James A. Garfield Monument
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Garfield Memorial Cleveland

4.7
·427 reviews·Cleveland, United States

A towering 180-ft. monument honoring President James A. Garfield, featuring a public crypt and stunning city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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James A. Garfield Monument

Garfield Memorial Cleveland

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A towering 180-ft. monument honoring President James A. Garfield, featuring a public crypt and stunning city views.

4.7
(427 reviews)

"Breathtaking and unexpected architecture; a stunning, hidden gem with no great impediments to viewing."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to explore the monument and cemetery. :athletic_shoe:

Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, especially seasonally. Confirm before you go to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Crypt and Casket Display

The Crypt and Casket Display

Lower Level

See the actual bronze caskets of President James A. Garfield and his wife, Lucretia, in a unique public display.

Memorial Hall's Grandeur

Memorial Hall's Grandeur

Main Level

Marvel at the stunning architecture, including red granite columns, a golden mosaic dome, and intricate stained glass windows.

Panoramic Views from the Balcony

Panoramic Views from the Balcony

Upper Level

Ascend the spiral staircase for breathtaking views of Cleveland and Lake Erie. A truly rewarding climb!

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

The Garfield Memorial is free to enter, but check operating hours as they can vary. Weekends and holidays might see more visitors, so consider a weekday for a more serene experience. The cemetery itself is vast, so wear comfortable shoes for exploring the grounds.

Understanding the Memorial's Unique Features

This isn't just a tomb; it's a towering monument with a public crypt displaying President Garfield's casket. Many visitors are surprised by its grandeur, especially given his short presidency. The climb to the top offers stunning views, but be aware there are no elevators.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Late spring/early fall
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I took film photos of President James A. Garfield’s monument with my 70 year old Kodak Retina II. 📸: Kodak Retina II 🎞️: Kentmere Pan 400 #bwfilm #filmphotography #analogphotography #cleveland
@alexfarmerphoto
299 likes • 4.6K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to explore the monument and cemetery. :athletic_shoe:

Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, especially seasonally. Confirm before you go to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

World-class architecture beautifully manifested and masterfully restored. 🥹🥹🙏🙏😍😍🇺🇸🇺🇸 If you've never been to President Garfield's tomb, let this be your sign. #clevelandohio #ohiolandmarks #thingstodoinohio #ohio
@clevelandish_oh
27.1K likes • 292.5K views
Visited the newly renovated James A. Garfield Memorial in Cleveland. . . #monument #fujifilmgfx100rf #historicallandmark #presidential #onlyinohio #ohiofindithere #cleveland #landmark #onlyincleveland #ohionaturephotography #ohiogram #bestofthebuckeyestate #onlyincleveland #ohiophotographer #clevelanddotcom #onlyinohio #funinohio #neohiofamilyfun #beautifuldestinations
dbritt046
14 likes • 188 views

Free Admission!

Enjoy this historical gem without an entry fee. Donations are appreciated. :moneywithwings:

Don't Miss the View

The climb to the top is worth it for stunning panoramic views of Cleveland and Lake Erie. :cityscape:

James Garfield’s memorial in Cleveland Ohio
mrsjrs1230
2 likes • 168 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to explore the monument and cemetery. :athletic_shoe:

Check Operating Hours

Hours can vary, especially seasonally. Confirm before you go to avoid disappointment. :clock1:

Free Admission!

Enjoy this historical gem without an entry fee. Donations are appreciated. :moneywithwings:

Don't Miss the View

The climb to the top is worth it for stunning panoramic views of Cleveland and Lake Erie. :cityscape:

Consider a Guided Tour

Knowledgeable guides offer fascinating insights into Garfield's life and the monument's history. :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(427 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Garfield Memorial for its stunning, unexpected architecture and the unique experience of seeing the president's casket. The free admission and breathtaking views from the top are major highlights, often complemented by knowledgeable and friendly tour guides. Some note the physical challenge of the stairs, but most agree the climb is well worth it.

"Beautiful monument. Free. Some of the nicest tour guides you'll ever meet. Parking on the roads of the cemetery. Entrance is on the "other side" of probably where you'll end up parking. Make sure to go to the top for a beautiful view of Cleveland and the lake (spiral staircase brings you up). Don't skip it!"

John H.

"I was pleasantly impressed with this monument, and to think it was privately funded is amazing. Our tour guide Joe was super knowledgeable and loves doing this. It was different to see the actual caskets in the crypt."

Celeste Lewis-Bradley

"Breathtaking and unexpected architecture. I hadn't looked at any serious pictures before this visit, but I had been to more than twenty presidential graves ahead of it, so I wasn't sure what I'd see. If anything, Garfield's term being so short and relatively insignificant, I was looking for a modest headstone, something reasonable, which isn't what I came upon. This was a stunning, hidden gem that posed no great impediments to viewing, not like the mecca of Lincoln's grave in Illinois, where people crowd the area and stand in lines to see his tomb. Even McKinley's grave, down in Canton, serves as a walking and running space for people who barely seem to notice, but who fill up the space with sweaty, busy bodies. Here, at Garfield's tomb, there were no other people besides myself, just a full view of the most grand memorial of all the presidents I've ever been to see, one of our four martyred leaders."

Jeremy Lucas

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Unique crypt display
Panoramic views

What People Dislike

No elevator access

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Garfield Memorial is located within Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland, Ohio. Parking is available on the cemetery roads. Visitors often find it best to park and then walk to the memorial entrance, which is on the 'other side' of where many people initially park. :car: Reddit

Yes, parking is available on the roads within Lake View Cemetery. Be prepared for a short walk to the memorial itself. :parking: Reddit

While specific routes can change, checking Cleveland's public transit (RTA) website for bus routes serving the area around Lake View Cemetery is recommended. :bus:

Lake View Cemetery is a large, historic space. Using a map or GPS can be helpful. The Garfield Memorial is a prominent landmark within the cemetery. :map: TikTok

The memorial is located at Lake View Cemetery, 12316 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44106. Inputting this address into your GPS will guide you to the cemetery grounds. :road:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission to the Garfield Memorial is completely free! It's a wonderful opportunity to experience a significant historical site without any cost. :moneywithwings: TikTokReddit

The operating hours for the Garfield Memorial can vary, especially depending on the season. It's best to check the official Lake View Cemetery website or their social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. :clock1: TikTok

No, advance booking is not required as the memorial has free admission. You can typically visit during their open hours. :ticket:

Yes, the memorial is generally open on weekends, but it may be busier than on weekdays. Consider arriving earlier in the day for a less crowded experience. :calendar: Reddit

The main restriction is the physical ability to climb stairs, as there is no elevator access to the upper levels. Otherwise, entry is generally open during operating hours. :stairs: Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find Memorial Hall with a sculpture of Garfield, red granite columns, a mosaic dome, and stained glass. The crypt below houses the actual bronze caskets of President Garfield and his wife. :statue: TikTokInstagram

Yes, the memorial features a public crypt where the bronze caskets of President James A. Garfield and his wife, Lucretia, are displayed. This is a unique aspect of the memorial. :coffin: InstagramReddit

No, there is no elevator. Access to the upper levels and the balcony with views is via spiral staircases. :arrow_up: Reddit

From the upper balcony, you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the city of Cleveland and Lake Erie. It's a rewarding sight after the climb. :camerawithflash: InstagramReddit

Yes, staff members often provide guided tours, offering in-depth information about President Garfield and the monument's history. Highly recommended! :walking: Reddit

Due to the extensive use of spiral staircases to reach the upper levels and the crypt, the memorial may not be fully accessible for individuals with significant mobility challenges. :wheelchair:

📸 📸 Photography

The Memorial Hall with its mosaic dome and stained glass is stunning. The exterior architecture is also impressive. Don't forget the panoramic views from the top balcony! :camerawithflash: TikTokInstagram

Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the memorial, allowing you to capture the beautiful architecture and displays. Be mindful of any specific signage. :iphone: TikTok

While generally allowed, always be respectful of the space and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography in areas where it might be disruptive or prohibited. :no_flash:

Many visitors enjoy capturing the intricate details of the stained glass, mosaic dome, and the grand scale of the monument. Film photography has also been used to capture its timeless beauty. :film_frames: TikTok+1

Photography in the crypt area might be restricted or discouraged due to the solemn nature of the space. It's best to check for any posted rules upon arrival. :pray:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Garfield Memorial can be an engaging visit for families, especially children who enjoy exploring historical sites. The climb up the spiral staircase to the viewing balcony is an adventure in itself, and the panoramic views of Cleveland are a great reward. Reddit The unique aspect of seeing the actual caskets in the crypt can also spark curiosity and provide a memorable history lesson. InstagramReddit

Tips for Families:
* Wear comfortable shoes: Essential for navigating the stairs and cemetery grounds. :athletic_shoe:
* Engage with guides: If available, the knowledgeable tour guides can make the history come alive for younger visitors. :walking:
* Focus on the views and architecture: Highlight the mosaic dome, stained glass, and the expansive city views to keep kids interested. :camerawithflash:

Budget Travelers

The Garfield Memorial is an absolute win for budget travelers, as admission is completely free. TikTokReddit This allows you to experience a significant historical landmark and enjoy impressive architecture and views without spending a dime. The surrounding Lake View Cemetery also offers a free, expansive area for exploration. TikTok

Tips for Budget Travelers:
* Pack snacks and water: While there are no food facilities directly at the memorial, bringing your own refreshments can save money. :apple:
* Utilize free parking: Parking within Lake View Cemetery is free, eliminating transportation costs if you drive. :car:
* Combine with other free activities: Explore other free attractions in Cleveland or enjoy the natural beauty of the cemetery grounds. :park:

History Enthusiasts

For history enthusiasts, the Garfield Memorial is a must-visit. It offers a direct connection to the life and legacy of James A. Garfield, the 20th U.S. President, whose presidency was tragically cut short by assassination. TikTokInstagram The opportunity to see his actual casket in the crypt is a profound historical experience, rarely found at other presidential sites. InstagramReddit

Tips for History Buffs:
* Take a guided tour: The guides are often exceptionally knowledgeable and can provide deep historical context. Reddit
* Research Garfield's life beforehand: Understanding his presidency and assassination will enrich your visit. :book:
* Explore Lake View Cemetery: Discover other historical figures and monuments within the cemetery to broaden your historical perspective. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architecture and Design of the Garfield Memorial

The James A. Garfield Memorial, completed in 1890, is a striking example of late 19th-century monumental architecture. Standing at an imposing 180 feet tall, it's constructed from native Ohio sandstone, giving it a robust and enduring presence. The design is a blend of classical and Victorian influences, featuring intricate detailing that speaks to the era's craftsmanship. Visitors are consistently impressed by the breathtaking and unexpected architecture, a stark contrast to what some might anticipate for a president who served a relatively short term. Reddit

Inside, Memorial Hall is the heart of the monument. It boasts a magnificent golden mosaic dome that shimmers overhead, complemented by vibrant stained glass windows that cast colorful light throughout the space. Red granite columns add a sense of grandeur and stability. The hall also features a prominent sculpture of President Garfield. The crypt, located directly below Memorial Hall, houses the actual bronze caskets of President Garfield and his wife, Lucretia, a feature that many find both somber and historically significant. TikTokInstagram

The memorial was largely privately funded, a testament to the public's respect for President Garfield, who was assassinated in office. This fact alone adds another layer of appreciation for the scale and beauty of the monument. The combination of its imposing exterior, the richly decorated interior, and its unique crypt makes the Garfield Memorial a standout historical site. InstagramReddit

Exploring Lake View Cemetery

The Garfield Memorial is nestled within the expansive and historic Lake View Cemetery, a landmark in itself. Established in 1869, the cemetery is renowned for its beautiful landscaping, rolling hills, and impressive collection of monuments and mausoleums, making it a popular spot for history buffs and those interested in cemetery exploration (tapophile culture). TikTok+1

Beyond the Garfield Memorial, Lake View Cemetery is the final resting place for many notable Cleveland figures, including John D. Rockefeller and Eliot Ness. The grounds themselves are a peaceful retreat, offering scenic walking paths and stunning views, particularly from higher elevations. It's a place where history, art, and nature converge, providing a tranquil environment for reflection and discovery. TikTok

Many visitors to the Garfield Memorial find that exploring the surrounding cemetery enhances their experience. It's an opportunity to appreciate the broader historical context of the area and discover other points of interest within this vast, beautifully maintained landscape. Wear comfortable shoes, as there's much to see! :walking: TikTokReddit+1

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