
Oak Ridge Cemetery
Explore the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and discover a vast historical landscape in this beautifully maintained cemetery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Oak Ridge Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and discover a vast historical landscape in this beautifully maintained cemetery.
"A beautifully kept grounds and such a unique part of American history!"

Rub Lincoln's Nose for Luck
Rubbing the nose of Lincoln's bronze bust is believed to bring good luck!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Oak Ridge Cemetery is expansive. You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the sights.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Lincoln Tomb
Center of Oak Ridge Cemetery
The imposing final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and his family. A must-see for any visitor to Springfield.

Lincoln's Receiving Vault
Near the Lincoln Tomb
This historic vault temporarily held Lincoln's remains after his assassination in 1865. A poignant piece of history.

Governor Tanner's Tomb
Near Lincoln's Tomb
A massive and haunting grave of a former Illinois governor, located close to the Lincoln family's final resting place.

Historic Gravesites & Memorials
Throughout the cemetery
Discover numerous other notable graves, war memorials, and sculptures scattered across the beautifully maintained grounds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Lincoln's Tomb
Exploring Beyond Lincoln's Tomb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rub Lincoln's Nose for Luck
Rubbing the nose of Lincoln's bronze bust is believed to bring good luck!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Oak Ridge Cemetery is expansive. You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the sights.
Check for Special Events
The cemetery hosts yearly walks with volunteers in period dress, offering unique historical insights.
Explore the Receiving Vault
Don't miss the old receiving vault, which once held Lincoln's body after his assassination.
Tips
from all over the internet
Rub Lincoln's Nose for Luck
Rubbing the nose of Lincoln's bronze bust is believed to bring good luck!
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Oak Ridge Cemetery is expansive. You'll be doing a lot of walking to see all the sights.
Check for Special Events
The cemetery hosts yearly walks with volunteers in period dress, offering unique historical insights.
Explore the Receiving Vault
Don't miss the old receiving vault, which once held Lincoln's body after his assassination.
Visit the Funeral Coach
See Lincoln's original funeral coach displayed near his tomb for a deeper historical connection.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Oak Ridge Cemetery for its beautiful upkeep and significant historical importance, particularly Lincoln's Tomb. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore the grounds beyond the main attraction, finding numerous other notable graves and memorials. The yearly cemetery walk is highlighted as a particularly engaging and educational experience.
"Beautifully kept grounds and such a unique part of American history!
The Lincoln family's tomb is easy to park and walk to/through and includes several beautiful sculptures and facts about the President's early years and legacy. This is also a National Historic Site and a must-see stop for any history lovers traveling through Illinois."
Elizabeth Fehring
"Abraham Lincoln's Cemetery. Nice place to visit at least once. Beautiful and right outside of it, you can buy the cutest items."
Carmen Turner
"We went on the yearly cemetery walk, the volunteers were in period dress and described the lives of the people that made Springfield what it is today. It was a beautiful day for a walk and we learned a lot. It was also helpful the had a small school bus to take you to the beginning of the tour and then back to where you parked. Oak Ridge is a stunning cemetery, well designed and where Lincoln and his family are buried. They had Lincolns funeral coach on display, next to his original tomb."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oak Ridge Cemetery is located at 1500 Monument Ave, Springfield, IL 62702. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available near Lincoln's Tomb. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient method.
Yes, the cemetery is well-marked, and Lincoln's Tomb is a prominent landmark visible from many points within the grounds. GPS navigation is also highly recommended.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft typically operate in Springfield and can drop you off at the cemetery. Confirm availability and pricing before your trip.
Yes, there is parking available, particularly near Lincoln's Tomb and other key attractions. It can get busy during peak times, so arriving early is advised.
From downtown Springfield, head north on 9th Street, which becomes Monument Avenue. The cemetery entrance will be on your right. Always use a GPS for real-time traffic updates.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oak Ridge Cemetery itself is free to enter and explore. However, some associated museums or exhibits, like the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, may have admission fees.
The cemetery grounds are typically open daily from dawn until dusk. However, specific buildings like the Lincoln Tomb may have their own operating hours, so it's best to check their official website.
No, tickets are not required to visit Lincoln's Tomb. Entry to the tomb itself is free.
While not always formally scheduled, volunteers often provide insights, especially during special events like the yearly cemetery walk. Check for any scheduled tours or events.
Lincoln's Tomb is generally open during daylight hours, but it's advisable to confirm the specific hours of operation for the tomb itself, as they can vary.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Oak Ridge Cemetery is a vast historical landscape featuring the Receiving Vault, Governor Tanner's tomb, numerous other notable gravesites, war memorials, and beautiful sculptures.
To fully appreciate the cemetery and Lincoln's Tomb, plan for at least 2-3 hours. If you wish to explore more extensively, a half-day or more would be beneficial.
Some visitors and local legends suggest Oak Ridge Cemetery has a haunted reputation, particularly due to its historical significance and age.
Restroom facilities are generally available, especially near the main attractions like Lincoln's Tomb. It's always a good idea to locate them upon arrival.
Photography is generally permitted within Oak Ridge Cemetery and around the exterior of Lincoln's Tomb. However, check for specific restrictions inside the tomb itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The Lincoln Tomb itself offers iconic photo opportunities. The Receiving Vault, various sculptures, and the grand mausoleums also make for striking images.
While exterior photos are widely encouraged, interior photography rules can vary. It's best to observe any posted signs or ask staff for clarification.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best lighting for photography, with softer shadows and a more atmospheric feel.
Generally, respectful photography is allowed. Avoid intrusive behavior, especially near gravesites or during any ceremonies.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is ideal. A wide-angle lens can capture the grandeur of the tomb and mausoleums, while a telephoto can isolate details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To make the visit more interactive, you could turn it into a scavenger hunt for specific grave markers or memorials. The Abe Lincoln Homestead and Presidential Library are also nearby and offer more kid-friendly historical exhibits that complement a visit to the cemetery. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone, as there's a lot of ground to cover.
🏛️ History Buffs & Enthusiasts
Beyond Lincoln, the cemetery is a treasure trove of Illinois history. Seek out the graves of other prominent figures like Governor John Tanner and explore the various military memorials. The Receiving Vault offers a poignant glimpse into the immediate post-assassination period. Consider researching other notable individuals buried here before your visit to enhance your exploration.
👻 Paranormal Investigators & Spooky Seekers
Visitors interested in the 'spooky' side might find the Receiving Vault particularly atmospheric, given its historical association with death and temporary internment. Exploring the older sections of the cemetery, especially during twilight hours, can add to the eerie ambiance. Remember to be respectful of the site and its inhabitants.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Abraham Lincoln's Tomb
Adjacent to the tomb is the Receiving Vault, a structure that played a crucial role in the immediate aftermath of Lincoln's assassination. His body was temporarily interred here in 1865 before the permanent tomb was completed. This vault serves as a somber reminder of the nation's grief and the immense security concerns surrounding Lincoln's remains.
A unique tradition at the tomb involves rubbing the nose of Lincoln's bronze bust, located outside the main structure. This act is believed by many to bring good luck. While the bust may appear tarnished, it's a testament to the countless visitors who have participated in this ritual over the years.
Exploring the Expansive Grounds of Oak Ridge Cemetery
Beyond individual graves, the cemetery hosts several war memorials and monuments dedicated to military service. These sites offer opportunities for reflection and a deeper understanding of American military history. The cemetery's design itself is noteworthy, with winding roads and scenic vistas that make it a pleasant place for a contemplative walk or drive.
For those interested in the cemetery's history, the yearly cemetery walk is a highly recommended event. Volunteers in period dress portray historical figures buried within the cemetery, sharing their life stories and contributing to a vivid historical experience. This event provides a unique perspective on the individuals who shaped Springfield and Illinois.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit