Woodlawn Cemetery and Mausoleum
A sprawling National Historic Landmark in the Bronx, renowned for its stunning Gilded Age mausoleums and the final resting place of countless notable ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Atmospheric strolls, especially near sunset.
Woodlawn Cemetery and Mausoleum
Best Time
Atmospheric strolls, especially near sunset.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling National Historic Landmark in the Bronx, renowned for its stunning Gilded Age mausoleums and the final resting place of countless notable figures.
"Beautiful cemetery, nice place for a quiet walk or stroll through, just be respectful."
🚶♀️ Respectful Strolls
Enjoy quiet walks, but always be respectful of the grounds and those interred.
🎶 Bring Music for Ambiance
Enhance your sunset visit with music for a truly amazing experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Harbeck Mausoleum
Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx
An opulent, eight-year construction marvel with imported marble, Tiffany glass, and a pipe organ.
Miles Davis's Resting Place
Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx
Pay respects to the legendary jazz innovator, buried near other musical giants.
Gilded Age Mausoleums
Woodlawn Cemetery, Bronx
Explore the grand final resting places of influential figures from NYC's Gilded Age.
Dodge Brothers' Egyptian Mausoleum
Woodlawn Cemetery, Detroit
An iconic, mysterious Egyptian-style tomb guarded by sphinxes, honoring the automotive pioneers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration is Key
Plan Your Visit for the Best Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Respectful Strolls
Enjoy quiet walks, but always be respectful of the grounds and those interred. +1
🎶 Bring Music for Ambiance
Enhance your sunset visit with music for a truly amazing experience.
🗺️ Explore Famous Graves
Seek out the final resting places of jazz legends and Gilded Age figures.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Marvel at the intricate details of the grand mausoleums and sculptures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Respectful Strolls
Enjoy quiet walks, but always be respectful of the grounds and those interred. +1
🎶 Bring Music for Ambiance
Enhance your sunset visit with music for a truly amazing experience.
🗺️ Explore Famous Graves
Seek out the final resting places of jazz legends and Gilded Age figures.
📸 Capture the Architecture
Marvel at the intricate details of the grand mausoleums and sculptures.
💧 Check Water Access
Some areas may lack water or trash receptacles; plan accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Woodlawn Cemetery is widely praised for its beauty, historical significance, and impressive mausoleum architecture, offering a peaceful and engaging experience for visitors. While some areas are meticulously maintained, others may show signs of neglect, with occasional issues regarding water access and trash disposal. +2
"Beautiful cemetery.... I used to ride my bike through it when I was a kid.... Nice place to take a quiet walk or stroll through... Just be respectful"
Ronald Andrus
"best place for a afternoon stroll, id suggest music, and go towards sun down. trust me, its amazing. and its got the nice field too u can go to, sometimes theres ducks."
damion alexander
"They take care of the entrance areas but the back areas. No water , no barrels for trash. At times the grass is a foot tall. If I could I would remove my parents from this dump"
Dan D
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Woodlawn Cemetery is accessible via public transportation. The #4 subway train stops nearby, and several bus lines also serve the area. Driving is also an option, with parking available on-site.
No, there are multiple Woodlawn Cemeteries. The Woodlawn Cemetery mentioned for Miles Davis and Gilded Age figures is in the Bronx, New York. There is also a Woodlawn Cemetery in Dayton, Ohio, which is the resting place of the Wright Brothers. +1
Yes, visitors have historically biked through Woodlawn Cemetery, enjoying its expansive grounds. Just remember to be mindful and respectful of the environment.
Consider downloading a map of the cemetery beforehand or joining a guided tour to help navigate the sprawling 400-acre National Historic Landmark.
While the grounds are vast, many of the main paths are paved. However, some of the more intricate mausoleum areas might have uneven terrain. Guided tours may offer more accessible routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Woodlawn Cemetery is generally free to enter for exploration. However, specific guided tours or special events may have associated ticket prices.
Woodlawn Cemetery is typically open daily from morning to late afternoon. It's always best to check their official website for the most current hours of operation.
For general entry, no advance booking is usually required. However, if you plan to join a specific guided tour or attend an event, booking in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, Woodlawn Cemetery offers various guided tours that highlight its historical and cultural significance, including tours of specific mausoleums and notable gravesites.
Woodlawn Cemetery is primarily a daytime destination. While some visitors enjoy the atmosphere near sunset, it is not typically open for nighttime visits.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use at Woodlawn Cemetery, allowing you to capture the stunning architecture and serene landscapes.
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or filming may require special permits. Always be respectful and avoid intrusive photography.
The elaborate mausoleums, intricate sculptures, and the tree-lined avenues offer numerous picturesque opportunities. The Harbeck Mausoleum and the Egyptian-style Dodge Brothers tomb are particularly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in cemeteries to ensure the peace and privacy of visitors and the sanctity of the grounds. It's best to confirm with cemetery management.
While not always explicitly advertised as 'photo tours,' many of the historical and architectural tours will take you to the most visually striking locations, perfect for photography.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Many visitors enjoy a leisurely stroll or bike ride, taking in the grand mausoleums and peaceful atmosphere. Joining a guided tour can provide deeper historical context.
Restroom facilities are available, but water access and trash receptacles can be inconsistent, especially in the less-maintained back areas.
The park-like setting attracts various birds, and some visitors have noted seeing ducks in the grassy fields.
Absolutely. It's described as a beautiful and serene place for an afternoon stroll, offering a peaceful escape. +1
Woodlawn is the final resting place for numerous notable figures, including Miles Davis, Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton, Herman Melville, Alva Belmont, and the founders of the Julliard School and the Dodge Brothers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the stories of famous individuals buried there, like the Wright Brothers (at a different Woodlawn) or jazz legends, to make history come alive. While it's a place of remembrance, the sheer scale and architectural wonders can spark curiosity and provide a memorable, educational outing. Just ensure everyone understands the importance of being respectful.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
Don't miss the chance to explore specific architectural marvels like the Harbeck Mausoleum or the unique Dodge Brothers' Egyptian tomb. Joining a guided tour is highly recommended, as knowledgeable guides can point out hidden gems and share fascinating anecdotes about the cemetery's prominent residents and their elaborate final abodes.
+2🎵 Music Lovers
Woodlawn is also home to other significant figures in music history, including jazz titans Duke Ellington and Lionel Hampton. Visiting their graves offers a unique opportunity to connect with the legacy of these artists in a serene and reflective setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvels: Mausoleums of Woodlawn
Beyond the Harbeck Mausoleum, the cemetery is dotted with a diverse range of styles, from grand classical designs to more unique, themed structures like the Egyptian-style mausoleum of the Dodge Brothers. These structures are not just tombs but elaborate works of art, reflecting the lives and legacies of the individuals interred within. Exploring these mausoleums offers a glimpse into the history of art, architecture, and the prominent families who shaped New York and beyond.
Many of these mausoleums are meticulously maintained, showcasing the dedication to preserving these historical monuments. Visitors often express awe at the scale and detail, finding them to be a significant draw to the cemetery. The sheer variety and grandeur make Woodlawn a must-visit for anyone interested in funerary architecture and historical artistry.
A Resting Place for Legends: Notable Interments
The cemetery also honors literary giants, including Herman Melville, the author of 'Moby Dick.' Prominent figures from the Gilded Age and early 20th century are also interred here, such as suffragette Alva Belmont and Augustus Julliard, founder of the renowned Julliard School. The Dodge Brothers, pioneers of the automotive industry, also have a striking mausoleum within the cemetery.
These notable interments contribute to Woodlawn's status as a National Historic Landmark and a place of significant cultural importance. Visiting these graves offers a tangible connection to history and the individuals who left an indelible mark on society.
Green Burial and Environmental Consciousness
Events are sometimes held to educate the public about green burial options, allowing visitors to learn more about this sustainable form of interment and meet the professionals involved in its care. This demonstrates Woodlawn's commitment to offering diverse and environmentally conscious choices for final arrangements.
This forward-thinking approach, combined with its historical significance, positions Woodlawn Cemetery as a dynamic institution that respects both legacy and the future of environmental stewardship.
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