Vicksburg National Cemetery
A solemn tribute to Union soldiers, Vicksburg National Cemetery honors the immense sacrifices of the Civil War.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flowers
Vicksburg National Cemetery
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flowers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn tribute to Union soldiers, Vicksburg National Cemetery honors the immense sacrifices of the Civil War.
"Astonishing scenery and a poignant reminder of lives lost, a place to give thanks and show respect."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water fountains are available but can be spaced out. :droplet:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Memorial
Center of the cemetery
A striking monument honoring Union soldiers, a poignant symbol of sacrifice and remembrance.
Confederate Section
Southern part of the cemetery
A vast field of white headstones, a somber testament to the immense human cost of the Civil War.
USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum
Vicksburg National Military Park
Explore the remarkably preserved ironclad gunboat, a unique glimpse into Civil War naval history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Plan Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water fountains are available but can be spaced out. :droplet:
Respect the Silence
This is a place of honor and remembrance. Keep noise levels down. :pray:
Visit the USS Cairo
Don't miss the fascinating USS Cairo gunboat and museum nearby. :ship:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the expansive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. Water fountains are available but can be spaced out. :droplet:
Respect the Silence
This is a place of honor and remembrance. Keep noise levels down. :pray:
Visit the USS Cairo
Don't miss the fascinating USS Cairo gunboat and museum nearby. :ship:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Vicksburg National Cemetery to be a profoundly moving and historically significant site. The sheer scale of the Union soldier graves and the well-preserved grounds evoke deep respect for the sacrifices made. While the atmosphere is somber, many appreciate the opportunity to connect with history and pay tribute.
"The scenery and what I saw it astonishing. It's very sad to see so much lives lost in a bloody war. Always wanted to see the result of the old wars, give thanks and show respect for their sacrifices. May they rest in peace."
Davis Le
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Linda Linda (Sophie)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vicksburg National Cemetery is located at 3201 Clay Street, Vicksburg, MS 39183. It's easily accessible by car. Many visitors arrive as part of a broader tour of the Vicksburg National Military Park. :car:
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors. It's generally easy to find a spot, especially outside of peak hours. :parking:
Public transportation options are limited in Vicksburg. It's recommended to have a personal vehicle or consider ride-sharing services for convenience. :bus:
Yes, the cemetery is an integral part of the Vicksburg National Military Park, managed by the National Park Service. :park:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Vicksburg National Cemetery itself is free. However, if you plan to visit other parts of the Vicksburg National Military Park, a park entrance fee may apply. Check the NPS website for current fees. :ticket:
The cemetery is typically open daily from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official National Park Service website for the most up-to-date hours. :clock:
The cemetery is open year-round during daylight hours. However, access might be restricted during severe weather events. :weather_icon:
No advance booking is required for the cemetery itself, as it's free to enter. For any guided tours or special park programs, booking might be necessary. :calendar:
Visitors are asked to be respectful. Avoid bringing large coolers or items that could disturb the solemn atmosphere. :shopping_bags:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
To truly appreciate the scale and history, plan for at least 1-2 hours. If you're combining it with the Vicksburg National Military Park, you'll need much longer. :timer:
While there aren't typically formal guided tours within the cemetery itself, park rangers are often available to answer questions. The Vicksburg National Military Park offers various ranger programs. :ranger:
The cemetery contains the graves of Union soldiers who died during the Vicksburg Campaign. The white headstones mark Union soldiers, while the Confederate section has a different marker. :gravestone:
The main paths are generally paved and accessible. However, some areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to check with the park service for specific accessibility details. :wheelchair:
Yes, photography is permitted, but please be respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially near any ceremonies or services. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no dining facilities within the cemetery itself. You'll need to bring your own food or visit nearby restaurants. :forkandknife:
For local flavors, try The Tamale Place or Solly's for their famous tamales. Downtown Vicksburg also offers various dining options. :restaurant:
Picnicking is generally not permitted within the cemetery grounds to maintain its solemn atmosphere. However, designated areas may be available within the broader Vicksburg National Military Park. :sandwich:
📸 📸 Photography
The rows of headstones, especially during sunrise or sunset, offer dramatic shots. The GAR Memorial is also a striking subject. :sunriseovermountains:
Be mindful of the solemn nature of the site. Avoid drone photography without proper permits and always be respectful of visitors and the grounds. :noentrysign:
Many visitors capture the vastness of the headstone fields, the architectural details of the memorials, and the serene, reflective atmosphere. :camera:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pairing a visit with the Vicksburg National Military Park, especially the USS Cairo Gunboat, can make the history more engaging for younger visitors. The park also offers Junior Ranger programs that can add an interactive element to the visit. Remember to bring snacks and water, and encourage respectful behavior throughout your visit. :child:
🤔 History Buffs
Consider downloading the Vicksburg National Military Park app or picking up a map to understand the layout and significance of different sections. The USS Cairo Gunboat is also a critical piece of Civil War naval history that shouldn't be missed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Vicksburg National Cemetery
The cemetery is meticulously maintained by the National Park Service, ensuring that the memory of those who served is honored. The sheer scale of the white headstones, marking the graves of Union soldiers, is a somber and impactful sight. A separate section is dedicated to Confederate dead, acknowledging the broader human cost of the war.
Beyond the rows of headstones, the cemetery features several significant monuments, including the impressive Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Memorial. These structures serve not only as tributes but also as historical markers, offering insights into the post-war commemoration efforts and the enduring legacy of the Civil War.
Visiting the USS Cairo Gunboat
The fully restored gunboat is now a centerpiece of the park, offering an unparalleled look at Civil War naval technology. Visitors can explore the decks and imagine life aboard this formidable vessel. The accompanying museum provides further context about the Cairo's construction, its brief but significant service, and the challenges of its recovery.
Seeing the USS Cairo offers a unique perspective on the Vicksburg Campaign, highlighting the multi-faceted nature of the conflict beyond land battles. It's a testament to historical preservation and a fascinating educational experience for all ages.
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