South Asheville Cemetery
Historic 87-acre cemetery in Asheville, NC, featuring scenic river views and the graves of authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming flora, pleasant temperatures
South Asheville Cemetery
Best Time
Blooming flora, pleasant temperatures

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 87-acre cemetery in Asheville, NC, featuring scenic river views and the graves of authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry.
"A peaceful, historic sanctuary with beautiful grounds and literary connections."
🗺️ Grab a Map
Essential for navigating the 87 acres and finding specific gravesites.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grounds are hilly and spread out, so good walking shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thomas Wolfe's Grave
Riverside Cemetery
Visit the final resting place of the renowned author of 'Look Homeward, Angel.'

O. Henry's Resting Place
Riverside Cemetery
Pay respects to the master of the short story, known for his poignant tales.

Scenic River Views
Upper Terraces
Enjoy picturesque overlooks of the French Broad River from the cemetery's elevated sections.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Grab a Map
Essential for navigating the 87 acres and finding specific gravesites.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grounds are hilly and spread out, so good walking shoes are a must.
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels down.
🚗 Parking Tips
Limited parking inside; consider parking off the paved path if needed.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Grab a Map
Essential for navigating the 87 acres and finding specific gravesites.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The grounds are hilly and spread out, so good walking shoes are a must.
🤫 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels down.
🚗 Parking Tips
Limited parking inside; consider parking off the paved path if needed.
🐜 Watch for Ants
Avoid sitting directly on the grass in some areas due to ant activity.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find South Asheville Cemetery to be a peaceful, historic, and beautifully landscaped resting place, particularly notable for being the burial site of authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry. While many appreciate the serene atmosphere and scenic views, some have noted challenges with navigation due to a lack of clear road markings. Overall, it's considered a unique and worthwhile destination for those interested in history and quiet reflection.
"When I first moved to Asheville (lived there for 7 years) I was fascinated by the Monteford neighborhood with this Historic cemetery nearby. I took a stroll there and came upon Thomas Wolfe’s gravestone.
“The mountains were his masters. They rimmed in life. They were the cup of reality, beyond growth, beyond struggle and death. They were his absolute unity in the midst of eternal change.”
Thomas Wolfe, Look Homeward, Angel"
Kelly A. Calhoun
"This historical sanctuary is both peaceful and beautiful. I went here to visit the grave of one of my favorite writers, O Henry. Thomas Wolfe is also buried here. There are signs to point one in the direction. This hilly and old resting place, nestled in the nice Montford area, is truly a respite, a place that is both sacred but also very meditative."
J.J. Colagrande
"A very historic cemetery, on rolling, tree-covered grounds. Established in 1885. It overlooks the French Broad River and contains 87 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds on five terraced levels with more than three miles of roads. Oaks, poplars, evergreens, dogwoods, mimosas, azaleas, rhododendrons, and laurels shade the unusual monuments and mausoleums. Take your time and grab a map at the visitors center nearby."
Chad S.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
South Asheville Cemetery, also known as Riverside Cemetery, is located in the Montford neighborhood of Asheville. You can drive directly into the cemetery and follow Google Maps for navigation. Limited parking is available inside, so be prepared to park off the paved path if necessary.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited. Driving is the most common method of arrival. It's recommended to check local Asheville transit schedules for routes that may pass near the Montford neighborhood.
The cemetery spans 87 acres with five terraced levels. Grabbing a map from the visitor center or downloading a self-guided tour from their website is highly recommended to find specific graves and points of interest.
Yes, there is a visitor center where you can obtain maps and information about the cemetery and its notable residents.
While it's a pleasant walk through the historic Montford neighborhood, it's a few miles from downtown. Comfortable walking shoes are essential if you choose to walk.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit South Asheville Cemetery. It is a public space open for respectful exploration.
The cemetery is generally open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them for specific hours, especially around holidays.
Tickets are not required for entry, as it's a free public cemetery. You can visit anytime during its open hours.
While generally open during daylight, it's a place of solemnity. Visitors are expected to be respectful of the grounds and any ongoing services.
Visiting at night is generally not recommended and may be restricted. Cemeteries are typically closed after dark for safety and to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The most famous residents are author Thomas Wolfe and short story writer O. Henry. Look for their markers to learn more about their lives and contributions to literature.
You'll find a variety of unusual monuments, mausoleums, and headstones reflecting different eras and artistic styles, set amidst diverse flora.
Yes, the cemetery offers beautiful landscaping, historic headstones, and scenic views, making it a popular spot for photographers.
While there isn't always a formal guided tour, you can often download self-guided tour information from their website to enhance your visit.
While some visitors have been seen relaxing on the grass, it's advised to be cautious due to ants. It's best to treat the cemetery as a place of quiet reflection rather than a picnic spot.
📸 📸 Photography
The rolling hills, mature trees, and unique monuments offer many picturesque opportunities. The overlooks of the French Broad River are also stunning.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or any activity that disrupts the peace of the cemetery may require permission. Always be respectful.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for cemetery photography.
Yes, you can photograph headstones, especially those of notable figures like Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry. Remember to be respectful and avoid intrusive shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape, while a prime lens can be useful for detailed shots of monuments. A tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions, but ensure it doesn't obstruct pathways.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families: Bring a stroller or carrier for younger children as the grounds are hilly and extensive. Pack water and snacks, but be mindful of keeping the area clean and respectful. A scavenger hunt for specific dates or symbols on gravestones can make the exploration more interactive and fun for kids.
📚 Literary Enthusiasts
Take time to read the inscriptions on their headstones and reflect on their legacies. Consider bringing a copy of one of their books to read a passage nearby. The cemetery's peaceful atmosphere provides an ideal setting for literary contemplation.
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers & Reflective Visitors
Use the self-guided tour to learn about the lives of those buried here, or simply find a quiet bench to sit and observe the natural beauty. The cemetery's elevated positions also provide lovely views of the French Broad River, adding to the sense of tranquility.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The cemetery serves as the final resting place for many notable individuals, most famously the acclaimed authors Thomas Wolfe and O. Henry. Visiting their graves provides a tangible connection to literary history. The unusual monuments and mausoleums scattered throughout the grounds also tell stories of past lives and artistic expressions.
For those interested in genealogy or local history, the cemetery is a treasure trove. The visitor center and self-guided tours can help you uncover the stories behind the stones, making a visit both educational and contemplative. It's a place where history, nature, and art converge.
Navigating and Exploring the Grounds
Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the terrain is hilly and you'll likely be doing a lot of walking. The paths are paved in some areas, but much of the exploration involves traversing grassy slopes and uneven ground. While some visitors have enjoyed sitting on the grass, be aware of potential ant activity in certain spots.
Take your time to wander and appreciate the diverse flora and the unique monuments. The cemetery's elevated sections offer lovely views of the French Broad River, providing moments of natural beauty amidst the historical significance. It's a place that encourages a slow, reflective pace.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit