Beautiful memorial in the center of the cemetery.

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Old Gray Cemetery

4.6

·38 reviews·Knoxville, United States

Explore Knoxville's historic Old Gray Cemetery, a beautiful 'park' style resting place with stunning monuments and rich Civil War history.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming dogwoods add beauty

CrowdLow

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Old Gray Cemetery

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blooming dogwoods add beauty

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Knoxville's historic Old Gray Cemetery, a beautiful 'park' style resting place with stunning monuments and rich Civil War history.

4.6

(38 reviews)

"It is the most beautiful graveyard I've ever seen. The city outside the gates seems like a little bit of a rough place but the graveyard itself is like a whole other world."

TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Winding Lanes

Better to walk than drive to fully appreciate the beauty and history. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera for stunning photos of unique monuments and serene landscapes. :camerawithflash:

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.6 · 38 reviews

Type

Cemetery

Address

543 N Broadway, Knoxville, TN 37917, USA

Website

oldgraycemetery.org

♿ Wheelchair accessible

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Family Plots

Throughout the cemetery

Explore intricate family mausoleums and headstones, revealing the stories of Knoxville's prominent past residents.

Civil War History

Various sections

Discover the final resting places of Confederate generals and soldiers, offering a poignant glimpse into a pivotal era.

Unique Monumental Art

Throughout the cemetery

Admire the artistry of elaborate sculptures and gravestones, showcasing diverse styles and historical craftsmanship.

The Fountain of Love

Near the center

Uncover the touching love story behind this iconic fountain, a symbol of enduring affection.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Exploration

Old Gray Cemetery is a historic and serene resting place. Visitors are encouraged to tread lightly, observe quietly, and avoid disturbing any gravesites. Many TikTok creators emphasize the importance of respecting the solemnity of the location.

Daytime Visits Recommended

While some content hints at a haunted atmosphere, it's generally advised to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the historical significance and beauty of the cemetery.

Best Times

When

Spring mornings

Why

Blooming dogwoods add beauty

Crowd

Low

When

Weekday afternoons

Why

Fewer visitors, peaceful atmosphere

Crowd

Low

When

Autumn afternoons

Why

Scenic fall foliage

Crowd

Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Old Gray Cemetery is the second-oldest cemetery in Knoxville, Tennessee, United States. Established in 1850 #appalachia #appalachianmountains #mountainlife #appalachian

@timc_in_tn

126 likes • 1.4K views

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Winding Lanes

Better to walk than drive to fully appreciate the beauty and history. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera for stunning photos of unique monuments and serene landscapes. :camerawithflash:

Send this to your taphophile bestie 🥹 #oldgraycemetery #knoxville #cemeteryexploring #cemeterytok #funeraldirector #hauntedcemetery

@cemeteryhopping

60 likes • 1K views

Old Gray Cemetery. #cemetery #graveyard #taphophile #cemeterywandering #cemeteryshots #project_necropolis #aj_graveyards #cemeteryphotography #cemeterylovers #cemetery_nation #graveyard_freaks #mementomori

agravelady

1.4K likes • 13.9K views

📚 Research Before You Go

Learn about notable figures buried here for a richer, more informed visit. +1

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring water as you'll be doing a lot of walking. :droplet:

Join us for a mini tour of Old Gray Cemetery, established in 1850 in Knoxville’s Old City. #knoxville #cemeteries

easttnhistory

99 likes • 4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walk the Winding Lanes

Better to walk than drive to fully appreciate the beauty and history. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the History

Bring your camera for stunning photos of unique monuments and serene landscapes. :camerawithflash:

📚 Research Before You Go

Learn about notable figures buried here for a richer, more informed visit. +1

💧 Stay Hydrated

Especially during warmer months, bring water as you'll be doing a lot of walking. :droplet:

🚫 Respect the Quiet

This is a place of remembrance. Keep noise levels down and be mindful of others. +1

What Travellers Say

4.6

(38 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Old Gray Cemetery for its serene beauty, historical significance, and impressive monuments, calling it a 'whole other world' compared to the surrounding city. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore the intricate family plots and learn about Knoxville's past. However, some note that the surrounding neighborhood can feel less secure, and the cemetery's driveway is in disrepair.

"Easily drivable but better to walk the winding lanes and the short rises of this beautiful old cemetery. Old Gray was founded in 1850 and is a classic example of the "park" style of cemetery, much like Hollywood in Richmond or Auburn near Boston.

Starting with the beautiful entrance on Broadway, you need to also spot the classic stone wall perimeter. Note that the Knoxville National Cemetery has a separate entrance.

Famous interments here include Confederate generals, US Congressmen and Senators, Knoxville mayors, Tennessee governors and even World War I pilot Charles McGhee Tyson who was the namesake for Knoxville's airport (the code is TYS)."

Bruce InCharlotte

"I have been doing a blog and photography on abandoned and historical places and came across this place in a Google search. It is the most beautiful graveyard I've ever seen. The city outside the gates seems like a little bit of a rough place but the graveyard itself is like a whole other world. If you go there also look into the history of not only the graveyard itself but some of the people buried in it. You will find a lot of interesting information on some of the people there. Definitely will be going back."

Alex Kiestler

"Beautiful and serene. There is a rich civil war history in this cemetery and if you have the time, a great opportunity to lean more about the families and their roles in the conflict.

It is worth noting that the cemetery is located near an underserved community, which is isolated from the main part of the downtown. And, although I did not have any negative interactions, the level of poverty is extreme by many standards and I did not feel 100% secure in the neighbourhood.

The cemetery driveway is in a state of disrepair, so be careful if you have mobility issues."

Will D

What People Like

Beautiful and serene atmosphere

Intricate monuments and history

Photographic opportunities

What People Dislike

Surrounding neighborhood feel

Disrepaired driveway

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Gray Cemetery is located in Knoxville, TN. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available. Many visitors also find it convenient to walk from nearby areas, especially if staying in the Old City.

Yes, Old Gray Cemetery is situated in Knoxville's Old City, which is close to the downtown area, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring the city.

Information on direct public transportation routes can vary. It's advisable to check local Knoxville transit schedules for the most up-to-date options.

Most visitors find walking the winding lanes to be the best way to experience the cemetery's beauty and history. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:

Yes, there is parking available. However, the cemetery driveway can be in a state of disrepair, so drive carefully.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Old Gray Cemetery is generally free to enter and explore. It's a public park and historical site. +1

While specific hours can vary, cemeteries are typically open during daylight hours. It's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate the site and for safety.

While some content mentions a 'haunted' aspect and night tours, it's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and to respect the cemetery's purpose.

No, tickets are not required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.

Some sources mention guided tours, particularly those focusing on history or paranormal aspects. It's best to check local Knoxville historical societies or tour operators for current offerings.

📸 📸 Photography & History

Absolutely! Old Gray Cemetery is renowned for its beautiful monuments, intricate headstones, and serene landscapes, making it a photographer's dream. +1

Established in 1850, Old Gray Cemetery is one of Knoxville's oldest and most beautiful 'park' style cemeteries, featuring the graves of notable figures including Confederate generals and politicians.

Notable interments include Confederate generals, US Congressmen, Senators, Knoxville mayors, Tennessee governors, and WWI pilot Charles McGhee Tyson.

Yes, some content and local lore suggest a haunted atmosphere, with mentions of spirits and paranormal activity. +1

The fountain is noted for its unique love story, adding a romantic and historical element to the cemetery's narrative.

🎫 🚶‍♀️ Onsite Experience

Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended as you'll be exploring on foot. Dress respectfully for a cemetery environment. :athletic_shoe:

The cemetery driveway can be in disrepair, and there are short rises, which might pose challenges for those with significant mobility issues.

Some groups have organized dog walks through the cemetery, suggesting it's generally permissible. However, always ensure your pet is leashed and you clean up after them.

The 'park' style refers to cemeteries designed with landscaping and open spaces, resembling a park, which Old Gray Cemetery exemplifies.

Information on restroom facilities is not widely available. It's advisable to use facilities before your visit. 🚽