Knoxville National Cemetery
A historic Union cemetery honoring fallen soldiers, known for its immaculate grounds and poignant tributes.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Peaceful reflection
Knoxville National Cemetery
Best Time
Peaceful reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Union cemetery honoring fallen soldiers, known for its immaculate grounds and poignant tributes.
"One of the best small national cemeteries developed during the Civil War era."
🚶♂️ Drive Slowly & Respectfully
The cemetery is an active burial ground. Drive slowly, be mindful of others, and avoid disturbing services.
💐 Wreaths Across America
Participate in or observe the moving Wreaths Across America event, a powerful tribute.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Civil War Era Development
Interpretive Plaques
Discover its history as one of the best small national cemeteries developed during the Civil War era.
Medal of Honor Recipients
Grave Markers
Pay tribute to CMOH recipients Timothy Spillane (Civil War) and Troy A. McGill (WWII).
Magnificent Black Maple Tree
Within the Cemetery Grounds
Admire one of the largest and healthiest black maples (Acer nigrum) found in the region.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit Etiquette
Best Times for Reflection
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♂️ Drive Slowly & Respectfully
The cemetery is an active burial ground. Drive slowly, be mindful of others, and avoid disturbing services.
💐 Wreaths Across America
Participate in or observe the moving Wreaths Across America event, a powerful tribute. 
🌳 Appreciate the Nature
Beyond the graves, enjoy the mature trees, including a notable black maple.
📍 Use the Locator
A helpful covering lists soldiers and their grave marker locations for easier navigation.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♂️ Drive Slowly & Respectfully
The cemetery is an active burial ground. Drive slowly, be mindful of others, and avoid disturbing services.
💐 Wreaths Across America
Participate in or observe the moving Wreaths Across America event, a powerful tribute.
🌳 Appreciate the Nature
Beyond the graves, enjoy the mature trees, including a notable black maple.
📍 Use the Locator
A helpful covering lists soldiers and their grave marker locations for easier navigation.
📸 Photography Etiquette
Capture respectful photos, especially during events like Memorial Day.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Knoxville National Cemetery for its immaculate upkeep and respectful atmosphere. Many are impressed by its historical significance, particularly its Civil War era development and the presence of Medal of Honor recipients. The natural beauty, including a notable black maple tree, also adds to its appeal.
"One of the best small national cemeteries developed during the Civil War era, in my humble opinion, and I've seen many. My son and I found it taking a wrong turn while wife and daughter were attending University of Tennessee (Go Vols! LOL) orientation. I did not know that East Tennessee refused to join the CSA during the Civil War and fought for the GAR, as explained in the interpretive plaques.
The final resting place of two CMOH recipients, Timothy Spillane (Civil War - died 1901) and Troy A. McGill (WWII - KIA 1944). For tree lovers, it contains one of the largest black maples (Acer nigrum) I have ever seen and it is in good condition!"
Shawn Bruzda
"We stumbled upon this while visiting Knoxville, stopped and drove around. It’s well taken care of."
Marjorie Manning
"It is nice to see this site, designed for fallen soldiers, so well kept. The grass was mowed and I couldn't see any weeds, very respectful for those who chose to protect our country. Right after I drove in, I saw a small covering that has the list of the soldiers and where to find their grave marker."
Ryan Hall
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Knoxville National Cemetery is located in North Knoxville at 939 Tyson Street. It's accessible by car and is a notable landmark in the area.
Yes, parking is available for visitors. It's recommended to drive slowly and be aware of your surroundings upon arrival.
Information on public transport accessibility is limited, but driving is the most common method. Check local Knoxville transit schedules for potential routes.
The cemetery is situated in North Knoxville. Use GPS navigation to 939 Tyson Street, Knoxville, TN, for precise directions.
It's generally easy to find, located in North Knoxville. Many visitors stumble upon it while exploring the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit Knoxville National Cemetery. It is a national cemetery open to the public for respectful visitation.
The cemetery is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset, but it's always a good idea to verify hours if you plan a specific visit, especially around holidays.
No advance booking is required for general visitation. However, if you plan to participate in organized events like Wreaths Across America, registration might be necessary.
Standard operating hours are sunrise to sunset. Special events may have different timings. Always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site.
Yes, the cemetery is generally open on holidays, but hours might vary. It's a significant site for Memorial Day and other patriotic observances.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the meticulously maintained grounds, the graves of fallen soldiers, interpretive plaques detailing its history, and a notable black maple tree.
Yes, it can be a poignant place for photography, especially during events like Memorial Day or Wreaths Across America, but always maintain a respectful approach.
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, the interpretive plaques provide historical context for self-guided exploration.
A slow, respectful drive or walk through the grounds is recommended. Take time to read the plaques and observe the headstones.
It can be a valuable educational experience for children to learn about military history and sacrifice, provided they understand the need for respectful behavior.
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of headstones, especially with the mature trees, offer striking compositions. The black maple tree is also a unique photographic subject.
While generally permitted, photographers should always be respectful of the solemn nature of the cemetery and avoid intrusive behavior.
Many visitors capture the vastness of the headstone fields, the American flags, and the natural beauty of the grounds. Black and white photography is also popular for its evocative quality.
Drone usage is typically restricted at national cemeteries to ensure the peace and solemnity of the grounds. Check with cemetery administration for specific policies.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the atmosphere of the cemetery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times for a more peaceful experience. The interpretive plaques offer historical context that can be simplified for younger audiences. Events like Wreaths Across America, while busy, can be a powerful visual for understanding community remembrance.
❤️ Couples and Reflective Visitors
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a tranquil visit. Walking the grounds, reading the historical markers, and appreciating the natural beauty, like the large black maple tree, can be a deeply moving experience. It's a place to connect with the past and honor those who served the nation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
Among its notable interments are two recipients of the Medal of Honor: Civil War veteran Timothy Spillane and World War II soldier Troy A. McGill. These individuals represent the highest levels of bravery and sacrifice, adding to the cemetery's historical weight. The presence of these distinguished service members underscores the cemetery's importance as a final resting place for heroes.
Beyond its military significance, the cemetery is also a haven for nature enthusiasts. It boasts one of the largest and healthiest black maple trees (Acer nigrum) in the area, a beautiful natural feature that complements the solemnity of the grounds. This blend of historical importance and natural beauty makes Knoxville National Cemetery a unique and moving site to visit.
Community and Remembrance: Wreaths Across America
+2The event is a powerful display of collective gratitude and respect. Videos and photos from the day often highlight the sea of wreaths adorning the headstones, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant scene. It's a time when the community comes together to ensure that no veteran is forgotten, fostering a sense of shared responsibility for honoring those who served.
Participation in Wreaths Across America is a deeply meaningful experience for many. It offers a tangible way to connect with the sacrifices made by service members and to pass on the importance of remembrance to younger generations. The event at Knoxville National Cemetery is a testament to the enduring spirit of patriotism and community support for veterans.
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