Suresnes American Cemetery
A solemn tribute to American heroes of WWI, this meticulously maintained cemetery offers a peaceful place for reflection and stunning views of Paris.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Peaceful reflection
Suresnes American Cemetery
Best Time
Peaceful reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn tribute to American heroes of WWI, this meticulously maintained cemetery offers a peaceful place for reflection and stunning views of Paris.
"A somber yet humbling experience, showcasing deep respect for the heroes laid to rest."
🚶♀️ Walk the Sacred Grounds
Take your time to wander through the rows of headstones. It's a deeply moving experience to see the scale of sacrifice.
📸 Capture the Serenity
The cemetery offers stunning views of Paris and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflective photography.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rows of White Crosses
Main cemetery grounds
Thousands of pristine white headstones stand in neat rows, a poignant tribute to American soldiers lost in WWI.
The Memorial Chapel
Upper terrace
A solemn structure featuring bronze tablets that list the names of missing WWI soldiers.
Panoramic Paris Views
Slopes of Mont-Valérien
Enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Paris skyline from this elevated vantage point.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Reflection
Respectful Attire and Conduct
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walk the Sacred Grounds
Take your time to wander through the rows of headstones. It's a deeply moving experience to see the scale of sacrifice.
📸 Capture the Serenity
The cemetery offers stunning views of Paris and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflective photography.
🙏 Pay Your Respects
Consider bringing a small flag or flower to leave at a headstone as a personal tribute.
🗺️ Understand the History
Learn about the WWI soldiers buried here, many of whom died from wounds or the 1918 flu epidemic.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walk the Sacred Grounds
Take your time to wander through the rows of headstones. It's a deeply moving experience to see the scale of sacrifice.
📸 Capture the Serenity
The cemetery offers stunning views of Paris and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reflective photography.
🙏 Pay Your Respects
Consider bringing a small flag or flower to leave at a headstone as a personal tribute.
🗺️ Understand the History
Learn about the WWI soldiers buried here, many of whom died from wounds or the 1918 flu epidemic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently describe Suresnes American Cemetery as a deeply moving and humbling experience, praising its impeccable maintenance and serene atmosphere. The site is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during World War I, offering a profound sense of gratitude and reflection. While the historical significance is paramount, the beautiful panoramic views of Paris add another layer to the visit.
"When I visited the Suresnes American Cemetery, it was a somber yet humbling experience. The cemetery is meticulously maintained, showcasing a deep respect for the heroes laid to rest there. The serene environment and the patriotic atmosphere contribute to a profound sense of gratitude and reflection. Each headstone tells a story of bravery and sacrifice, making every step through this sacred ground a powerful reminder of the cost of freedom. I feel blessed to have had the opportunity to visit such a significant and well-preserved site. It's a place that not only honors the past but also inspires a deep appreciation for the sacrifices made for our liberties."
Lady Cornwall
"Impeccable and beautiful. The caretakers know how to keep the cemetery in such fantastic condition through out the year.
Majority of the 1600 soldiers buried here are from the first world war. Bronze tablets on the walls of the chapel record the names of World War I missing soldiers.
Definitely pay a visit if you are around."
Saquib Siddiqui
"The Suresnes American Cemetery is a beautiful final resting place for more than 1500 Americans who died in during the Great War. Many of those buried here succumbed to their wounds in hospitals in the Paris area, others are victims of the Spanish Flu epidemic of 1918 and 1919.
Lying amongst the fallen soldiers and sailors are nurses, civilian volunteers and merchant seamen. The cemetery also contains a small plot containing 24 soldiers, sailors, marines or airmen from the Second World War whose identity is unknown.
Two of the most poignant burials are those of twin sisters Dorothy and Gladys Cromwell, volunteers for the American Red Cross. Depressed after serving at Chalon-sur-Marne and Verdun in 1918 the sisters jumped overboard from the ship taking them back home to America. Their bodies were later washed up and buried side by side at Suresnes. Today they rest in a beautiful spot on the slopes of Mont Valerién with far reaching views of Paris."
Simon Abercrombie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can reach Suresnes American Cemetery by taking the RER C train to the 'Suresnes - Mont Valérien' station, followed by a short walk or bus ride. Alternatively, several bus lines serve the area. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available from central Paris.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors at the Suresnes American Cemetery. However, it can fill up quickly, especially during peak times or special ceremonies.
Absolutely! Suresnes American Cemetery is easily accessible as a day trip from Paris, typically taking only a few hours to explore. It's a worthwhile excursion for history buffs and those seeking a moment of reflection.
Public transport is a convenient and cost-effective way to reach the cemetery. The RER C train is a popular choice, offering direct access to the vicinity.
Yes, the cemetery is well-served by public transport. The closest RER station is 'Suresnes - Mont Valérien', from which you can walk or take a local bus.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Suresnes American Cemetery is free of charge. It is maintained by the American Battle Monuments Commission as a memorial.
The cemetery is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but it's always a good idea to check the official American Battle Monuments Commission website for any seasonal changes or holiday closures.
Tickets are not required, and advance booking is not necessary for general visits to Suresnes American Cemetery. You can visit at your leisure during opening hours.
While there are no regularly scheduled guided tours, you can explore the grounds independently. Information panels are available to provide historical context.
Yes, Memorial Day ceremonies are held at Suresnes American Cemetery, often with significant attendance. It's a powerful day to visit, but expect larger crowds.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Allow ample time to walk through the grounds, reflect at the gravesites, and take in the panoramic views of Paris. The chapel and memorial tablets are also significant points of interest.
Dress respectfully, as this is a solemn burial ground. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be on your feet exploring the grounds.
Restroom facilities are available for visitors. It's advisable to check the ABMC website for specific locations within the cemetery grounds.
Photography is permitted, but visitors are asked to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography near ceremonies or visitors in quiet contemplation.
This cemetery is the final resting place for 1,541 American soldiers who died during World War I, many from wounds sustained in battle or from the 1918 Spanish Flu epidemic.
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of white crosses, the Memorial Chapel, and the panoramic views of Paris from the upper terraces are particularly photogenic. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the atmosphere.
While photography is generally allowed, it's important to be discreet and respectful. Avoid flash photography inside the chapel and be mindful of other visitors who are there for quiet reflection.
A camera that handles low light well is beneficial, especially for capturing the solemn atmosphere. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive grounds and Paris views, while a telephoto can capture details on the chapel tablets.
Drone usage is strictly prohibited at military cemeteries and memorials to ensure the peace and security of the site.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light that enhances the solemnity and beauty of the cemetery. Midday can be harsh, but the symmetry of the graves is still striking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Children
It's advisable to prepare children beforehand about the nature of the site – a place of honor for fallen soldiers. Focus on the stories of bravery and the importance of remembering those who served. The beautiful views of Paris can also serve as a pleasant distraction. Consider bringing a small flag or flower to place at a grave as a participatory act of remembrance.
🤔 Reflective Travelers
Visitors often describe the experience as humbling and deeply moving, offering a moment of peace away from the bustling city. Take your time to wander through the immaculate grounds, read the names on the memorial tablets, and absorb the panoramic views. It's a place to connect with history on a personal level and reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Sacred Resting Place
Adding to its poignant history, a small plot contains 24 unidentified soldiers, sailors, marines, or airmen from World War II, their identities lost to time but their sacrifice remembered. The cemetery's location on the slopes of Mont-Valérien offers a serene and contemplative atmosphere, with sweeping views of the Parisian landscape, providing a peaceful backdrop for remembrance.
One of the most touching stories within the cemetery is that of twin sisters Dorothy and Gladys Cromwell. These American Red Cross volunteers, deeply affected by their service in 1918, tragically took their own lives by jumping from their ship returning to America. Their bodies washed ashore and were laid to rest side-by-side at Suresnes, a testament to the profound impact of the war on those who served.
Navigating Your Visit
This option is both convenient and budget-friendly, allowing you to soak in the Parisian scenery along the way. For those preferring a more direct route, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available, though they will be more expensive. Upon arrival, you'll find that the cemetery is meticulously maintained, a fact frequently praised by visitors. The grounds are expansive, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. While there are no formal guided tours, informational panels are strategically placed to provide historical context about the individuals interred and the significance of the site.
Photography is permitted, but always with a sense of respect for the solemnity of the location. The panoramic views of Paris from the cemetery's elevated position are a significant draw, offering a unique perspective on the city. 
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