Spring Grove Cemetery, Cincinnati (must see)

Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum, located on Spring Grove Avenue in Cincinnati, is not just a burial ground-it's a sprawling historical and horticultural landmark. Established in 1844 by members of the Cincinnati Horticultural Society, the cemetery was inspired by the garden-style cemeteries of Europe, such as Père Lachaise in Paris and Mount Auburn in Massachusetts. At 733 acres, Spring Grove is the third-largest cemetery in the United States, surpassed only by Calverton and Abraham Lincoln National Cemeteries.

The original design by Howard Daniels saw its first burial in 1845. In the 1850s, landscape architect Adolph Strauch transformed the grounds into a "garden cemetery" with open lawns, winding paths, and scenic lakes. He limited monument sizes for a unified look, earning praise from figures like Frederick Law Olmsted and Edouard André.

Today, approximately 400 acres of Spring Grove are actively maintained, featuring 12 serene ponds, lush plantings, and numerous monuments reflecting the Gothic Revival style. The cemetery also houses the Spring Grove Cemetery Chapel, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 2007, Spring Grove is known for its beauty and significance. In 2013, it drew attention to the removal of a SpongeBob SquarePants headstone, sparking debate on cemetery decorum. Today, it remains a peaceful place for remembrance and reflection, combining cemetery and arboretum in a tranquil setting.