Oakland Cemetery

If you are looking for a unique and memorable experience in Atlanta, you might want to consider visiting Oakland Cemetery, the oldest and largest cemetery in the city. Oakland Cemetery is not only a resting place for more than 70,000 people, but also a cultural and architectural treasure that showcases the history and diversity of Atlanta.

History

Oakland Cemetery was founded in 1850 as a six-acre burial ground for the city of Atlanta. It was originally named Atlanta Graveyard or City Burial Place, but was renamed Oakland in 1872 because of the many oak trees on the site. Over the years, Oakland Cemetery expanded to its current size of 48 acres and became the final resting place for many notable Atlantans, including former mayors, governors, senators, civil rights leaders, authors, artists, and soldiers. Some of the most famous residents of Oakland Cemetery are Margaret Mitchell, author of Gone with the Wind; Bobby Jones, golf legend; and Maynard Jackson, the first African American mayor of Atlanta.

Oakland Cemetery also reflects the history of Atlanta as a city that experienced rapid growth, social change, and major events such as the Civil War, Reconstruction, the Great Atlanta Fire of 1917, and the Civil Rights Movement. The cemetery is divided into sections that represent different eras, religions, ethnicities, and social classes of Atlanta’s population. You can find sections for Confederate soldiers, African Americans, Jews, Catholics, paupers, and more. Each section has its own distinctive monuments, sculptures, and landscaping that tell a story about the people buried there.

Urbanism and Architecture

Oakland Cemetery is not only a historic site, but also a beautiful and lively urban park that attracts visitors and locals alike. The cemetery is located in the heart of Atlanta, surrounded by diverse neighborhoods such as Grant Park, Cabbagetown, Old Fourth Ward, and Inman Park. The cemetery is connected to these neighborhoods by sidewalks, bike lanes, and public transportation, making it easy to access and explore.

Oakland Cemetery is also a showcase of various architectural styles and artistic expressions that span over a century. You can admire Victorian mausoleums, Gothic Revival chapels, Neoclassical obelisks, Art Deco statues, and modern sculptures as you stroll through the cemetery. The cemetery also features stunning gardens that display seasonal flowers, native plants, and exotic species. The gardens are maintained by volunteers and staff who work to preserve the historic landscape and enhance its beauty.

Amenities

Oakland Cemetery is more than just a graveyard. It is also a vibrant cultural and recreational destination that offers a variety of amenities for visitors.

Culture

Oakland Cemetery is a living museum that showcases the history and heritage of Atlanta and the South. You can explore the beautiful gardens, monuments, and sculptures that reflect different eras and styles. You can also join guided tours, special events, and festivals that celebrate the diverse stories and traditions of the people buried here. Some of the highlights include the African American Grounds, the Jewish Hill, and the Bell Tower.

Gastronomy

Oakland Cemetery is surrounded by some of the best restaurants and bars in Atlanta. You can enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink at one of the many eateries that line the nearby streets. Whether you crave Southern comfort food, international cuisine, or craft beer, you will find something to suit your taste buds. Some of the popular spots include Six Feet Under, Tin Lizzy’s, and Republic Social House.

Commercial

Oakland Cemetery is also a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts. You can visit the Visitors Center and Museum Shop, where you can find books, maps, art, jewelry, and more. You can also support local artists and vendors at the seasonal markets and pop-ups that take place on the grounds. You will find handmade crafts, vintage items, and other treasures that you won’t find anywhere else.

Tips for visitors

If you plan to visit Oakland Cemetery, here are some tips to make your experience more enjoyable:

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as the terrain is uneven and hilly.
• Bring water and sunscreen, as there is not much shade on the grounds.
• Check the website for opening hours, admission fees, and parking options.
• Respect the rules and regulations of the cemetery, such as staying on the paths, not touching or climbing on the graves, and keeping pets on leashes.
• Have fun and learn something new!

Driving directions from the Oakland Cemetery to Ebenezer Baptist Church

Via I-75 N. 17.8 miles in 24 minutes.

1. Get on I-75 N/I-85 N from Memorial Dr SE and continue for 0.9 mi.
   1. Head west on Memorial Dr SE toward Cherokee Ave SE for 0.5 miles.
   2. Turn right onto Connally St SE for 194 ft.
   3. Turn left onto M.L.K. Jr Dr SE for 0.1 miles.
   4. Turn right to merge onto I-75 N/I-85 N for 0.2 miles.
2. Follow I-75 N to GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE in Marietta. Exit from I-75 N and continue for 16.0 mi.
   1. Merge onto I-75 N/I-85 N and continue for 0.5 miles.
   2. Keep left to stay on I-75 N/I-85 N for 2.7 miles.
   3. Keep right to continue on I-75 N for 12.1 miles.
   4. Use the right lane to take the exit toward GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE for 0.5 miles.
   5. Keep right, follow signs for GA-120 E/Roswell and merge onto GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE for 0.3 miles.
3. Continue on GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE to your destination and continue for 0.9 mi.
   1. Merge onto GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE and continue for 0.7 miles.
   2. Turn right onto Lower Roswell Rd and continue for 0.1 miles.
   3. Turn left and continue for 46 ft.
   4. Turn left and the destination will be on the right.

Driving directions from the Oakland Cemetery to State Farm Arena

Via Decatur St. SE. 1.6 miles in 8 minutes.

1. Head north on Oakland Ave SE for 3 ft.
2. Turn left onto M.L.K. Jr Dr SE and continue for 456 ft.
3. Turn right onto Grant St SE and continue for 0.2 miles.
4. Turn left onto Decatur St. SE and continue for 0.9 miles.
5. Continue onto Marietta St NW for 0.3 miles.
6. Turn left onto Centennial Olympic Park Dr NW for 0.1 miles.

Driving directions from the Oakland Cemetery to John Morrison Law

Via I-75 N. 18.8 miles in 24 minutes.

1. Get on I-75 N/I-85 N from Memorial Dr SE and continue for 3 minutes (0.9 mi).
   1. Head west on Memorial Dr SE toward Cherokee Ave SE for 0.5 miles.
   2. Turn right onto Connally St SE for 194 ft.
   3. Turn left onto M.L.K. Jr Dr SE for 0.1 miles.
   4. Turn right to merge onto I-75 N/I-85 N for 0.2 miles.
2. Follow I-75 N to GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE in Marietta. Exit from I-75 N and continue for 16 minutes (16.0 mi).
   1. Merge onto I-75 N/I-85 N and continue for 0.5 miles.
   2. Keep left to stay on I-75 N/I-85 N for 2.7 miles.
   3. Keep right to continue on I-75 N for 12.1 miles.
   4. Use the right lane to take the exit toward GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE for 0.5 miles.
   5. Keep right, follow signs for GA-120 E/Roswell and merge onto GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE for 0.3 miles.
3. Continue on GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE to your destination and continue for 3 minutes (0.9 mi).
   1. Merge onto GA-120/South Marietta Pkwy SE and continue for 0.7 miles.
   2. Turn right onto Lower Roswell Rd and continue for 0.1 miles.
   3. Turn left and continue for 46 ft.
   4. Turn left and the destination will be on the right.