St. Michael's Cemetery - a white fence with a cross on top of it
1 / 10

St. Michael's Cemetery

4.7
·23 reviews·Pensacola, United States

A serene and historic burial ground, St. Michael's Cemetery offers a peaceful journey through time with its aged gravestones and intricate ironwork.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
St. Michael's Cemetery - a white fence with a cross on top of it

St. Michael's Cemetery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene and historic burial ground, St. Michael's Cemetery offers a peaceful journey through time with its aged gravestones and intricate ironwork.

4.7
(23 reviews)

"You can really feel the age of Pensacola at St. Michael's, where all of the city's founding fathers are buried."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Uneven terrain and grass mean sturdy footwear is a must for exploring St. Michael's Cemetery. :athletic_shoe:

Check Online GIS System

Use the online GIS system to locate specific graves, including historical figures. :computer:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Gravestones

Historic Gravestones

Throughout the cemetery

Explore centuries of history etched in stone, from simple markers to elaborate mausoleums.

Cast Iron Fences

Cast Iron Fences

Throughout the cemetery

Admire the intricate and well-preserved cast iron fences that add to the cemetery's historic charm.

Founding Fathers' Resting Place

Founding Fathers' Resting Place

Pensacola, FL location

Pay respects to Pensacola's founding fathers and prominent historical figures buried here.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Tranquility

While St. Michael's Cemetery is generally peaceful, visiting during off-peak hours can enhance the experience. Weekday mornings or late afternoons often offer fewer visitors, allowing for a more contemplative atmosphere. Consider the weather; spring and fall provide pleasant temperatures for exploring the grounds.

Accessibility and Comfort

Be aware that St. Michael's Cemetery may not have paved walkways, making it challenging for wheelchairs or strollers, especially after rain.Reddit Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain. Bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat is recommended, as exposed areas can get hot.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Low
When
Spring and Fall
Why
Pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

St. Michael's Cemetery, Bethlehem, PA. #fujifilm #x100t #cemetery #pinegrove
presty_roosevelt
36 likes • 243 views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Uneven terrain and grass mean sturdy footwear is a must for exploring St. Michael's Cemetery. :athletic_shoe:

Check Online GIS System

Use the online GIS system to locate specific graves, including historical figures. :computer:

St. Michael's Cemetery, a historic gem in downtown Toronto, is usually locked to the public, opening its gates just a few times a year. Memorial Restorations is again honored to again be working within this sacred space, carefully restoring some of its oldest and most fragile gravestones. These aren't just stones; they're silent witnesses to Toronto's past, their stories fading with time and the e...
memorialrestorationsca
0 likes • 238 views
Peaceful drive through St. Michael's cemetery, the foliage is stunning!!! 🪦🍁🍂 Fall in New England is just superior! 🍂🍁 #westernmass #leafpeeping #fall #fallfoliage #Massachusetts #masshole #fallinnewengland #peace #grounding #beautyinnature #nature #fall2022 #October #stmichaels #cemetery #rip
makeupandmomlife1
18 likes • 92 views

Bring Water & Sun Protection

Exposed areas can get hot; stay hydrated and protected from the sun. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Respectful Exploration

Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and historical significance of this sacred space. :pray:

St. Michael’s Chapel Cemetery and Evangelic Church with incredible view of Hallstatt . . . #hallstatt #austria #travel #할슈타트 #lake #europe #오스트리아 #mountains #trip #travelphotography #alps #hallstattlake #österreich #여행 #travelblogger #visitaustria #travelling #유럽여행 #여행스타그램 #europe #hallstattaustria #sterreich #salzkammergut #lake #travelgram #ig #wanderlust #feelaustria #landscape #alps #visi...
fatihheken
89 likes • 2.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Uneven terrain and grass mean sturdy footwear is a must for exploring St. Michael's Cemetery. :athletic_shoe:

Check Online GIS System

Use the online GIS system to locate specific graves, including historical figures. :computer:

Bring Water & Sun Protection

Exposed areas can get hot; stay hydrated and protected from the sun. :droplet: :sunwithface:

Respectful Exploration

Enjoy the peaceful ambiance and historical significance of this sacred space. :pray:

Stroller/Wheelchair Caution

Paths can be difficult for strollers and wheelchairs due to grass and uneven ground. :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(23 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often describe St. Michael's Cemetery as a peaceful, well-maintained, and historically rich site. Many appreciate the aged gravestones, intricate cast iron fences, and the sense of tranquility it offers. However, some note challenges with accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs due to unpaved, grassy paths, and recommend bringing water and sun protection for hot days.

"Free parking

Parking is across the street from the cemetery, so you will be doing a far amount of walking.

Open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

This cemetery does NOT have paved walk ways for wheel chair access. If you have a child stroller, the wheels will get stuck in the thick wet grass.

Bring water, sunscreen and sunglasses. The heat emanating from the wet grass makes a hot day even hotter.

The cemetery is well maintained

Peaceful and quiet cemetery

NOT wheelchair or child stroller accessible"

Travel Gurl

"Visited here several times back in the 1990s while living, working or regularly visiting Pensacola. Quite a few interesting folks buried in this cemetery. Whether you are a Civil War history buff, or more interested in the Spanish or French periods, you are going to find a plaque celebrating the lives of the prominent, as well as the stones of simple folk loved just as much by someone mourning their passing. They now have an interesting GIS system available online you can use to search for a grave (for example, famous Confederate Stephen Mallory, who is buried here)."

Davis D. Janowski

"St Michael's cemetery is one of my favorite places in Pensacola. One can really feel the age of Pensacola at St Michael's, where all of the city's founding fathers are buried. The varying headstones and mausoleums makes for a very interesting walk!"

Shauna Leas

What People Like

Peaceful and quiet atmosphere
Historic gravestones and mausoleums
Well-maintained grounds

What People Dislike

Poor accessibility for strollers/wheelchairs
Uneven and grassy paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St. Michael's Cemetery locations vary. For the Pensacola, FL site, parking is available across the street, requiring a walk to the entrance.Reddit For Toronto, Canada, access might be limited to specific open days.Instagram Always check the specific location's access details before visiting.

Parking availability differs by location. The Pensacola, FL cemetery offers parking across the street.Reddit Other locations may have limited or no dedicated parking, so public transport or ride-sharing might be advisable.

Public transport options depend on the specific St. Michael's Cemetery location. Research local bus or train routes for the city you plan to visit. For example, in Toronto, limited access might mean public transport is the only option on open days.Instagram

Hours can vary significantly by location. For instance, one review mentions St. Michael's Cemetery being open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.Reddit It's crucial to verify the operating hours for the specific cemetery you intend to visit.

Accessibility can be a concern. Some locations, like the one in Pensacola, are noted as NOT being wheelchair or child stroller accessible due to unpaved, grassy paths.Reddit Always check accessibility information for the specific cemetery.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Most St. Michael's Cemeteries are free to enter and explore, functioning as historic public spaces. However, some locations, like the one in Toronto, may have very limited public access days,Instagram so it's best to confirm entry requirements.

Generally, St. Michael's Cemeteries do not charge entrance fees. They are historical sites open for respectful visitation. Confirm with the specific cemetery's administration if any fees apply, though this is uncommon.

Operating hours vary. While some may be open daily from morning to late afternoon,Reddit others might have restricted access or specific open days.Instagram Always check the official hours for the cemetery you plan to visit.

Holiday hours can differ. Some cemeteries may have special hours or be closed on certain holidays. It's advisable to check the cemetery's official website or contact them directly for holiday operating schedules, especially around events like Halloween.Instagram

Photography is generally permitted and encouraged for personal use, capturing the historical and aesthetic aspects of the cemetery.Instagram+2 However, always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid intrusive photography.

📸 📸 Photography

Look for areas with interesting gravestones, intricate cast iron fences,Reddit and scenic foliage, especially during fall.Instagram The varying headstones and mausoleums offer diverse photographic opportunities.Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in cemeteries due to privacy and respect for the grounds. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the cemetery administration.

A camera capable of good low-light performance and detail capture is ideal. Many visitors use DSLRs or mirrorless cameras,Instagram but smartphones with good camera quality can also produce excellent results.Instagram

Themes can include historical gravestones, architectural details like cast iron fences,Reddit seasonal foliage,Instagram and the overall peaceful, atmospheric nature of the grounds.Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer beautiful, soft light that enhances the atmosphere and details of the cemetery.Instagram Midday sun can create harsh shadows.

🎫 🌳 Nature & Scenery

Expect mature trees, seasonal foliage (especially vibrant in fall Instagram), and well-maintained grounds. The natural elements contribute to the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the cemetery.Reddit

As a quiet, green space, St. Michael's Cemetery can attract various bird species. It's a peaceful environment for observing local birdlife, especially during migration seasons.

While not a primary feature, the mature trees and landscaping contribute to the scenic beauty. Some locations might overlook natural features like rivers or lakes, as seen from Nisky Hill Cemetery looking towards St. Michael's.Instagram

Fall is particularly stunning due to the vibrant foliage.Instagram Spring offers blooming trees and fresh greenery, while summer provides lush landscapes, though it can be hotter.

Picnics are generally not recommended in cemeteries out of respect for the grounds and other visitors. It's best to enjoy the scenery and then find a designated park or picnic area nearby.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting St. Michael's Cemetery with children requires careful planning. While the historical aspect can be educational, the lack of paved paths can make it difficult with strollers.Reddit Consider visiting when the weather is dry and the ground is firm. Focus on the visual aspects like interesting gravestone shapes and the old fences, turning it into a 'history hunt' rather than a long, arduous walk. Ensure children understand the need for respectful behavior in a cemetery setting.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Explorers & History Buffs

For solo visitors and history enthusiasts, St. Michael's Cemetery offers a rich experience. The ability to explore at your own pace allows for deep dives into the inscriptions and stories held within the stones.Reddit Utilize the online GIS systems where available to locate specific historical figures or family plots.Reddit The quiet atmosphere is ideal for reflection and absorbing the historical narratives embedded in the landscape.

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

St. Michael's Cemetery is a dream for photographers and those who appreciate historical art. The interplay of light and shadow on gravestones, the intricate details of cast iron fences,Reddit and the seasonal foliage Instagram provide endless subjects. Early morning or late afternoon light offers the most dramatic and atmospheric shots. Be mindful of the solemnity of the location and avoid disruptive photography practices.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring St. Michael's Cemetery: A Historical Perspective

St. Michael's Cemetery is more than just a burial ground; it's a living testament to local history. Many locations, such as the one in Pensacola, Florida, are among the oldest in their respective regions and house the remains of the city's founding fathers and historical figures, including Revolutionary War veterans and Civil War notables.Reddit The varying headstones and mausoleums tell stories of different eras, from simple markers of ordinary citizens to elaborate monuments of prominent individuals.Reddit Some cemeteries, like the one in Toronto, are historic gems with fragile, ancient gravestones that require careful restoration.Instagram

Established in 1852, the St. Michael's Cemetery in Queens, NY, is operated by St. Michael's Church but is open to people of all faiths, reflecting a history of inclusivity.Instagram These cemeteries often feature well-preserved cast iron fences, adding a unique architectural element to the landscape.Reddit Exploring these sites offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to reflect on the lives and legacies of those who came before.

Navigating St. Michael's Cemetery: Practicalities and Comfort

When planning a visit to St. Michael's Cemetery, practical considerations are key to a comfortable experience. Parking is often available, though it might be across the street, necessitating a walk.Reddit However, accessibility can be a significant issue. Some locations are explicitly noted as not being wheelchair or child stroller accessible due to unpaved, grassy, and potentially wet terrain.Reddit This means comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential for navigating the grounds.Reddit

Visitors are advised to bring water, sunscreen, and sunglasses, as exposed areas can become very hot, with heat radiating from the ground.Reddit While the atmosphere is generally peaceful and quiet,Reddit the lack of paved walkways can make traversing the cemetery challenging, especially for those with mobility aids or young children. Despite these challenges, many find the experience deeply peaceful and a nice spot for quiet contemplation.Reddit

The Aesthetic Appeal of St. Michael's Cemetery

Beyond its historical significance, St. Michael's Cemetery offers a unique aesthetic appeal that draws visitors. The visual landscape is characterized by a variety of gravestones and mausoleums, creating a rich tapestry of funerary art and architecture.Reddit Intricate cast iron fences are a recurring feature, adding a touch of vintage elegance and historical charm to the plots.Reddit The grounds are often well-maintained, with mature trees providing shade and contributing to the serene environment.

Seasonal changes can dramatically enhance the visual experience. The fall foliage, in particular, is noted for its stunning beauty, with vibrant colors transforming the cemetery into a picturesque scene.Instagram This natural beauty, combined with the historical structures, creates a contemplative and visually engaging atmosphere. Many visitors find a sense of peace and grounding in the quiet beauty of these historic burial grounds.InstagramReddit

You may also like