It may come as a surprise to some, but one of the most gorgeous green spaces in Chicago is actually a cemetery! Even those who often feel a little uncomfortable around cemeteries fall in love with Graceland, a massive oasis in the middle of the city. Not convinced to visit yet? Read on to see why it’s worth a trip.

Established in 1860, Graceland Cemetery has been sitting, hidden in plain sight, on the North Side of Chicago for decades.
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Landscaping has been a focus among the owners of the cemetery since the beginning, and it shows.
Lucky for us, the non-profit trust that currently runs Graceland keeps it open for the public to enjoy.
Monika Thorpe/Flickr
The park-like space boasts a pristine lake and this gorgeous bridge among over 2,000 trees.
At 119 acres, there's plenty of hidden pockets of beauty to explore.
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Lake Willowmere is the perfect place to begin exploring, not only because of its beauty, but because of the famous Chicagoans buried around it.

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The stunning grounds aren't the only sight to see; the ornate structures and statues honoring the departed are incredible.
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It may seem unusual to marvel at a tombstone, but many of the monuments in Graceland are truly architectural beauties in their own right.
The collection of trees housed within the cemetery have enabled Graceland to become a certified arboretum.
Daniel X. O'Neil/Flickr
Over 50 types of trees are spread across the area, including Sugar Maples, Weeping Willows, White Poplars, and more.
The sheer size of Graceland can be overwhelming, but you can get some help finding your way.
Colleen McMahon/Flickr
Guided group tours are offered each fall through the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Or, if you're just looking for a push in the right direction, the park maps will help you navigate.
You simply cannot miss this gorgeous green space amid the hustle and bustle of Chicago.
Daniel X. O'Neil/Flickr

Graceland Cemetery is located at 4001 N. Clark Street in Chicago.

Have you visited this unusual, but lovely park? Tell what you love most about it in the comments.

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