Rock Island National Cemetery
A serene and impeccably maintained national cemetery honoring American heroes, set within the historic Rock Island Arsenal.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peaceful
Rock Island National Cemetery
Best Time
Fewer visitors, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene and impeccably maintained national cemetery honoring American heroes, set within the historic Rock Island Arsenal.
"Best maintained cemetery I've ever seen. "
Dress Respectfully
Maintain a solemn demeanor and dress appropriately for this national cemetery. 👗
Grave Locator Assistance
Use the office's grave locator for precise directions to any burial site. 💻
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 47 reviews
Type
Cemetery
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hallowed Grounds
Throughout the cemetery
Immaculately maintained grounds honoring fallen heroes. A truly peaceful and solemn atmosphere.
Grave Locator Service
Cemetery Office
Easily find any burial site with the helpful grave locator system. Efficient and respectful.
Adjoining Museum
Adjacent to the cemetery
Explore fascinating exhibits and learn about the history of those interred here. A valuable addition to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Finding Your Loved Ones
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Found a piece of history in the Goodwill bins
We found this in the Goodwill bins. At first I thought it was just the canteen in the canvas bag, but when I pulled the tin bowl out of it at the bottom there were these two dollar bills dated 1935. They were placed there by the solder and we found them years later covered in…
Dress Respectfully
Maintain a solemn demeanor and dress appropriately for this national cemetery. 👗
Grave Locator Assistance
Use the office's grave locator for precise directions to any burial site. 💻
Mind the Mowing
Flowers may be removed during mowing. Place them thoughtfully. :lawn_mower:
Explore the Island
The cemetery is part of a larger island with a museum and other sites worth visiting. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Dress Respectfully
Maintain a solemn demeanor and dress appropriately for this national cemetery. 👗
Grave Locator Assistance
Use the office's grave locator for precise directions to any burial site. 💻
Mind the Mowing
Flowers may be removed during mowing. Place them thoughtfully. :lawn_mower:
Explore the Island
The cemetery is part of a larger island with a museum and other sites worth visiting. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rock Island National Cemetery is widely praised for its exceptional maintenance and the welcoming nature of its staff. Visitors consistently note the beautiful, well-kept grounds as a highlight, offering a peaceful and honorable atmosphere for remembrance. While some minor frustrations exist regarding flower removal during mowing, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a fitting final resting place.
"Rock Island Arsenal National Cemetery is a beautiful place. Extremely well taken care of and the staff is very welcoming."
Kent Crawford
"Best maintained cemetery I've ever seen. If you can't find a grave they have an area by the office where you can simply type in the name and it will give exact directions. The only beef I have is with the mowing crew who have been known to remove flowers just hours after they've been placed. It's happened to me once. The fewer the flowers, the easier it is to mow, I guess. In spite of that, I'd still give it 5 stars."
Dave Mcnichols
"Very nice. Blessed soldiers marines airman buried here. Come pay respects 🙏"
Christian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rock Island National Cemetery is located on the Rock Island Arsenal. Access may be restricted at times due to military operations. It's best to check current access requirements before your visit. The island is accessible by car via bridges from both Davenport, Iowa, and Rock Island, Illinois.
Yes, there is typically ample parking available for visitors near the cemetery office and throughout the grounds.
The cemetery is generally open to visitors on public holidays, but it's always a good idea to verify hours of operation, especially if there are any special events or military activities scheduled.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Rock Island National Cemetery. It is a national cemetery and is open to the public for respectful visitation.
Visiting hours are typically from sunrise to sunset daily. However, it's advisable to confirm the exact hours with the cemetery administration, as they can sometimes vary.
No, tickets are not required for general visitation to Rock Island National Cemetery. You can visit during their open hours.
Visitors are asked to be respectful. Avoid bringing items that could be disruptive or disrespectful. Check with the cemetery office for specific guidelines on decorations or other items.
🎫 compass Onsite Experience
The cemetery office provides a helpful grave locator system. You can type in the name of the individual, and it will give you exact directions to their burial site.
The grounds are consistently described as extremely well-maintained and beautifully kept. It's a testament to the care provided.
Restrooms are usually available near the cemetery office. The adjoining museum also offers additional facilities and exhibits.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but always be respectful of the solemn nature of the site and any ongoing ceremonies. Avoid intrusive photography.
If you witness any disrespectful behavior, it's best to report it discreetly to cemetery staff or authorities on site.
📸 camera_with_flash Photography
The sweeping vistas of headstones, the meticulously kept lawns, and the flagpole areas are popular for photography. The architecture of the cemetery office and the adjoining museum also offer interesting shots.
While personal photography is usually allowed, avoid intrusive shots during ceremonies or services. Always maintain a respectful distance and demeanor.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens is ideal. For capturing the vastness, a wide-angle lens can be useful. However, even a smartphone can capture beautiful, respectful images.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at national cemeteries due to security and privacy concerns. It's best to assume drones are not allowed unless explicitly permitted.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and a more serene atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit