Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum
A historic arboretum and cemetery in St. Louis, offering stunning landscapes, notable burials, and a peaceful escape.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Safer and less crowded
Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum
Best Time
Safer and less crowded

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic arboretum and cemetery in St. Louis, offering stunning landscapes, notable burials, and a peaceful escape.
"This cemetery was by far the most beautiful one I've visited so far! The landscaping was immaculate!"
🎯 Visit During Daylight Hours
For safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours. The cemetery closes at 5 PM. :flashlight:
📸 Photography is Encouraged
Capture the beauty! While policies can vary, photography is generally allowed. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Captain William Clark's Tomb
Voyage of Discovery section
Pay respects to the legendary explorer of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A significant piece of American history rests here.

Millionaires' Row
Various mausoleums and plots
Marvel at the opulent final resting places of St. Louis's most prominent families, including the Buschs and Lemps.

Arboretum and Birdwatching
Throughout the grounds
Explore a diverse landscape with wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, recognized as an Important Bird Area by the Audubon Society.
Stunning Fall Foliage
Throughout the grounds
Witness a vibrant display of autumn colors, with Ginkgoes, Red Maples, and Dogwoods creating a picturesque scene.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Bellefontaine's Grandeur
Photography and Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Visit During Daylight Hours
For safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours. The cemetery closes at 5 PM.
:flashlight:📸 Photography is Encouraged
Capture the beauty! While policies can vary, photography is generally allowed.
:camerawithflash:🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome. Remember to clean up after them!
:dog:🚶♀️ Self-Guided or Guided Tours
Follow the white line for a self-guided tour or book a guided tour for in-depth stories.
:walking:Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Visit During Daylight Hours
For safety, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours. The cemetery closes at 5 PM.
:flashlight:📸 Photography is Encouraged
Capture the beauty! While policies can vary, photography is generally allowed.
:camerawithflash:🐶 Pet-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome. Remember to clean up after them!
:dog:🚶♀️ Self-Guided or Guided Tours
Follow the white line for a self-guided tour or book a guided tour for in-depth stories.
:walking:🌳 Explore the Arboretum
Discover diverse habitats and enjoy birdwatching in this designated Important Bird Area.
:bird:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum for its breathtaking beauty, immaculate landscaping, and rich historical significance. Many highlight the impressive architecture and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a top choice for cemetery exploration and photography. However, some guests have noted inconsistent experiences with staff and concerns about the surrounding neighborhood, advising daytime visits.
"I'm a funeral director/mortician from Detroit. I was in St. Louis visiting family. I love visiting historic cemeteries when I travel. This cemetery was by far the most beautiful one I've visited so far! The landscaping was immaculate! I went in late March so the flowers were blooming all over. When I first arrived, I was greeted by 2 tour guides who were both incredibly friendly and helpful. The woman gave me a map and directed me to the best route through the cemetery. The map included information about some of the individuals buried/entombed there. She also told me I could take photos. About 15 minutes in, a worker rudely yelled out of her van saying I wasn't allowed to take pictures. I then called the office for some clarity and was told again that I could take photos. So that was just odd to me. I had to use the restroom on my way out, and the woman that buzzed me in wasn't the nicest either. Overall, wonderful cemetery full of St. Louis history! Some employees could use an attitude adjustment."
Chelsea Bee
"Large, spacious cemetery with tons of history including the graves of Adolphous Busch and William Clark. Beautiful landscaping with fountains and ponds. This jewel sits in the hood so it closes by 5pm even in the summer time."
David Griffith
"We took a guided tour through this amazingly fascinating, beautifully scenic cemetery. Lacey was our guide, her knowledge and the stories she told us about this cemetery, and the final resting place of these souls was unmatched. Millionaires row had the Lemp family, further down the tour was Rush Limbaugh, the Bush's family final resting place and many more well known names are here. This is a must see. You can drive or walk thru yourself... just follow the white line to self guide. There is no charge to enter, but if you take a guided tour they ask that you "donate" an amount. There is trolley tours on Saturdays with a small fee. They are also pet friendly so long as your pets are well behaved, leashed and you clean up after them..I highly recommend seeing this place."
Miriam Simonsen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While the cemetery itself is a beautiful and historic site, some visitors and locals advise caution due to its location. It's generally recommended to visit during daylight hours and be aware of your surroundings.
Bellefontaine Cemetery is located in North St. Louis. Driving is the most common way to access it. Parking is available, though some visitors have noted it can be awkward.
The cemetery typically closes at 5 PM, even during the summer months. It's best to confirm current hours before your visit.
Information on public transportation routes directly to the cemetery is limited. Driving is the most practical option for most visitors.
Yes, parking is available within the cemetery grounds. Some visitors have mentioned that parking can be a bit awkward to navigate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Bellefontaine Cemetery is generally free. However, guided tours, including trolley tours on Saturdays, do have a small fee or request a donation.
For general entry, no advance booking is required. If you wish to join a guided tour, it's advisable to check their schedule and availability, especially for trolley tours.
Photography is generally permitted within the cemetery grounds. However, some visitors have reported mixed experiences with staff regarding photo policies, so it's wise to confirm upon arrival.
Yes, guided tours are offered, providing in-depth historical insights and stories about the notable individuals interred there. Trolley tours are available on Saturdays.
The cemetery is quite large and has varied terrain. While some areas are accessible, it's recommended to inquire about specific accessibility for tours or areas you wish to visit.
🎫 🌳 Arboretum & Nature
Bellefontaine boasts a diverse collection of trees, including Red Maples, Dogwoods, and Ginkgoes, making it a beautiful arboretum.
Arborist-led tours highlight the variety of species.Absolutely! Bellefontaine Cemetery and Arboretum is recognized as an 'Important Bird Watching Area' by the Audubon Society due to its diverse habitats.
Beyond birds, visitors have reported seeing dragonflies and bees. The varied habitats support a range of local wildlife.
The peak fall foliage typically occurs in mid-to-late autumn, with Ginkgoes, Red Maples, and Dogwoods offering a stunning display of yellows, oranges, and reds.
The cemetery occasionally hosts nature-focused events, such as arborist-led tree tours, which provide insights into the arboretum's collection.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, it's considered one of the most beautiful locations for photography, especially during fall and spring, with its stunning landscaping and historic monuments.
Iconic tombs, grand mausoleums, intricate statues, and the changing seasonal foliage are popular subjects for photographers.
While generally permitted, there have been instances of staff questioning photo policies. It's advisable to confirm current guidelines upon arrival to avoid any issues.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for photography. However, remember the cemetery closes at 5 PM.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's best to inquire with the cemetery office beforehand if you plan to use professional equipment like a tripod.
🎫 🐶 Pet-Friendly
Yes, Bellefontaine Cemetery is pet-friendly! Dogs are welcome as long as they are well-behaved, kept on a leash, and you clean up after them.
The main rules are that pets must be leashed and owners must clean up any waste. This ensures a pleasant experience for all visitors.
The entire cemetery and arboretum grounds are open for exploration with your pet. The spacious paths offer plenty of room to roam.
While pets are welcome on the grounds, it's best to confirm with the tour guide or office if pets are permitted on specific guided tours, especially trolley tours.
There are no dedicated water stations for pets. It's recommended to bring your own water for your dog, especially on warmer days.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a self-guided tour using the provided map, allowing you to move at your own pace and focus on areas that capture your children's interest. The arboretum aspect also offers a chance to point out different trees and birds, turning the visit into a nature scavenger hunt. Just be mindful of the 5 PM closing time and ensure everyone is wearing comfortable shoes for walking.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Look for the unique details on tombstones, the play of light and shadow on the monuments, and the serene beauty of the arboretum. The presence of notable figures like Captain William Clark also adds historical depth to your photographic narrative. While photography is generally allowed, it's wise to confirm any specific restrictions with the cemetery office beforehand, especially if you plan to use professional equipment.
🌳 Nature Lovers & Birdwatchers
The arboretum itself is a beautiful space to wander, with labeled trees and seasonal displays of flowers and foliage. It's a peaceful environment to enjoy a walk, observe the natural surroundings, and appreciate the cemetery's commitment to preserving green space. The combination of historical monuments and natural beauty creates a unique and tranquil atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Living History: The Arboretum
Visitors can explore this natural beauty through walking paths, enjoying the seasonal changes from spring blooms to the spectacular fall foliage. The presence of trees like Red Maples, Dogwoods, and Ginkgoes makes it a prime spot for photographers seeking autumn colors. Arborist-led tours offer a deeper understanding of the various tree species and their significance within the landscape, sometimes even neighboring large outdoor sculpture installations.
The arboretum aspect provides a unique blend of natural serenity and historical significance, offering a peaceful escape and a chance to connect with nature amidst the grandeur of the cemetery's monuments. It's a testament to the cemetery's commitment to preserving both human history and the natural environment.
Notable Residents and St. Louis History
The cemetery is also home to the grand mausoleums and plots of prominent St. Louis families, earning a section the moniker 'Millionaires' Row.' This includes the final resting places of the Busch family, founders of the Anheuser-Busch brewery, and the Lemp family, known for their brewing legacy and the mysterious Lemp Mansion. The presence of figures like Rush Limbaugh also draws attention.
Exploring these notable graves offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to learn about the individuals who shaped St. Louis and the nation. The cemetery's detailed maps and guided tours are invaluable resources for understanding the historical context of these prominent figures and their contributions.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette
Operating hours are strictly enforced, with the cemetery closing at 5 PM daily, regardless of the season. This means planning your visit to allow ample time for exploration before closing. For those interested in a deeper understanding, guided tours are highly recommended. These tours, led by knowledgeable guides, offer fascinating stories and historical context that you might miss on a self-guided visit.
Photography is generally welcomed, but it's always a good idea to confirm current policies with staff upon arrival, as experiences can vary. Remember that this is a place of remembrance, so maintaining a respectful demeanor throughout your visit is essential. The cemetery is also pet-friendly, provided pets are leashed and their owners clean up after them, making it a pleasant experience for all visitors and their furry companions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit