Graceland Cemetery in Chicago is a fascinating destination for both locals and visitors to the city. Sports, politics, architecture, and more - no matter your interest, you'll find the graves of some of the state's most noteworthy historical figures in this Lakeview neighborhood burial ground. A casual stroll through the 121-acre property is calming and beautiful in all kinds of weather. But if you're creeped out by cemeteries, be warned: This one has ghost stories just like all the rest. In fact, Graceland may be one of the most haunted cemeteries in Illinois, so it's probably a good idea to avoid visiting this graveyard alone.
First opened way back in 1860, the 121-acre Graceland Cemetery is located on Chicago's north side, and it is the burial ground for countless well-known Chicagoans.
If you're a lover of Chicago history, Graceland Cemetery is an absolute must-visit. The sprawling campus is also one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Illinois, well-manicured, wooded - it doubles as an arboretum - and just a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan.
Architects Louis Sullivan and Daniel Burnham have graves there, as do athletes Ernie Banks and Doug Buffone, and plenty of authors and former politicians.
Paved paths allow visitors to stroll leisurely from one gravesite to the other, explore the grounds, and enjoy this oasis amid the bustle of the Windy City.
But a visit to Graceland Cemetery is not always a simple walk in the park.
Residents of nearby Montrose Avenue have reported on multiple occasions that, on nights with a full moon, they have seen the ghost of one of the entombed's pets stalking the grounds.
Spooky or not, the beauty of this cemetery is unmatched. With more than 2,000 trees it is a certified arboretum, and it also contains a serene reflecting lake.
Dig a little deeper into this haunted cemetery in Chicago with this YouTube video from Freyzel Productions:
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Graceland Cemetery is not open to the public at all hours, so be sure to check out its website to get up-to-date information about when you can visit. If you’re up for more creepy fun, consider a tour of some of the Land of Lincoln’s spookiest spots, including haunted cemeteries in Illinois.
Have you ever walked through this haunted cemetery in Chicago? What was the coolest grave you saw? And did you sense any spirits? Give us a full description in the comments below!
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