10 Famous Graves & Memorials Across The US

Unconventional Yet Interesting Memorials And Famous Graves In America

If you’re heading out on a cross country road trip or want to visit each state in the USA, you may already have a list of places you want to visit. But if you’re still looking for some extra inspiration, why not consider dropping by some popular graves and famous memorials in the USA? 

As it turns out, the country is home to many breathtakingly beautiful cemeteries, graveyards and memorials, many of which may give you a new perspective on death and change the way you feel about it — for the better, of course. So, without further ado, let’s jump right in and check out some famous graves and graveyards in the USA.

10 Famous Graves And Memorials Across The Us

Here is a list of some of the most famous graves and memorials in the United States of America.

1. The grave of John F. Kennedy in Virginia’s Arlington National Cemetery

One of the most popular presidents of the United States, John F. Kennedy continues to remain famous even in death. His final resting place is in Arlington National Cemetery, which is one of the most famous graveyards in the USA. The site is honored with an eternal flame lit by his wife Jackie Kennedy.

2. The grave of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield, Illinois

Abraham Lincoln’s final resting place in Illinois is another famous grave in the country. The tomb built as the final resting place of one of America’s most influential presidents is impressive, to say the least. It is built from solid granite and has four flights of balustraded stairs that lead to a level terrace.

3. The grave of George Washington in Mount Vernon, Virginia

George Washington was the first president of the United States, and it’s no surprise that his is among the most famous graves in the USA. He was laid to rest on the banks of the Potomac River, which is quite near his home. If you pay a visit to the site, you can also see the room in which he passed away. 

4. The grave of Martin Luther King, Jr. in Atlanta, Georgia

The grave of civil rights activist and leader Martin Luther King, Jr. is a beautiful place. Surrounded by several stepped waterfalls and in the vicinity of a reflective lake, this famous grave in the USA is located near the Ebenezer Baptist Church. It has also now become a national historic park.

5. The grave of Elvis Presley in Memphis, Tennessee

It’s not just the graves of presidents, civil rights leaders and politicians that are popular among the people. The resting places of entertainers and stars are also well-known, such as the grave of Elvis Presley in his Graceland home. Thousands of people visit the place each year. 

6. The grave of Marilyn Monroe in Los Angeles, California

Marilyn Monroe was extremely iconic and quite controversial in life. However, in stark contrast, her final resting place is rather quiet and somber. The marker on the icon’s crypt simply reads, “Marilyn Monroe 1926-1962.” However, the crypts around Marilyn Monroe’s include many famous names like Hugh Hefner and Truman Capote. 

7. The memorial of Toto in Los Angeles, California

If you’ve seen The Wizard of Oz, you’ll love this one. Remember Toto the dog from the movie? The dog was played by Terry, a Cairn Terrier from California. Although the dog’s original burial place was disturbed due to freeway construction activities, a new memorial was built for Toto with money donated by fans. 

8. The Honolulu Memorial in Hawaii

Located in an extinct volcano near the center of Honolulu, this is one of the many famous memorials in the USA. It was originally established to honor the sacrifices of American armed forces in the Pacific during the Korean War and World War II. Later, it was expanded to also honor those who went missing in the Vietnam War. 

9. The World War I Memorial in Pennsylvania Avenue

Nearly 4.7 million Americans served in World War I, and this memorial in Pennsylvania Avenue honors them all. It is located just a block away from the White House. 

10. The US Marine Corps War Memorial, Arlington County, Virginia 

Also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial, this famous memorial in the USA honors all the members of the Marine Corps who have died in battle from 1775 onward. The iconic statue in the memorial showcases 5 marines and 1 sailor raising the American flag. 

Have You Been To Any Of These Famous Memorials In The USA?

Now that you’ve reached the end of the list, have you been to any of these famous memorials and graveyards in the USA? Or do you live near any of them? If you haven’t been to any of these places, and if one of the cemeteries or spots on this list caught your eye, perhaps it’s time to plan a quick vacation soon.