Laurel Hill Cemetery

Laurel Hill Cemetery Philadelphia: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Complete Visitor Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction: History and Significance of Laurel Hill Cemetery

Nestled along the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia, Laurel Hill Cemetery is a celebrated landmark and a testament to American history, civic achievement, and landscape design. Founded in 1836 during the rural cemetery movement, it offered a tranquil, park-like alternative to the city’s crowded graveyards. Over nearly two centuries, Laurel Hill has become the final resting place for luminaries such as General George Meade, astronomer David Rittenhouse, and architect Frank Furness. Its 78-acre expanse features winding paths, elaborate mausoleums, and striking funerary art, all of which collectively tell the story of Philadelphia’s civic and scientific heritage. Today, the site is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and offers guided tours, seasonal events, and educational opportunities for visitors of all interests. This guide outlines everything you need to know to plan a meaningful visit, including hours, ticketing, tour options, major monuments, and nearby attractions (Library Company of Philadelphia; Official Laurel Hill Cemetery website; University of Pennsylvania Finding Aids).

A. Loudon Snowden gravestone in Laurel Hill Cemetery

Adam Seybert tombstone in Laurel Hill Cemetery

Alfred Sully tombstone in Laurel Hill Cemetery

Charles E. de M. Sajous tombstone at Laurel Hill Cemetery in April 2024

Charles Ferguson Smith Grave in Laurel Hill Cemetery

Photochrom postcard showing a scenic view by Detroit Photographic Company

Disston Tomb in Laurel Hill Cemetery Philadelphia

Introduction
Founding and Development
Landscape Design and Expansion
Notable Interments and Monuments
Influence on Cemetery and Park Design
Civic and Scientific Legacy
Preservation and National Recognition
Visitor Information: Hours, Tickets & Accessibility
Special Events and Photo Highlights
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion

Founding and Early Development

Laurel Hill Cemetery was established in 1836 by John Jay Smith, a Quaker and librarian, who, along with associates, sought to create a nonsectarian burial ground removed from the city’s unsanitary graveyards. The original 20-acre site, designed by architect John Notman, introduced curving paths, terraced landscapes, and garden-style elements, setting a precedent for American cemetery and park design (University of Pennsylvania Finding Aids).

Landscape Design and Expansion

The cemetery grew to encompass nearly 78 acres, divided into North, Central, and South sections, each reflecting evolving landscape and garden designs. Notman’s vision for a romantic, park-like atmosphere inspired later urban green spaces, including New York’s Central Park and Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park. Laurel Hill quickly became a popular spot for leisure and reflection, blending commemoration with recreation (University of Pennsylvania Finding Aids).

Notable Interments and Monuments

Laurel Hill is home to the graves of prominent Philadelphians and national figures, including:

General George Gordon Meade: Civil War hero and Gettysburg commander
David Rittenhouse: Astronomer and inventor
Frank Furness: Renowned architect
Henry Disston: Industrialist
Harry Kalas: Iconic Phillies broadcaster
Titanic passengers and members of influential families such as the Wideners and Whartons

Many of these graves feature elaborate Victorian and early 20th-century monuments—mausoleums, obelisks, and sculptures—that serve as both memorials and works of art (Library Company of Philadelphia).

Influence on Cemetery and Park Design

Laurel Hill was a leader in the rural cemetery movement, advocating for burial grounds outside city limits and designed as restorative, public green spaces. Its popularity in the 19th century helped shift perceptions of cemeteries, making them places for both remembrance and community gathering. The cemetery’s layout and ethos influenced the development of major urban parks across the country (Library Company of Philadelphia).

Civic and Scientific Legacy

From its inception, Laurel Hill aimed to honor Philadelphia’s civic, scientific, and artistic leaders. The cemetery’s archives and monuments continue to offer scholars and visitors a rich resource for understanding the city’s history. Preservation efforts are led by the Friends of Laurel Hill, who ensure the ongoing care of the site’s unique heritage (University of Pennsylvania Finding Aids).

Preservation and National Recognition

In recognition of its cultural and historic value, Laurel Hill Cemetery was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1998—one of the few cemeteries in the country with this distinction (University of Pennsylvania Finding Aids). Active preservation and educational programming continue to protect its monuments and landscapes for future generations.

Visiting Laurel Hill Cemetery: Hours, Tickets, and Accessibility

Hours:

April 1 – October 31: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
November 1 – March 31: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission:

General admission is free for self-guided visits.
Guided tours and special events typically require tickets ($15 for adults; discounts for seniors, students, and children).
Tickets can be purchased online (Official Laurel Hill Cemetery website) or at the gatehouse.

Accessibility:

Many major paths are paved and wheelchair-friendly, though some historic sections have gravel or steps.
Visitors with mobility concerns should contact staff for assistance.

Parking and Transportation:

Free parking onsite
Accessible by SEPTA bus routes and the East Falls regional rail station
Bike racks available; direct connection to the Schuylkill River Trail

Guided Tours, Events, and Self-Guided Exploration

Guided Tours:
Laurel Hill offers a range of guided tours, such as the popular “Hot Spots & Storied Plots,” Civil War and Titanic-themed walks, architectural tours, and even after-hours and ghost-themed experiences (6abc.com; beatrizpark.com). Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak times and for special events.

Self-Guided Tours:
Visitors can pick up free maps at the gatehouse or use the official Laurel Hill app, which provides GPS-enabled audio tours, interactive maps, and stories about notable residents and monuments (beatrizpark.com).

Events:

Memorial Day Ceremonies: Historic commemorations with music and pageantry (laurelhillphl.com)
Cinema in the Cemetery: Outdoor movie nights (laurelhillphl.com)
Market of the Macabre: Craft fairs and art markets
RIP 5K Runs and Yoga: Seasonal fitness and wellness events

Monumental Art and Architectural Highlights

Millionaires’ Row: Grand mausoleums along the river, including the Disston and Widener family tombs
Old Mortality Sculpture Group: James Thom’s sandstone statues at the main entrance
Art by Alexander Milne Calder: Including William Warner’s memorial
Victorian Symbolism: Obelisks, angels, and urns reflecting 19th-century beliefs about death and remembrance

The Arboretum and Natural Beauty

Laurel Hill, together with West Laurel Hill, forms a 265-acre accredited arboretum featuring over 6,000 trees and shrubs and more than 700 species. The grounds are landscaped with gardens, pollinator habitats, and scenic overlooks, offering both historical interest and natural tranquility.

Nearby Attractions

Schuylkill River Trail: Ideal for walking or biking
Fairmount Park: One of the nation’s largest urban park systems
Philadelphia Museum of Art: A short drive away
Eastern State Penitentiary: Historic prison museum

Visitor Amenities

Restrooms and visitor center near the main gate
Free parking
Maps, brochures, and expert staff assistance
No food vendors on site; picnicking permitted in designated areas
Service animals welcome; dogs must be leashed

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are Laurel Hill Cemetery’s hours?
A: Open daily, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (April–October), 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM (November–March).

Q: Is admission free?
A: Yes; fees apply for guided tours and special events.

Q: Are tours available?
A: Yes, a variety of guided and self-guided tours are offered.

Q: Is the cemetery accessible?
A: Many main paths are accessible; contact staff for assistance with mobility concerns.

Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: Yes, leashed pets are allowed.

Q: Are photographs permitted?
A: Yes, for personal use; commercial shoots require permission.

Tips for a Successful Visit

Wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain
Download the Laurel Hill app for self-guided tours
Check the event calendar in advance
Bring water and refreshments if planning a picnic
Be respectful: stay on paths and observe cemetery etiquette

Conclusion

Laurel Hill Cemetery is a vibrant Philadelphia landmark where history, art, and nature converge. From its pioneering role in the rural cemetery movement to its continued community engagement and educational programs, Laurel Hill offers a deeply rewarding experience for all visitors. Whether you come for a tranquil stroll, a themed tour, or a lively public event, the cemetery stands as a testament to Philadelphia’s enduring legacy.

Plan your visit now by checking current hours and tours on the official Laurel Hill Cemetery website, and enrich your experience with the Laurel Hill app and expert-led tours.