
Lexington Cemetery Lexington KY
A vast, historic cemetery in Lexington, KY, renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms and notable graves.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cherry blossoms in full bloom

Lexington Cemetery Lexington KY
Best Time
Cherry blossoms in full bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, historic cemetery in Lexington, KY, renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms and notable graves.
"Beautiful cemetery with well-kept grounds, perfect for a peaceful morning walk."

🗺️ Get a Cemetery Map
Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding notable graves.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the monuments and mausoleums.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clay Henry Monument
Central section
A massive, imposing monument marking the grave of a significant figure in Kentucky history.

Jim Varney's Grave
Section 4
Pay respects to the beloved actor who brought Ernest P. Worrell to life. A must-see for fans!

Abraham Lincoln's In-Laws
Todd Family Plot
Visit the resting place of Mary Todd Lincoln's family, connecting you to a pivotal American president.

Cherry Blossom Spectacle
Sections 47-48
In spring, these trees create a breathtaking pink canopy, making for a picturesque and memorable visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Vast Grounds
Timing Your Visit for Blooms
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🗺️ Get a Cemetery Map
Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding notable graves.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the monuments and mausoleums.
🌸 Check Bloom Forecasts
For the best cherry blossom views, time your visit with peak bloom.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Get a Cemetery Map
Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding notable graves.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the monuments and mausoleums.
🌸 Check Bloom Forecasts
For the best cherry blossom views, time your visit with peak bloom.
🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend.
🚗 Mind the Speed Limit
Respect the 20 mph limit for safety, especially with pedestrians and pets.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Lexington Cemetery for its immense beauty, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere, especially during the spring cherry blossom season. While the grounds are vast and well-kept, some note concerns about vehicle speed and the need for better signage for all notable graves.
"This cemetery is massive and there are mosoleums, grave stones, monuments and a few underground tombs.make sure to stop in at the office and get the map and pamphlets. The Clay Henry monument and grave is massive. Well worth the visit."
Joseph Mills
"First time here with family just to look at the cherry blossoms and geese. . Cemetery is huge once inside cherry blossoms were quite in full bloom yet maybe in another 2 weeks but it was a fantastic experience make sure to take lots of pictures. . Cherry blossoms located closer to the middle end sections 47-48 to the left and you can park on the right or further down on the left plenty of space to get your steps in and bring your dog"
John Connor
"Beautiful cemetery right off Main Street in Lexington. The cherry blossoms are a big draw every year when they are in bloom. We might have missed peak by a few days, but they were still worth the drive. We did make it a point to go by John Breckenridge and John Morgan's grave. The Morgan monument used to be downtown but was moved to the cemetery."
Lloyd Mershon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lexington Cemetery is conveniently located right off Main Street in Lexington, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car and has ample parking available.
While specific bus routes can vary, checking with Lexington's public transit authority for routes serving the Main Street area is recommended. Many visitors opt for personal vehicles due to the cemetery's size.
There's plenty of parking available, both on the right side of the entrance and further down on the left. You can also park closer to the middle sections if you're heading towards the cherry blossoms.
Yes, it's a prominent landmark situated directly on Main Street, making it quite straightforward to locate.
Lexington Cemetery is centrally located, offering easy access to downtown Lexington's shops, restaurants, and other historical sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lexington Cemetery is generally free to enter and explore. There are no admission fees for visitors.
The cemetery is typically open daily from dawn to dusk, allowing ample time for visits. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal changes or holiday hours.
While the cemetery is open until dusk, it is not typically open for nighttime visits. Stick to daylight hours for your exploration.
There is no entrance fee. Lexington Cemetery is a public space accessible to all.
While official guided tours might not always be available, you can pick up maps and pamphlets at the office to guide your self-exploration of notable graves and historical figures.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the massive Clay Henry monument, the grave of actor Jim Varney (Ernest P. Worrell), and the Todd family plot, Abraham Lincoln's in-laws. Signs often mark important figures.
The cherry blossoms typically bloom in early spring. While some years are better than others, aim for late March to early April, but check local conditions as they can freeze if buds appear too early.
Absolutely! The well-kept grounds and scenic beauty make it a perfect spot for a peaceful morning or afternoon stroll.
Yes, photography is encouraged! It's a beautiful location, especially during cherry blossom season.
Be mindful of the 20 mph speed limit, as some drivers may exceed it. Also, be aware of commercial traffic in the back sections.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities within Lexington Cemetery itself. It's a place for reflection and exploration.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally not the primary purpose of visiting a cemetery. It's best to enjoy picnics elsewhere in Lexington.
Being located on Main Street, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding downtown Lexington area, offering a variety of dining options.
It's advisable to consume any food or drinks discreetly and ensure you take all trash with you to maintain the cemetery's pristine condition.
Downtown Lexington offers everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining, catering to diverse tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
The cherry blossom sections (47-48) in spring are stunning. Also, the grand monuments like Clay Henry and the intricate mausoleums offer dramatic photographic opportunities.
Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the cemetery. Be respectful of the solemn nature of the grounds.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer beautiful, soft light. Spring mornings during cherry blossom season are particularly magical.
While generally allowed, avoid intrusive photography that disturbs other visitors or the sanctity of the site. Drone photography may be restricted.
Yes, photographing the graves of notable figures like Jim Varney or Lincoln's in-laws is common and encouraged for historical interest.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
During spring, the cherry blossoms are a magical sight that children often find enchanting. It's a great opportunity for them to connect with nature and learn about local history in a unique setting. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and keep an eye on the speed limit for safety.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers
Grabbing a map from the office is highly recommended to guide your exploration and discover the stories behind the monuments. It's also a pet-friendly location, so if you have a canine companion, it's a great place for a shared walk.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for the most dramatic and soft lighting. The historical markers and unique grave designs also offer compelling details for close-up photography. Remember to be respectful of the solemnity of the location while capturing its beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Notable Graves
Among the most sought-after graves are those of Jim Varney, the beloved actor behind Ernest P. Worrell, and the Todd family, Abraham Lincoln's in-laws. Visitors often seek out the imposing Clay Henry monument, a testament to its subject's significance. The cemetery staff can provide maps to help locate these and other important figures, turning a visit into a historical scavenger hunt.
Pay attention to the signs placed at the edge of certain sections, which often denote the presence of historically significant individuals. This feature enhances the self-guided tour experience, allowing visitors to learn about Kentucky's heritage as they wander through the serene landscape.
The Enchantment of Cherry Blossoms
However, the timing of the cherry blossoms can be unpredictable. Warm spells followed by late frosts can impact the bloom, sometimes leading to sparse flowers or early bud damage. Travelers are advised to check local bloom reports and weather forecasts closer to their intended visit to maximize their chances of experiencing the peak display.
Even if you miss the absolute peak, the cemetery remains a beautiful and tranquil place. The well-maintained grounds and the variety of trees and flora provide a pleasant environment for reflection and enjoyment throughout the year.
Navigating and Experiencing the Cemetery
While the cemetery is a place of quiet contemplation, it's also a popular spot for walks, and many visitors bring their pets. The speed limit is set at 20 mph, but some visitors have noted that cars can sometimes travel too fast, posing a potential hazard. Being mindful of your surroundings and adhering to the speed limit yourself is crucial for everyone's safety.
Some visitors have noted commercial traffic passing through the back sections of the cemetery. While this might be for access to adjacent properties, it's something to be aware of during your visit, especially if you're seeking absolute tranquility.
Social
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