Oakdale Cemetery
A historic Wilmington landmark, Oakdale Cemetery offers stunning artistry, rich history, and a touch of the paranormal. Explore its serene grounds and...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Oakdale Cemetery
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Wilmington landmark, Oakdale Cemetery offers stunning artistry, rich history, and a touch of the paranormal. Explore its serene grounds and discover stories etched in stone.
"Magical space. The haunts will walk along with you, and you'll feel as if history is peeking into the present."
⏰ Arrive Early!
The cemetery closes at 5 PM. Arrive early to explore fully and avoid getting locked in! :clock1:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring this large site. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Tombstones & Artistry
Throughout the cemetery
Discover stunning, intricate artwork on centuries-old tombstones. A photographer's dream, offering a glimpse into the past.
Lelia Hansell's Vault
Hendersonville, NC (Note: This appears to be a misattribution in the source data, as Oakdale Cemetery is primarily associated with Wilmington, NC. The vault described is likely in a different Oakdale Cemetery.)
An unusual above-ground vault with eerie legends, said to be where Lelia Hansell wanted sunlight to reach her always.
Trunk or Treat Events
Various locations within the cemetery
Experience community events like Trunk or Treat, transforming the historic grounds into a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.
+2
Nighttime Ghost Tours
Various sections of the cemetery
Embark on spooky nighttime tours led by local guides, exploring the cemetery's haunted history and paranormal tales.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Respectful Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏰ Arrive Early!
The cemetery closes at 5 PM. Arrive early to explore fully and avoid getting locked in! :clock1:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring this large site. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Bring your camera! The stunning artwork and historic stones make it a dream for photographers. :camerawithflash:
👻 Join a Ghost Tour
Experience the cemetery's spooky side with a guided nighttime ghost tour for thrilling tales.
Tips
from all over the internet
⏰ Arrive Early!
The cemetery closes at 5 PM. Arrive early to explore fully and avoid getting locked in! :clock1:
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring this large site. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Photographer's Paradise
Bring your camera! The stunning artwork and historic stones make it a dream for photographers. :camerawithflash:
👻 Join a Ghost Tour
Experience the cemetery's spooky side with a guided nighttime ghost tour for thrilling tales.
💖 Be Respectful
Remember this is a place of rest. Be mindful of gravesites and the emotions of those visiting loved ones. +1 :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Oakdale Cemetery to be a very cool, interesting, and magical place, praising its stunning artwork and historical significance. It's described as a photographer's delight and a place where history feels alive. However, some express frustration with maintenance issues and the cemetery's strict closing time, with one visitor nearly getting locked in.
"Very cool and interesting cemetery to visit. We love to see the amazing artwork in these old cemeteries. This one is great. Start your day early because it’s big and closes at 5pm. We almost got locked in. Which would have been cool too lol."
Tim & Beth Tears
"I have been living in the Wilmington area for little over a year. I've heard and read alot about this cemetary and finally made a brief visit there yesterday. I will be going back when have more time to explore and enjoy. Kind of a neat place with lots of history."
Marc Crabtree
"Magical space. The haunts will walk along with you, and you'll feel as if history is peeking into the present. A photographers delight. Check out this Free Wilmington destination!"
Shade Changing Raven
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oakdale Cemetery is located in Wilmington, NC. It's easily accessible by car, and many visitors use GPS navigation. Parking is available on-site.
Information on public transport accessibility can vary. It's best to check local Wilmington transit schedules for routes that may service the area near Oakdale Cemetery.
Use your preferred GPS app and search for 'Oakdale Cemetery, Wilmington, NC'. The cemetery is a significant landmark and usually easy to find.
Yes, there is parking available within the cemetery grounds. However, it can get busy, especially during events.
Absolutely! Oakdale Cemetery is a great addition to a day trip in Wilmington, offering history and unique sights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Oakdale Cemetery is generally free to enter, making it a popular and accessible destination for visitors.
Oakdale Cemetery typically closes at 5 PM. It's crucial to plan your visit to allow ample time for exploration before closing.
Yes, guided tours, including popular nighttime ghost tours, are often available. Check with local tour operators or the cemetery's official channels for booking information.
The main restriction is the closing time of 5 PM. Visitors are advised to be mindful of this to avoid any issues.
For general visits, no advance ticket booking is usually required as entry is free. However, for special events, booking might be necessary.
📸 📸 Photography & History
Oakdale Cemetery is a photographer's delight, featuring stunning artwork on historic tombstones, beautiful trees, and a magical atmosphere.
Established as one of Wilmington's oldest cemeteries, it holds significant historical value, with many notable figures and stories embedded within its grounds.
Oakdale Cemetery is the final resting place for many prominent historical figures from Wilmington and the surrounding region.
Photography of gravesites is generally permitted, but always be respectful. Avoid disturbing any floral arrangements or personal items. +1
You can learn about local history, architectural styles of funerary art, and the lives of past residents through the inscriptions and the cemetery's layout.
🎫 👻 Paranormal & Legends
Yes, Oakdale Cemetery is known for its paranormal lore and is a popular spot for ghost tours, with many visitors reporting eerie experiences.
Legends include tales of spirits, unexplained phenomena, and specific historical figures like Lelia Hansell, whose vault has its own folklore. +1
While many visit for the spooky atmosphere, it's important to check cemetery rules regarding independent investigations. Respectful observation is key.
Certain areas, like St. James Graveyard (often associated with Oakdale) and specific historic tombs, are frequently mentioned in paranormal discussions.
Stay calm and respectful. Many visitors find the atmosphere itself to be a powerful experience, whether paranormal or not.
🎫 🎉 Events & Activities
Yes, Oakdale Cemetery hosts various community events, including popular Trunk or Treat gatherings and celebrations of life.
It's a festive Halloween event where decorated car trunks offer treats, creating a fun and family-friendly atmosphere within the historic grounds.
While not always advertised, the cemetery's rich history makes it a potential venue for educational programs and historical discussions.
Yes, Oakdale Cemetery is a venue for memorial services and celebrations of life, offering a serene and dignified setting.
Events like Trunk or Treat are very family-friendly. During regular visiting hours, it can be a peaceful place for families to learn about history.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 These events transform the grounds into a safe and exciting Halloween destination. For regular visits, encourage kids to look for interesting tombstone designs or imagine the stories of the people buried there. It's a unique way to learn about local history in an open-air setting. When visiting outside of events, emphasize the historical aspect and the beautiful artwork on the stones. Make it a scavenger hunt to find specific dates or symbols. Remember to stress the importance of respectful behavior in a cemetery. Comfortable shoes are a must, as there's a lot of ground to cover.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best shots, aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and dramatic. Consider exploring different angles and perspectives to capture the grandeur of the mausoleums and the delicate inscriptions on older stones. The cemetery's vastness means you can spend hours finding unique shots without feeling rushed, especially if you visit during off-peak times.
👻 Ghost & Paranormal Investigators
+1 Many visitors report feeling a strong presence or experiencing unexplained phenomena, making it a hotspot for those seeking otherworldly encounters. Joining a guided nighttime tour is highly recommended to delve into the cemetery's chilling legends and history. These tours often highlight specific areas known for paranormal activity and share captivating stories that enhance the spooky atmosphere.
Remember to approach any investigation with respect for the site and its inhabitants, both living and departed. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Oakdale Cemetery's History
Many notable figures from Wilmington's history are interred here, offering a tangible connection to the region's past. Exploring Oakdale is not just about visiting a cemetery; it's about walking through a historical archive. The intricate carvings, epitaphs, and the sheer scale of the monuments provide a unique educational experience. It’s a place where history is etched in stone, waiting to be discovered by those who take the time to look.
Beyond the historical figures, the cemetery's natural beauty also contributes to its allure. Mature trees, well-maintained landscaping, and seasonal blooms create a serene and picturesque environment. This blend of history, art, and nature makes Oakdale Cemetery a compelling destination for anyone interested in local heritage or simply seeking a peaceful, reflective space.
The Paranormal and Folklore of Oakdale
+1Legends often revolve around specific tombs and historical figures. For instance, the story of Lelia Hansell and her unusual above-ground vault in Hendersonville (though potentially misattributed to this Oakdale) speaks to the kind of eerie tales that surround such historic sites. Visitors often report feeling a strong presence or experiencing unusual occurrences, contributing to the cemetery's haunted mystique.
These paranormal narratives, combined with the cemetery's atmospheric setting, make Oakdale a draw for ghost hunters and those seeking a thrill. Guided nighttime tours capitalize on this, offering a curated experience of the cemetery's most chilling stories and alleged hauntings. It's a place where the veil between the living and the past is said to be thin, inviting exploration of the unknown.
Photography Opportunities at Oakdale
The artistry found on the tombstones is particularly noteworthy. From detailed sculptures to weathered inscriptions, each stone tells a story and offers a unique photographic subject. The natural elements, such as moss-covered stones, creeping vines, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy, add depth and character to images. Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and beautiful shots.
Beyond the individual stones, the overall landscape of Oakdale Cemetery offers sweeping vistas and intimate corners perfect for capturing the mood and atmosphere. Whether you're interested in macro shots of inscriptions, wide-angle views of the grounds, or capturing the ethereal quality during a twilight visit, Oakdale provides ample inspiration for photographers of all levels.
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