Mountain View Cemetery, Oakland
Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect behind New York City's Central Park, this cemetery sprawls across 226 acres and offers breathtaking views of the Bay Area. Established in 1863, Mountain View serves as the final resting place for many notable figures including railroad magnate Charles Crocker and chocolatier Domingo Ghirardelli. The cemetery boasts impressive architecture with intricate mausoleums, statues, and a serene garden setting, making it a peaceful location for a reflective stroll.
Cypress Lawn Memorial Park, Colma
Located in Colma, a city known for having more dead residents than living due to its plethora of cemeteries, Cypress Lawn stands out for its art and architecture. Founded in the 1890s, it is the final resting place of several California pioneers and influential figures. The cemetery is dotted with beautiful stained glass, grand mausoleums, and elaborate statuary, offering visitors a visual feast as they walk through the serene grounds.
Mission San Luis Rey Cemetery, Oceanside
As one of California's historic missions, Mission San Luis Rey dates back to 1798 and offers a poignant glimpse into the state's Spanish colonial history. The cemetery grounds here are some of the oldest in California. While the mission itself is an architectural marvel, the cemetery is equally intriguing with its old tombstones and burial sites of native Californians and early settlers. It provides a rich historical experience for visitors.