LEXINGTON CEMETERY
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Lexington Cemetery Lexington KY

4.6
·108 reviews·Lexington, United States

A vast, historic cemetery in Lexington, KY, renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms and notable graves.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms in full bloom

CrowdMedium
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LEXINGTON CEMETERY

Lexington Cemetery Lexington KY

Best Time

Spring mornings

Cherry blossoms in full bloom

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast, historic cemetery in Lexington, KY, renowned for its stunning cherry blossoms and notable graves.

4.6
(108 reviews)

"Beautiful cemetery with well-kept grounds, perfect for a peaceful morning walk."

Vertical photo
TIP

🗺️ Get a Cemetery Map

Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding notable graves.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the monuments and mausoleums.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clay Henry Monument

Clay Henry Monument

Central section

A massive, imposing monument marking the grave of a significant figure in Kentucky history.

Jim Varney's Grave

Jim Varney's Grave

Section 4

Pay respects to the beloved actor who brought Ernest P. Worrell to life. A must-see for fans!

TikTok+1
Abraham Lincoln's In-Laws

Abraham Lincoln's In-Laws

Todd Family Plot

Visit the resting place of Mary Todd Lincoln's family, connecting you to a pivotal American president.

TikTok
Cherry Blossom Spectacle

Cherry Blossom Spectacle

Sections 47-48

In spring, these trees create a breathtaking pink canopy, making for a picturesque and memorable visit.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating the Vast Grounds

Lexington Cemetery is expansive! Grab a map from the office to find key figures like Clay Henry or Abraham Lincoln's in-laws. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring its many monuments and mausoleums. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for Blooms

While beautiful year-round, the cemetery is famous for its cherry blossoms. Peak bloom is typically in early spring, but weather can affect timing. Check local reports before you go! Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Cherry blossoms in full bloom
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Peaceful strolls, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Craziest cemetery I’ve ever seen 🪦⚰️ #fyp #gravetok #gravetiktok #cemetery #kentuckyhiddengems #hauntedtiktok #hiddenplaces #LaysGoldenDuet
@la_history_girl
92.8K likes • 325.7K views

🗺️ Get a Cemetery Map

Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding notable graves. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the monuments and mausoleums. Reddit

Visiting the grave of Jim Varney who played the famous character of Ernest P Worrell in the Ernest films. He is laid to rest at Lexington Cemetery in Lexington, Kentucky. #ernestpworrell #jimvarney #famousgraves #fyp
@freyzel_productions
3.9K likes • 132.9K views
Celebrity and famous grave tour of Lexington Cemetery in Lexington, Kentucky. #famousgraves #historiccemeteries #cemetery
@freyzel_productions
2.7K likes • 101.9K views

🌸 Check Bloom Forecasts

For the best cherry blossom views, time your visit with peak bloom. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration

Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Reddit

Visiting the grave of Ernest P. Worrell actor Jim Varney. #jimvarney #ernestpworrell #actor #famousgraves #fyp
@freyzel_productions
2.1K likes • 69.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🗺️ Get a Cemetery Map

Essential for navigating the vast grounds and finding notable graves. Reddit

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking to explore the monuments and mausoleums. Reddit

🌸 Check Bloom Forecasts

For the best cherry blossom views, time your visit with peak bloom. Reddit

🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration

Leashed dogs are welcome, making it a great spot for a walk with your furry friend. Reddit

🚗 Mind the Speed Limit

Respect the 20 mph limit for safety, especially with pedestrians and pets. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(108 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lexington Cemetery for its immense beauty, historical significance, and peaceful atmosphere, especially during the spring cherry blossom season. While the grounds are vast and well-kept, some note concerns about vehicle speed and the need for better signage for all notable graves.

"This cemetery is massive and there are mosoleums, grave stones, monuments and a few underground tombs.make sure to stop in at the office and get the map and pamphlets. The Clay Henry monument and grave is massive. Well worth the visit."

Joseph Mills

"First time here with family just to look at the cherry blossoms and geese. . Cemetery is huge once inside cherry blossoms were quite in full bloom yet maybe in another 2 weeks but it was a fantastic experience make sure to take lots of pictures. . Cherry blossoms located closer to the middle end sections 47-48 to the left and you can park on the right or further down on the left plenty of space to get your steps in and bring your dog"

John Connor

"Beautiful cemetery right off Main Street in Lexington. The cherry blossoms are a big draw every year when they are in bloom. We might have missed peak by a few days, but they were still worth the drive. We did make it a point to go by John Breckenridge and John Morgan's grave. The Morgan monument used to be downtown but was moved to the cemetery."

Lloyd Mershon

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Historical significance
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Vehicle speed concerns
Signage for graves

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lexington Cemetery is conveniently located right off Main Street in Lexington, Kentucky. It's easily accessible by car and has ample parking available. Reddit

While specific bus routes can vary, checking with Lexington's public transit authority for routes serving the Main Street area is recommended. Many visitors opt for personal vehicles due to the cemetery's size. Reddit

There's plenty of parking available, both on the right side of the entrance and further down on the left. You can also park closer to the middle sections if you're heading towards the cherry blossoms. Reddit

Yes, it's a prominent landmark situated directly on Main Street, making it quite straightforward to locate. Reddit

Lexington Cemetery is centrally located, offering easy access to downtown Lexington's shops, restaurants, and other historical sites. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Lexington Cemetery is generally free to enter and explore. There are no admission fees for visitors. Reddit

The cemetery is typically open daily from dawn to dusk, allowing ample time for visits. It's always a good idea to check their official website for any seasonal changes or holiday hours. Reddit

While the cemetery is open until dusk, it is not typically open for nighttime visits. Stick to daylight hours for your exploration. Reddit

There is no entrance fee. Lexington Cemetery is a public space accessible to all. Reddit

While official guided tours might not always be available, you can pick up maps and pamphlets at the office to guide your self-exploration of notable graves and historical figures. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Don't miss the massive Clay Henry monument, the grave of actor Jim Varney (Ernest P. Worrell), and the Todd family plot, Abraham Lincoln's in-laws. Signs often mark important figures. TikTokReddit+2

The cherry blossoms typically bloom in early spring. While some years are better than others, aim for late March to early April, but check local conditions as they can freeze if buds appear too early. Reddit+1

Absolutely! The well-kept grounds and scenic beauty make it a perfect spot for a peaceful morning or afternoon stroll. Reddit

Yes, photography is encouraged! It's a beautiful location, especially during cherry blossom season. TikTokReddit

Be mindful of the 20 mph speed limit, as some drivers may exceed it. Also, be aware of commercial traffic in the back sections. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

No, there are no food or dining facilities within Lexington Cemetery itself. It's a place for reflection and exploration. Reddit

While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally not the primary purpose of visiting a cemetery. It's best to enjoy picnics elsewhere in Lexington. Reddit

Being located on Main Street, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding downtown Lexington area, offering a variety of dining options. Reddit

It's advisable to consume any food or drinks discreetly and ensure you take all trash with you to maintain the cemetery's pristine condition. Reddit

Downtown Lexington offers everything from casual eateries to more upscale dining, catering to diverse tastes and budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The cherry blossom sections (47-48) in spring are stunning. Also, the grand monuments like Clay Henry and the intricate mausoleums offer dramatic photographic opportunities. TikTokReddit

Yes, photography is generally permitted throughout the cemetery. Be respectful of the solemn nature of the grounds. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer beautiful, soft light. Spring mornings during cherry blossom season are particularly magical. Reddit

While generally allowed, avoid intrusive photography that disturbs other visitors or the sanctity of the site. Drone photography may be restricted. TikTok

Yes, photographing the graves of notable figures like Jim Varney or Lincoln's in-laws is common and encouraged for historical interest. TikTok+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lexington Cemetery can be a surprisingly engaging outing for families. The vastness of the grounds offers plenty of space for kids to explore, and the hunt for famous graves can turn into a fun historical adventure. Bring a map and make it a game to find specific monuments or the resting places of historical figures. Reddit

During spring, the cherry blossoms are a magical sight that children often find enchanting. It's a great opportunity for them to connect with nature and learn about local history in a unique setting. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for everyone and keep an eye on the speed limit for safety. Reddit+1

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Walkers

For solo travelers seeking a peaceful and reflective experience, Lexington Cemetery is an ideal destination. The well-maintained paths and serene atmosphere provide a perfect setting for a quiet walk and contemplation. You can explore at your own pace, delving into the history etched in stone. Reddit

Grabbing a map from the office is highly recommended to guide your exploration and discover the stories behind the monuments. It's also a pet-friendly location, so if you have a canine companion, it's a great place for a shared walk. Reddit+1

📸 Photographers

Lexington Cemetery is a dream for photographers, offering a diverse range of subjects. The grand monuments, intricate mausoleums, and the seasonal beauty of the cherry blossoms provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. TikTokReddit

Aim for the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for the most dramatic and soft lighting. The historical markers and unique grave designs also offer compelling details for close-up photography. Remember to be respectful of the solemnity of the location while capturing its beauty. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Notable Graves

Lexington Cemetery is a veritable who's who of Kentucky history, making it a fascinating destination for history buffs. Beyond the widely recognized figures, the cemetery is home to numerous prominent individuals, including Confederate and Union soldiers, influential politicians, and local dignitaries. The sheer variety of monuments, from grand mausoleums to simple headstones, tells a rich story of the region's past. Reddit

Among the most sought-after graves are those of Jim Varney, the beloved actor behind Ernest P. Worrell, and the Todd family, Abraham Lincoln's in-laws. Visitors often seek out the imposing Clay Henry monument, a testament to its subject's significance. The cemetery staff can provide maps to help locate these and other important figures, turning a visit into a historical scavenger hunt. TikTokReddit+2

Pay attention to the signs placed at the edge of certain sections, which often denote the presence of historically significant individuals. This feature enhances the self-guided tour experience, allowing visitors to learn about Kentucky's heritage as they wander through the serene landscape. Reddit

The Enchantment of Cherry Blossoms

Each spring, Lexington Cemetery transforms into a breathtaking spectacle of pink and white as its cherry blossom trees reach full bloom. This natural display draws visitors from near and far, eager to capture the ephemeral beauty. The blossoms, concentrated in sections 47-48, create a stunning canopy that offers a serene and picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll or a photography session. Reddit

However, the timing of the cherry blossoms can be unpredictable. Warm spells followed by late frosts can impact the bloom, sometimes leading to sparse flowers or early bud damage. Travelers are advised to check local bloom reports and weather forecasts closer to their intended visit to maximize their chances of experiencing the peak display. Reddit

Even if you miss the absolute peak, the cemetery remains a beautiful and tranquil place. The well-maintained grounds and the variety of trees and flora provide a pleasant environment for reflection and enjoyment throughout the year. Reddit

Navigating and Experiencing the Cemetery

Lexington Cemetery is a sprawling landscape, and a map is your best friend for an efficient and enjoyable visit. The office provides these invaluable guides, helping you locate specific graves, mausoleums, and points of interest. Comfortable footwear is a must, as you'll likely cover a significant distance exploring the grounds. Reddit

While the cemetery is a place of quiet contemplation, it's also a popular spot for walks, and many visitors bring their pets. The speed limit is set at 20 mph, but some visitors have noted that cars can sometimes travel too fast, posing a potential hazard. Being mindful of your surroundings and adhering to the speed limit yourself is crucial for everyone's safety. Reddit

Some visitors have noted commercial traffic passing through the back sections of the cemetery. While this might be for access to adjacent properties, it's something to be aware of during your visit, especially if you're seeking absolute tranquility. Reddit

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