Riverside Cemetery
Denver's oldest cemetery, a historic resting place with notable figures and panoramic city views, offering a glimpse into Colorado's past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Riverside Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Denver's oldest cemetery, a historic resting place with notable figures and panoramic city views, offering a glimpse into Colorado's past.
"It's a blast to walk around and see all the history, though sad how the entire space has gone into disrepair."
🚶♀️ Respectful Wanderings
Tread lightly and respectfully. Many visitors note the cemetery's disrepair; treat it as a historic site, not a playground.
📚 Research Before You Go
Look up notable figures buried here to make your exploration more meaningful. It's a history lesson in itself!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Figures' Graves
Throughout the cemetery
Discover the final resting places of Colorado pioneers, governors, lawmen, and Medal of Honor recipients.
Centennial State History
Throughout the cemetery
Explore Denver's oldest cemetery, established in 1876, offering a tangible connection to Colorado's past.
Mountain and Skyline Views
Higher elevations within the cemetery
Enjoy unexpected panoramic views of the Denver skyline and surrounding mountains amidst the historic grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Navigating History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Respectful Wanderings
Tread lightly and respectfully. Many visitors note the cemetery's disrepair; treat it as a historic site, not a playground.
📚 Research Before You Go
Look up notable figures buried here to make your exploration more meaningful. It's a history lesson in itself!
👃 Beware of Nearby Odors
Some visitors mention a smell from a nearby dog food factory, especially on warmer days.
📱 Bring Your Phone
Use your phone to look up names and stories as you discover them. It enhances the historical experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Respectful Wanderings
Tread lightly and respectfully. Many visitors note the cemetery's disrepair; treat it as a historic site, not a playground.
📚 Research Before You Go
Look up notable figures buried here to make your exploration more meaningful. It's a history lesson in itself!
👃 Beware of Nearby Odors
Some visitors mention a smell from a nearby dog food factory, especially on warmer days.
📱 Bring Your Phone
Use your phone to look up names and stories as you discover them. It enhances the historical experience.
💰 Support Maintenance
Consider paid tours to help fund the cemetery's beautification and upkeep.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Riverside Cemetery is a historic gem, offering a deep dive into Colorado's past with the graves of many notable figures. While visitors appreciate the historical significance and unexpected city views, many note its significant state of disrepair and potential for unpleasant odors. Paid tours are available and recommended to support maintenance and gain historical context.
"First went on a tour here, and then walked around a bit afterward. It was sad to hear about how RTD did not honor their wishes and made the cemetery have a harder time keeping destructive people out by making the entrance move to where the main building can’t as easily see them. I support them in their quest to start doing paid tours to support the beautification and maintenance of the cemetery. This is a rich place with a lot of history and the people who vandalize must be in denial of their own mortality."
A D
"Denver, Colorado's oldest cemetery established in 1876, the year Colorado achieved statehood.....hence, the Centennial State. The cemetery has a gritty and arid feel to it during mid-summer; however, it is enchanting a full of Colorado history. Of note buried here....John Evans (Territorial Governor of Colorado), David Cook (western lawman who arrested more than 3,000 criminals), Augusta Tabor (Pioneer and wealthy mining magnate), Captain Silas Soule (murder victim who refused participation during the Sand Creek Massacre in 1864), John Bass (early baseball pioneer), Medal of Honor recipients George Kelley, David Day, & Smith Hastings. Approximately 70,000 souls have been buried here."
The WWII Professor
"In 1965, I was 7. My dad took us to Riverside to collect wood that had washed down from a lumberyard (the historic 65 flood) I remember seeing caskets exposed from the erosion.
In 2003 I returned to Riverside to bury my son.
Going over the railroad tracks into Riverside was like stepping back in time. It was a Hollywood cemetery. The sounds of the city disappeared. The ambiance was warm quiet and peaceful.
The last time I was there I couldn't find my son's grave. The tree he was buried next to was gone as was most of the trees. The cemetery was desolate. My heart sank with disappointment that something so historic would be left to this neglectful end."
William Wagner
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Riverside Cemetery is located in Denver, Colorado. While specific public transport routes can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Parking can be found within or near the cemetery grounds.
Yes, parking is typically available within or near the cemetery. However, as it's an older site, designated parking areas might be less formal.
The cemetery is quite large, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. You can explore on foot, and using your phone to look up names can help guide your exploration.
Given its age and unkempt state, accessibility can be challenging. Paths may be uneven or overgrown. It's advisable to check current conditions if mobility is a concern.
While specific hours can vary, historic cemeteries are often accessible during daylight hours. It's best to check for official operating hours or any posted restrictions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, entry to Riverside Cemetery is free. However, paid tours are offered to support the cemetery's maintenance and provide historical context.
Official hours can vary, but historic cemeteries are typically open during daylight. It's recommended to verify current hours before your visit.
Yes, paid guided tours are available and are a great way to learn about the cemetery's rich history and support its upkeep.
Tour prices can vary. It's best to check with the official Riverside Cemetery organization or tour provider for the most current pricing information.
Yes, you can explore Riverside Cemetery independently during its open hours. However, a tour offers deeper historical insights.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many visitors describe Riverside Cemetery as being in a state of disrepair, with unkempt grounds and overgrown areas. This adds to its historic, albeit somber, atmosphere. +1
The cemetery is the final resting place for many notable figures, including Colorado pioneers, territorial governors, lawmen, and Medal of Honor recipients.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided reviews, historic cemeteries often have local legends. The 'haunted places' tags on TikTok suggest this is a common association.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for photography, especially with the mountain and skyline views. Be mindful of the cemetery's condition and any posted rules.
Look for the graves of figures like John Evans, David Cook, Augusta Tabor, and Captain Silas Soule. The historical significance of these individuals makes them points of interest.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the historic headstones, the expansive grounds, and the panoramic views of the Denver skyline and mountains. The unkempt nature can add a dramatic aesthetic.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in cemeteries. However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and any specific rules posted.
A versatile lens that can capture both wide landscapes and detailed headstones would be ideal. A tripod might be useful for low-light conditions, but check if they are permitted.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful light. Overcast days can also provide soft, even lighting for detailed shots.
Focus on the varying styles of headstones, weathered monuments, mature trees, and the interplay of nature reclaiming parts of the cemetery. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for uneven terrain and potentially overgrown areas, so ensure children are wearing appropriate footwear. While the cemetery's condition might not be ideal for very young children who need constant supervision, older kids can appreciate the historical aspect. Consider a guided tour to make the experience more engaging and informative for the whole family.
🏛️ History Buffs
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Colorado's Past
The cemetery's landscape, though often described as unkempt and arid, possesses a unique enchantment. The varying styles of headstones and monuments tell silent stories of lives lived and legacies left behind. For those interested in local history, Riverside Cemetery is an invaluable resource, providing a visual narrative of Denver's development and the individuals who contributed to it. Paid tours are available, offering a structured way to learn about the cemetery's rich past and support its ongoing preservation efforts.
Despite its historical significance, many reviews highlight the cemetery's state of disrepair. This neglect, coupled with its proximity to the river and potential for less savory elements, means visitors should be mindful of their surroundings. However, the historical depth and the unexpected panoramic views of the Denver skyline and surrounding mountains offer a compelling reason to visit.
Navigating the Historic Grounds
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the cemetery's history and its notable inhabitants, paid tours are highly recommended. These tours not only provide valuable insights but also contribute to the funds needed for the cemetery's beautification and maintenance.
Be aware that the cemetery is located near a dog food factory, and some visitors have reported noticing odors, particularly on warmer days. Additionally, due to its location near the river and its somewhat neglected state, it's wise to be mindful of your surroundings and any potential safety concerns.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit