Forest Hill Cemetery
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Forest Hill Cemetery

4.4
·30 reviews·Ann Arbor, United States

A historic garden cemetery in Ann Arbor, Michigan, known for its serene landscape, ornate gravestones, and stately trees.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, crisp air

CrowdLow
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Forest Hill Cemetery

Forest Hill Cemetery

Best Time

Fall mornings

Vibrant foliage, crisp air

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic garden cemetery in Ann Arbor, Michigan, known for its serene landscape, ornate gravestones, and stately trees.

4.4
(30 reviews)

"Absolutely beautiful cemetery - especially for a nice walk in the fall."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery has rolling hills and steep inclines; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring.

🗺️ Grab a Cemetery Map

Forest Hill is large, so a map helps locate specific graves and points of interest.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ornate Gravestones & Cemetery Art

Ornate Gravestones & Cemetery Art

Throughout the cemetery

Discover intricate sculptures and unique tombstone designs, showcasing a rich history of artistry and remembrance.

Stately Trees & Garden Landscape

Stately Trees & Garden Landscape

Throughout the cemetery

Wander through a beautiful garden setting with numerous old and majestic trees, offering a peaceful and scenic environment.

Notable Burials

Notable Burials

Various sections

Pay respects to historical figures like Governor Alpheus Felch and Coach Glenn 'Bo' Schembechler.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Serenity and History

Forest Hill Cemetery is a vast, historic garden cemetery. Plan for a peaceful walk to appreciate its ornate gravestones and stately trees. It's a place for reflection and discovering local history, not a quick photo op.

Navigating the Landscape

With rolling topography and steep hills, comfortable walking shoes are a must. The cemetery is large, so consider a map or GPS to find specific notable graves. Early mornings can offer chances to see wildlife.

Best Times

When
Fall mornings
Why
Vibrant foliage, crisp air
Crowd
Low
When
Early mornings
Why
Wildlife sightings, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Resting Benches at Forest Hills Cemetery🥀 Forest Hills Cemetery is one of the most beautiful cemeteries. 🖤 #uniquegraves #foresthillscemetery #cemeterywalks #cemeterywandering #ghoulplease #cemeteryexploring #massachusettscemetery #cemeterystroll #cemeterytiktok #bostongraves #uniquecemeteries
@ghoulplease_
82.2K likes • 1.4M views

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery has rolling hills and steep inclines; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. Reddit

🗺️ Grab a Cemetery Map

Forest Hill is large, so a map helps locate specific graves and points of interest. Reddit

Haunting Forest Hills Cemetery in Jamaica Plain, MA #foryou#fy #cemetery #graveyard #victorian #taphophile #garden #grave #tomb #atlasobscura #gothtok
@frost_oath
57.1K likes • 556.7K views
Come to Forest Hill Cemetery with me • 📍Utica, NY • • • • • #UticaNY #Utica #315 #darktourist #darktourism #spooky #creepy #gothic #goth #haunted #weird #strange #cny #foresthillscemetery #notjamicaplains #sorry #dark #odd
kkowskii
352 likes • 11.9K views

🌳 Appreciate the Nature

Beyond the graves, enjoy the beautiful garden setting with mature trees and potential wildlife sightings. Reddit

💧 Be Prepared for Wetness

If visiting after rain, be aware that some areas can get wet; a poncho might be useful. Reddit

According to KCTV5, a grave disturbance at Forest Hill Cemetery in Kansas City, Missouri, has become an active crime scene. Police were called to the cemetery near Gregory and Troost Avenue on Tuesday, July 1, after someone attempted to dig up the grave of Delshon L. Dupriest, a father of nine who was buried there 27 years ago.
4keeps.tv
31 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery has rolling hills and steep inclines; comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. Reddit

🗺️ Grab a Cemetery Map

Forest Hill is large, so a map helps locate specific graves and points of interest. Reddit

🌳 Appreciate the Nature

Beyond the graves, enjoy the beautiful garden setting with mature trees and potential wildlife sightings. Reddit

💧 Be Prepared for Wetness

If visiting after rain, be aware that some areas can get wet; a poncho might be useful. Reddit

🤫 Respectful Silence

Remember this is a place of rest. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor during your visit. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.4
(30 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Forest Hill Cemetery for its stunning beauty, particularly its mature trees and ornate gravestones, making it a peaceful place for reflection and photography. While some note the challenging terrain due to hills, the overall sentiment highlights its well-maintained grounds and historical significance as a key draw.

"Forest Hills Cemetery in Ann Arbor, Michigan is a very large cemetery. It is a rural, garden Cemetery that was established in 1857.Walking through the cemetery you can respectfully admire the ornate gravestones, many of while will qualify as cemetery art. I was also impressed with the number of old and stately trees that are prominent throughout the Cemetery. Forest Hill is the final resting place of a number of Notable people including Governor Alpheus Felch and Hall of Fame University of Michigan Football Coach Glenn “Bo” Schembechler. Forest Hills is a beautiful well maintained Cemetery."

Garry Thompson

"Filed under taphophile:

A fairly sizable (65 acres) and historical cemetery located in the heart of Ann Arbor.
The first burial of the over 19,000 in total was Dr. Benajah Ticknor a former Navy surgeon in 1959. The cemetery is aesthetically pleasing with its rolling topography and plenty of shade trees."

John Lastname

"Beautiful cemetery. Some U of M Legends laid to rest. Saw deer here early in the morning."

Adventure Rhoades

What People Like

Beautiful garden setting
Ornate gravestones
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Steep hills

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Forest Hill Cemetery is conveniently located in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options may also serve the area, though specific routes would need to be checked with local transit authorities. Reddit

Yes, Forest Hill Cemetery is a well-known landmark in Ann Arbor. Its size and prominent location make it relatively easy to find. Using a GPS or mapping app is always recommended for precise directions. Reddit

The best way to explore Forest Hill Cemetery is on foot to fully appreciate its landscape and gravestones. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended due to the rolling terrain and potential hills. Reddit

While specific routes can vary, Ann Arbor has a public bus system that may service areas near Forest Hill Cemetery. It's advisable to check the local transit authority's schedule for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, Forest Hill Cemetery typically offers parking for visitors. The availability and specific locations of parking areas can vary, so it's good to be aware of designated spots upon arrival. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Forest Hill Cemetery is generally open to the public without an admission fee. It functions as a garden cemetery and historical site, welcoming visitors to explore its grounds. Reddit

Forest Hill Cemetery typically has operating hours, often from dawn until dusk. It's best to verify the exact hours of operation, as they can sometimes vary seasonally or for special events. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to visit Forest Hill Cemetery. It is a public space intended for respectful visitation and appreciation of its historical and natural beauty. Reddit

While the cemetery is generally accessible, it's important to adhere to its posted operating hours. Visiting outside of these hours is typically not permitted to ensure safety and respect for the grounds. Reddit

Visitors are expected to be respectful of the cemetery grounds and its residents. This includes maintaining a quiet demeanor, not disturbing gravesites, and adhering to posted rules and hours. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Forest Hill Cemetery offers a beautiful garden landscape with stately trees, ornate gravestones that are considered cemetery art, and is the resting place of notable figures like Governor Alpheus Felch and Coach Glenn 'Bo' Schembechler. Reddit

Yes, Forest Hill Cemetery is a popular spot for photography, especially in the fall when the foliage is vibrant. The unique gravestones and mature trees provide excellent subjects. Instagram

You can find specific graves, especially those of notable individuals. Having a map or knowing the approximate location can be very helpful, as the cemetery is quite large. Reddit

Information about guided tours may be available through local historical societies or the Forest Hill Cemetery Association. Checking their official website or contacting them directly is recommended. Instagram

Absolutely. Forest Hill Cemetery is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful landscaping, and historical significance, making it an ideal location for a contemplative walk. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The best photography spots often include areas with mature trees, especially during autumn when the foliage is at its peak. Unique gravestones and mausoleums also make for striking photographic subjects. Instagram

Generally, photography for personal use is permitted. However, it's always wise to be respectful and avoid disturbing any services or other visitors. Commercial photography might require special permission. Instagram

A versatile camera with a good lens is recommended. A wide-angle lens can capture the expansive landscape, while a prime lens can be useful for detailed shots of gravestones and sculptures. Instagram

Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel. Golden hour can be particularly beautiful. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries to maintain peace and respect. It's essential to check local regulations and cemetery policies before considering drone photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Forest Hill Cemetery can be a unique educational outing for families. While it's a place of respect, children can learn about history, art through gravestones, and nature by observing the trees and potential wildlife like deer. Reddit Encourage them to look for interesting shapes on the stones or identify different types of trees. Remember to emphasize the importance of quiet behavior and respecting the resting places. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers & Photographers

For solo visitors and photographers, Forest Hill Cemetery offers a wealth of opportunities. The vast grounds provide ample space for quiet exploration and contemplation. Photographers will find endless subjects, from the grand mausoleums to intricate details on headstones, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Instagram The changing seasons, particularly autumn, offer stunning visual backdrops. Reddit

📚 History Buffs & Genealogists

History enthusiasts and those researching genealogy will find Forest Hill Cemetery a treasure trove. It's the final resting place for many notable figures and offers a glimpse into the lives of past residents through their burial markers. Reddit Researching specific individuals beforehand can enhance the experience, turning a visit into a historical investigation. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Forest Hill Cemetery, established in 1857, is a significant historical site in Ann Arbor, Michigan. It spans 65 acres and is the final resting place for over 19,000 individuals, including notable figures like Governor Alpheus Felch and University of Michigan Football Coach Glenn 'Bo' Schembechler. The cemetery's design reflects the rural garden cemetery movement, emphasizing natural beauty and landscape integration. Reddit

Walking through Forest Hill is like stepping back in time. The cemetery showcases a variety of gravestone styles, from simple markers to elaborate mausoleums and artistic sculptures, many of which are considered cemetery art. The presence of old and stately trees further enhances the historical ambiance, providing shade and a sense of enduring permanence. Reddit

Beyond its historical figures, Forest Hill Cemetery also holds stories of everyday lives. The diverse range of burial markers offers a visual narrative of the community's past. It's a place where history is not just read about but can be experienced through its tangible remnants and serene environment. Reddit

The Garden Cemetery Aesthetic

Forest Hill Cemetery is a prime example of a rural, garden cemetery, a style that gained popularity in the mid-19th century. This approach moved away from crowded, urban churchyards to vast, park-like landscapes designed for aesthetic appeal and peaceful contemplation. The emphasis is on integrating the burial spaces with nature, creating a beautiful and serene environment. Reddit

The landscape at Forest Hill is characterized by its rolling topography and the abundance of mature, stately trees. These natural elements are carefully incorporated into the design, with winding paths and open green spaces. The goal was to create a place that was not only a final resting place but also a public park, offering beauty and tranquility to visitors. Reddit

This aesthetic makes Forest Hill Cemetery a popular spot for leisurely walks, photography, and quiet reflection. The interplay of light and shadow through the tree canopy, combined with the diverse gravestone artistry, creates a visually rich and emotionally resonant experience for visitors. Instagram

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