Famous Cemeteries and Graveyards to Visit While Waiting for the Spooky Season
Fall is the season for crisp air, pumpkin spice everything, and spooky festivities. But it’s nowhere nearby right now. While waiting for Halloween, why not visit some of the most famous cemeteries and graveyards in the US? These final resting places have a rich history and offer a unique experience for those who love macabre. From the final resting place of famous celebrities to the burial sites of notorious criminals, here are some famous cemeteries and graveyards you should visit.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Los Angeles, California
Hollywood Forever Cemetery is the final resting place of many celebrities, including Judy Garland, Rudolph Valentino, and Douglas Fairbanks. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the cemetery on their own to pay respects to their favorite stars. The cemetery also hosts outdoor movie screenings, concerts, and events throughout the year, making it a lively destination despite its somber atmosphere.
Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, Georgia
Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the US, featuring breathtaking sculptures and mausoleums surrounded by lush vegetation. It gained fame after being featured in the novel and movie “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.” Visitors can take a guided tour or explore on their own to appreciate the unique funerary art and learn about the history of the cemetery.
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Sleepy Hollow, New York
Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is the final resting place of Washington Irving, the author of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.” Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about Irving’s life and literary works or explore the cemetery on their own to appreciate the Victorian-style headstones and mausoleums. The cemetery also hosts events throughout the year, including a lantern tour during the Halloween season.
Mount Auburn Cemetery, Cambridge, Massachusetts
Mount Auburn Cemetery is one of the oldest landscaped cemeteries in the US, featuring rolling hills, ponds, and gardens. It is the final resting place of many notable figures, including Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Winslow Homer. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the cemetery on their own to appreciate the stunning views and architectural beauty.
Forest Lawn Cemetery, Buffalo, New York
Forest Lawn Cemetery is the final resting place of Rick James, the legendary funk musician. Visitors can pay their respects to James’ grave and other notable figures, including President Millard Fillmore and inventor Lawrence Dale Bell. The cemetery also features stunning sculptures and architecture, making it a unique destination for those who appreciate art and history.

Boot Hill Cemetery, Tombstone, Arizona
Boot Hill Cemetery gained notoriety during the Wild West era for being the burial site of cowboys, outlaws, and other characters of the time. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the cemetery’s history and the lives of those buried there. Or explore on their own to appreciate the rustic charm and atmosphere of the Old West.
Graceland Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois
Graceland Cemetery is the final resting place of many prominent figures, including architects, politicians, and business leaders. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore on their own to appreciate the stunning architecture and art. Even including the famous statue “Eternal Silence.” The cemetery also hosts events throughout the year, including a Halloween-themed walking tour.