
Riverside National Cemetery
A vast and serene sanctuary honoring American heroes, with beautiful grounds and a profound Medal of Honor Memorial.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, open offices

Riverside National Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, open offices

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast and serene sanctuary honoring American heroes, with beautiful grounds and a profound Medal of Honor Memorial.
"A beautiful place, full of history and heroes, humbling and inspiring for all visitors."

🎯 Plan Weekend Visits Wisely
Offices are closed on weekends. Use the kiosk or pre-download a map to find graves, as sections aren't always clearly marked .
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a place of honor. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medal of Honor Memorial
Central area
A humbling tribute etched in marble, honoring every Medal of Honor recipient. A must-see for its profound significance.

Avenue of Flags
Main thoroughfares
Thousands of flags line the roads, especially prominent during Memorial Day and Veterans Day, creating a powerful visual tribute.

Peaceful Reflection Areas
Throughout the cemetery
Serene landscapes, waterfalls, and quiet paths offer moments of peace for reflection and remembrance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit for Peace and Respect
Navigating the Vast Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan Weekend Visits Wisely
Offices are closed on weekends. Use the kiosk or pre-download a map to find graves, as sections aren't always clearly marked.
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a place of honor. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
🚗 Parking & Access
Ample parking is available. Gates may remain open after sunset for visitors leaving, but the cemetery is largely unlit.
💐 Flowers & Tributes
Florists near Riverside National Cemetery can deliver flowers for services or to gravesites. Check cemetery guidelines for placement.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan Weekend Visits Wisely
Offices are closed on weekends. Use the kiosk or pre-download a map to find graves, as sections aren't always clearly marked.
🙏 Dress Respectfully
This is a place of honor. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor.
🚗 Parking & Access
Ample parking is available. Gates may remain open after sunset for visitors leaving, but the cemetery is largely unlit.
💐 Flowers & Tributes
Florists near Riverside National Cemetery can deliver flowers for services or to gravesites. Check cemetery guidelines for placement.
✈️ Aircraft Flyovers
Enjoy the occasional flyovers from March Air Force Base, adding to the patriotic atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Riverside National Cemetery for its beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and the profound sense of honor it bestows upon veterans. The well-maintained grounds and the impactful Medal of Honor Memorial are frequently highlighted. Some visitors note that navigating the vast cemetery can be challenging, especially on weekends when offices are closed, and suggest planning ahead.
"BEAUTIFUL to see how our Beloved MILITARY are honored. I can't visit my Grandpa's cemetery right now so coming here I can pray for him and all our Loved ones.
GOD bless our Country and thank U to ALL our Soldiers!
🤗🩵✝️🇺🇲"
NEWNEW
"It is "closed" after sunset, but that's because the cemetery is largely unlit by any man made sources of light (except around the buildings and on the flags which are lit). Just stars, the moon, and any ambient light from the main streets outside the cemetery.
We left after twilight and the gates were still open for people to enter and visit their loved ones. No one was chasing people out. At least not too quickly."
Lisa Sobien
"A beautiful cemetery. Well-kept and beautiful landscape, waterfalls and the employees are very helpful, kind amd respectful. We had our family members ceremony here and the entire process was amazing. I love how its huge and right next to the museum as well."
Brianna Harlow
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Riverside National Cemetery is located at 22495 Van Buren Blvd, Riverside, CA 92518. Many visitors use GPS or mapping apps for precise directions. The cemetery is easily accessible via major freeways, with signage often directing visitors.
While public transportation options exist to reach the general Riverside area, direct public transit to the cemetery itself can be limited. It's often more convenient to drive or use ride-sharing services.
The cemetery is generally open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset. However, administrative offices have specific operating hours, typically Monday through Friday.
While the cemetery is largely unlit after sunset, visitors are sometimes allowed to leave after twilight. However, for safety and respect, it's best to plan your visit during daylight hours.
Yes, ample parking is available throughout the cemetery grounds, including designated areas for visitors attending services or those visiting gravesites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter Riverside National Cemetery. It is a national cemetery managed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, and access is free for all visitors.
Tickets are not required for funeral services at Riverside National Cemetery. These services are open to family, friends, and the public who wish to pay their respects.
You can use the kiosk near the front entrance, especially on weekends when offices are closed. For more detailed assistance, visit the administration offices during weekdays or download a map from the official website.
To find a grave, you'll typically need the deceased's full name and, if possible, their section and plot number. This information can be obtained from family members or through online grave locator tools.
Yes, visitors are generally permitted to bring flowers to place at gravesites. It's advisable to check the cemetery's specific guidelines regarding floral arrangements and decorations.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Medal of Honor Memorial, the Avenue of Flags (especially during holidays), and the peaceful, well-maintained grounds with waterfalls. The cemetery is a place for quiet reflection and honoring veterans.
Formal guided tours are not typically offered. However, visitors can explore the grounds independently and learn about the cemetery's history and significance through informational signage and the Medal of Honor Memorial.
The Medal of Honor Memorial is a deeply moving tribute featuring the names of every recipient etched into marble walls, serving as a powerful reminder of extraordinary bravery and sacrifice.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, allowing visitors to capture the solemn beauty of the cemetery. However, always be mindful of ongoing services and maintain a respectful distance.
It's recommended to dress respectfully, similar to attending a religious service. Avoid overly casual attire. Comfortable walking shoes are also advisable due to the cemetery's size.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food concessions or dining facilities within Riverside National Cemetery itself. Visitors are advised to bring their own refreshments or dine in the surrounding areas of Riverside.
Visitors are generally allowed to bring their own food and non-alcoholic beverages for personal consumption. However, it's important to clean up after yourself and dispose of all trash properly.
Yes, the area surrounding Riverside National Cemetery offers a variety of dining options, from fast-casual eateries to sit-down restaurants. You can find these in the nearby commercial areas of Riverside.
📸 📸 Photography
The Avenue of Flags, especially during Memorial Day and Veterans Day, offers incredibly poignant photo opportunities. The Medal of Honor Memorial and the serene landscapes with waterfalls are also highly photogenic.
While personal photography is usually allowed, it's crucial to be respectful of ongoing services and private ceremonies. Avoid intrusive photography and always maintain a respectful distance from mourners.
Many visitors capture images of the vast rows of headstones, the American flags, the Medal of Honor Memorial, and the natural beauty of the grounds. Photos often convey a sense of peace, remembrance, and patriotism.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at national cemeteries to ensure the peace and solemnity of the grounds. Always check with cemetery administration for specific regulations regarding aerial photography.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful, soft lighting for photography. Overcast days can also provide even lighting, ideal for capturing details without harsh shadows.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds and potentially more somber ceremonies. The Medal of Honor Memorial can be a focal point for discussion about bravery. Bringing water and snacks is advisable, as there are no food facilities on-site. Ensure children understand the importance of staying on paths and not disturbing the gravesites.
🕊️ Those Seeking Peace and Reflection
Visiting during weekdays, particularly in the morning, will offer the most solitude. Find a quiet bench, stroll along the avenues, or simply sit and absorb the peaceful ambiance. The Medal of Honor Memorial is a particularly poignant spot for quiet contemplation on the sacrifices made for freedom.
🇺🇸 History Enthusiasts
Explore the different sections to understand the historical context of burials. The cemetery also has a columbarium, offering a different perspective on remembrance. The proximity to March Air Force Base also adds a layer of military history to the experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Honoring Our Heroes: Burials and Services
Services at Riverside National Cemetery are conducted with the utmost respect and dignity. Honor guards often participate, providing a solemn tribute to the fallen. For those seeking to locate a loved one's grave, the cemetery provides resources like kiosks and maps, though navigating the vast grounds can require patience, particularly on weekends when administrative offices are closed.
Special events, such as Memorial Day and Veterans Day ceremonies, are significant occasions at the cemetery. During these times, volunteers often place flags at every gravesite, creating a profoundly moving spectacle that honors the sacrifices made by all service members. These events draw large crowds and are a powerful reminder of the nation's gratitude.
Navigating the Grounds: Maps and Grave Locators
For those planning their visit, it is highly recommended to obtain a map of the cemetery beforehand. These maps can often be downloaded from the official Riverside National Cemetery website. Understanding the section and plot numbering system is crucial for efficient navigation. While the cemetery aims to maintain natural beauty, section markers may not always be immediately visible, necessitating careful use of the map.
On weekdays, the cemetery staff are available to provide direct assistance in locating graves. They can offer guidance and directions, making the process smoother. However, even with assistance, the cemetery's size means visitors should allocate ample time for their visit, especially if they are unfamiliar with the layout.
The Significance of Memorial Day and Veterans Day
A standout tradition is the placement of American flags at every gravesite. This monumental effort, often undertaken by dedicated volunteers, ensures that each fallen hero is honored with a symbol of their service and sacrifice. The sight of hundreds of thousands of flags stretching across the landscape is deeply moving and a powerful visual representation of the nation's gratitude.
Beyond the flag placement, special ceremonies are held, often featuring honor guards, bagpipers, and patriotic speeches. These events serve to educate the public about the sacrifices of veterans and to foster a sense of community and shared remembrance. Attending these events offers a profound experience, connecting visitors to the history and the enduring spirit of those who served.



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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit