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

4.5
·25 reviews·Kansas City, United States

A historic resting place adorned with breathtaking architecture and majestic monuments, offering a peaceful journey through time.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Elmwood Cemetery - a group of headstones in a cemetery with trees in the background

Elmwood Cemetery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic resting place adorned with breathtaking architecture and majestic monuments, offering a peaceful journey through time.

4.5
(25 reviews)

"Really lovely historic cemetery with a breathtakingly gorgeous little chapel that’s well over 100 years old."

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Operating Hours

Gates can be closed unexpectedly. Always check the official website or social media before visiting. :clock1:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and numerous memorials. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Chapel

Historic Chapel

Central grounds

A breathtakingly gorgeous chapel, well over 100 years old, offering a glimpse into historical architecture.

Majestic Monuments

Majestic Monuments

Throughout the cemetery

Discover a vast array of beautiful old statues and grand monuments, each telling a unique story.

Yellow Fever Victims' Mass Grave

Yellow Fever Victims' Mass Grave

Designated section

A somber yet significant memorial to victims of the yellow fever epidemic, a poignant reminder of history.

Notable Burials

Notable Burials

Various sections

Find the final resting places of war heroes and founding citizens, honoring those who shaped the region.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Exploration

Elmwood Cemetery is a historic and peaceful resting place. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, maintain a quiet demeanor, and avoid disturbing any memorials. Many find it a place for reflection and historical discovery.

Planning Your Visit

Check the cemetery's official website or social media for current operating hours, as these can vary seasonally. Some visitors have reported gates being closed unexpectedly, so confirming hours beforehand is advised. Consider dedicating a few hours to fully appreciate the extensive grounds and memorials.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekends (check hours)
Why
More accessible for some visitors
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I'm telling you this place is haunted come to the woodlawn cemetery and see for your self#qlms
@kaosanarchi
133.3K likes • 2.9M views

Confirm Operating Hours

Gates can be closed unexpectedly. Always check the official website or social media before visiting. :clock1:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and numerous memorials. :athletic_shoe:

Here’s the instructions on how to see this Ouija Tombstone: 1️⃣ take the map from the front gate to see if there’s any other tombstones you’d like to visit 2️⃣ locate the ‘P’ section and go to the marker 3️⃣ the marker should be on your right side. Across from it, take 5-8 steps in the grass and turn right. The Ouija tombstone should be in clear sight! #thingstodomaryland #spookyszn #spookythingst...
@morgsvstheworld
14.7K likes • 140.8K views
Historic Elmwood Cemetery. Monuments for remembrance. Animal statues for symbolism. Sad mass grave of yellow fever victims. Famous Memphis residents. So much to see, it's worth an afternoon adventure.
fdarlene491
34 likes • 1.4K views

Allow Ample Time

There's so much to see; dedicate at least a few hours to truly appreciate the history and beauty. :stopwatch:

Respectful Conduct

This is a place of rest. Maintain a quiet demeanor and avoid disturbing the memorials. :pray:

Shelby Dade Foote Jr. (November 17, 1916 – June 27, 2005) was an American writer, historian and journalist. Although he primarily viewed himself as a novelist, he is now best known for his authorship of The Civil War: A Narrative, a three-volume history of the American Civil War. Foote was little known to the general public until his appearance in Ken Burns’s PBS documentary The Civil War in 199...
walkwithhistory
554 likes • 6.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Operating Hours

Gates can be closed unexpectedly. Always check the official website or social media before visiting. :clock1:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the vast grounds and numerous memorials. :athletic_shoe:

Allow Ample Time

There's so much to see; dedicate at least a few hours to truly appreciate the history and beauty. :stopwatch:

Respectful Conduct

This is a place of rest. Maintain a quiet demeanor and avoid disturbing the memorials. :pray:

Look for Animal Statues

Many headstones feature symbolic animal statues; keep an eye out for these unique details. :dog:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(25 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Elmwood Cemetery for its breathtaking historic chapel, majestic monuments, and peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate the passion of the staff and the well-maintained grounds. However, some have experienced disappointment due to unexpected gate closures outside of stated operating hours.

"Really lovely historic cemetery with a breathtakingly gorgeous little chapel that’s well over 100 years old.

Happened to run into a couple of the gentleman who tend the cemetery and they were incredibly friendly and were kind enough to explain a little bit of the history of the grounds and chapel.

Their website and instagram are also very well maintained, it seems like everyone involved has a lot of passion and love for this place and it truly shows."

Mallory Sailors

"Are there anyone working???? Visited Saturday (Jan 11th, 2025) before 5 PM and Sunday after 8 AM, the gates were closed on both days!! Super disappointed!! It says their operation hours are from 8-5 during the winter months but two days in a row they weren't there."

S Lee

"Very majestic and peaceful Cemetery with many beautiful old statues and monuments. Takes time to go through because there is so much to see. Gorgeous place."

T Walther

What People Like

Historic chapel beauty
Majestic monuments
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Unexpected gate closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Elmwood Cemetery is accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options may vary, so it's best to check local transit schedules for routes serving the cemetery's vicinity. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available within the cemetery grounds. Visitors can typically find spots near the entrance or along the main pathways. Reddit

Yes, using GPS with the cemetery's address or name should guide you directly to the location. Ensure your GPS is up-to-date for the most accurate directions. Reddit

The cemetery has many paved roads and pathways, but some areas may be uneven or grassy. It's advisable to call ahead to inquire about specific accessibility for certain sections. Instagram

Directions will depend on your starting point. It's recommended to use a GPS navigation system or consult a map service for the most precise route to Elmwood Cemetery. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Elmwood Cemetery is generally free to enter for visitors. However, it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates on admission policies or special event ticketing. Reddit

Operating hours can vary seasonally. Visitors have reported issues with gates being closed outside of stated winter hours. It's crucial to check the official website or social media for the most current hours before your visit. Reddit

Yes, you can visit on weekends, but be sure to confirm the operating hours as they may differ from weekdays. Some visitors have noted unexpected closures on weekends. Reddit

Typically, there is no entrance fee to visit Elmwood Cemetery as a historical site. Donations are often appreciated to help with maintenance. Reddit

You can find the Elmwood Cemetery phone number on their official website or through online directories. It's recommended to call if you have specific questions about hours or access. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Elmwood Cemetery features a historic chapel, majestic monuments, unique animal statues, and the mass grave of yellow fever victims. It's also the resting place of war heroes and notable citizens. Instagram

Some visitors have described Elmwood Cemetery as having a 'haunted' feel, with one TikTok mentioning it as a place to 'see for yourself.' This often stems from its historical atmosphere and age. TikTok

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing you to capture the beautiful old statues and monuments. Be mindful of any specific rules regarding commercial photography. Instagram

While not always advertised, sometimes cemetery staff or volunteers are available to share historical insights. Checking their website or inquiring upon arrival might provide information on any available tours or knowledgeable staff. Reddit

A specific tombstone with a Ouija board design has been highlighted on TikTok, with instructions on how to locate it within the cemetery using a map and specific steps. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Elmwood Cemetery is a historical site and does not typically have dining facilities. Visitors usually bring their own snacks or plan to eat before or after their visit at nearby restaurants. Reddit

Picnicking is generally not encouraged in cemeteries as they are places of rest. It's best to enjoy your meals outside the cemetery grounds. Reddit

Depending on the specific location of Elmwood Cemetery, there are usually various restaurants and cafes in the surrounding areas. Research local eateries for options that suit your taste and budget. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The historic chapel, grand monuments, intricate statues, and the tree-lined pathways offer excellent photographic opportunities. The golden hour light can enhance the atmosphere. Instagram

Personal photography is usually allowed. However, it's wise to avoid intrusive photography, especially near services or private family plots. Check for any specific rules regarding commercial or professional shoots. Instagram

A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for capturing the atmosphere, especially in shaded areas or during late afternoons. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the grandeur of the monuments. Instagram

Yes, photographing headstones and memorials is common for historical interest. However, always be respectful and avoid disturbing the site. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Elmwood Cemetery can be a fascinating educational outing for families. Encourage children to look for the symbolic animal statues on the headstones, turning the visit into a scavenger hunt. The historic chapel and grand monuments can spark imagination about the past. Remember to emphasize the importance of respectful behavior in a cemetery setting, explaining that it's a place for remembrance. Instagram

Plan for a shorter visit if you have very young children, focusing on a few key areas like the chapel or a section with interesting statues. Bringing water and snacks is advisable, though picnicking is not permitted within the cemetery grounds. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes as there will be walking involved. Instagram

🏛️ History Buffs & Genealogists

For history enthusiasts, Elmwood Cemetery is a goldmine. You can spend hours exploring the elmwood cemetery memorials, researching the lives of war heroes, founding citizens, and victims of historical events like the yellow fever epidemic. Instagram The elmwood cemetery records are invaluable for genealogical research, offering insights into family histories and local heritage. Reddit

Consider researching notable individuals buried here beforehand, such as Shelby Dade Foote Jr., to make your exploration more targeted. Instagram The cemetery's historical significance is immense, providing a tangible connection to the past that books alone cannot replicate. Don't forget to check for any available plot maps to help locate specific graves. TikTok

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

Photographers will find Elmwood Cemetery a visually rich location. The historic chapel, with its timeless architecture, and the majestic monuments and animal statues offer endless creative possibilities. Instagram The interplay of light and shadow, especially during the golden hour, can create dramatic and evocative images. Instagram

Focus on capturing the intricate details of the sculptures, the textures of the old stone, and the serene atmosphere of the grounds. Be mindful of respectful photography practices, avoiding intrusive shots and respecting private memorials. The unique 'Barefoot Horton' tombstone or the 'Ouija Tombstone' can be interesting subjects for those seeking unusual photographic finds. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

Elmwood Cemetery is a treasure trove of local history, serving as the final resting place for many significant figures. From war heroes to founding citizens, the elmwood cemetery memorials offer a tangible connection to the past. The cemetery also bears witness to historical events, such as the yellow fever epidemic, with a poignant mass grave dedicated to its victims. Exploring these elmwood cemetery headstones provides a unique opportunity to learn about the individuals and events that shaped the region. Instagram

Some accounts even touch upon the historical practice of body snatching when cemeteries were moved, adding a layer of intrigue to the cemetery's past. While these stories are often anecdotal, they contribute to the rich tapestry of lore surrounding historic burial grounds. The elmwood cemetery records are invaluable for genealogical research and understanding the cemetery's historical context. Reddit

For those interested in specific historical figures, the cemetery is known to house the graves of notable individuals, including writers and journalists like Shelby Dade Foote Jr. Instagram The elmwood cemetery find a grave feature on their website or other genealogical platforms can help locate these significant individuals.

Architectural and Artistic Significance

Beyond its historical importance, Elmwood Cemetery is an outdoor gallery of impressive architectural and artistic expressions. The historic chapel, a centerpiece of the grounds, is described as breathtakingly gorgeous and well over a century old. Its design likely reflects the prevailing architectural styles of its era, offering a glimpse into past craftsmanship. Reddit

The cemetery is adorned with a multitude of beautiful old statues and monuments. These range from grand, elaborate structures to more somber, symbolic pieces. Many headstones feature unique animal statues that hold symbolic meaning, adding a layer of artistry and personal narrative to the memorials. Instagram The sheer variety and detail in these sculptures make a walk through Elmwood Cemetery a visually rewarding experience.

One particularly intriguing find highlighted on social media is a tombstone that reads 'Barefoot Horton,' honoring a woman by her maiden and married names, showcasing a unique approach to memorialization. Instagram This attention to detail and personal history is evident throughout the cemetery, making each monument a potential discovery.

Navigating Elmwood Cemetery

Visiting Elmwood Cemetery requires a bit of planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. While the cemetery is generally free to enter, it's crucial to confirm operating hours before your visit. Some visitors have encountered unexpected closures, particularly during winter months, so checking the official website or social media is highly recommended. Reddit

Comfortable footwear is essential, as the grounds are extensive and exploring the numerous elmwood cemetery memorials involves a significant amount of walking. Consider wearing sturdy shoes that can handle varied terrain, including grassy areas and paved paths. Instagram It's also wise to allow ample time for your visit; a few hours will give you the opportunity to truly appreciate the historical significance and artistic beauty of the cemetery without feeling rushed. Instagram

For those seeking specific points of interest, like the unique 'Ouija Tombstone,' utilizing a plot map can be helpful. While not always readily available, inquiring at the entrance or checking online resources might provide a map to navigate the vast landscape and locate particular memorials. TikTok

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