With Halloween just around the corner, we can’t think of a more appropriate time to (respectfully, quietly) explore a few of the many historic, beautiful cemeteries in the Jacksonville area. Few experiences are more humbling and introspective than a stroll through a well-maintained cemetery, allowing visitors to reflect on their place in the world and all the people that have come before them. We’ve picked out five of the most unique, intriguing spots in Jacksonville that we think are worth a visit.

Arlington Park Cemetery

The lush, intimate grounds and natural feel makes Arlington Park one of the most beautiful cemeteries in Jacksonville. Built around a small but lively lake that’s populated by ducks, geese, and other critters, a quiet stroll through Arlington combines the organic calm of a nature walk with the solemn reflection of a visit to a cemetery. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 6920 Lone Star Rd. Jacksonville, FL; arlingtonparkfuneralhome.com

Historic Saint Nicholas Cemetery

A historic landmark occupying less than an acre of land, featuring 240 graves is a small but extremely interesting piece of local culture. Offering a glimpse into the historic St. Nicholas region’s past through memorials placed there in the late 1800s and early 1900s, Historic Saint Nicholas is perhaps best experienced via a guided tour, tour details pop up every few months, so keep an eye out if you’re interested in learning more. 3327-3449 Olive St. Jacksonville, FL; stnicholasjax.org

Edgewood Cemetery

A scenic property spread across over 45 acres, Edgewood’s abundant greenery and long history with the Jacksonville community makes it one of the best-known in the area. Oak trees covered in dense Spanish moss and a variety of impressive and artistic memorials set the scene perfectly for a meditative walk through the grounds. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. 4519 N Edgewood Dr. Jacksonville, FL; dignitymemorial.com

Evergreen Cemetery

This locally-owned, not-for-profit cemetery has been a Jacksonville staple since the 1880s. A historically relevant spot, this 167-acre property is the burial grounds for several important members of the military and federal government. In 2011, the property was added to the National Register of Historic Places, cementing its legacy as a cornerstone of the ongoing story of Northeastern Florida. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. 4535 Main St N Jacksonville, FL; evergreenjax.com

Jacksonville National Cemetery

Since 2009, this sprawling funerary ground has been the final resting place for Jacksonville-area veterans and their families, with over 22,500 gravesites as of earlier this year. Opened over a decade after the St. Augustine National Cemetery closed for new internments, this relatively new, beautifully maintained addition to the National Cemetery roster will be a resting place for members of the armed services for years to come. Sunrise to Sunset; 4083 Lannie Road Jacksonville, FL; cem.va.gov

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