Glenwood Cemetery was developed in 1871 on two tracts of land on the north side of Buffalo Bayou, and west of Downtown Houston. Glenwood hosted its first burial on June 19, 1872. By 1874, Glenwood was a recreational destination. A mule-drawn street railway operated on Washington Road, conveying people to Glenwood for weekend and holiday visits. Glenwood differs from most urban cemeteries of that time that had a grid pattern. Glenwood has meandering roads and trails and is beautifully landscaped. This historic cemetery is the final resting place of a number of individuals who were citizens of the short-lived Republic of Texas as well as famous citizens of Houston, Harris County and the state of Texas. One of the most famous buried here is Howard Hughes. The cemetery is a fun place to walk or bike ride, it's very shady so quite nice, even in summer. I was there as the new year came and enjoyed seeing many beautiful monuments. read more

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Came here on a private historical tour and was absolutely blown away by the beautiful grounds and knowledgeable staff. The grounds are massive and impeccably maintained with a clearly attentive and caring staff. Beautiful statuary throughout. You can basically play your own game of famous Houstonian bingo here - lots of street names can be found on the headstones here. Absolutely recommend planning a respectful, quiet, and contemplative visit to walk the grounds and take in the views. read more

Beautiful cemetery! Plenty of unique and ornate gravestones and burial plots. Saw a few very old headstones here as well (some of them dating back to the 1800s). Lovely for a peaceful stroll. Howard Hughes is buried here (you can find the location using Google Maps) but honestly, it's one of the less interesting sights here. It's also gated off so you can't really see the inscriptions. There is no official parking. We just parked in the middle of the cemetery. We found a safe spot where the car was easily visible and not blocking anything. I know some other reviewers had issues with security bothering them but we didn't see anyone. read more

Wow this is one of the most beautiful and biggest cemeteries I've been to. I was here forever. It's very quiet and peaceful and there are so many beautiful views, plants, and memorials. It's very well kept. I have no idea where the bathroom was or where the new center was located I truly got lost here. I really advise taking your time here. I'd also deeply advise bringing bug spray for the mosquitos and a fan for the heat. read more

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This spot was such an unexpected treat during our recent visit to Houston. Located just a stone's throw from the heart of downtown Houston, the historical Glenwood Cemetery offers stunning views of the downtown skyline peeking through the oaks and Magnolia trees that fill this cemetery. This is one of those dreamy southern cemeteries you picture from the movies with historical figures like Howard Hughes calling it their forever home. The lanes weave through beautiful landscaping and a well-shaded path. It's ideal for a romantic stroll and taste of Houston's past. This cemetery reminded me of those you would find in Savannah or Louisville, Kentucky. Its certainly worth the ten minute drive out of the way to soak in a fresh view of downtown and southern Houston vibes. read more

Glenwood Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Houston, Texas

First I was afraid, I was petrified, Kept thinking I couldn't walk alone, With all these graves by my side, But I spent so many hours, Thinking how I'd yelp this place, I grew strong, I learned how to write on, And so I'm back, Out on Washington, I just walked in to find it here, With nice headstones all over the place, I should have stole the FTR, I should have added this to my bookmarks, If I had known for just one second, A five star I would get to see! Is it weird to rate a cemetery a 5 star? I knew this would be an interesting exploration right when I drove in and saw a familiar face on the side of the road with a camera in hand...I scream out, "Gretchen?" Sure enough it was our very own top yelper out and about taking pictures. I gracefully asked if I could join her on my tour around the cemetery. She showed me some very recognizable Houstonian families and even showed me where Howard Hughes' burial site was. The headstones in the place are ridiculous. It was like walking through a museum with statues all around. If you are aren't creeped out by the fact that it's a cemetery I suggest you come check this place out. As it is one of the best kept secrets in Houston. read more

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This is on the list of cool and weird things to check out in Houston! Being someone who loves old cemeteries this was a really cool one. The gravestones are so exquisite with large beautiful angels that are simply breath taking! One of the coolest parts is the Republic of Houston tags that some of the very oldest grave stones have them. But the must-see grave is that of Howard Hughes. It's a bummer that it is so far behind a gate, but it is a cool site none the less. A bonus of this place is the incredible view of the Houston skyline from The edge of the cemetery overlooking the Bayou. read more

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Absolutely beautiful. This is a beloved gem in Houston. You can drive through or park on the side and walk. It's certainly breath taking either way. read more

Glenwood Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Houston, Texas

Hubby and I love to learn history and we visit cemeteries once in a while to lurk for famous people from history. With Howard Hughes being here, we had to go. This was the prettiest cemetery we have been to. Sure, it isn't anywhere near as old as some we have been to, like ones in Boston, but this one is breathtaking! The grounds are well kept, the family plots were beautifully done, the statues were gorgeous. There are confederate soldiers, Spanish American war heroes and the man who created Texaco. Lots of history here, just be sure to be respectful when visiting. Security didn't bother us as they did in some other reviews. The huge trees were amazing. read more

Glenwood Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I seek out cemeteries like most people seek out yoga studios. They are my relaxation havens, where I go to get lost in the beauty and silence. This cemetery is my favorite. It also houses my favorite tree; so large that it has supports! This place is SO gorgeous. If you love walks alone as much as I do, this is where you want to go. read more

A beautiful cemetery but sadly the beauty is ruined by the security. Friends and I (women) were harassed by one in particular, circling us like a vulture. We were not doing anything against rules (which are posted on their website) and were remaining respectful (I'm passionate for cemeteries so I always read rules before I go). Others I know have been harassed as well. It's very strange. I understand rich people are buried here and I definitely understand and respect keeping it safe and respectful. But when you make people uncomfortable or are overbearing when people are not doing anything wrong, it's a problem. I would return to get a guided tour, but maybe consider getting a different security company or guards read more

Upon approaching Glenwood Cemetery on Washington, you will notice the ivy covered fence. A few years ago, before "the gentrification of Washington Ave," this wall really stuck out amongst the warehouse area. Now it's almost being swallowed up by ugly condos. The second you pass through the ivy-covered gates, you are immediately transported to a enchanting space. Quite a bit of Houston history is buried in this peaceful area, just waiting to be stumbled upon. I have found Howard Hughes' burial site (thanks to a helpful punk rock kid I spoke with one night at The Next Door bar). It is elegant in its Art Deco simplicity. I've also recently found the Hobby's site. Unassuming, especially next to a large colonnade, but with a beautiful view behind. I have yet to find Gene Tierney's site (actress, most popularly in Laura), Judge Hofheinz (we have him to thank for the Colt .45s/Astros, Astrodome, and Astroturf...he even owned the Ringling Bros. and Barnham & Bailey Circus for a short time in the 60s), and Glen McCarthy (oil tycoon, owned the Shamrock Hotel, if you've seen the movie Giant, James Dean's character was loosely based on McCarthy). There were originally two separate cemeteries: Glenwood and Washington. Over the past year, the space in between has been remodeled and there is now a short winding drive that connects the two. Beyond the history, you will find a relaxing, gorgeous space on the edge of busy, noisy downtown along this stretch of Washington and Memorial drive. It is deceptively large and after a while the narrow, labyrinthine street through the all-starts-to-look-the-same cemetery, could get you lost. Keep your eyes open for the tiny exit and office signs. My suggestion is once you enter the cemetery, head towards the right. You will pass the winding road leading to Washington cemetery and head into the older section of Glenwood. Oh, also be mindful of the hours: 7am-5pm. I wouldn't want to be accidently locked in overnight. read more

Glenwood Cemetery - Hughes' burial site - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Houston, Texas

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I know this might sound odd but the Glenwood Cemetery is an interesting place to go. Among the historical figures put to rest here, there is a wealth of gorgeous statuary dating back over 100 years. With old growth trees and some places where you can see the skyline of Houston, Glenwood cemetery is a beautifully maintained cemetery with a lot of history. Among the notable burials at Glenwood are William P. Hobby, Howard Hughes (Jr. & Sr.), and Maria Franklin Prentiss Lucas Langham Gable (married to Clark Gable). There are also numerous former governors, business founders and even a President from The Republic of Texas. Glenwood was the first cemetery to be professionally designed and has been open since 1871. This historic cemetery is a serene and lush environment in the bustling area off Washington Ave, near downtown. One section of the grounds overlooks the Buffalo Bayou. For Houston, Glenwood is a piece of history, beautifully preserved. read more

Glenwood Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Houston, Texas

There are a lot of people who find cemeteries morbid and creepy but I am not one of those. I think they are beautiful and Glenwood Cemetery is no exception. We were visiting the nearby Art Car Museum and noticed this on other lists of places to see. I did some quick research and learned that Gene Tierney Lee, one of my favorite old Hollywood actresses, is buried at Glenwood. Right away, this became a must-see for me. Howard Hughes and family are also buried here. The grounds are well-kept and, as another reviewer said, you feel like you're in another world when you are walking around the cemetery. read more

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One of the most beautiful monumental-style cemeteries I've ever visited. Houston's humidity and nearly year-round good weather guarantees this to be a verdant, lush assortment of gorgeous trees, shrubbery and manicured lawns in an area that is surrounded by a Houston many of those buried here never would have imagined. Houston's early titans of the petrochem and shipping industries are buried here next to civic leaders, wealthy heiresses who brought their unique gifts to building the arts and culture to Houston. Those of new money are here, too located in some of the modern terraced areas. The Cullinans, Hughes, Blaffers, Hobbys and even a gifted actress, Gene Tierney, are celebrated here with beautiful tombs and statuary. read more

This place was absolutely beautiful. It is full of historic and elaborate grave markers, vaults, and mausoleums. The landscaping is lush and equally as beautiful. It was raining and pretty muggy out when we visited, so we were only able to drive around in the car. I would highly recommend a walking tour of this place on a cooler, drier fall day. It is CHOCK full of history and some of the markers, etc. must be seen to be believed! read more

It's my favorite place to visit in Houston. The shade blankets you from the woes of the blaring sun and city and it's beautiful atmosphere brings a heavy calm and nostalgia to you. Like a dream. It's a wonderful place to have a walk or sketch. read more

This is one of the oldest cemetery's in Houston.(1871)It features HowRd Hughes and the people who built. Houston. It is a peaceful respite from the city beyond the gate, HMU has history here from last century and the one before that. Easy to park and walk around a contrast to the skyline behind it. A quiet that belies the city it serves. A peaceful walk. read more

We went to see Howard Hughes's Family Plot at Glenwood Cemetary. I started walking around and a security guard came up and parked behind our car and sat there and watched us like a hawk. It was concerning, since we were there just looking at the angels across from the Hughes Plot, walked to the Hughes Plot and then the security guard drove up to me and said that Family that owns that plot (gesturing to the right of the Hughes Plot), which was very generic doesn't want pictures taken of it. After he drove away, he circled back and parked behind our car until we left. This is the first time I have been bothered at a Cemetary, when all I was doing was admiring the beautiful scenery. Glenwood Cemetary is beautiful, the landscape, all of the different head stones, statues. read more

Gorgeous scenery, very calming place to get away from it all. I wish it was open during weekends.

This is a beautiful and historic cemetery. It has so many beautiful sculptures. The backdrop of the busy city of Houston is a reminder that life goes on. This is a lovely place to visit and see some historical figures from Houston. read more

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If you're feeling a little morbid, but want to check out something unique and serene, this is definitely a good place to check out. It feels weird to visit a cemetery for fun and I didn't take any pictures here because it felt wrong, but this place is so gorgeous it's worth it. We didn't get out and instead drove around in our car admiring the sculptures, tombs, gravestones and dates of death. Some of these gravestones date back to the 1800's. The cemetery is HUGE and it's actually easy to get lost here. You might just leave questioning the meaning of life, like I did. The best quote on a gravestone I saw - "There are only two certainties to life: birth and death. Everything in between is what really matters." read more

It's weird to give 5 stars to a cemetery, but it's also weird to review it. Regardless, it's worth checking out. When you enter, go down the drive to the house in the middle of the cemetery. You can get a map there of all the gravesites that tells you where notable Houstonians & famous people are buried. Howard Hughes is buried here (he would have been so pissed about that had he been able to make that decision...Houston was not on the top of his list), so you're going to want to check out his grave. It's clearly marked on the map, but it's not your typical gravesite & the marker isn't visible, so it will be an adventure finding it. read more

What a beautiful and serene place. I cannot believe that it's really a cemetery. It is so easy to forget that you are not in a national park. Recently a friend and I had some drawing assignments for our illustration class. We decided we would go to Glenwood and draw. It was the most relaxing moment I could think of. The grass was soft and green, the trees were massive and beautiful, and of course it was wonderfully shaded. The breeze was blowing the whole time. We laid down a blanket and my friend had her dogs. We hung out in the cemetery for two whole hours. My friend even joked that it would be a great place to get married if it wasn't for the fact that it's a cemetery. It's got some sort of vibe/aura to it that I can't quite place. All I know is that this is now one of my favorite places in Houston. read more

I love exploring cemeteries in every new city I go to, and this is probably the most beautiful cemetery I've ever seen. However I also had the issue with the security guard telling me I wasn't allowed to photograph a certain area of the cemetery when I took my phone out of my pocket to check the notification I had just received. It made me feel like I was doing something wrong. Maybe the family who doesn't want photos should place a sign there or something rather having the security guards make us feel bad for being there. read more

Despite being a cemetery, this place is beautiful! It is truly another world. I seriously felt like I stepped into a storybook in this place. It hardly feels like you'd think a cemetery should feel. Nothing scary here or macabre. It's actually very peaceful and many notable Houston residents are buried here. The headstones, the landscape, the meandering paths, the intricate and unique burial plots make this a photographers paradise. Well worth a visit if bring in a cemetery doesn't bother you. Even if it does bother you, you'd forget you were in one as soon as you step foot inside. read more

How many people can say they have seen Howard Hughes' grave? That's right, The Aviator! Okay, I am super obsessed with Howard Hughes, even before Di Caprio played him in Hollywood. Also, they have Judge Holfheinz, as in Holfheinz Pavillion, though better known to non UH students/alumni as the Astrodome guy. William P. Hobby is there, along with Margaret Kinkaid and a bunch of people from the Republic of Texas. You'll recognize a lot of names from street names. It's an awesome place to buff up on your Texas/Houston history. A trip to this cemetery totally totally ups your Houstonian cool points. read more

Me and my daughters love comming here for picnics ( call us strange if you want) This place is soooo beautiful and peaceful and as many times as we have been we still haven't seen it all and each trip is a new adventure. Be sure to visit the adjoining Washington cemetery which has many older grave sites and walk along the back fence where the huge low hanging tree is. read more

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FREE PUBLIC LOCAL close to downtown. GOOD PLACE FOR A BIKE TRIP, BUT NOT A PICNIC. read more

Words can not espress this majestic landmark cemetery. It goes on and on, at every turn is more breath taking. It is surely a place you must visit, it's exquisite. read more

It felt a bit odd to be turning off Washington to arrive at such a beautiful and historical place. Fortunately, tacky bars come and go, but this cemetery will always be here, unaffected in its beauty and timelessness. There's no visitor parking so just drive and park as you see fit. The office in the center of the cemetery is helpful, with a map showing the key sites. It's interesting to note some graves (Hughes, Hermann, etc.) are relatively understated compared to some of the recent graves that are quite extravagent. I guess you CAN take good taste to the grave after all. This site is a must-do for an urban Houstonian. read more

Historical sites in Houston are few. Glenwood Cemetery is one such place, with Texas historical markers noting historically significant burial sites ranging from politicians to Howard Hughes. Perhaps the most impressive history are the enormous live oaks towards the back of the grounds. The area is park like, beautiful and hilly (rare in Houston). Cyclists regularly peddle through the grounds, and although some roads are very narrow, my mid-sized car can navigate the grounds. A larger vehicle may be a tight fit. Other reviews mention checking with the office to see if there is a funeral procession scheduled prior to touring, and that the office offers a map, but I haven't personally checked-in with the office on prior visits. read more

First visited this on a road rally via Leadership Houston, then my spouse's rotary had a speaker and stated that there are amazing tours you could go on, parking is another issue, so you need to call to find more about how to join a tour. Have a need to photograph cemeteries throughout our great planet and this is one of the most beautiful, bucolic places to photograph, absolutely a must for anyone that lives here or just dropping by. read more

Stunning. That is the word that comes to mind when I think of Glenwood. Yes, I know a bit weird when it come to dead people, but honestly this place is beautiful. I had visited it once before when I was taking a photography class, and took some fantastic black and white photos here. I recently went with a meet up and we had a private tour for about 40 of us on a beautiful fall Sunday. It is quiet, serene, the architechture is gorgeous, and the History- Well don't even get me started! Our tour guide was funny, knowledgable, and told some great stores about the founders of Houston, old Oil cowboys, Howard Hughes, and Houston locals. great just to stroll through on the weekend. They run private tours all the time for $10, or you can do a public tour as well. Very interesting to learn a bit more about Houston! read more

Absolutely gorgeous place! The grainite art and stonework along with the landscaping was just beautiful. Well worth visiting. We wished we had allowed more time for this. read more

very old and interesting cemetery. Came here to check out Howard Hughes' grave.

Gorgeous cemetery, relaxing, peaceful and offers shade for a nice stroll. Beautiful plots and sculptures with a lot of history. Take the tour. It's worth it to learn the history and background information on the cemetery. read more

This is a beautiful spot in Houston, it just so happens to be a cemetery... lol.... Great historic spot, fun to walk through or drive through slowly in your car ... read more

This is by far one the most beautiful resting places "cemeteries" i've ever seen. What an amazing outing and remembrance ceremony we partook in this past weekend. Exquisite. read more

One of most beautiful areas in Houston. Great for a nice walk especially if you are interested in Texas/Houston history.