Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum - A park with benches and trees on the side of the road
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Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum

4.8
·91 reviews·St. Louis, United States

A historic arboretum and cemetery in St. Louis, offering stunning landscapes, notable burials, and a peaceful escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime, Weekdays

Safer and less crowded

CrowdLow
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Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum - A park with benches and trees on the side of the road

Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum

Best Time

Daytime, Weekdays

Safer and less crowded

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic arboretum and cemetery in St. Louis, offering stunning landscapes, notable burials, and a peaceful escape.

4.8
(91 reviews)

"This cemetery was by far the most beautiful one I've visited so far! The landscaping was immaculate!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Visit During Daylight Hours

For safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours. The cemetery closes at 5 PM. :flashlight:

📸 Photography is Encouraged

Capture the beauty! While policies can vary, photography is generally allowed. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Captain William Clark's Tomb

Captain William Clark's Tomb

Voyage of Discovery section

Pay respects to the legendary explorer of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A significant piece of American history rests here.

Reddit
Millionaires' Row

Millionaires' Row

Various mausoleums and plots

Marvel at the opulent final resting places of St. Louis's most prominent families, including the Buschs and Lemps.

Reddit
Arboretum and Birdwatching

Arboretum and Birdwatching

Throughout the grounds

Explore a diverse landscape with wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, recognized as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society.

Instagram
Stunning Fall Foliage

Stunning Fall Foliage

Throughout the grounds

Witness a vibrant display of autumn colors, with Ginkgoes, Red Maples, and Dogwoods creating a picturesque scene.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Bellefontaine's Grandeur

Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is a vast, historic site. While beautiful, some visitors note it's located in an area that requires daytime visits for safety. Plan your visit during daylight hours and be aware of the 5 PM closing time, even in summer. Reddit

Photography and Access

Photography is generally permitted, but there have been mixed experiences with staff. It's best to confirm current policies upon arrival. The cemetery is also pet-friendly, provided pets are leashed and cleaned up after. Reddit

Best Times

When
Daytime, Weekdays
Why
Safer and less crowded
Crowd
Low
When
Fall Mornings
Why
Spectacular foliage views
Crowd
Medium
When
Spring Afternoons
Why
Blooming flowers and pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

St Louis Legends resting in Bellefontaine Cemetary in North St. Louis #stlouis #stl #history #bellefontainecemetery #cemetary
@thatstlguy
11.5K likes • 121.7K views

🎯 Visit During Daylight Hours

For safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours. The cemetery closes at 5 PM. Reddit :flashlight:

📸 Photography is Encouraged

Capture the beauty! While policies can vary, photography is generally allowed. Reddit :camerawithflash:

Are you interested in birdwatching? 🐦 Did you know that Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is classified as an “Important Bird Watching Area” by the Audubon Society? The Arboretum has a diverse mosaic of managed habitats—such as our constructed wetlands pictured here, to our prairies, woodlands, gardens, and turfgrass areas. This diversity of habitats in an urban area, right alongside the Missi...
bellefontainecemetery
13 likes • 328 views
The Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is one of the most beautiful locations for fall photography around the St. Louis area. The weather was perfect and I couldn't have asked for a better day to be out with my camera. 🖤 #cemetery #cemeterylovers #cemeteryphotography #cemeterywandering #cemeterybeauty #cemetery_shots #cemeteryexplorer #cemeterystatues #cemetery_nation #cemeterylife #shotoncanon...
yelhsa_leon
115 likes • 3.4K views

🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration

Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome. Remember to clean up after them! Reddit :dog:

🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided or Guided Tours

Follow the white line for a self-guided tour or book a guided tour for in-depth stories. Reddit :walking:

Take a tour through the trees with us this Sunday, May 21. Join local arborist Michael Garrett, Director of Horticulture, Curator of Living Collections at the Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum to learn about the variety of tree species that populate the open field neighboring Laumeier’s large sculpture installations. SUNDAY TOUR: Trees & Sculptural Landscape / Sunday, May 21 / 11 a.m. / Kranzb...
laumeierstl
38 likes • 803 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Visit During Daylight Hours

For safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours. The cemetery closes at 5 PM. Reddit :flashlight:

📸 Photography is Encouraged

Capture the beauty! While policies can vary, photography is generally allowed. Reddit :camerawithflash:

🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration

Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome. Remember to clean up after them! Reddit :dog:

🚶‍♀️ Self-Guided or Guided Tours

Follow the white line for a self-guided tour or book a guided tour for in-depth stories. Reddit :walking:

🌳 Explore the Arboretum

Discover diverse habitats and enjoy birdwatching in this designated Important Bird Area. Instagram :bird:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(91 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum for its breathtaking beauty, immaculate landscaping, and rich historical significance. Many highlight the impressive architecture and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a top choice for cemetery exploration and photography. However, some guests have noted inconsistent experiences with staff and concerns about the surrounding neighborhood, advising daytime visits.

"I'm a funeral director/mortician from Detroit. I was in St. Louis visiting family. I love visiting historic cemeteries when I travel. This cemetery was by far the most beautiful one I've visited so far! The landscaping was immaculate! I went in late March so the flowers were blooming all over. When I first arrived, I was greeted by 2 tour guides who were both incredibly friendly and helpful. The woman gave me a map and directed me to the best route through the cemetery. The map included information about some of the individuals buried/entombed there. She also told me I could take photos. About 15 minutes in, a worker rudely yelled out of her van saying I wasn't allowed to take pictures. I then called the office for some clarity and was told again that I could take photos. So that was just odd to me. I had to use the restroom on my way out, and the woman that buzzed me in wasn't the nicest either. Overall, wonderful cemetery full of St. Louis history! Some employees could use an attitude adjustment."

Chelsea Bee

"Large, spacious cemetery with tons of history including the graves of Adolphous Busch and William Clark. Beautiful landscaping with fountains and ponds. This jewel sits in the hood so it closes by 5pm even in the summer time."

David Griffith

"We took a guided tour through this amazingly fascinating, beautifully scenic cemetery. Lacey was our guide, her knowledge and the stories she told us about this cemetery, and the final resting place of these souls was unmatched. Millionaires row had the Lemp family, further down the tour was Rush Limbaugh, the Bush's family final resting place and many more well known names are here. This is a must see. You can drive or walk thru yourself... just follow the white line to self guide. There is no charge to enter, but if you take a guided tour they ask that you "donate" an amount. There is trolley tours on Saturdays with a small fee. They are also pet friendly so long as your pets are well behaved, leashed and you clean up after them..I highly recommend seeing this place."

Miriam Simonsen

What People Like

Stunning landscaping and beauty
Rich history and notable figures
Impressive architecture and monuments

What People Dislike

Inconsistent staff interactions
Concerns about surrounding area

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

While the cemetery itself is a beautiful and historic site, some visitors and locals advise caution due to its location. It's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours and be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

Bellefontaine Cemetery is located in North St. Louis. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available, though some visitors have noted it can be awkward. Reddit

The cemetery typically closes at 5 PM, even during the summer months. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit. Reddit

Information on public transportation routes directly to the cemetery is limited. Driving is the most practical option for most visitors. Reddit

Yes, parking is available within the cemetery grounds. Some visitors have mentioned that parking can be a bit awkward to navigate. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Bellefontaine Cemetery is generally free. However, guided tours, including trolley tours on Saturdays, do have a small fee or request a donation. Reddit

For general entry, no advance booking is required. If you wish to join a guided tour, it's advisable to check their schedule and availability, especially for trolley tours. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted within the cemetery grounds. However, some visitors have reported mixed experiences with staff regarding photo policies, so it's wise to confirm upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, guided tours are offered, providing in-depth historical insights and stories about the notable individuals interred there. Trolley tours are available on Saturdays. Reddit

The cemetery is quite large and has varied terrain. While some areas are accessible, it's recommended to inquire about specific accessibility for tours or areas you wish to visit. Reddit

🎫 🌳 Arboretum & Nature

Bellefontaine boasts a diverse collection of trees, including Red Maples, Dogwoods, and Ginkgoes, making it a beautiful arboretum. Instagram Arborist-led tours highlight the variety of species. Instagram

Absolutely! Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is recognized as an 'Important Bird Watching Area' by the Audubon Society due to its diverse habitats. Instagram

Beyond birds, visitors have reported seeing dragonflies and bees. The varied habitats support a range of local wildlife. Reddit

The peak fall foliage typically occurs in mid-to-late autumn, with Ginkgoes, Red Maples, and Dogwoods offering a stunning display of yellows, oranges, and reds. Instagram

The cemetery occasionally hosts nature-focused events, such as arborist-led tree tours, which provide insights into the arboretum's collection. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, it's considered one of the most beautiful locations for photography, especially during fall and spring, with its stunning landscaping and historic monuments. Instagram

Iconic tombs, grand mausoleums, intricate statues, and the changing seasonal foliage are popular subjects for photographers. Instagram

While generally permitted, there have been instances of staff questioning photo policies. It's advisable to confirm current guidelines upon arrival to avoid any issues. Reddit

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, remember the cemetery closes at 5 PM. Reddit

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to inquire with the cemetery office beforehand if you plan to use professional equipment like a tripod. Reddit

🎫 🐶 Pet-Friendly

Yes, Bellefontaine Cemetery is pet-friendly! Dogs are welcome as long as they are well-behaved, kept on a leash, and you clean up after them. Reddit

The main rules are that pets must be leashed and owners must clean up any waste. This ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors. Reddit

The entire cemetery and arboretum grounds are open for exploration with your pet. The spacious paths offer plenty of room to roam. Reddit

While pets are welcome on the grounds, it's best to confirm with the tour guide or office if pets are permitted on specific guided tours, especially trolley tours. Reddit

There are no dedicated water stations for pets. It's recommended to bring your own water for your dog, especially on warmer days. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum can be a surprisingly engaging destination for families. The vast open spaces offer room for kids to explore (with supervision, of course!), and the impressive mausoleums and statues can spark their imagination. It's a unique opportunity to introduce children to history in a tangible way, perhaps focusing on figures like Captain William Clark. Reddit The pet-friendly policy is a huge plus, allowing families to bring their well-behaved dogs along for the outing. Reddit

Consider a self-guided tour using the provided map, allowing you to move at your own pace and focus on areas that capture your children's interest. The arboretum aspect also offers a chance to point out different trees and birds, turning the visit into a nature scavenger hunt. Just be mindful of the 5 PM closing time and ensure everyone is wearing comfortable shoes for walking. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is a dream location. Its blend of grand architecture, intricate sculptures, and natural landscapes provides endless opportunities for stunning shots. The 'Millionaires' Row' section offers dramatic mausoleums and obelisks that are perfect for architectural photography. Reddit The changing seasons add another layer of visual interest, with vibrant fall foliage Instagram and blooming spring flowers creating picturesque scenes. Reddit

Look for the unique details on tombstones, the play of light and shadow on the monuments, and the serene beauty of the arboretum. The presence of notable figures like Captain William Clark also adds historical depth to your photographic narrative. TikTokReddit While photography is generally allowed, it's wise to confirm any specific restrictions with the cemetery office beforehand, especially if you plan to use professional equipment. Reddit

🌳 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers

Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Its designation as an Important Bird Watching Area by the Audubon Society highlights its ecological significance. Instagram The diverse habitats, from wetlands to woodlands, support a rich variety of bird species, making it a rewarding destination for birdwatchers. Bring your binoculars and a field guide to identify the local avian population. Instagram

The arboretum itself is a beautiful space to wander, with labeled trees and seasonal displays of flowers and foliage. InstagramReddit It's a peaceful environment to enjoy a walk, observe the natural surroundings, and appreciate the cemetery's commitment to preserving green space. The combination of historical monuments and natural beauty creates a unique and tranquil atmosphere. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Living History: The Arboretum

Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is far more than just a resting place; it's a vibrant ecological sanctuary. Recognized as an Important Bird Watching Area by the Audubon Society, its 314 acres are meticulously managed to support a diverse range of habitats. These include constructed wetlands, native prairies, woodlands, and manicured gardens, creating a mosaic that attracts numerous bird species and other wildlife. Instagram

Visitors can explore this natural beauty through walking paths, enjoying the seasonal changes from spring blooms to the spectacular fall foliage. The presence of trees like Red Maples, Dogwoods, and Ginkgoes makes it a prime spot for photographers seeking autumn colors. Instagram Arborist-led tours offer a deeper understanding of the various tree species and their significance within the landscape, sometimes even neighboring large outdoor sculpture installations. Instagram

The arboretum aspect provides a unique blend of natural serenity and historical significance, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature amidst the grandeur of the cemetery's monuments. It's a testament to the cemetery's commitment to preserving both human history and the natural environment. Instagram

Notable Residents and St. Louis History

Bellefontaine Cemetery is the final resting place for many of St. Louis's most influential figures, making it a living museum of the city's rich history. Among its most famous residents is Captain William Clark, co-leader of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, whose tomb is a significant landmark for history enthusiasts. Reddit

The cemetery is also home to the grand mausoleums and plots of prominent St. Louis families, earning a section the moniker 'Millionaires' Row.' This includes the final resting places of the Busch family, founders of the Anheuser-Busch brewery, and the Lemp family, known for their brewing legacy and the mysterious Lemp Mansion. Reddit The presence of figures like Rush Limbaugh also draws attention. Reddit

Exploring these notable graves offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to learn about the individuals who shaped St. Louis and the nation. The cemetery's detailed maps and guided tours are invaluable resources for understanding the historical context of these prominent figures and their contributions. TikTokReddit

Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette

When planning your visit to Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum, it's important to be aware of a few practical considerations. The cemetery is a vast 314-acre property, so comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore on foot. Reddit While the grounds are generally well-maintained, some areas might have varied terrain. Reddit

Operating hours are strictly enforced, with the cemetery closing at 5 PM daily, regardless of the season. Reddit This means planning your visit to allow ample time for exploration before closing. For those interested in a deeper understanding, guided tours are highly recommended. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, offer fascinating stories and historical context that you might miss on a self-guided visit. Reddit

Photography is generally welcomed, but it's always a good idea to confirm current policies with staff upon arrival, as experiences can vary. Reddit Remember that this is a place of remembrance, so maintaining a respectful demeanor throughout your visit is essential. The cemetery is also pet-friendly, provided pets are leashed and their owners clean up after them, making it a pleasant experience for all visitors and their furry companions. Reddit

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