From angels to anchors, learn all about grave symbols and death culture during this 75-minute guided tour of Oakland Cemetery!

The Victorians were obsessed with death. From rules on mourning outfits to post-mortem photography, the Victorians had elaborate rituals and traditions to grieve and process death. The ornamentation and symbols found in cemeteries reflect this death culture. From sleeping lambs to weeping angels, every symbol has a different meaning. Discover the many botanical, secular, and religious symbols at Oakland, and interpret their meanings on this wandering walk through the cemetery.

This tour starts at 11:00 AM. Please arrive a few minutes early to check in at the Oakland Store, located inside the Visitor Center (374 Martin Luther King Jr Drive, SE). Restrooms, snacks, and water are available at the Visitor Center.

Spaces are limited, so we recommend purchasing your tickets in advance. 

Historic Oakland Foundation Members

Historic Oakland Foundation memberships include free tickets for Oakland Tour. Check your membership level before you purchase. Individual members receive one (1) ticket, dual members two (2) tickets, and family memberships four (4) tickets. Members should enter the email address associated with their membership to receive access to free tickets.

Accessibility

Not all areas of Historic Oakland Cemetery are wheelchair accessible. Please let us know if you need an accessible route when purchasing your ticket by emailing info@oaklandcemetery.com. There is designated parking for vehicles with a disability permit by the Visitors Center. Please be aware that the main entrance of the Cemetery is paved with cobblestones and the East Gate entrance has a step.

ASL interpreter available if given three days (72 hours) notice before the start of the tour.