Bonaventure Cemetery

Cemetery · Thunderbolt

Bonaventure Cemetery

Cemetery · Thunderbolt

2

330 Bonaventure Rd, Savannah, GA 31404

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Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null
Bonaventure Cemetery by null

Highlights

Tree-filled cemetery immortalized in best-selling "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" novel.  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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330 Bonaventure Rd, Savannah, GA 31404 Get directions

savannahga.gov
@bonaventurehistoricalsociety

Information

Static Map

330 Bonaventure Rd, Savannah, GA 31404 Get directions

+1 912 651 6843
savannahga.gov
@bonaventurehistoricalsociety

Features

wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Jul 11, 2025

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@cntraveler

16 Best Things to Do in Savannah, from Museums to Food Trucks

"The 100-plus acre Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the loveliest places in Savannah. Tree-lined avenues hanging with Spanish moss lead to the graves of some of the city’s notable residents, including the songwriter Johnny Mercer and the poet Conrad Aiken. But the space is as much garden as graveyard; camellias bloom in December and January, followed by pink and purple azaleas in early spring." - Ariel Felton, Sam Worley

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-savannah-georgia
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Bonaventure Cemetery

"Let’s start big picture here? Made famous by John Berendt’s 1994 book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, Bonaventure Cemetery is one of the loveliest places in Savannah, and a walk through its 100-plus acres is one of the best things you can do here. Bonaventure was established as a private cemetery in 1846, on the site of an old plantation, before the city purchased it in 1907. Now tree-lined avenues hanging with Spanish moss lead to the graves of some of the city’s notable residents, including the songwriter Johnny Mercer and the poet Conrad Aiken. But the space is as much garden as graveyard; camellias bloom in December and January, followed by pink and purple azaleas in early spring, and then creamy white magnolia later in the season. Situated on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River, Bonaventure was originally the site of the famous Bird Girl statue on the cover of Berendt’s book. That’s since been moved to the Telfair Academy, but there remains plenty of statuary, plus ornate, centuries-old gravestones, to feast your eyes on. Any standout features or must-sees? From the entrance, follow either Bonaventure Way or Mulryne Way straight into the heart of the cemetery. You’ll eventually end at the river, but keep your eyes open along the way for signs pointing toward the graves of Mercer, Aiken, early Georgia settlers Noble Jones and Edward Telfair, and the Lawton family, an old Savannah lineage whose riverside plot is hard to miss—just look for the huge marble Jesus. Finding each of these individual graves is less important than the act of wandering through the fanciest, most eye-popping section of the cemetery. Also notable: the large Jewish section along Sheftall Way, which contains a stirring Holocaust memorial. Was it easy to get around? Open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily, Bonaventure is easy to navigate on foot—the entrance is in one direction, the river in another—with or without the maps available in the visitors’ center. The Bonaventure Historical Society gives free guided tours on the second weekend of the month; at other times, you can engage a third-party company like Bonaventure Cemetery Tours, which offers twice-daily walking tours. Any other tips? Bonaventure is a 15-minute drive from downtown, and if you love walking, natural beauty, and old stuff, there’s really no better place to come. But if you’re here on a short visit, without a car, or simply don’t want to leave the historic district, fear not: Colonial Park Cemetery, at the corner of Oglethorpe and Abercorn, is a gorgeous alternative. Established around 1750, it also predates Bonaventure by about a century." - Sam Worley

https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/thunderbolt/bonaventure-cemetery
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Sam Turner

Google
As cemeteries go, this one is quite unique and visually interesting to see! Pictures don’t quite do it justice. Free to visit. I recommend driving inside and finding a spot to park and walking around for a bit. Then you can get back in your car and drive through the rest. Some very old graves here going back to the 1800s if not 1700s. A great variety in the various headstones and monuments and tombs, etc., and all the magnolia trees and Spanish moss just give it a very unique atmosphere. Well worth a visit.

Tracey T

Google
One of the most beautiful places in Savannah and a must do for anyone visiting the area! The beauty of the trees, azaleas, Dogwood trees, oaks, and so much more only add to the beauty of the markers and symbols of love for relatives of the past. Very shaded and so makes walking around very enjoyable. Best time to visit is in the spring when the azaleas are all in bloom - magnificent colors to see. We love to take our bicycles out and ride the grounds and enjoy all that this place offers. Make sure to stop by and tell Little Gracie Watson hello while there.

Wind Tree Studios

Google
This historic cemetery still has active burials occuring within its bucolic and gently rolling terrain, amidst many old, beautiful and diverse trees and shrubs. The depth of history here goes back to colonial times with many different types of monuments, mausoleums and gravestones present. Some of the property borders the waterfront making for a diverse experience overall. Quietly walking these hallowed grounds is both solemn and touching.

Jerome Mo

Google
I am not an expert in cemetery. Nor I am huge into supernaturals (I do believe them to some extent). I do like history, but again I am not super familiar with Savannah and the deep Georgian part of it. I am aware of the cemetery's popularity due to midnight in the garden of good and evil, which I have not read (shame on me), and I am typically not a herd chaser just because others say so. And I have been to other old and famous cemeteries with impressive credentials and views such as the Hollywood cemetery in Richmond. Yet there is something in the air about this place. Maybe it is trees with flowing Spanish moss. Maybe it is the unique history of Savannah. Maybe it is the haunted house from the previous night. Maybe it is the tour guide (nah). But there is a tranquil yet eerie ambience. While it is pretty in many ways, I would not come here in the dark. Just too many human stories and dramas not to mention tragedies ( granted some may be embellished) in this large plot. And I know ghosts do exist.

Kristy Coffin

Google
We spent about 3 hours at the cemetery. It’s a beautiful cemetery with many amazing tombstones and monuments. It’s very peaceful except for all the guided tours. The golf cart tours were the worst. We used the Bonaventure Historical Society App. It is clear they’ve spent a lot of time on the app and it’s very informative. It was hard to find the specific graves. Their map/directions were challenging. The Bonaventure cemetery’s map was even worse. Signage was not the best. It was still worth the visit.

Murry20

Google
Beautiful!! Loved walking through! We were traveling through the area and decided to check it out before leaving and it was such a peaceful and huge cemetery! I've been to many cemeteries but this one was special! There was a group of people doing a tour and it sounded very informative! If learning the history of memorable figures buried there is something you enjoy doing. I highly recommend buying a ticket to the tour. They seemed very informative!

Thomas Smithfield

Google
Bonaventure Cemetery is truly a gem—beautiful, serene, and rich with history. As you walk through the moss-draped oaks and winding paths, there's a quiet reverence that settles over the place. The grounds are meticulously kept, and the old headstones and statues tell stories that span generations. It’s not just a cemetery, but a place of reflection and beauty. The historic charm and peaceful atmosphere make it easy to spend hours just wandering and taking it all in. Whether you're drawn to history, architecture, or simply seeking a quiet escape, Bonaventure offers something special. A must-visit if you're in the area.

Monserrat Marq

Google
This is a beautiful cemetery, but be aware that there are no guided tours or informational signs available on the grounds. To get the most out of your visit, I suggest downloading the "Bonaventure Cemetery" app on your phone. It costs $6 and provides a decent audio tour that automatically plays as you approach points of interest (don't forget your headphones!). 🗺️🤳The app can be a little tricky to navigate, but the location-based audio is a great feature. Entrance to the cemetery is free. The visitor center has free maps that aren't very helpful, and a brochure available for a tip. A must: bring mosquito repellent! 🦟🚫
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Jacques I.

Yelp
This may seem odd to say, but this is the most beautiful cemetery I've ever been to...not that I frequent cemeteries. But Bonaventure Cemetery is a place you must visit in Savannah as you'll learn not only about those who are buried here, but of Savannah's deep-rooted history. On the second weekend of every month, there's a free walking tour of the Bonaventure Cemetery that's done by the Bonaventure Historical Society. I highly recommend doing this if you happen to be in Savannah then. I was able to take advantage of this opportunity while in town and I learned A TON about Savannah and the cemetery having done this walking tour versus walking the cemetery without a guide. The Bonaventure Cemetery used to be a plantation until it was sold in the mid-1800's as a cemetery, which now consists of 160-acres. The cemetery has many well-known residents of the area buried here, including Johnny Mercer, Conrad Aiken, Edward Telfair, etc. Most of those buried here, especially when the cemetery first opened was a place where the wealthy would be buried as is seen from the different ornate headstones, tombs, etc. The cemetery is designed as a victorian garden, with plenty of live oak trees and spanish moss around. It definitely has that spooky vibe to it from the spanish moss, which is no wonder why people say it's one of the most haunted places around. Or they've seen a ghost here. Even for the superstitious, Bonaventure Cemetery is a must-visit when in the Savannah area.
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Joanna M.

Yelp
The best way to enjoy the cemetery is to book one of the cemetery tours. For the average person who is not a history buff or a cemetery fanatic, the cemetery is huge and the tombstones aren't very informative. The cemetery itself is beautiful and is surrounded by oak trees with Spanish moss. The trees make the cemetery look like something out of a movie. Even if you don't know the history of the cemetery, it is a beautiful space to stroll around. The tombstones in the old and the modern cemetery feature different architectural elements and you can spend a good hour looking at all the tombstones. It's definitely a place worth visiting if it's your first time in Savannah and you want the full tourist experience.
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Felecia I.

Yelp
Honestly, I was curious about Conrad Aiken's grave. After reading of a legend that Aiken wanted his tombstone in the form of a bench so that poetry lovers could sit there and enjoy a drink while taking in the view overlooking the Wilmington River, I was intrigued. So glad we visited Bonaventure Cemetery. It was peaceful and hauntingly beautiful on a cold winter's day. Loved the old live oak trees dripping with Spanish moss. Wandered around and looked at the grave markers and monuments (many are works of art) dedicated to those that have been laid to rest here. And Aiken's grave was everything I imagined it would be.
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Maggie C.

Yelp
This place was so beautiful and peaceful. We didn't take a tour, as we didn't have much time, but we drove through. I would definitely like to walk around next time I visit.
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Alison M.

Yelp
This is a beautiful historic cemetery. I have only been to Savannah one other time, and only for another day, so both short visits. Last time I didn't make it to this famous cemetery, so this time it was a point of interest I was sure to stop in. It's much further away from the heart of downtown/waterfront Savannah than I realized. It's also much larger at over 100 acres! It was crowded around 2pm on a Saturday but we were able to find a parking spot, get a map and our bearings, and head off to the ancient part by the water and walked around for about an hour looking at tombstones and admiring the gorgeous old oaks covered in Spanish moss. I bet this cemetery is beautiful in summer when all the flowers were blooming. It's lovely. Both a nature preserve and a cemetery filled with some very detailed and ornate burial crypts and monuments. Unfortunately, if you are looking for the famous statue from the movie and book, you won't find it here, it's been removed to a museum. Still well worth a visit.
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E B.

Yelp
Loved this cemetery. It was fantastic to walk around, something beautiful at every turn. We didn't take a tour and I was kind of happy we didn't. Fun to just explore and there's lists online of the top gravesites to visit if that interests you.
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Jason L.

Yelp
Seems sort of odd the tout a cemetery as a good tourist destination but here we are. It's quite possibly the most picturesque setting yours truly saw in all of Savannah. It's quite old, and many of the gravestones date back to the mid 1800's. There's an undeniable aesthetic to the style and look of the place, albeit a graveyard. The grounds are beautifully covered with green foliage including plenty of oaks covered in Spanish Moss that cast a beautiful shade and backdrop to the scenery. It's not macabre or creepy (during the day - if you go at night you're mileage may vary) but rather, serene and peaceful. It's quiet but open to the public and makes for a nice stroll. Come pay Bonaventure a visit, be respectful, bring a camera and bring some mosquito spray.
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Shirley N.

Yelp
On a Savannah walking tour earlier last week our tour guide asked our group if anyone was going to visit the cemetery. It wasn't on our radar but it offered us an opportunity to add it to our itinerary now that we were aware of it. After lunch in Savannah today we drove to the cemetery. We picked up a cemetery map. We walked around an hour. Found Johnny Mercer's family plot. The cemetery itself is impressive. Very gothic and much Spanish moss.
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Denise D.

Yelp
I am shocked I have never reviewed this cemetery before. Maybe I wasn't ready. My dear mother is buried here near a beautiful oak tree. When she passed away we new this was the place for her. She was an avid reader and loved the book Midnight In The Garden of Good and Evil especially because we lived there during that time and knew many of the people portrayed in the book and certainly every location mentioned. I was fortunate to get a first edition book signed for her by the author. Although years ago I remember being the first person in line. The movie sucked however and Savannah peeps hate it. The cemetery itself is a serene and peaceful spot for me and I could stay there for hours. Many old hospital coworkers and friends are there and it is nice to pay your respects. The tourists can be annoying and disrespectful at times especially when a funeral is taking place but I can't blame them for coming. It's loaded with history. I have pictures but I can't make myself post them so you will have to visit yourself. Somehow it doesn't seem right to me.
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Christie B.

Yelp
If cemeteries are your thing then you do not want to miss this one. It's full of beautiful sculptures, statues, headstones and history. I have not been to many cemeteries but for me it's the best one I have ever been to and continue to return. Check out this cemetery you won't be disappointed.
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John J.

Yelp
This is a must see if you are in the area. You can just drive/walk around, get map from the center, or get a tour. Lots to see here.
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Ruth W.

Yelp
The #boneventurecemetery in Savannah, Georgia is a destination--in more ways than one. I've been to several cemeteries in my travels (a sense of the macabre perhaps). But the presence of age-old oak trees and overhanging moss makes a world of difference and makes Boneventure Cemetery feel "alive". ETA--the Boneventure was made famous by the movie called, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil" by John Berendt.
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Cheryl V.

Yelp
This is def a must see on your adventures through Savannah! What a beautiful, peaceful place to visit. The statures are stunningly haunting. BEWARE THOUGH...They lock the gate without checking to see if there's anyone still visiting. My gf and I were LOCKED IN! Yes, I said LOCKED IN! It was hysterical and terrifying all at the same time!! We had to call 911 to get out, I would have happily stayed all night but my gf wasn't about that at all. Great memories for sure.
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Sindu K.

Yelp
Did you know that this is one of the beautiful cemeteries in the world? It's on the top 10 list. Its hauntingly gorgeous, especially with the Spanish moss hanging from the live oak trees. It's a southern gothic style cemetery. It's huge, so it would take some time if you want to explore it completely. We didn't have any time, so we just had a short stroll and appreciated the beauty but I highly recommend taking a tour from a Knowledgeable tour guide because it has a rich history. The entrance is free and there is lot of free parking in the premises.
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Kseniya K.

Yelp
Can easily spend a few hours studying all the ancient gravestones in this historic cemetery. So much to see! Very peaceful and scenic. Great stop for tourists and locals alike. Was worried about parking, but there were plenty of empty spots by the main entrance. You can drive through the cemetery (through the main road) and look for parking in multiple designated areas on premises. Cars are always going in and out, so even if all the slots are busy, if you wait a bit, you'll get a spot.
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Daniela B.

Yelp
I found the Bonaventure Cemetery as the # 1 place to visit in Savannah, GA and I can see why. It's incredibly beautiful. Pay your respects to the locals, and visit their graves with great respect. The cemetery is clean but it could be better kept. The trees and bushes need a good trim. Some areas need attention urgently.
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Robert H.

Yelp
My expectations were quite high, having spent alot of time at Mount Auburn Cemetery, Watertown MA, the first Parklike cemetery in the United States. Sadly, it would appear that Bonaventure has not a fraction of the maintenance budget of Mount Auburn. Many roads are unpaved, dusty, and full of Dios and potholes. They do not regularly steam clean or pressure wash the monuments. Mount Auburn ( and nearby Forest Hills, Jamaica Plain MA ), have abundant meticulously maintained and watered gardens, Bonaventure does not. So is it nicer than your average cemetery yes, but it is a rundown copy of the original.
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Kelly B.

Yelp
This cemetery is silent but busy. There are so many golf carts and walking tours around the cemetery but since it is huge it is spread out so it's relatively quiet. If you look up the cemetery on Google maps you can find the pins dropped if the famous graves and parking. There is not a "basin park garden" not sure why Google states that. But there are about 10~15 parking spots at the parking area by the river. It is a great spot as that it's close to the Aiken grave and the statues in this area are so beautiful. Drive thru the front gate on your right. I did not stop and get a cemetery map as I just love walking and looking generally
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Danielle R.

Yelp
Nice cemetery. Stopped by on my way into downtown. The grounds are beautiful and it was cool viewing a piece of history and a trip into the past. There are some huge steeples and grave monuments. I saw several tour groups and a bunch of other people just walking their dogs throughout the cemetery. The trees throughout are beautiful and the grounds are kept clean. I'm glad I got to see it
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Nicholas G.

Yelp
It's beautiful and old and large and full of old monuments and weeping willows. There's a guided tour you can take but cemeteries are great places for reflection in quiet solitude while moving at your own pace. I liked wandering around by myself in this place very much.
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Tina R.

Yelp
Beautiful and historic!! I love how you can drive around the property and stop and go without having to park and walk very far away. There is an app you can purchase for a $5.00 donation. Worth it! It will take you through an audio your. They have walking and riding tours, as well. You will not be disappointed!
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Jodie M.

Yelp
Don was amazing! He's prepared for everything, and is a great communicator prior to the tour. We enjoyed the stories and information during his tour.

JL K.

Yelp
We visited the cemetery while visiting Savannah because there was a lot of hype to see it. I'm SO glad that there was because we certainly would have missed an incredibly beautiful place if there hadn't been a lot of buzz about it. It is beautifully maintained, and an incredible historical journey.
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Gaz H.

Yelp
It's a big cemetery. And there are friendly folks to help you navigate it. And, you know, the book and all. There are some helpful signs. So, if the day isn't too warm you could have a nice walk around. Probably more cemetery than you have the strength or time to peruse. Vending machine for drinks and bathrooms near the entrance. Bringing a drink and a snack are likely wise..would a picnic be inappropriate...?
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Jen W.

Yelp
We took a private tour of the cemetary so we wouldn't miss any of the important sights and I'm very glad we did. This is a beautiful, large cemetary with lots of history and beautiful sculptures. Our guide was intent on showing us the works of John Walz throughout the cemetary and let us know his works are also in two other cemeteries in town. There is a small park at the beginning dedicated to him and a little bit of information on him there. We also learned the stories of many residence who lie within, meaning of many symbols located on headstones and near the graves and much more. Even if you are just seeking a lovely, peaceful spot for a walk, without a tour, I highly recommend a visit. We saw two little tables where you can sit and picnic, one near the parking area by the water, another near the entrance.
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Jessica P.

Yelp
This is absolutely the most wonderful cemetery I've been to. So historical and well taken care of. It is so steeped in history and has so many places to see. Highly recommend touring this place with a knowledgeable guide who doesn't just spew conjecture but really knows the facts. Such a lovely place and it's so nice that family bring chairs to 'visit' with their relatives and take care of the gravesites.
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Steve K.

Yelp
Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would write a review of a cemetery. But only in Savannah could you have a place of both on going beauty and the end of life. Parking is ample, and be sure to get a map at the visitors center. I think you get more out of this by walking vs. driving, but that is your choice (Also guided tours are available). The trees that act as a natural cover are just beautiful as you go through each area. The biggest "draw" is the area for Johnny Mercer, home town fella that wrote so many songs along with his wife and family. Also features is "Gracie", and its said her passing brought all the ghosts to town. Our morning was full of sun and low humidity, which was a perfect as it could have been. My advise is if you walk, you will walk a lot so I suggest you take your time...you may see a bench here and there to rest on. Also note some "Porta-Johns" are along the path, which is kind of an odd site but they are there for the using. As part of your visit to town, I suggest you take the time stop in.
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Gerald S.

Yelp
To call this place amazing would be an understatement. It was close to 100 degrees when I went so I only walked around for an hour or so. For some reason I find cemeteries to be peaceful & beautiful and this was the best I've seen. Some of the graves with statues were slightly disturbing but to each his/her own. My one regret is that I didn't go at night where I might have heard the ghosts from the plantation fire clinking their glasses.
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Nancy C.

Yelp
Had a great walk through the cemetery and enjoyed the beautiful trees Sort of got into some of the sayings on the gravestones too. Strolling through this historical peaceful place was a nice escape from the hustle and bustle of travel.
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Elaine W.

Yelp
Feels a bit odd to be writing a review about a cemetery, but Bonaventure Cemetery is a tourist attraction, I believe because it was mentioned in a novel which in turn became a movie. There is a lot of history in Savannah in general, so the same would be said for this cemetery. It's a bit far off from the downtown area, but if you have a car, it's a 15-20 minute drive from downtown. You can either walk through the cemetery or you can drive through. I saw a few people walking their dogs through the cemetery, which I found a little strange. But regardless, it was very peaceful and it's located by the water. It's also a very beautiful cemetery brought on by the backdrop of flowers and trees, especially the Spanish Moss trees. They definitely bring on a certain vibe to the scene.
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Melody O.

Yelp
Full of reverence, grace, beauty. If you're a photographer this is a great place to capture an element of Savannah. Time invested here: about 45 minutes.
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Robin C.

Yelp
As someone who likes to visit historic cemeteries anywhere in the world that I visit, Bonaventure did not disappoint for history, or for photo opportunities. Made somewhat famous by the book and movie of Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, you can find Johnny Mercer's grave here. You won't find the bird girl statue made famous by the same movie (I love that so much that I have a replica in my rose garden). To see that, you will have to visit the Telfair museum, which is worth it in my opinion. I recommend a few hours of strolling around for a peaceful afternoon of learning a little history.
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Steph T.

Yelp
Beautiful place to visit. I was told it is better to visit in the spring because the azaleas and magnolias are blooming. The gardens are booked year round for weddings and other events. Costs $35k to be buried here and you can only be buried in abandoned plots.

D P.

Yelp
This a place is listed as to do In Savannah. It is a free quiet place to visit with beautiful tombstones. Nearby Wormsloe Historic Site might be better for kids.
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Laz S.

Yelp
Wow. What a beautiful & stunning place to visit. I've heard many times about this cemetery & seen videos on YouTube so it was a must place to visit while in Savannah. My partner & I came for a few days to get away from Atlanta and had to stop here. From the moment you drive past the entrance you are simply stunned with the beautiful & captivating views from the trees with the Spanish moss & beautiful statues & mausoleums. We drove around & parked to walk around a bit, the breeze was lovely and it was a beautiful sunny day. We were amazed to see how many graves are soo old & couldn't help but to wondered what live would've been back in those times when most of the people buried there lived once upon a time. The graves for the most part are kept well and it was nice to walk around & just be amazed with the history that surrounds this enchanting cemetery. It's very peaceful, the birds are chirping everywhere while you go feel like you are stepping back in time. It's definitely a must place to come and visit while visiting Savannah, especially if you are into photography then your camera will be happy to capture soo many stunning views.
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Jennifer L.

Yelp
What an amazing place! Highly recommended for a stop through as it is jaw-dropping beautiful. The cemetery itself is open to anyone. We stopped at the little tour place outside the cemetery (not related) to buy a map. But then we just went in and walked around on our own. The cemetery itself is very large so we'd just pick a section we wanted to walk around and park and walk for a bit, then drive to another section, etc.. The actual burials vary greatly from early 1800's to 20 years ago. The key draw is the beauty of this place. It's set right on the river, there are massive, moss-covered trees, many of the gravestones are old and weathered. I highly recommend stopping even if just for an hour to take in the beauty of this place! It's free.
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Melinda S.

Yelp
Though it may seem morbid to some, one of my favorite hobbies is walking around cemeteries, especially ones that have a lot of older and diverse types of gravestones. Bonaventure Cemetery is probably the most beautiful cemetery I have ever visited so far. It is huge and has many stones from many different time periods. This is the second time we have visited and all of the flowers were in bloom so it added to the beauty of the place that much more. There are many notable graves throughout the grounds and even just walking around on your own you will see lots of different interesting stones. I have yet to do a tour here, but it's definitely on my list the next time I visit Savannah. If you enjoy cemeteries, you will love visiting this one!
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Erika A.

Yelp
A peaceful serene cemetery art filled with history. One of the best cemeteries I've ever been too!!

Micki G.

Yelp
Took advantage of the first weekend of the month free tour of the cemetery provided by the Bonaventure historical Society. Our guide was very knowledgeable and personable. The walking tour lasted approximately an hour and a half. It was unseasonably hot outside, and our tour guide wisely kept us in the shade as much as possible. A beautiful cemetery with many historic and interesting stories represented by the monuments and grave stones.
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Marc J.

Yelp
Call me morbid, but visiting cemeteries as old and remarkably beautiful as this one is calming to my soul. These life's inspire me, comfort me, calm me in a way so do difficult to express. I visit them to honor those interred; to learn form their experiences, and contemplate my own mortality. Bonaventure Cemetery is a peaceful, beautiful and proper resting place for those who came before us to build this nation, from its foundations, through its struggles, and into its future. You can't go wrong by spending time here. The stones speak volumes if one listens.
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Teri W.

Yelp
A must visit if you are in the area! I highly recommend a tour and then stay awhile to browse around. We were lucky to attend the only tour that happens after hours and goes until it's pitch black! Extremely cool. There is so much history here and cool hidden facts. In a cemetery of all places!!!
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Emily C.

Yelp
It is easy to miss the visitor center as it is a bit before you get to the cemetery entrance. I am a serious planner and knew what I wanted to see when I came here, however the maps online with grave plots were hard to find. You can purchase a map at the visitor center, but someone leaving gave one to us. I thought about parking and walking the cemetery which is very easy to do. However, driving through is probably the best way to go. In most areas there is enough space to pull off to the side and park. For us the drive-through cemetery was confusing because the street markers sometimes are hard to read or face a little bit off. Bring bug spray! We were here in the spring and the bugs were already very bad even on an overcast cool day. But this place is worth the drive and is hauntingly gorgeous!!
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Ariel W.

Yelp
October is the perfect month to a post a tale of a haunted cemetery. As a lover of Gothic historic cemeteries, Bonaventure Cemetery was top on my list of places to visit during a recent trip to Savannah. The cemetery is located on a bluff of the Wilmington River, east of the city. It is on the site of the former Bonaventure Plantation, once owned by Colonel John Mullryne. The 600 acre plantation included a large house and a private cemetery. On March 10, 1846, Commodore Josiah Tattnall III, sold the property to Peter Wiltberger. The 14.3 acre historic district part of the cemetery is from this time period. The cemetery was designed in a traditional Victorian style with curving pathways, trees, and grassy spaces. It was not uncommon for families to come to the cemetery and picnic and use it as a park. Located at plot H-44 is the Baldwin Angel. Peter's son Major William H. Wiltberger, formed the Evergreen Cemetery Company on June 12, 1868. On July 7, 1907 the City of Savannah purchased the Evergreen Cemetery Company, making the cemetery public and changing the name to Bonaventure Cemetery. It is the fourth of the five cemeteries the city owns. The cemetery has now grown from the 60 acres the city purchased to 103 acres. Bonaventure Cemetery became famous when a statue from the cemetery named Bird Girl was used for the cover of the 1994 book Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. A scene in the book and the movie based on the book also takes place in the cemetery. After the statue attracted too many curiosity seekers it was removed from the cemetery and placed in a museum. Famous graves here include little six year old Gracie Watson who died of pneumonia and singer and song writer Johnny Mercer. The Bonaventure Historical Society operates a visitor's center outside the cemetery and they offer free tours. Unfortunately due to Covid that was cancelled during my visit. The cemetery is still open every day from 8 to 5 for self tours. Make sure you plan on leaving promptly by 5. I lingered a little too long and found the gates being locked and I was on the wrong side. It made me think of the Haunted Mansion, "999 happy haunts here but there is room for 1,000". Aside from almost having to spend the night here I loved my visit, Bonaventure was a highlight of my visit to Savannah.
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Aswathi C.

Yelp
paid respects at Little Gracie Watson's burial place. She is a sweet child who died of pneumonia at age of 6 two days before Easter. And a major player in the Savannah Ghost tours apparently.
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Seth A.

Yelp
For me at least...I initially thought it'd be a little creepy to review a cemetery. Well, actually, it really isn't. Because...I'm not the only one writing about Bonaventure Cemetery. Wow...there's a ton of reviews about this place. So, yeah. The secret is out of the bag! Bonaventure Cemetery is absolutely gorgeous! This was one of the recommended destinations during my first ever visit to Savannah, Georgia. I actually saved Bonaventure for my last activity. I'm such a positive, enthusiastic person and I just couldn't imagine myself having fun walking around a cemetery. But after enjoying my time exploring throughout Savannah...I was curious as to what could be so special about Bonaventure Cemetery??? Within my itinerary...it was mentioned that Bonaventure as one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the United States...so I at least figured if this was true...I'd admire the scenery rather than feeling bad that people are laid to rest here. Especially during my difficult year of 2020...I had someone very close to me pass away and just being among the dead...it was hard to accept. Though...it was so scenic here...I highly recommend to everyone out there to make Bonaventure Cemetery as part of their To-Do List when spending time in Savannah. Bonaventure Cemetery is located right on the outskirts of downtown Savannah. I'd say it's about 5 miles away. Simply plug Bonaventure Cemetery into Google Maps and you'll have no issues finding this place. Upon arriving here, I parked right off the side of the road and started walking around at my own leisure. It was free to do this. And now I understand why this place is so special. The Spanish Moss Trees were in full bloom!! They were everywhere!! I'm am quite the sucker for these Southern Charmed Trees. Spanish Moss totally exuded Savannah...an essence for being within the heart of the Deep South. Just like my time spent at Wormsloe Historic Site...if you're looking for vintage images of Southern Plantations and Gardens...you can absolutely achieve that feeling here at Bonaventure Cemetery. I tried to avoid looking at the graves and feeling bad for those who had past...but I then understood why people come here. Just walking the grounds was quite refreshing, breathing in the Savannah air was pleasing. Of course I had to take a few pictures. Plus I visited on a perfectly sunny and clear day. The appearance of the Spanish Moss were colorful and photogenic. Overall I spent 1 hour or so just browsing around and admiring the forestry setting. Lol, I never thought I'd be feeling or saying that about a cemetery. But that's how quaint the overall impression I received. Like my itinerary said (and it didn't lie)...I am now a fan of Bonaventure Cemetery. It all makes sense and sort of comes to fruition why a cemetery can be on a list of recommended activities in such a historic town as Savannah. Don't mind the graves when you visit. Just think Spanish Moss and you can't go wrong.
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Jim L.

Yelp
This is a giant old cemetery used in many movies. You could look around for a long time. Some Graves were hundreds of years old while others were more recent. Very interesting to enter and drive around. It doesn't cost anything to go in. I took a picture of the plot layout plan. You could get lost in there. Enjoy the photos. Feel free to add me to your friends list. Happy Yelping.
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will l.

Yelp
Seems weird to post a review of a cemetery, but this is a tourist destination, and it IS very cool. Creepy, at times, but lots of history here. I already reviewed the Bonaventure Historical Society, and I do recommend their smartphone app, which includes maps, and a audio tour of the grounds. This cemetery is over 150 acres, so I can't imagine trying to navigate it without map. The cemetery itself is both beautiful and creepy, with historic tombstones, crypts and statues, surrounded by oaks draped in Spanish moss.
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Cherice d.

Yelp
Beautiful Cemetery, there is so many interesting graves. Lots of mosquitos so take precautions.
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Dani C.

Yelp
"I gazed awe-stricken as one new-arrived from another world. Bonaventure is called a graveyard, a town of the dead, but the few graves are powerless in such a depth of life. The rippling of living waters, the song of birds, the joyous confidence of flowers, the calm, undisturbable grandeur of the oaks, mark this place of graves as one of the Lord's most favored abodes of life and light." - "Camping in the Tombs," from A Thousand Mile Walk
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Diann U.

Yelp
I was here earlier this year 2021. Drove around and saw all different unique gravestones, their names, years and their messages from their loved ones. It was quite interesting. I was on a time frame so I didnt get to stay long. If ever I am around the area again I will definitely visit again.