Explore Cave Hill Cemetery

Explore Cave Hill Cemetery

Cave Hill Cemetery, located in Louisville, Kentucky, is a sprawling 296-acre cemetery that is home to over 130,000 graves and countless stories of the people who are buried there. Beyond its purpose as a final resting place, Cave Hill Cemetery is also a popular destination for visitors to explore its natural beauty and learn about the history of the area.

Here are some of the top things to do when visiting Cave Hill Cemetery:

Take a self-guided tour

One of the best ways to experience the cemetery is by taking a self-guided tour. The cemetery offers a free app that visitors can download to their phones, which includes several different tour options, each with a unique theme. Some of the tours include “Notable Women,” “Civil War Figures,” and “Sports Legends.” Visitors can also pick up a printed guide at the cemetery’s office.

Visit the Cave Hill Heritage Foundation

The Cave Hill Heritage Foundation is a nonprofit organization that is dedicated to preserving the cemetery’s history and promoting education about the site. Visitors can stop by the foundation’s office to learn about upcoming events, purchase souvenirs, and make donations.

Attend a guided tour or event

The cemetery offers several guided tours and events throughout the year, including a popular Halloween tour that explores the cemetery’s more haunted stories. Other events include concerts, art shows, and lectures.

Explore the arboretum

Cave Hill Cemetery is home to a stunning arboretum that features over 500 species of trees and shrubs. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the grounds and admire the variety of flora, including several rare and endangered species.

Pay respects to famous residents

Cave Hill Cemetery is the final resting place of many famous residents, including Colonel Harland Sanders, the founder of Kentucky Fried Chicken, and Muhammad Ali, the world-famous boxer and civil rights activist. Visitors can pay their respects to these individuals and learn more about their contributions to society.

Take in the stunning architecture and art

The cemetery is home to several impressive monuments and sculptures, including the ornate Victorian Gothic style chapel that serves as the cemetery’s centerpiece. Visitors can also admire the intricate stone carvings and statues that are scattered throughout the grounds.

Attend a memorial service or burial

While it may seem unusual to attend a funeral or burial as a tourist attraction, many people find comfort in the serenity and beauty of the cemetery. Visitors can pay their respects to a loved one or attend a memorial service to experience the unique atmosphere of the cemetery.

Overall, Cave Hill Cemetery is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, nature, and art. With its stunning beauty and rich history, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy at this unique and special site.