Duck
ParkCalifornia, US
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a unique landmark, blending history with a lively cultural scene.
About
Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a unique landmark, blending history with a lively cultural scene. This historic 62-acre park, located adjacent to Paramount Pictures and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, serves as an active cemetery, funeral home, crematory, and a vibrant cultural events center. It stands as a serene, green oasis amidst the bustling heart of Hollywood, offering a distinctive experience where the past and present gracefully intertwine.
The cemetery is the final resting place for countless Hollywood luminaries, from silent film stars to modern musicians, drawing visitors from around the globe to pay respects. Beyond the famous graves, the grounds are adorned with striking architecture, tranquil lakes like Sylvan Lake, and beautifully maintained gardens. Unique memorials, artistic headstones, and even resident peacocks add to the allure, creating a space that feels both reverent and alive.
Visiting Hollywood Forever offers a chance to explore a significant piece of Los Angeles history, enjoy peaceful strolls, or partake in popular cultural events such as outdoor movie screenings (Cinespia), concerts, and the elaborate Dia de los Muertos celebration. It’s a memorable destination that respectfully honors the legacies of those interred while providing a welcoming and engaging environment for the living. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.
Founded in 1899 as Hollywood Cemetery by F.W. Samuelson and Lombard, the site was initially 100 acres. A portion of this land was later sold to Paramount Pictures in the 1920s, reducing the cemetery to its current 62 acres. For many years, it was known as Hollywood Memorial Park. By the 1980s and 1990s, the cemetery fell into severe disrepair under the ownership of Jules Roth. In 1998, it was purchased by Tyler and Brent Cassity for $375,000, who undertook a massive restoration project, investing millions to revitalize the grounds and rename it Hollywood Forever. The cemetery was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1999. Notably, a cenotaph was erected in 1999 for Hattie McDaniel, the first African American Academy Award winner, who had wished to be buried there but was denied due to segregation at the time of her death in 1952.
What to do here
Wander the expansive grounds, seek out the graves of your favorite stars (maps are available), photograph the unique monuments and architecture, enjoy the peaceful green spaces, and attend a Cinespia movie screening or concert if available.
Seasonal info
Summer evenings are ideal for outdoor events like Cinespia, but bring layers as it can get chilly. Daytime visits during summer require sun protection (hat, sunscreen, water). Fall features the vibrant Dia de los Muertos festival.
Accessibility
The cemetery has paved roads suitable for walking. Cinespia events comply with state and federal accessibility laws. Visitors are generally advised to stay on paved paths.
Don't miss
1
Sylvan Lake
Featuring the stunning Greek Revival-style mausoleum of William A. Clark Jr., situated on its own island.
2
Cathedral Mausoleum
A large, beautiful building with an interior reminiscent of Roman architecture, housing numerous celebrity interments.
3
Judy Garland Pavilion
The final resting place of the iconic actress, moved here in 2017.
4
Johnny Ramone Memorial
A distinctive statue dedicated to the legendary punk rocker.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
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Good to know before you go
Get a Map
Purchase a map from the flower shop upon arrival to easily navigate and find the graves of specific celebrities or points of interest.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cemetery is expansive (62 acres), so be prepared for a good amount of walking.
Hydrate and Protect from Sun
Especially during warmer months, bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, as there are large, unshaded areas.
Respect the Environment
Remember it is an active cemetery; maintain a respectful demeanor and stay on paved paths.
For Cinespia Events
Arrive early (at least 2 hours before showtime) to get a good spot on the lawn. Bring blankets, low chairs (no tall chairs permitted), and feel free to pack a picnic with food, beer, and wine.
Parking
On-site parking is available but can fill up quickly during events. Additional paid parking options are often available nearby.
Frequently asked questions
- Yes, Hollywood Forever Cemetery is open to visitors daily from dawn to dusk (typically 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM). You are welcome to explore the grounds independently. Maps highlighting the locations of notable interments are available for purchase at the flower shop near the main entrance.
- Hollywood Forever Cemetery is renowned for its diverse cultural events, including popular outdoor movie screenings hosted by Cinespia on the Fairbanks Lawn during the summer. It also hosts concerts, literary evenings, live podcast tapings, and the celebrated annual Dia de los Muertos festival, one of the largest outside of Mexico.
- Yes, Hollywood Forever Cemetery is home to several animals, including free-roaming peacocks that are often seen throughout the grounds. There is also a population of feral cats, some of whom have become quite famous among regular visitors and tour guides. Swans, turtles, and ducks can also be found in and around Sylvan Lake.
Recent snaps at this place
Feb 13, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Max, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Feb 13, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Max, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Feb 13, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Max, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Feb 13, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Max, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Feb 13, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) Max, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
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