Posted in Cincinnati August 24, 2017 by

16 Staggeringly Beautiful Photos Of Cincinnati’s Most Historic Cemetery

Throughout Cincinnati, you’ll find many places to explore our city’s vibrant history. Historic buildings are scattered across town and, thankfully, many areas have been preserved and restored for us to appreciate and experience. But oddly enough, one of the most historic spots in Cincinnati – and also one of the most beautiful – happens to be a cemetery. Located in the heart of the Queen City, Spring Grove Cemetery was originally designed to be a lovely final resting place, and these 16 staggeringly beautiful photos will show you just how amazingly this goal was achieved.

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Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum is a 733-acre oasis in the heart of an urban area of Cincinnati.
Kathryn Hayden
As the fourth largest cemetery in the country, Spring Grove is a registered National Historic Landmark. Of course cemeteries can be a solemn place of mourning and reflection, and you'll definitely experience that here; however, the cemetery is also known as a hiking, walking, and relaxing destination within the city and a photographer's dream come true. These photos, taken by local photographer Kathryn Hayden, will walk you through the cemetery as the seasons change, and you'll see why this historic Cincinnati property is truly a natural museum.
Fall in Spring Grove is especially gorgeous, as there is an abundance of trees and other changing plant life.
Kathryn Hayden
The cemetery dates back to 1844, but it was in 1855 that a renowned landscape architect was hired to beautify the grounds. And that he did.
Winter is also a magical time, especially when snow falls on the monuments, sculptures, and bridges.
Kathryn Hayden
The cemetery is always a quiet, serene place, but even more so in winter time.
Kathryn Hayden
Kathryn Hayden
The 400 acres that are currently landscaped continue to show their natural beauty.
Kathryn Hayden
In springtime, the property blooms and the flowers add delightful color back into the landscape.
Kathryn Hayden
Kathryn Hayden
The property was designed as a "garden cemetery" and this is still apparent today, especially on a warm spring day.
Kathryn Hayden
The cemetery got its name due to all of the water springs and groves of trees.
Kathryn Hayden
The 12 ponds that are situated throughout the acreage make a lovely home for swans and other wildlife.
Kathryn Hayden
Summer at Spring Grove is bright and vivid, especially on a sunny day.
Kathryn Hayden
Kathryn Hayden
Even the solemn tombs and monuments appear hopeful and significant.
Kathryn Hayden
Spring Grove Cemetery is the chosen final resting place for many notable Cincinnatians.
Kathryn Hayden
Although there are numerous tales of hauntings and other stories that tend to go along with cemeteries, it's hard to imagine anything of the sort taking place is such a beautiful scene. This historic cemetery is a Cincinnati gem and landmark and a lovely representation of our beloved city.

Spring Grove Cemetery is known for its peaceful, stunning surroundings and it truly is a natural museum that is treasured by our city. Have you spent time wandering around Spring Grove? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

Thank you to photographer Kathryn Hayden for her photo contribution for this piece. We truly appreciate her beautiful work. To learn more about Kathryn’s local photography work, visit her website here.

And for more stunning photos of Cincinnati, check out our recent article here.