Rosehill Cemetery
A historic Chicago cemetery, resting place of notable figures, offering a serene escape with grand mausoleums and mature trees.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Rosehill Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Chicago cemetery, resting place of notable figures, offering a serene escape with grand mausoleums and mature trees.
"A spectacular and grand cemetery with many large mausoleums and well-maintained grounds."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this expansive cemetery. :athletic_shoe:
Respectful Decorations
If decorating a loved one's grave, be mindful of cemetery rules and the natural beauty. :flower:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Frances Pearce Stone's Glass Box
Specific grave site
A unique and poignant entombed grave of a mother and infant, encased in glass. A truly striking sight.

Lulu Fellows' Grave
Specific grave site
The resting place of a promising young student, marked by a touching memorial.

Firefighters Memorial
Near the entrance
A significant memorial erected in 1864, honoring fallen firefighters.

Oscar Mayer's Mausoleum
Specific grave site
Visit the final resting place of the founder of the iconic Oscar Mayer Weiner company.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Exploration
Navigating the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this expansive cemetery. :athletic_shoe:
Respectful Decorations
If decorating a loved one's grave, be mindful of cemetery rules and the natural beauty. :flower:
Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty respectfully. Avoid intrusive photos of grieving visitors. :camerawithflash:
Check for Events
Rosehill sometimes hosts events or has guided tours. Check their website! :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore this expansive cemetery. :athletic_shoe:
Respectful Decorations
If decorating a loved one's grave, be mindful of cemetery rules and the natural beauty. :flower:
Photography Etiquette
Capture the beauty respectfully. Avoid intrusive photos of grieving visitors. :camerawithflash:
Check for Events
Rosehill sometimes hosts events or has guided tours. Check their website! :calendar:
Bike Policy
While signs may indicate no cycling, some visitors have reported success. Check current rules before riding. :bicycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rosehill Cemetery is praised for its grandeur, historical significance, and well-maintained grounds, offering a peaceful and beautiful environment for reflection and exploration. However, some visitors have expressed disappointment with the maintenance of specific gravesites and the cemetery's expansive layout, which can feel overwhelming.
"I am deeply disappointed with the services at Rosehill Cemetery. For three years, I repeatedly requested that they properly maintain the grass on my husband’s graveside. Despite my efforts, the area remains barren and covered only with dirt. For the high cost I paid for their funeral services, I expected far better care and follow-through.
It is heartbreaking to visit a loved one’s resting place and see it neglected in this way. Families place their trust in cemeteries to provide not only a dignified burial but also ongoing maintenance of the grounds. Rosehill has failed to deliver on this most basic responsibility.
I would strongly caution others to consider this before choosing Rosehill Cemetery."
Grace Zhou
"Came here on a road trip and visited Gloria Swanson father as well as Oscar Ferdinand Mayer who was the founder of the Oscar Mayer Weiner company"
RandomAndysChannel2
"This is a spectacular and grand cemetery with many large mausoleums, grave stones, etc. It is a vast cemetery with large mature trees sprawled amongst the well maintained grounds. Famous graves include Oscar Mayer, Bobbie Franks (young boy murdered in 1924 by Leopold & Loeb titled the 'Trial of the Century' ), Ignaz Schwinn (bicycle manufacturer), Richard Sears, and Aaron Montgomery Ward."
The WWII Professor
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rosehill Cemetery is located in the northeast section of Lincoln Square, Chicago. It's accessible by public transportation, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Driving is also an option, though parking can be limited during peak times.
Yes, there is parking available within the cemetery grounds. However, it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or during special events. Arriving early is recommended.
Absolutely! Several CTA bus routes serve the area around Rosehill Cemetery. Check the CTA website for the most up-to-date route information and schedules.
The main paths are generally well-maintained, but some areas can be uneven. It's advisable to check with the cemetery directly for specific accessibility information for certain sections.
Rosehill Cemetery has multiple entrances. The western entrance and Ravenswood entrance are commonly used. It's best to check a map for the entrance closest to your desired destination within the cemetery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Rosehill Cemetery is generally free to enter for visitors who wish to explore and pay respects. However, some sources mention 'ridiculous entry fees' which might refer to specific services or private tours.
The cemetery is typically open daily from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to verify the exact hours on their official website before your visit, as they can vary.
Rosehill Cemetery closes at dusk. Visiting after dark is generally not permitted and can be unsafe.
No, general admission to Rosehill Cemetery does not require advance booking. It's a public space for visitation and reflection.
While not always advertised, guided tours or historical walks may be offered periodically. It's best to check the Rosehill Cemetery website or local Chicago tourism sites for any scheduled events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the unique glass-encased grave of Frances Pearce Stone, the memorial for Lulu Fellows, the Firefighters Memorial, and the mausoleums of notable figures like Oscar Mayer.
Yes, Rosehill Cemetery offers stunning photographic opportunities with its grand mausoleums, diverse headstones, mature trees, and peaceful atmosphere.
Yes, there are rules regarding decorations to maintain the cemetery's aesthetic and safety. It's best to check with cemetery management for specific guidelines.
Typically, cemeteries allow service animals. For pets, it's best to check Rosehill Cemetery's specific pet policy, as many prefer them to be left at home to ensure respect for the grounds.
Rosehill Cemetery is known for its mature trees and green spaces, which attract various wildlife, including deer. It's a peaceful environment for nature observation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities within Rosehill Cemetery itself. Visitors should plan to eat before or after their visit.
The surrounding neighborhoods of Lincoln Square and Edgewater offer a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and eateries to suit different tastes and budgets.
While the grounds are beautiful, picnics are generally not encouraged in cemeteries out of respect for the solemn nature of the site. It's best to confirm this with cemetery management.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand mausoleums, intricate headstones, the glass-encased grave, and the mature trees offer excellent photographic opportunities. The Firefighters Memorial is also a notable subject.
While photography is generally allowed, it should be done respectfully. Avoid intrusive shots of mourners or disturbing the peace. Professional photography or commercial shoots may require permission.
Tripod usage might be restricted to avoid damage to the grounds or to ensure visitor flow. It's advisable to check with cemetery administration if you plan to use one.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most beautiful and atmospheric conditions for photography, with softer shadows and golden hues.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tips for families:
* Wear comfortable shoes: You'll likely do a lot of walking.
* Pack snacks and water: There are no concessions on-site.
* Focus on stories: Turn the visit into a scavenger hunt for specific historical figures or unique grave markers.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Photographers
Photographers will find endless inspiration here. The interplay of light and shadow among the mature trees, the intricate details of the monuments, and the overall serene atmosphere make for stunning shots. Early morning or late afternoon light is particularly recommended for capturing the cemetery's mood.
🤔 Budget Travelers
Tips for budget travelers:
* Pack a picnic: Enjoy a meal on a bench outside the cemetery grounds.
* Utilize public transport: Save on parking fees by taking the bus.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Notable Residents
The architecture of the mausoleums and headstones themselves tells a story, showcasing various artistic styles and the wealth of prominent families. Walking through Rosehill is like taking a stroll through a historical archive, with each marker offering a potential glimpse into the past. The presence of mature trees and well-maintained grounds adds to the serene and contemplative atmosphere, making it a popular spot for history enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful walk.
Unique Memorials and Stories
Another notable grave is that of Lulu Fellows, a young student who died at just 16 years old. Her parents, heartbroken by her loss, commissioned a memorial that reflects her promise and potential as a gifted student and public speaker. These individual stories, preserved in stone and memory, add a deeply personal layer to the historical significance of Rosehill Cemetery, reminding visitors of the individual lives and legacies within its grounds.
Exploring Rosehill: Practicalities and Etiquette
For those interested in cycling through the cemetery, it's important to note that while signs may indicate restrictions, the policy has been a point of discussion. It's advisable to check the most current rules with cemetery management before planning a bike tour. Photography is generally permitted, but should be conducted with sensitivity, avoiding intrusive shots of mourners or disruptive behavior.
As a place of remembrance, Rosehill Cemetery does not offer dining facilities. Visitors should plan to eat before or after their visit. The surrounding neighborhoods of Lincoln Square and Edgewater provide numerous dining options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit