Stones River National Cemetery
A solemn national cemetery commemorating the immense sacrifices of the Civil War's Battle of Stones River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Stones River National Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for exploring
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn national cemetery commemorating the immense sacrifices of the Civil War's Battle of Stones River.
"A peaceful place to commemorate the 21,000 lives lost in the battle."
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear
The cemetery is vast; wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Maintain a respectful and quiet atmosphere to honor the fallen. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Union Cemetery
Main cemetery grounds
Immaculately maintained grounds with thousands of headstones, many representing unidentified soldiers.
Soldiers' and Airmen's National Monument
Central area of the cemetery
A poignant monument honoring the sacrifices of those who served.
Hallowed Ground: Lantern Tour
Cemetery grounds (seasonal)
Experience history come alive with a guided lantern tour sharing soldiers' stories.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear
The cemetery is vast; wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Maintain a respectful and quiet atmosphere to honor the fallen. :pray:
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look for special events like lantern tours or wreath-laying ceremonies. :calendar:
🚗 Easy Access
A convenient crosswalk on Old Nashville Highway connects to the main park. :car:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear
The cemetery is vast; wear comfortable shoes for extensive walking. :athletic_shoe:
🤫 Quiet Reflection
Maintain a respectful and quiet atmosphere to honor the fallen. :pray:
📅 Check Event Schedule
Look for special events like lantern tours or wreath-laying ceremonies. :calendar:
🚗 Easy Access
A convenient crosswalk on Old Nashville Highway connects to the main park. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Stones River National Cemetery for its immaculate upkeep and peaceful atmosphere, making it a deeply moving place for reflection on the Civil War's immense human cost. While some note the cemetery's solemnity, many find the historical significance and well-maintained grounds to be profoundly impactful.
"The death toll of 21,000 is interesting enough in itself but the story the cemetery here tells is a deep one. Well kept, short and very informative walk through history with recent repairs."
Michael Richardson
"I had a great time. The Union Cemetery is very nicely maintained and respected"
LegoGone Gaming
"Peaceful place to commemorate the 21,000 lives lost in the battle. May their souls find rest with Jesus in heaven. Also, there is a convenient signalized crosswalk on Old Nashville Highway leading to the cemetery from the main park."
Austin Moore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stones River National Cemetery is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage from major roadways. There are no public transportation options directly to the cemetery, so driving is the most common method.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors. The grounds are extensive, so parking is conveniently located to allow for exploration of the cemetery and surrounding battlefield areas.
Yes, there is a convenient signalized crosswalk on Old Nashville Highway that leads directly to the cemetery from the main park area, making it easy to visit both sites.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Stones River National Cemetery is a national cemetery and is free to enter and visit. Donations are always appreciated to help maintain the grounds.
The cemetery grounds are typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for any specific holiday hours or closures.
Yes, reservations are required for the 'Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour of Stones River National Cemetery.' It's best to book in advance as these tours can fill up quickly.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the immaculately maintained grounds, see thousands of headstones (many for unidentified soldiers), and visit the Soldiers' and Airmen's National Monument. It's a peaceful place for reflection on Civil War history.
A visit can range from an hour to several hours, depending on your interest in history and how much you wish to explore. A short, informative walk through history is possible in about an hour.
While not daily, special guided tours like the 'Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour' are offered seasonally. Check the park's schedule for availability and booking information.
Yes, photography is permitted. Many visitors find the cemetery to be a beautiful and poignant place for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The main pathways within the cemetery are generally accessible. However, due to the historical nature of the site, some areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to contact the park directly for specific accessibility information.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the cemetery itself. However, Murfreesboro offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and fast-food options just a short drive away.
Picnicking is generally not permitted within national cemeteries to maintain their solemn atmosphere. It's best to enjoy a picnic at a designated area within the adjacent Stones River National Battlefield park or elsewhere.
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of headstones, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset, offer stunning photographic opportunities. The Soldiers' and Airmen's National Monument is also a key subject.
Photography for personal use is generally allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Always be mindful of the respectful nature of the site.
Visitors often capture landscape shots of the vast cemetery, close-ups of headstones, and images of the monuments. Many also photograph the flags placed during Memorial Day or Wreaths Across America events. 
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage children to be respectful of the solemn nature of the cemetery. Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow for a more peaceful exploration. Focus on the stories of the soldiers and the significance of the battle to make the visit more relatable. The sheer number of headstones can be a powerful visual for understanding the scale of loss.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to read the interpretive signs and understand the context of the conflict. Don't miss the opportunity to attend special events like the 'Hallowed Ground' lantern tour, which offers a unique narrative perspective.
Researching the battle beforehand can significantly deepen your appreciation for the site. The cemetery itself, with its thousands of markers, tells a profound story of sacrifice and remembrance. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Battle of Stones River: A Turning Point
The fighting was fierce and often hand-to-hand, with both sides suffering heavy losses. The Union Army of the Cumberland, under Major General William Rosecrans, ultimately held the field against the Confederate Army of Tennessee, led by General Braxton Bragg. This victory was crucial for President Lincoln, who had been seeking a positive development following earlier Union setbacks.
Today, the Stones River National Battlefield and National Cemetery serve as powerful reminders of the sacrifices made during this pivotal conflict. Walking the grounds allows visitors to connect with the history and understand the profound impact of this battle on the course of the Civil War.
Memorializing the Fallen: Cemetery Maintenance and Events
Events like Memorial Day see thousands of flags placed to honor the soldiers, a deeply moving sight.
Similarly, Wreaths Across America ceremonies bring volunteers together to lay wreaths, ensuring that the sacrifices of the fallen are not forgotten. These events highlight the community's dedication to preserving the memory of these brave individuals. +1For those seeking a more immersive historical experience, the 'Hallowed Ground: A Lantern Tour' offers a unique perspective. This seasonal event shares the stories of soldiers and civilians through their letters, bringing the past to life in a deeply personal way.
Reservations are essential for this popular program. 
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