The Grotto is frequently considered the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and  The Iowan magazine has described the Grotto as a “miracle in stone.” The location was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001 and has been included in such features as  Roadside America and Disney’s  The Straight Story. A composite of nine separate grottos, each portrait displays a scene in the life of Christ.

Here is a timeline for our trip:

10:00 am Depart from church parking lots 

(provide your own transportation or arrange to carpool with another parishioner) 

11:45 am - 12:00 pm Meet parish family in the picnic area at the Grotto 
208 1st Ave. NW, West Bend, IA 50597
(Provide your own picnic lunch)

1:00 pm Tour provided by Grotto staff
(The Grotto staff appreciate a donation to help with the maintenance of the facility. They recommend $8 per adult & $5 per child if you are able.)

If you leave at 2:00 pm, you should have time to get back for the 4:00 pm Mass at Sacred Heart if you would like to finish your pilgrimage with Mass. Otherwise, you will have time to visit the museum, gift shop, or walk back through the Grotto and leave when you would like.