San Diego Freeway southbound view towards Wilshire Boulevard interchange and Santelle Veterans Hospital

Los Angeles National Cemetery

Los Angeles National Cemetery: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Set within the vibrant city of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles National Cemetery stands as a solemn and enduring testament to the valor and sacrifice of American military service members. Established in 1889, this historic site occupies more than 114 acres adjacent to UCLA and features stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, meticulously maintained grounds, and a legacy that spans from the Mexican-American War to present-day conflicts. The cemetery offers a peaceful setting for remembrance, reflection, and education, welcoming visitors who wish to honor those who served.

This guide provides everything you need to plan a meaningful visit: historical background, architectural and landscape highlights, practical visitor information (including hours and accessibility), event details, and recommendations for respectful conduct. Whether you are visiting for genealogical research, to attend a commemorative ceremony, or to appreciate American heritage, the Los Angeles National Cemetery offers a profound and accessible experience. For the most current details, visit the National Cemetery Administration or the Los Angeles Conservancy.

Northern view of San Diego Freeway with Wilshire Boulevard in the foreground

BGen Philip Garrant speaking at National Order of the Legion of Honor ceremony at Los Angeles National Cemetery honoring WWII American veterans

WWII veteran Henry Ochsner receiving the French Legion of Honor medal from French Consul General Christophe Lemoine at Los Angeles National Cemetery

Brigadier General Philip Garrant meets World War II Veteran Henry Ochsner at National Order of the Legion of Honor ceremony

BGen Philip Garrant meeting WWII Veteran Henry Ochsner recognized for D-Day service with 506th Parachute Infantry

WWII Veteran Henry Ochsner receiving the French Legion of Honor at Los Angeles National Cemetery, recognized for his service with 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment 101st Airborne Division on D-Day.

French Legion of Honor medal awarded to WWII American veterans

UCLA AFROTC Det 55 cadets standing during the French Legion of Honor Medal ceremony at Los Angeles National Cemetery

WWII Veteran Jerry King at French Legion of Honor ceremony

Rostrum at U. S. Veterans Administration Cemetery in Los Angeles, California

Introduction
Historical Overview
Cemetery Layout and Grounds
Architectural Highlights
Memorials, Monuments, and Symbolism
Unique Features and Notable Interments
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Visitor Amenities and Accessibility
Visitor Conduct and Etiquette
Gravesite Visitation and Decoration Guidelines
Events and Ceremonies
Safety and Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions
Research, Genealogy, and Volunteer Opportunities
Burial Eligibility and Services
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Next Steps
References

Historical Overview

Founding and Early Development

The Los Angeles National Cemetery was established in 1889 on land donated by Senator John P. Jones and Arcadia B. de Baker, initially serving as the burial ground for the Pacific Branch of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers (Interment.net; Wikipedia). The first interment was Abner Prather, a veteran of the Mexican-American War. As the needs of the veteran community grew, the cemetery expanded and today holds over 86,000 burials (Cemetery Guide; Wikipedia).

Architectural and Landscape Features

Constructed between 1939 and 1941 by the Works Progress Administration, the cemetery’s notable Spanish Colonial Revival buildings—including the Bob Hope Memorial Chapel and administration building—reflect the architectural heritage of early 20th-century California (Interment.net). The modern indoor columbarium, opened in 2019, ensures the cemetery continues to serve new generations of veterans and their families (Brentwood News LA).

Notable Interments

The cemetery is the resting place of veterans from nearly every major American conflict since the Civil War, including 14 Medal of Honor recipients. Among unique burials are two war dogs, Old Bonus and Blackout, which symbolize the deep bonds between service members and their animal companions (Cemetery Guide; Wikipedia).

Cemetery Layout and Grounds

The cemetery is divided into two main areas: the historic grounds east of the I-405 freeway and the newer columbarium annex on Constitution Avenue (cem.va.gov). The grounds feature upright white marble headstones arranged in military rows, mature trees, and seasonal plantings. The Rose Garden Ossuary, established in 1997, offers a tranquil spot for scattering cremated remains (cem.va.gov).

Architectural Highlights

Bob Hope Memorial Chapel: Built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, this chapel serves as a focal point for memorial services and contemplation, renamed in 2002 to honor Bob Hope (laconservancy.org).
Administration Building: Adjacent to the chapel, this building features decorative tilework, wrought-iron accents, and shaded arcades (cem.va.gov).
Columbarium Expansion: The indoor columbarium, dedicated in 2019, is the first of its kind in the region and provides vital space for cremation interments (cem.va.gov).

Memorials, Monuments, and Symbolism

Visitors will find multiple memorials, including a granite obelisk for Spanish-American War veterans, plaques, and ceremonial flagpoles (americanbutler.ru). The site’s orderly layout and Spanish Revival buildings reflect military unity and California’s architectural heritage.

Unique Features and Notable Interments

Historic Grave Markers: Nineteenth-century gravestones provide a tangible connection to the cemetery’s origins (laconservancy.org).
Canine Burials: Old Bonus and Blackout are unique interments honoring the bond between veterans and their animal companions (cem.va.gov).
Hollywood Connections: The cemetery often appears in film and television, sometimes standing in for Arlington National Cemetery (laconservancy.org).

Visiting Hours and Tickets

Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; on Memorial Day, hours extend to 7:00 PM.
Admission: Free, with no ticket required (cem.va.gov).
Main Entrance: 950 S Sepulveda Blvd; columbarium annex accessible from Constitution Avenue.

Visitor Amenities and Accessibility

Facilities: Restrooms, water fountains, benches, and paved walkways ensure accessibility for all visitors.
Parking: Free on-site parking is available but can fill quickly during events.
Accessibility: The grounds are wheelchair accessible; some older sections may have uneven terrain.

Visitor Conduct and Etiquette

Dress respectfully, as for a place of worship (Lonely Planet).
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor; supervise children.
Photography is permitted for personal use but avoid photographing other visitors without consent.
Only service animals are allowed.
Food and beverages (except water) are prohibited (BSA-LA Flag Placement).

Gravesite Visitation and Decoration Guidelines

Permitted: Fresh flowers and small American flags, especially on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
Not Permitted: Balloons, glass containers, and large decorations.
Removal: Non-compliant items are removed by staff to maintain the grounds (Beverly Bar).

Events and Ceremonies

Memorial Day Ceremony: Held at 10:00 AM, featuring music, speeches, and community flag placements (CBS News).
Veterans Day Observance: Honors all U.S. veterans.
Flag Placement Volunteers: Community groups are welcome; advance registration may be required (BSA-LA Flag Placement).

Safety and Travel Tips

Visit during daylight hours and remain aware of your surroundings.
Bring water; food is not permitted.
Secure personal belongings, especially during events (Lonely Planet).

Nearby Attractions

UCLA Campus: Explore museums and campus architecture.
Getty Center: World-class art and gardens.
Westwood Village Memorial Park Cemetery: Noted for celebrity graves.
Santa Monica Pier: Iconic coastal landmark.

Research, Genealogy, and Volunteer Opportunities

Genealogy: Staff and online databases like Find A Grave assist with research.
Volunteering: Opportunities include landscaping, flag placements, and event support (Beverly Bar).

Burial Eligibility and Services

Interment is available to eligible U.S. veterans, spouses, and dependents at no cost. Contact the cemetery office at 310-268-4675 for details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Los Angeles National Cemetery visiting hours?
A: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM; extended to 7:00 PM on Memorial Day.

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes, there is no fee or ticket required.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Occasionally, especially during special events. Check with the administration office or official VA website.

Q: Is the cemetery accessible to people with disabilities?
A: Yes, paved walkways and accessible facilities are provided.

Q: Can I take photographs?
A: Yes, for personal use, provided you respect the privacy of others.

Q: Are pets permitted?
A: Only service animals are allowed.

Q: What decorations are allowed on graves?
A: Fresh flowers and small flags; consult staff for seasonal guidelines.

Conclusion and Next Steps

The Los Angeles National Cemetery is a site of national remembrance and reflection, offering visitors a chance to honor America’s veterans in a beautiful, historic setting. Free and accessible to all, the cemetery provides a meaningful experience through its architecture, ceremonies, and ongoing community engagement. Enhance your visit by downloading the Audiala app for guided tours, and follow official social media channels for event updates and historical insights.