Maple Hill Cemetery - a group of headstones in a cemetery with trees in the background
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Maple Hill Cemetery

4.8
·85 reviews·Huntsville, United States

Explore Huntsville's oldest cemetery, a historic landmark filled with notable figures, unique monuments, and chilling legends.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

October afternoons

Annual Cemetery Stroll event

CrowdMedium
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Maple Hill Cemetery - a group of headstones in a cemetery with trees in the background

Maple Hill Cemetery

Best Time

October afternoons

Annual Cemetery Stroll event

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Huntsville's oldest cemetery, a historic landmark filled with notable figures, unique monuments, and chilling legends.

4.8
(85 reviews)

"A quiet place to visit my parent's gravestones. Also, the cemetery is clean and set up to walk around pay respect to the deceased."

Vertical photo
TIP

👻 Respect the Spirits

Be mindful and respectful when visiting the Dead Children's Playground and cemetery.

🚶‍♀️ Explore with Curiosity

Take your time to wander and discover the many historical figures and unique monuments.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dead Children's Playground

Dead Children's Playground

Adjacent to Maple Hill Cemetery

A playground steeped in legend, where visitors report ghostly activity and eerie sounds. Dare to explore this haunted spot.

TikTokInstagram+1
Historic Gravestone Recipes

Historic Gravestone Recipes

Maple Hill Cemetery

Discover unique gravestones featuring memorialized recipes, a touching tribute to loved ones and their culinary legacies.

Instagram
Rocket Team Memorial

Rocket Team Memorial

Maple Hill Cemetery

Pay respects to the German rocket team, including Wernher von Braun, who found their final resting place here.

TikTok
Cemetery Stroll Event

Cemetery Stroll Event

Maple Hill Cemetery

Experience history come alive with costumed characters sharing stories of Huntsville's notable figures.

TikTokInstagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Eerie: The Dead Children's Playground

Legends of ghostly laughter and moving swings surround the Dead Children's Playground, adjacent to Maple Hill Cemetery. Many believe it's haunted by children who died during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Visit with respect and an open mind for a truly chilling experience. TikTokInstagram+1

A Living History Lesson

Maple Hill Cemetery is a treasure trove of Huntsville's past, with over 60 costumed characters bringing history to life during the annual Cemetery Stroll. Explore the final resting places of governors, soldiers, and even Wernher von Braun's rocket team. TikTokInstagram+1

Best Times

When
October afternoons
Why
Annual Cemetery Stroll event
Crowd
Medium
When
Anytime for history buffs
Why
Rich historical significance
Crowd
Low
When
Late evening (for the brave)
Why
Haunted playground legends
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🪦 HAUNTED HUNTSVILLE: Dead Children’s Playground is one of Huntsville’s most haunted places 😨 💀 Located within Maple Hill Cemetery, legend says the playground is haunted by the souls of children. 💀 Some say the ghosts of children who died from the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic + were buried in Maple Hill roam the playground. 💀 Children’s bodies were also found close by after a series of child abductio...
@hvilleblast
198 likes • 6.8K views

👻 Respect the Spirits

Be mindful and respectful when visiting the Dead Children's Playground and cemetery. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore with Curiosity

Take your time to wander and discover the many historical figures and unique monuments. TikTokInstagram

Maple Hill Cemetery #paranormal #hauntedplaces #hauntedcemetery #hauntedalabama #scarynightstories #creatorsearchinsights
@thedarksidechronicles
780 likes • 9.5K views
HISTORIC CEMETERIES: Alabama is home to many historic cemeteries with famous Alabamians buried there. Check out these cemeteries + who is buried there 👇 🪦Maple Hill Cemetery ⭐️Five former Alabama governors: Thomas Bibb, Clement Comer Clay, Reuben Chapman, Robert Patton + David Lewis 📍Huntsville 🪦Old Plateau Cemetery ⭐️The last known survivor of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, Cudjoe Lewis, wh...
thebamabuzz
781 likes • 69.2K views

📅 Check Event Dates

Don't miss the annual Cemetery Stroll for an immersive historical experience. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera to document the beautiful architecture and poignant stories. TikTok+1

Dead Children’s Playground – Huntsville’s Haunted Secret Description: This isn’t your ordinary playground. Tucked beside Huntsville’s Maple Hill Cemetery, swings move in the dead of night and ghostly giggles echo through the air. They call it the “Dead Children’s Playground” — would you dare visit? #TheDarksideChronicles71 #DeadChildrensPlayground #MapleHillCemetery #HauntedPlayground #Paranorma...
thedarksidechronicles71
7 likes • 150 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👻 Respect the Spirits

Be mindful and respectful when visiting the Dead Children's Playground and cemetery. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore with Curiosity

Take your time to wander and discover the many historical figures and unique monuments. TikTokInstagram

📅 Check Event Dates

Don't miss the annual Cemetery Stroll for an immersive historical experience. TikTokInstagram

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera to document the beautiful architecture and poignant stories. TikTok+1

🚗 Parking Considerations

Parking can be limited, especially during events. Arrive early if possible. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(85 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Maple Hill Cemetery for its rich history, beautiful grounds, and the engaging annual Cemetery Stroll. Many appreciate the care taken by staff and the opportunity to learn about Huntsville's notable figures. Some are drawn by the eerie legends surrounding the Dead Children's Playground.

"A quiet place to visit my parent's gravestones. Also, the cemetery is clean and set up to walk around pay respect to the deceased. The grave yard for the Unknown Confederate soldiers who died for a lost cause is a place to visit. Another sight is the tombstone that a tree grew around."

sean fairbanks

"My family is there. The love and actual pride that the people who work and care for Maple Hill take in their job truly shows. Please check online 4 times of events that they have including the cemetery stroll."

K Mc

"This is Huntsville's historic cemetery. Once a year there is a walk through with nearly 100 sights of citizens in period costumes telling stories of their times - politicians, Civil War soldiers, World War soldiers, a Madam, people of historically African-American significance, a movie star (Talulah Bankhead), etc., also traditional period music. There is simply too much to take in! But it is well worth a day trip (or even over night) to see. And the cemetery itself is positively beautiful."

Thelonious Jazzman

What People Like

Rich historical significance
Beautiful and well-maintained grounds
Engaging Cemetery Stroll event

What People Dislike

Limited parking during events
Eerie reputation of playground

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Maple Hill Cemetery is located in the Five Points area of downtown Huntsville, Alabama. It's easily accessible by car. If using GPS, input 'Maple Hill Cemetery, Huntsville, AL'. Parking can be limited, especially during events, so arriving early is recommended. TikTokInstagram

While public transportation options might exist to get you to the general downtown Huntsville area, direct public transit to the cemetery itself may be limited. It's generally best to drive or use a rideshare service. Reddit

The Dead Children's Playground is situated directly adjacent to Maple Hill Cemetery. It's often described as being 'within' or 'next to' the cemetery grounds. TikTokInstagram+1

The cemetery is centrally located in Huntsville. Major roads like Governor's Drive and Gallatin Street provide good access to the surrounding area. TikTok

While the cemetery is large, many visitors find it helpful to use online grave locator tools or maps if they are searching for a specific individual. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to Maple Hill Cemetery is free. You can visit and explore the grounds at your leisure. TikTok

Maple Hill Cemetery is typically open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check local listings or contact the cemetery office for specific hours, especially around holidays or for special events. TikTok

The Dead Children's Playground is a public space and does not have an entrance fee. Access is generally free, though visitors are encouraged to be respectful of the area. TikTokInstagram

Yes, Maple Hill Cemetery hosts an annual 'Cemetery Stroll' event, usually in October, where costumed characters share historical stories. Donations are encouraged for this event. TikTokInstagram+1

Information regarding plots for sale at Maple Hill Cemetery can typically be obtained by contacting the cemetery administration directly. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Maple Hill Cemetery is rich with history, featuring the graves of former governors, Civil War soldiers, Wernher von Braun's rocket team, and unique monuments like gravestone recipes and a tree-engulfed tombstone. TikTokInstagram+2

The playground is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of children who died during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Visitors report hearing laughter and seeing swings move on their own. TikTokInstagram+2

Absolutely! The cemetery is clean and set up for walking, allowing visitors to explore and pay their respects. It's a beautiful place for a stroll. TikTokInstagram

While not always formally advertised, the annual Cemetery Stroll offers a guided experience with historical reenactments. Independent exploration is also highly encouraged. TikTokInstagram

You'll find a variety of monuments, from grand mausoleums to simple headstones, including unique ones like gravestone recipes and a tombstone with a tree growing around it. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed in Maple Hill Cemetery. It's a popular spot for photographers interested in historical sites and unique monuments. TikTok+1

Consider capturing the intricate details of the headstones, the historical architecture, the unique gravestone recipes, and the atmospheric Dead Children's Playground. TikTokInstagram

While photography is permitted, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the cemetery and any ongoing ceremonies or visits. Be mindful of privacy if photographing other visitors. TikTokInstagram

Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots. Overcast days can also lend a moody feel, especially for capturing the cemetery's more eerie aspects. TikTok

Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with the cemetery administration or local authorities regarding any regulations on drone operation before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Maple Hill Cemetery offers a unique educational experience for families. The annual Cemetery Stroll is particularly engaging, with costumed characters bringing history to life in a fun and interactive way. TikTokInstagram It's a great opportunity to teach children about local history and notable figures in a memorable setting. While the cemetery itself is peaceful, parents should supervise children closely, especially near the Dead Children's Playground, given its spooky reputation. TikTokInstagram+1

Consider focusing on the stories of figures like Wernher von Braun or the historical context of the Civil War to make the visit more relatable for younger audiences. The unique gravestone recipes can also spark interesting conversations about family and memories. Instagram Remember to bring comfortable walking shoes and water, as exploring the grounds can involve a good amount of walking.

👻 Paranormal Enthusiasts

For those drawn to the unexplained, Maple Hill Cemetery and its adjacent Dead Children's Playground are prime destinations. The playground is infamous for alleged paranormal activity, including ghostly laughter and moving swings, often attributed to children who died during the 1918 flu pandemic. TikTokInstagram+2 Many visitors report eerie experiences, especially during twilight or after dark. TikTok+1

While the cemetery itself is a place of historical significance, the playground adds a layer of chilling folklore. Bring recording equipment if you're interested in EVP (Electronic Voice Phenomena) or simply come with an open mind to experience the unique atmosphere. Remember to be respectful of the cemetery grounds and any ongoing visits by others. TikTok

🏛️ History Buffs

Maple Hill Cemetery is a must-visit for anyone interested in Huntsville and Alabama history. It's a repository of local heritage, housing the graves of former governors, Civil War veterans, and the pioneering German rocket team. TikTokInstagram The annual Cemetery Stroll is an exceptional event that brings these historical figures to life through reenactments, offering deep insights into their lives and times. TikTokInstagram

Take your time to explore the diverse monuments, from grand mausoleums to the unique gravestone recipes, each telling a story. Instagram The cemetery's layout and the sheer number of historically significant individuals buried here make it an invaluable resource for understanding the region's past. Consider researching some of the notable figures beforehand to enhance your exploration. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Dead Children's Playground

Nestled beside the historic Maple Hill Cemetery, the Dead Children's Playground is a site of local legend and paranormal intrigue. TikTokInstagram+1 The chilling tales suggest the playground is haunted by the spirits of children who perished, most notably during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Visitors and locals alike report hearing disembodied laughter, seeing swings move on their own, and catching glimpses of misty figures, particularly after dark. TikTokInstagram+1 This eerie atmosphere has made it a focal point for ghost hunters and those seeking a thrill, though it remains a place of sorrow and remembrance for many. TikTok+1

While the stories are captivating, it's important to approach the playground with respect. The area is a reminder of past tragedies, and many visitors come to reflect rather than to seek out paranormal activity. The juxtaposition of a children's play area with a cemetery creates a uniquely unsettling ambiance that draws curious visitors from near and far. TikTok+1

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the Dead Children's Playground offers a unique and memorable experience. It’s a place where local folklore intertwines with a somber history, creating a captivating, albeit spooky, destination. TikTok+1

A Walk Through History: Notable Burials

Maple Hill Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it's an open-air museum of Huntsville's rich history. The cemetery is the final resting place for numerous prominent figures, including five former Alabama governors: Thomas Bibb, Clement Comer Clay, Reuben Chapman, Robert Patton, and David Lewis. Instagram It also honors Civil War soldiers and veterans from World War I and II, offering a glimpse into the region's military past. Instagram+1

A particularly notable section is dedicated to the German rocket team, led by Wernher von Braun, who were instrumental in Huntsville's development as the 'Rocket City.' TikTok Their presence here underscores the city's significant role in space exploration history. Beyond political and scientific figures, the cemetery also commemorates individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those of historically African-American significance and even a movie star, Talulah Bankhead. Instagram+1

The annual Maple Hill Cemetery Stroll is a highlight, transforming the grounds into a living history lesson. Over 60 costumed characters portray notable citizens, sharing their life stories and historical context. TikTokInstagram This event provides an engaging and educational way to connect with the past, making Maple Hill Cemetery a must-visit for history enthusiasts. TikTok+1

Unique Monuments and Memorials

Beyond the notable figures, Maple Hill Cemetery boasts several unique and poignant monuments that capture visitors' attention. One such curiosity is the presence of 'gravestone recipes,' where favorite recipes of the deceased are etched directly onto their tombstones. Instagram This practice offers a deeply personal and heartwarming connection to the individuals buried there, celebrating their lives through their culinary legacies. Instagram

Another fascinating sight is a tombstone that has been partially engulfed by a growing tree, creating a striking visual of nature reclaiming man-made structures over time. Reddit The cemetery also features the 'Zinkie' graves, which are distinct from other markers and hold a special interest for cemetery explorers. TikTok These unique memorials add layers of intrigue and discovery to any visit, making Maple Hill Cemetery a place of both solemn reflection and unexpected wonder. TikTok

These distinctive memorials, alongside the historical significance of its inhabitants, contribute to Maple Hill Cemetery's reputation as a place of deep historical and cultural interest. They offer a unique perspective on how lives are remembered and celebrated, making a visit both educational and emotionally resonant. Instagram

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