television, so the cost associated with a visit is not cheap.

For more information: Monastery of the Holy Cross

28. Orthodox Monastery of the Transfiguration – Ellwood City, Pennsylvania

Seclusion, solitude, and silence. If you are looking to remove yourself from the hustle and bustle, the Orthodox Monastery of the Transfiguration is a perfect place.

It’s a monastery for women and was founded in 1967 by Mother Alexandra (former Princess of Romania). The nuns in this monastery have committed their lives to God.

Their life revolves around prayer for others and themselves. Hospitality is an essential part of the Monastery of Transfiguration and nuns offer a “vacation for the soul”.

Visitor services include attending a service, shopping at the store, a hike, tour, and quiet time. Overnight visits for 2-5 days are permitted but must be organized in advance.

They are free of charge, and donations are welcome. Group visits are also welcome overnight with a maximum of 12 persons per group.

For more information: Orthodox Monastery of the Transfiguration

29. Saint Anselm’s Abbey – Washington DC

Saint Anselm’s is a Benedictine Monastery in the heart of Washington D.C. Originally established in 1930, the monks continued to build the property, as well as continue writing and teaching in the local community.

Since its early days it now has a secondary school for boys and was elevated to abbey by Pope John XXIII. The abbey now focuses on education, but also hosts visitors year-round.

Guests can visit for the day or stay for several. Walks, meals with the monks, and reflection are important aspects for a stay. Personal guidance while visiting can be arranged, but must be organized prior to arrival. The cost for visitors is a donation of free-will.

For more information: Saint Anselm’s Abbey

30. Saint Bernard Abbey – Cullman, Alabama

Saint Bernard Abbey has been around since the 1800s (1891 to be exact). It was established by German Catholics who traveled to Alabama from St. Vincent Archabbey in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.

From 1892-1979 the monks operated a high school, junior college, four-year college and seminary. In 1981 a conference center was opened to pilgrim groups and Abbey guests.

36 monks make up the community in the monastery and they come together at least 5 times each day for worship. They spend a great deal of time in prayer, meditation, spiritual reading and labor to keep their property in good condition (more than 900 acres).

People of all faiths and backgrounds are welcome at the Abbey. Quiet private retreats or group retreats are welcome. Conferences and meetings are also a common occurrence at the monastery.

For more information: Saint Bernard Abbey

31. Holy Cross Monastery – West Park, New York

Holy Cross Monastery of New York is a Benedictine Community and part of the Episcopal Church. The West Park location was established in 1902 and currently has a monastic enclosure, a church, and a guesthouse.

Monks at Holy Cross participate in various forms of ministry, including hosting guests, operating a book shop with calligraphy, icons, incense, and photography.

Visitations are welcome. The monastery receives more than 3,000 guests each year. There are day visits where guests can arrive for worship and a meal.

There are also retreats (both individual, structured, and group). You can follow a structured day and work side-by-side monks or you can opt for silence and solitude during your stay.

For more information: Holy Cross Monastery – West Park

32. Panagia Vlahernon Greek Orthodox Monastery – Williston, Florida

Panagia Vlahernon is hard to pronounce but it’s worth a visit if you live nearby. Based on the Greek Orthodox principles, the monastery was founded in 1999.

Monday-Sunday the monastery holds services, and some are open to visitors. Please contact the monastery if you are planning a visit to ensure you arrive at the appropriate time.

For more information: Panagia Vlahernon Monastery

33. Holy Cross Monastery – Wayne, West Virginia

Located in the countryside of West Virginia, Holy Cross Monastery is a hidden gem for those who discover it. It is home to 2 dozen monks and is under the jurisdiction of the Orthodox Church.

It sits on 180 acre of Appalachian Mountains, providing seclusion from the busy world (this is what John Denver was talking about). Monks at Holy Cross Monastery work hard, making soap, incense, honey, goat milk, vegetables and eggs.

Visitors are in for a treat. Visits are permitted for the day or for 1-2 nights. Men are encouraged to participate in the daily work routine (kids and women are allowed to visit as well). The website is detailed for visitors so please read it carefully.

For more information: Holy Cross Monastery

34. St. John’s Monastery and Bakery – Goldendale, Washington

Washington State is home to St. John’s Monastery (and bakery). It was founded in 1995 on Orthodox principles after a donation of 48 acres from Doctor Gerald Timmer.

20 nuns are now part of the monastery. They enjoy hosting visitors and raise funding through writing Byzantine icons, knotting and prayer ropes, making incense and candles. Their Greek food and bakery is well-known in the area.

Visitors are welcome for the day (check their hours) and for overnight stays. Overnight visitations are limited so please reserve a room before arrival (usually 1 or 2 nights). A referral from your priest may be requested before arrival.

While visiting, you can explore the grounds and participate in some of the sisters’ activities. Respect and modesty is appreciated.

More information: St. John’s Monastery

35. Georgetown Visitation Monastery – Washington D.C.

Georgetown Monastery is based in the heart of Washington D.C. and received the rank of monastery in 1816! The Georgetown Visitation Prep School (associated with the monastery) was established prior to this in 1799.

This monastery is truly a historical site. If you want to plan a visit or a retreat, the monastery asks that you reach out to them prior to your arrival.

For more information: Georgetown Monastery

36. St. Barbara Orthodox Monastery – Santa Paula, California

St. Barbara Monastery is located just south of Santa Barbara, California (near Oxnard). It is an Orthodox monastery and home to women. The monastery was founded in 1992 and has been at its current location since 2005.

Sisters at the monastery participate in daily liturgical services and earn their living growing lavender for products, hosting retreats, producing icon greeting cards, caskets and honey, and operating a bookstore.

Their focus is prayer, hospitality, and labor.

St. Barbara welcomes visitors. Their motto is “is you’re comfortable camping, you’ll be comfortable here”. Meals are shared with the sisters and there is no fixed fee for accommodation (free-will donations). Please contact them in advance if you plan on staying.

More information: St. Barbara Monastery

37. St. Herman of Alaska Monastery – Platina, California

At first thought, you might believe the St. Herman of Alaska Monastery is based in Alaska, but this is not the case. The monastery is in Platina, California in Shasta County.

It was founded in 1963 and currently has 13 monks who live and work there. It is based on the Orthodox faith.

Set in the mountains of Northern California, the monastery is a great place to visit (day trips and overnights). Men and women are welcomed and those who stay overnight are expected to attend services and eat with the monks.

The monastery appreciates those who participate in work as well – don’t be shy to get your hands dirty (hard work won’t take away from your retreat).

For more information: St. Herman Monastery

38. Redwoods Monastery – Whitehorn, California

Redwoods monastery was founded in 1962 with the guidance of the Cistercian Monastery of Nazareth in Belgium. It’s a community of women who lead a simple life, focusing on God through creative fidelity, simplicity, experience, love, and mysticism. Each day included prayer, meditation, and labor.

The monastery is based in a pristine forest of redwood and it’s a wonderful place to visit. Nature surrounds the monastery – and it is stunning!

The guesthouse is available to private retreats (weekends or full-week). Guests can participate in daily activities or create their own schedule.

Walking around the garden and through the forest is highly recommended. Meals are enjoyed together and are vegetarian. 

For more information: Redwoods Monastery

In our list of monasteries, we only covered those that allow guests and overnights (and we may have missed others).

There are many more monasteries doing God’s work and we are unable to mention them all.  Here is a list of other monasteries in America that we weren’t able to share.

  • Nativity of the Theotokos,
  • Annunciation of the Theotokos,
  • Monastery of North Beach Miami,
  • Holy Transfiguration Greek Orthodox Monastery,
  • Charterhouse of the Transfiguration,
  • St. Nekatarios Monastery,
  • Holy Myrrhbearers Monastery,
  • Saint John Chrysostomos Greek Orthodox Monastery,
  • Holy Cross Orthodox Monastery

If you didn’t find a monastery near you, continue to look and ask your local church. Chances are, your church leadership will be well-aware of monasteries in your area.

Conclusion

A monastery is a great place to visit and it doesn’t matter if you’re alone, with your spouse, or with your family. You might even want to visit because you’re interested in becoming a monk or a nun!

There are plenty of options to find a monastery near you and chances are, you’ll find one that allows guests. If you plan to attend a monastery, make sure you’re prepared.

Most places will request that you are modestly dressed and that you respect the rules of silence without technology.

Be prepared to learn! You’ll learn about the monastery itself, about the monks who reside there, and about yourself. It’s amazing what a few days without technology, loud music, or the sound of street traffic can do to your perspective on life.

Remember, this list is not inclusive of all the monasteries in the United States. Some do not have websites, while others don’t allow visitors.

Hopefully, one of the monasteries on this list is near you and meets your religious curiosity.