You’re on vacation. Why would you want to spend part of it in a cemetery?

Well, for some, it’s a chance to connect with history in an intimate way, standing by the resting places of legends like Marilyn Monroe, Jim Morrison, or Karl Marx. Also, cemeteries like Hollywood Forever or Père Lachaise aren’t just rows of gravestones—they’re destinations in their own right, with stunning sculptures, quiet paths, and even events that make them places to remember. Visiting these sites can bring a new layer to your trip, adding a touch of reflection and a connection to the stories of people who’ve left a lasting mark on the world.

Los Angeles, California

Forest Lawn Memorial Park 

In Los Angeles, Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a must-see for fans of classic Hollywood. This iconic site features the graves of stars like Rudolph Valentino, Judy Garland, and Johnny Ramone. More than just a final resting place, Hollywood Forever offers events and film screenings, creating a lively yet reflective atmosphere that adds a unique touch of local culture to its Hollywood history.

Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale is known for its serene gardens and expansive views of the city, where legends like Clark Gable, Elizabeth Taylor, and Michael Jackson rest. Visitors often come not only for the famous names but for the art installations and statuary, which make this stop feel both contemplative and inspiring.

Over in Westwood, Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery is a quieter, more tucked-away cemetery, home to Marilyn Monroe’s grave as well as the final resting places of literary and music icons like Truman Capote and Dean Martin. This intimate, understated spot is a favorite for those looking to pay personal respects to Hollywood greats in a peaceful setting.

New York City

Leonard Bernstein Music Composer Grave Site by Brecht Bug licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

In New York City, Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx offers a chance to pay respects to legends like jazz great Duke Ellington, author Herman Melville, and musician Miles Davis. With its beautiful grounds and intricate mausoleums, Woodlawn is a reflective space that honors the artistic and literary legacies of its famous residents.

In Brooklyn, Green-Wood Cemetery provides a rich historical layer to New York’s cultural landscape. Founded in 1838, it’s the final resting place of notable figures such as composer Leonard Bernstein, artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, and political powerhouse William “Boss” Tweed. Known for its Gothic Revival architecture and scenic walking paths, Green-Wood also offers tours and events, creating a dynamic yet peaceful atmosphere that includes sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline.

On Staten Island, the Cemetery of the Highlands features a memorial dedicated to the original members of the Wu-Tang Clan, connecting visitors to a part of hip-hop history. This site draws fans honoring the music legends who left a lasting mark on New York’s cultural scene.

London, England

Highgate Cemetery, London

In London, Highgate Cemetery offers a captivating mix of history and architecture, drawing visitors with its Gothic tombstones and lush, winding paths. Here, you’ll find the graves of Karl Marx, author George Eliot, and writer Douglas Adams, creating an inspiring destination for those who appreciate literary and intellectual legacies in a peaceful setting.

Kensal Green Cemetery adds another layer of historical richness, as it’s the resting place of influential figures such as engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel, playwright Harold Pinter, and a tribute site for Freddie Mercury. Known for its grand memorials and open landscapes, Kensal Green celebrates diverse contributions to British history and culture.

Golders Green Crematorium, one of the UK’s earliest crematoriums, is home to notable names like Sigmund Freud, actor Peter Sellers, and musician Marc Bolan. With serene gardens and colonnades, it offers a calm, reflective space for those honoring trailblazers in psychology, entertainment, and music.

Paris, France

Pere Lachaise, Paris

In Paris, Père Lachaise Cemetery is an iconic destination, known for its beautiful mausoleums, winding pathways, and cultural significance. This celebrated cemetery is the final resting place of luminaries such as Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Édith Piaf, drawing visitors from around the world to pay homage and explore its serene atmosphere amid historic architecture and sculptures.

Montmartre Cemetery offers another distinctive Parisian experience. Located in the artsy Montmartre district, it’s the resting place of personalities like painter Edgar Degas, composer Hector Berlioz, and writer Emile Zola. Tucked beneath a bridge, Montmartre Cemetery has a quiet, tucked-away charm, fitting its bohemian location and providing a glimpse into the lives of influential artists who lived nearby.

In Tours, St. Martin’s Churchyard holds a special historical significance, as it’s the burial site of Leonardo da Vinci. Though outside Paris, it’s an essential destination for those interested in paying respects to the Renaissance master, set in a tranquil, medieval churchyard that reflects his lasting impact on art and science.

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Vienna, Austria

Ludwig van Beethoven’s Grave by Jeff Nyveen licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

In Vienna, Zentralfriedhof (Central Cemetery) is an essential stop for those interested in classical music, as it houses the graves of some of the greatest composers in history, including Beethoven, Brahms, Schubert, and Johann Strauss. Spanning hundreds of acres, Zentralfriedhof also includes memorials for Mozart and a designated section for Austria’s presidents, creating a culturally significant space that brings together Austria’s political and artistic heritage. Its impressive tombstones, park-like paths, and statues make it both a peaceful retreat and a testament to Vienna’s musical legacy.

Another noteworthy cemetery in Vienna is the St. Marx Cemetery, where Mozart was originally buried in an unmarked grave, as was customary for the time. Although his exact resting place is unknown, a commemorative monument honors him, and the cemetery itself holds a quiet charm with its historic tombstones and shaded paths. St. Marx is a smaller, more intimate alternative to Zentralfriedhof, offering a glimpse into Vienna’s history during Mozart’s time.

Hietzing Cemetery is another significant site, especially for fans of Austrian cinema and literature. It’s the final resting place of Hedy Lamarr, the Hollywood actress and inventor, as well as playwright Hugo von Hofmannsthal. Hietzing’s well-kept grounds and elegant memorials make it a fitting tribute to Vienna’s contribution to the arts, offering visitors a serene spot to remember the figures who impacted both Austrian and international culture.

FAQs: 

Q: Are there entrance fees for visiting these cemeteries?
A: Many cemeteries are free to enter, but some, like Highgate Cemetery in London, may charge a small fee, especially for guided tours. Always check individual websites for details on entrance policies.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, many famous cemeteries offer guided tours, which provide historical context and insights. Sites like Père Lachaise and Hollywood Forever often have tour schedules listed on their websites.

Q: What should I wear when visiting a cemetery?
A: It’s best to wear comfortable shoes and respectful attire, as many cemeteries have large grounds with uneven paths. Depending on the weather, you may also want to bring a hat or umbrella.

Q: Are there any rules about photography?
A: Most cemeteries permit photography for personal use, but avoid photographing people visiting graves. Some cemeteries may restrict commercial photography, so it’s best to check specific guidelines before your visit.

Q: Can I bring pets?
A: Many cemeteries don’t allow pets, though some, like Hollywood Forever, may permit dogs on leashes. Check each cemetery’s pet policy to avoid any issues.

Q: Is there parking available at these sites?
A: Parking availability varies. Some cemeteries, like Forest Lawn in Los Angeles, have on-site parking, while others in urban settings may require finding nearby street parking or using public transportation.

Q: What’s the best time of year to visit?
A: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for walking and exploring. Certain cemeteries, like Green-Wood in New York, have beautiful foliage during these seasons, enhancing the experience.

Have you ever visited any of these celebrity graves? Tell us about it in the comments below!