Allegheny Cemetery
A vast, historic cemetery offering a serene park-like escape with abundant wildlife and unique architectural monuments.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Allegheny Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast, historic cemetery offering a serene park-like escape with abundant wildlife and unique architectural monuments.
"An amazing, free Cemetery that is expansive. There are old and new sections of gravestones. This is a special cemetery!"
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Grab a Map
Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding specific points of interest like the Ouija tombstone. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Winter Mausoleum
Egyptian Revival Architecture section
An impressive Egyptian Revival mausoleum, a 19th-century architectural marvel.
The Ouija Tombstone
Section 'P'
A unique tombstone shaped like a Ouija board, a quirky historical find.
JAWS-Inspired Headstone
Section 26, Lot 65
A distinctive headstone paying homage to the iconic movie 'Jaws'.
Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the cemetery
Abundant wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and various birds, adds to the serene atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Allegheny Cemetery
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Grab a Map
Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding specific points of interest like the Ouija tombstone. :world_map:
Coordinate Meeting Spots
With many entrances, agree on a specific gate or area beforehand. :iphone:
Respectful Exploration
While biking is allowed, always be mindful of the serene atmosphere and other visitors. :bike:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is huge! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfy shoes are a must. :athletic_shoe:
Grab a Map
Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding specific points of interest like the Ouija tombstone. :world_map:
Coordinate Meeting Spots
With many entrances, agree on a specific gate or area beforehand. :iphone:
Respectful Exploration
While biking is allowed, always be mindful of the serene atmosphere and other visitors. :bike:
Look for Unique Gravestones
Beyond the famous ones, discover touching epitaphs and diverse iconography. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Allegheny Cemetery for its serene atmosphere, expansive beauty, and abundant wildlife, making it a popular spot for walks and reflection. The historical monuments and unique gravestones are a significant draw, offering a rich exploration experience. While vast, the cemetery is well-maintained and offers a peaceful escape.
"I stop here often family buried here. It’s always serene and driving around looking at all the wonderful headstones and Mausoleums. There is an abundance of wildlife in this cemetery DEER TURKEY GEESE OWLS HAWKS It’s a wonderful place to take a walk or hang out by the fountain and just relax or visit relatives buried here. All the flags during Memorial Day"
Dj Bonzz “Bones”
"An amazing, free Cemetery that is expansive. There are old and new sections of gravestones. This is a special cemetery!
Some famous people, some iconic mausoleums, some beautiful graves. Always peaceful here and a great location for walking, jogging, sitting in peace.
Lots of wildlife, depending the areas you visit (squirrels, deer, birds, wild turkeys).
Many entrances - if you are meeting someone there plan to coordinate which entrance and area you’ll meet!"
C Hull
"Great historical cemetery with a ton of monuments. It's a great place to walk or explore all the wonders this cemetery offers. There's a man that fought in the battle of Gettysburg burried here a unique shark (Jaws) style headstone and a lot of other unique tombstones and monuments for loved ones. Allegheny cemetery is located right next to Children's Hospital. This cemetery has a lot of history and is huge! The biggest cemetery I have ever been in!"
Jftravels
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Allegheny Cemetery is accessible by car and public transportation. Several bus routes stop nearby. If driving, be aware of multiple entrances, so coordinate with anyone you're meeting.
Yes, there is parking available within the cemetery grounds. It's generally ample, but can be busier on holidays like Memorial Day.
Absolutely! Biking is permitted and commonly used as a way to commute through the cemetery. Just be respectful of the peaceful environment.
The cemetery has paved paths and is generally accessible, though some older sections might be uneven. It's a great place for a leisurely stroll.
Allegheny Cemetery has several entrances. It's best to confirm the specific entrance with anyone you are meeting to avoid confusion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Allegheny Cemetery is a free, public space. It's an amazing, expansive park that welcomes visitors to explore its historical grounds.
Allegheny Cemetery is generally open daily from dawn until dusk. It's a place for quiet contemplation and exploration during daylight hours.
There are no tickets required for entry, as it is a free public cemetery. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
While official guided tours may not always be available, the cemetery's historical significance and unique monuments make self-guided exploration highly rewarding.
Yes, photography is welcomed at Allegheny Cemetery. It's a popular spot for photographers capturing its beautiful architecture and serene landscapes.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the impressive Winter Mausoleum, the unique Ouija Tombstone, and the Jaws-inspired headstone. The abundance of wildlife is also a major draw.
Yes, it's a popular spot for walking, jogging, and enjoying the peaceful park-like atmosphere. The paved paths are well-maintained.
Visitors often report seeing deer, wild turkeys, various birds, squirrels, and even hawks. It's a haven for local fauna.
Allegheny Cemetery is very large, described as one of the biggest cemeteries many visitors have ever seen. Allow ample time to explore its vastness.
Yes, there are benches scattered throughout the cemetery, providing spots for contemplation, sketching, or simply enjoying the scenery.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the intricate stonework of mausoleums like the Winter Mausoleum, unique gravestones like the Ouija board, and the serene landscapes dotted with wildlife. +1
Yes, photography is generally permitted. Many visitors find the historical monuments and epitaphs to be compelling subjects.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful, atmospheric shots, especially when capturing the grand architecture and natural elements.
While generally welcoming to photographers, always be mindful of the solemn nature of the site and avoid intrusive behavior.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with cemetery management directly before flying a drone to ensure compliance with any regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the historical aspects might be more engaging for older children, the sheer scale and the presence of unique monuments like the Ouija Tombstone
can spark curiosity. Remember to emphasize the importance of respectful behavior in a cemetery setting, explaining that it's a place for remembrance. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone, as there will be plenty of walking.🚶♀️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the intricate stonework and craftsmanship evident throughout the cemetery, as noted by visitors.Seek out the graves of notable Pittsburgh figures and learn about their contributions. The cemetery itself is a testament to the city's rich past. Don't miss the opportunity to discover unique gravestones that reflect personal interests and historical trends, such as the 'Jaws' headstone or the Woodmen of the World markers.
📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Look for unique angles and details in the stonework, sculptures, and epitaphs.Beyond the architecture, the abundant wildlife provides excellent subjects for nature photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Unique Monuments
These distinctive markers offer a glimpse into the personal stories and interests of those interred here, making exploration a treasure hunt.Many visitors are struck by the variety of iconography and epitaphs. From elaborate sculptures to simple, heartfelt messages, the gravestones tell stories spanning generations. The cemetery also features examples of Woodmen of the World gravestones, known for their distinctive tree stump design. These unique elements contribute to the cemetery's appeal as a historical and artistic site, offering endless discovery for those who wander its paths.
For those interested in architecture, the Winter Mausoleum stands out. This structure is a remarkable example of Egyptian Revival architecture, a style that saw a resurgence in popularity in the early 20th century. Its design is said to be inspired by the mausoleum of F.W. Woolworth, showcasing the grandeur and craftsmanship of a bygone era.
Exploring these varied monuments provides a rich historical and artistic experience.Allegheny Cemetery as a Natural Oasis
The expansive grounds, with their mature trees and open green spaces, provide a crucial habitat for these animals. The presence of wildlife contributes to the peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, a quiet picnic by the fountain, or simply a moment of relaxation amidst nature. It's a place where history and nature coexist beautifully.
Even on a rainy day, the cemetery's natural beauty shines through, as noted by visitors. The blend of historical monuments and thriving ecosystems makes Allegheny Cemetery a unique destination, offering a tranquil escape and a chance to connect with both history and the natural world.
Navigating and Experiencing the Vast Grounds
Its sheer size means that comfortable footwear is essential for anyone planning to explore its many sections. To make the most of your visit and locate specific points of interest, such as the famous Ouija tombstone, obtaining a map from the front gate is highly recommended.With multiple entrances, coordinating a meeting point can be crucial if you're visiting with others. Planning ahead to specify which gate or area you'll meet at can prevent confusion and ensure a smoother experience for everyone.
For those who prefer a more active way to traverse the grounds, biking is permitted and is even used by some as a convenient way to commute through the cemetery. This flexibility allows visitors to experience the vastness of Allegheny Cemetery in a way that suits their preference, all while respecting the tranquil environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit