Calvary Cemetery
A historic and sprawling Catholic cemetery in Queens, NY, offering grand mausoleums, iconic filming sites, and city skyline views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Calvary Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic and sprawling Catholic cemetery in Queens, NY, offering grand mausoleums, iconic filming sites, and city skyline views.
"A vast, historic cemetery offering grand mausoleums, iconic filming locations, and unexpected skyline views."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
This cemetery is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Use Online Grave Finders
Looking for a specific person? Utilize 'Calvary Cemetery grave finder' tools online before your visit. :computer:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Johnston Mausoleum
Calvary Cemetery, Queens, NY
Marvel at the largest personal mausoleum in the cemetery, a grand testament to a bygone era.
Tony Bennett's Final Resting Place
Calvary Cemetery, Woodside, Queens, NY
Pay respects to the legendary crooner Tony Bennett, whose grave is a point of interest for many visitors.
Iconic Movie Scenes
Calvary Cemetery, Queens, NY
Spot locations that served as backdrops for famous films, like the memorable burial scene from 'The Godfather'.
Manhattan Skyline Views
Calvary Cemetery, Queens, NY
Enjoy unexpected panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, offering a unique perspective amidst the gravestones.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Navigating the Vastness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
This cemetery is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Use Online Grave Finders
Looking for a specific person? Utilize 'Calvary Cemetery grave finder' tools online before your visit. :computer:
Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but always be respectful. Avoid disturbing gravesites or being intrusive. :camerawithflash:
Check Cemetery Hours
While often open sunrise to sunset, it's wise to confirm 'Calvary Cemetery hours' before you go. :clock1:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
This cemetery is vast! You'll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Use Online Grave Finders
Looking for a specific person? Utilize 'Calvary Cemetery grave finder' tools online before your visit. :computer:
Respectful Photography
Capture the beauty, but always be respectful. Avoid disturbing gravesites or being intrusive. :camerawithflash:
Check Cemetery Hours
While often open sunrise to sunset, it's wise to confirm 'Calvary Cemetery hours' before you go. :clock1:
Biking is Possible
Many visitors enjoy biking on the paved roads, but be aware of cemetery rules. :bicycle:
Look for Mausoleum Art
Don't miss the intricate stained glass windows and unique architecture within the mausoleums. :stained_glass:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Calvary Cemetery is a vast and historically rich site, appreciated for its architectural grandeur, iconic filming locations, and unexpected skyline views. While many find it a peaceful place for reflection and recreation like walking and biking, some visitors have noted concerns regarding maintenance and upkeep in certain areas. The cemetery's scale and historical significance make it a unique destination, though experiences can vary.
"Me and my friend saw a black shadow figure while biking through the cemetery. We went back later in the day with another friend and it chased us out. Would not recommend going there alone, especially at night."
Leland Pugliares
"Family are buried here at Calvary cemetery in South Portland and I have to tell you visiting the cemetery today 5–24–24 disgusting and disrespectful. This looks like a hayfield we honor veterans in the deceased on Memorial Day like this. I don’t care if they’re shorthanded or not find the resources to make this cemetery look proper. This cemetery has never looked so bad since Danny Nee has left the cemetery, I have spoken to over 15 people today at this cemetery that feel the same way that I do. This is absolutely a disaster in the cemetery. Both new and old Calvary whoever takes care of this cemetery should absolutely be ashamed of the way that the cemetery looks and there are resources out there if you want to take advantage of them there is the county jail. There is the Maine state prison in Windham that offer prisoners work release and bring a supervisor out to watch them put a weed whacker in their hand or mower this is absolutely, horrendously disrespectful and awful to look at the Portland diocese should be absolutely ashamed of the way that this cemetery looks, I see family of loved ones not bringing only flowers to their loved ones grave but bringing a weed whacker to make it look presentable in honor them. This is absolutely unexpected acceptable when you are charging $5000 or more for a lot to bury a loved one you should have the resources to take care of it. You should be ashamed of yourself."
Richie Axelsen
"My entire family are buried at Calvary. I put flowers in the ground every year at my parent's headstone and baskets with evergreens at Christmas for my parents and grandparents, G Grandparents and GG grandparents. Yesterday, I planted Impatients at my parents and potted Pogonias at my GG and G grandfather's monument. The winter baskets were still at the monuments. In the past, cemetery personnel removed them by May 1st. I was never back in the area in time to remove them myself by May 1st as I have been spending the winter seasons in Florida since 1998. Today, I stopped by to water the plants again as I was in the area. The glass really needs to be mowed. One of the nearby sources of water isn't working. Why? It didn't work last year either! I understand that the cemetery is looking for help. I sure hope they are able to find and hire help because the overall condition of the cemetery is appalling. I visit Ocean View in Wells, Riverside Cemetery in CE, and Laurel Hill Cemetery in Saco. These cemeteries are ALWAYS well maintained and in pristine condition. The condition at old Calvary is shameful and sad! I was forced to give this review 1 Star in order to Post this comment. Calvery does not deserve even 1 Star."
Mike Troiano
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calvary Cemetery is accessible via public transportation. The Greenpoint Avenue subway station (G train) is nearby, and several bus routes also serve the area. Driving is also an option, with free parking available.
Yes, Calvary Cemetery offers free parking for visitors.
Absolutely! Many people use the paved roads for walking, jogging, and biking. It's a popular green space for recreation.
The main entrance is often cited as being near Greenpoint Avenue in Queens, NY. For precise navigation, search for 'Calvary Cemetery, Queens, NY'.
Yes, the cemetery is wheelchair and child stroller accessible, with paved paths throughout.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to Calvary Cemetery is free for all visitors.
Calvary Cemetery is typically open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset.
While the cemetery is generally open until sunset, it's not recommended to visit after dark due to safety and respect for the grounds. Some reviews mention unsettling experiences at night.
No, pets are not allowed in Calvary Cemetery.
For grave searches, it's best to use online resources like 'Calvary Cemetery grave finder' or 'Calvary Cemetery directory' before your visit.
📸 📸 Photography & Exploration
Yes, Calvary Cemetery is a popular spot for photographers, offering unique architectural details, historical monuments, and skyline views. 
Look for grand mausoleums like the Johnston Mausoleum, the resting places of famous figures like Tony Bennett, and areas with striking Manhattan skyline backdrops.
While generally permitted, always be respectful. Avoid disturbing gravesites or being intrusive. Some mausoleums may have internal restrictions.
Notable burials include crooner Tony Bennett. The cemetery also served as a filming location for 'The Godfather'.
Video recording is generally allowed, but as with photography, maintain respect for the solemn nature of the location.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Reviews vary, with some visitors praising its beauty and peace, while others note issues with maintenance and upkeep, particularly regarding landscaping.
During daylight hours, it's generally considered safe and is used for recreation. However, some reviews mention unsettling experiences after dark.
People often use the paved roads for walking, jogging, and biking, enjoying the green space and unique atmosphere.
Some visitors have noted that certain water sources may not be working, which can be an inconvenience for watering plants.
If you experience anything unsettling, especially after dark, it's best to leave the premises promptly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers and History Buffs
+2🚶♀️ Walkers and Cyclists
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
The sheer scale of Calvary Cemetery means that exploring its grounds is an adventure in itself. From grand, imposing mausoleums like the Johnston Mausoleum, noted as the largest personal mausoleum in the cemetery, to more modest, yet equally poignant, headstones, each plot tells a story. The cemetery's location also provides a unique juxtaposition, with the bustling Manhattan skyline often visible in the distance, creating a striking contrast between the city's vibrant present and the cemetery's historical stillness.
+1Beyond its architectural significance, Calvary Cemetery holds cultural importance, having served as a filming location for iconic movies such as 'The Godfather.' This connection adds another layer to its narrative, drawing visitors interested in cinematic history. For those seeking to connect with the past, whether through family history, architectural appreciation, or cultural exploration, Calvary Cemetery offers a profound and visually engaging experience.
Navigating and Experiencing Calvary Cemetery
For those planning a visit, comfortable walking shoes are essential, as you'll likely cover a significant distance. If you're searching for a particular grave, utilizing online resources like 'Calvary Cemetery grave finder' or checking the cemetery directory beforehand can save considerable time and effort. While the cemetery is generally safe during daylight hours, some reviews suggest caution and avoiding visits after dark due to potential unsettling experiences.
Photography is a popular activity here, with many capturing the impressive mausoleums, historical monuments, and the distant Manhattan skyline. Remember to always be respectful of the grounds and other visitors. While admission is free and parking is available, it's worth noting that some visitors have reported inconsistent maintenance of certain areas, so managing expectations regarding upkeep is advisable.
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