Graves of Confederate soldiers buried with great dignity by John. W. Jones.
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Woodlawn National Cemetery

4.9
·15 reviews·Elmira, United States

A historic resting place honoring soldiers and notable figures, including author Mark Twain, with beautifully maintained grounds.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daylight Hours

Best for visibility and reflection

CrowdLow
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Graves of Confederate soldiers buried with great dignity by John. W. Jones.

Woodlawn National Cemetery

Best Time

Daylight Hours

Best for visibility and reflection

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic resting place honoring soldiers and notable figures, including author Mark Twain, with beautifully maintained grounds.

4.9
(15 reviews)

"A beautiful and well-managed resting place, rich with history and offering a peaceful atmosphere for reflection."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery is large, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Respectful Conduct

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. This is a place of honor and remembrance for fallen soldiers. 🙏

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.9 · 15 reviews

Type

Cemetery

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mark Twain's Final Resting Place

Mark Twain's Final Resting Place

Woodlawn Cemetery, Elmira, NY

Visit the grave of the legendary author Samuel Clemens, famously known as Mark Twain. A must-see for literature enthusiasts.

Confederate Soldiers' Memorial

Confederate Soldiers' Memorial

Woodlawn National Cemetery

A poignant section honoring nearly 3,000 Confederate soldiers who died as prisoners of war. A place of historical significance and reflection.

Wreaths Across America Ceremony

Wreaths Across America Ceremony

Woodlawn National Cemetery

Experience the touching annual ceremony where thousands of wreaths are placed on graves, honoring service members.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Visits & Timing

Woodlawn National Cemetery is a solemn place of remembrance. Visit during daylight hours for the best experience. Consider attending the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony for a moving tribute. Remember to be quiet and respectful of the grounds and those interred here.

Navigating the Grounds

The cemetery is expansive, so comfortable walking shoes are a must if you plan to explore. While many visitors come to find specific graves, it's also a beautiful and peaceful place for a reflective walk. Consider downloading a map beforehand if you have a particular plot in mind.

Best Times

When
Daylight Hours
Why
Best for visibility and reflection
Crowd
Low
When
Late November/Early December
Why
Wreaths Across America event
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The book lover in me had to visit the grave of “Mark Twain” Samuel Clemens. #elmiranewyork #woodlawncemetery #marktwain #booklover #books
@littlemarsmomma
11 likes • 220 views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery is large, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Respectful Conduct

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. This is a place of honor and remembrance for fallen soldiers. 🙏

#tedbessell #thatgirl #celebritygrave #seansolomusic #donaldhollinger #cemeterytok #gravetok #woodlawnmemorialcemetery #thetraceyullmanshow
@dane_yoshida
209 likes • 20.9K views
A beautiful meaningful mausoleum in the Bronx
@speccles_
54 likes • 621 views

Mark Twain's Grave

Locate the final resting place of author Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens). A popular spot for visitors. 📚

Wreaths Across America

Consider visiting during the Wreaths Across America ceremony for a moving tribute. :evergreen_tree:

Is a new mausoleum blocking your late husband’s view? Just transfer him to a different cemetery… 
Leona Helmsley had her husband’s body disinterred from Woodlawn Cemetery and moved to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery because a new community mausoleum spoiled the view. Don’t get me started on Leona Helmsley’s will… (Okay, fr though, get me started, because it’s silly and I have thoughts.) #LeonaHelmsley #Sle...
@ghoulplease_
1.1K likes • 14.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The cemetery is large, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the grounds. :athletic_shoe:

Respectful Conduct

Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. This is a place of honor and remembrance for fallen soldiers. 🙏

Mark Twain's Grave

Locate the final resting place of author Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens). A popular spot for visitors. 📚

Wreaths Across America

Consider visiting during the Wreaths Across America ceremony for a moving tribute. :evergreen_tree:

What Travellers Say

4.9
(15 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Woodlawn National Cemetery for its impeccable maintenance and serene atmosphere, making it a beautiful and respectful resting place. The historical significance, particularly the graves of Mark Twain and the Confederate soldiers, is frequently highlighted as a key draw. While generally positive, some visitors note the emotional weight of the site.

"My Great Great Grand Uncle is buried there. He was the second of almost 3000, Confederate Soldiers to died in the Elmira Prison."

Robert Harcum

"Very well managed, with always-cut lawns, well-maintained stones, and a Wreaths Across America ceremony that is well performed. It is a great place to celebrate the service of those who passed. It is beautiful, and a good place for a walk."

Gew Gew

"I was so excited to see my sister's headstone was finally placed on her gravesite. I miss her so much and still can't believe she is no longer here with us to brighten our days! Karen I miss sharing everything in my life with you! I am looking forward to the day when we can be near each other again. I miss you each and every day!"

Carolyn Woodard

What People Like

Impeccably maintained grounds
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Historical significance (Mark Twain, Civil War)

What People Dislike

Emotional weight of the site

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Woodlawn National Cemetery is located in Elmira, New York. It is accessible by car via major highways. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient method. Check local transit schedules if relying on public transport. Reddit

Yes, there is typically parking available within the cemetery grounds for visitors. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day, especially during peak visiting times or special events, to ensure a parking spot. Reddit

While driving is the most common way to reach Woodlawn National Cemetery, some visitors have utilized ride-sharing services or local taxi companies. It's recommended to confirm availability and pricing with these services beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Woodlawn National Cemetery is a national cemetery and generally has no admission fee for visitors. It is open to the public for respectful visitation during its operating hours. Reddit

The cemetery is typically open daily from dawn to dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check the official National Cemetery Administration website or call ahead for the most current hours, especially around holidays. Reddit

Yes, visitors are welcome to locate and visit specific graves. If you are looking for a particular individual, you may be able to find plot information online or inquire at the cemetery office if available. Reddit

The primary restriction is that the cemetery is open from dawn to dusk. Visitors are expected to be respectful of the grounds and the solemn nature of the site. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Woodlawn National Cemetery features the graves of Union soldiers, Confederate prisoners of war, and notable individuals like Mark Twain. It's also known for its well-maintained grounds and the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony. TikTokReddit

Many visitors find Woodlawn National Cemetery to be a beautiful and peaceful place for a reflective walk. The well-maintained lawns and historic gravestones offer a serene environment. Reddit

This section honors nearly 3,000 Confederate soldiers who died as prisoners of war during the Civil War. It's a significant historical site for understanding that period. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be mindful of the solemn nature of the cemetery. Avoid intrusive photography, especially near ceremonies or private services. Reddit

Restroom facilities may be available, but it's best to check with the cemetery administration for their specific amenities. It's advisable to come prepared. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The gravestones themselves, especially older ones with unique inscriptions, offer great photographic opportunities. The section dedicated to Confederate soldiers and the area around Mark Twain's grave are also popular. The overall landscape and mausoleums can also be visually striking. TikTok

While personal photography is usually allowed, it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid using flash photography near services or ceremonies, and never disturb the gravesites or monuments. Commercial photography may require special permits. Reddit

A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) would be ideal for capturing both wide shots of the landscape and details of the gravestones. A smartphone camera can also capture good images, especially in good lighting. TikTok

The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the most flattering light for photography, creating soft shadows and warm tones. Midday sun can be harsh and create strong, unflattering shadows. TikTok

Yes, many of the mausoleums are architecturally significant and make for compelling photographs. The mausoleum mentioned in TikTok Video T3, belonging to Samuel Untermeyer, is particularly noted for its unique design. TikTok

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