If you love history, people's stories, city views, and landscaping, go to Mount Auburn Cemetery. It's free to explore and only a short bus ride from Harvard. (I walked from campus in 20 minutes.) When you walk in, pop into the main building to use hr restroom and pick up maps of the cemetery. You'll learn the cemetery is the first one in the country intentionally designed as a garden/arboretum too. The map will guide you to monuments and memorials and notable burial sites to abolitionists like Charles Sumner and poets like Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. If it's open in the warmer months, climb the Washington Monument for a view of the city. It's closed during the winter, but the hill it's on still offers unobstructed views. read more

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It's so gorgeous here. The main trails are nicely paved and the gravelly paths are well maintained as well. The foliage is already looking stunning and the energy is so peaceful. Such a lovely fall walk, it even had a great smell too. Be sure to climb the Washington tower so you can check out a great view of the treetops as well as the city skyline in the distance. read more

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By far, the most beautiful cemetery I've ever been to! It's such a peaceful place for a quiet stroll. The tower provides excellent views of Boston and the surrounding area. read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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A beautiful place. Very well kept and peaceful! Took a stroll and went up the Washington tower. There was a 360 view of trees and the Boston skyline. During fall the foliage is gorgeous! read more

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This has to be the prettiest cemetery that I've ever been to. We were there on a rainy Thanksgiving day, the church and offices were closed, but we were happy to see that the bathrooms were left open. The graves are so beautiful and varied in styles. read more

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What an incredible afternoon! Walking through this landscaped cemetery was absolutely relaxing. Well maintained and full of diverse vegetation it was an eye opening experience. The historical names of those buried here is a who's who of American history. read more

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This is such a lovely place to go on a walk. There's a lot of history here, and I find it peaceful to walk around. They do a beautiful solstice during the winter with lights. We walked around and got to light candles in one of the chapels. read more

I was born at the Hospital and good rest his soul my father was buried here. Nothing can describe the eerily scary beauty of a cemetery, both the balance of life and death are in close proximity of the hospital and final resting places for our loved ones. Coming here every July, is surreal for me knowing that one day if I'm fortunate enough I and will join my father here and my other loved ones. read more

So let me start this by saying that Mt. Auburn Cemetery is one of my favorite places. it is significant historically and just a serene place to visit. So, this review is for Solstice, their winter art instillation which I attended having very little information on this particular event. It was a cold December night when I attended, and walking towards Mt. Auburn, you can see the sky lit with blue lights. I'm not sure what I was anticipating having just checked out the online site. The trails were dark and there were attendants along the trails guiding visitors. Most of the cemetery is blocked off which is understandable. The art instillations- the large portal looking thing and bigelow chapel were interesting. Signs along the way described the instillations and what they were meant to stir within you, reflections of life and death and perhaps your own mortality as you walked amongst the dead. The trees were lit with blue lights creating a stark appearance among the graves with bare trees creating an ominous look. There was part of the walk you could hold a lantern and walk along graves where fog machines were creating a misty appearance. As I was leaving I guess I just didn't feel the deep connection to nature and my own mortality and life and death.. I just felt nothing. I was hoping to feel something but I didn't. I was surprised by the number of parents with small children and infants in strollers.. As a child, I would have been horrified if my parents dragged me to a cemetery where morose music was playing and trees were lit up looking like something out Poltergeist. But, this is art and perhaps many parents want to expose their children to artistic expressions early on and teach them that one day too they shall die. I guess I just wanted Christmas and this was Solstice and not Christmas and not joyful or light. Our world is so heavy and there is so much pain and maybe an escape to a happier place would have been a better escape for me than to think about my own death. Going to Solstice was an experience and seeing the cemetery at night was a unique experience.. Was it a $40 experience....$50 with parking? I don't know because everyone needs something this time of year and I discovered it wasn't this. But, I still absolutely love Mt. Auburn. but Solstice.... yeah not is much. read more

The cemetery is gorgeous but there's something weird about telling people to visit one. But if you go just be respectful

Cemeteries are rarely ever on my itineraries, however, the Mount Auburn Cemetery is hosting a SOLSTICE: Reflections on Winter Light by MASARY Studios. What a peaceful and serene walk, despite the cold night. There were many guides throughout the course to point out directions, a food truck from where the aroma of hot cider floated around, and of course the beautiful lights shining on the outdoor scenery. A light show shone on the chapel itself, and within the chapel was a live violinist creating a thoughtful atmosphere among the lighted candles and ambient colors. I took in the high ceiling, beautiful stonework, and stained glass while reflecting on my year. It was such a beautiful space to sit in; would love to return for more quiet introspection as this was my favorite part of the night. The planning of these event was alright altogether smooth: traffic directors for cars and pedestrians, timing and music for the lights, spacing between visitors and stops for restrooms and warmth. I hope this event continues. Thanks for opening this space to welcome all visitors! read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - Start of night walk during special SOLSTICE Lights event - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Mount Auburn Cemetery is the first "garden" cemetery in the United States, a design initiated in Europe with Père Lachaise in Paris https://www.yelp.com/biz/cimetière-du-père-lachaise-paris-5?hrid=0swvuhnp976JYaYlYxznxg and Kensal Green in London https://www.yelp.com/biz/kensal-green-cemetery-london-2. You'll also find this style at Cedar Hill in Hartford https://www.yelp.com/biz/cedar-hill-cemetery-hartford?hrid=7Y0aUvQeznXHxPEngg367g. The cemetery is 174 acres and is Watertown's largest contiguous space. It was founded in 1831. More than 93,000 people are buried in the cemetery including many famous people including 19th century actor Edwin Thomas Booth, religious leader Mary Baker Eddy, scientist R. Buckminster Fuller, author Oliver Wendell Holmes, inventor Edwin Herbert Land, poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, author Arthur Schlesinger Jr. and many Mayors, Governors, Congressmen and Senators. It's *the* cemetery. Don't miss the view of the Boston skyline from Washington Tower, which is great from the top of the hill even if the tower is closed (because of the pandemic). It is a massive cemetery and you can easily spend a few hours exploring or like many people, just exercising. Well worth a visit. [Review 15214 overall, 716 of 2021, number 1077 in Massachusetts.] read more

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For better or worse, I cannot and thus shall not address the quality of funerals, burials, proceedings, rituals, silent prayers, and other events and activities that take place at Mount Auburn Cemetery. I can, however, speak to the scenery and the gravestones and the crypts of the place. Mount Auburn Cemetery is well-maintained and beautiful in its appearance and its deepest entrails; the winding paths calm the nerves and there are few to no deadly energies in the place. On a crisp fall day, the cemetery is a woefully enjoyable place to go for a stroll, visit the dead, and learn history. A leisurely climb to the top of Washington Tower yields panoramic views of Cambridge, Boston, Watertown, Belmont, and Newton. And, of course, you can see Fresh Pond, which is egregiously a reservoir and not a pond. But anyways. The paths at Mount Auburn Cemetery are luscious and extensive. They are good for children and groups. I cannot speak to the permissibility of pets; however, I can say that I encountered a bold and daring raccoon in the vibrant light of day. The raccoon, it seemed, was unwell. Nevertheless, I would recommend this venue for all of your loftiest strolls. read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - A view from midway up the tower - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I don't normally walk around cemeteries, but this is a Beautiful place to take a walk. Not morbid in my opinion! read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - Horney! - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

This is a beautiful location, especially to enjoy the fall foliage. More so than a park, this place feels more serene and there are many interesting sculptures and monuments to explore. Climbing the Washington Tower to get a panoramic view of Cambridge was truly the highlight of the afternoon! Note, I did encounter a small crowd at the top of the tower whereas I barely saw anyone walking around the cemetery. Overall: - A beautiful, family friendly area to explore and to enjoy with nature - Very easily walkable, accessible to strollers and wheelchairs (with the exception of the tower. Washington Tower has no elevator to the top) - If I were local to the area I would love to return frequently! read more

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This is not only a beautiful and peaceful place, but it is situated in a pretty cool neighborhood with lots of cool walking places. But this review is about Mount Auburn Cemetery and well, here we go. I was made alert of this historical site, so I just had to come. I drove around and stopped in several places in the cemetery, but this is also a nice walking space. It is a very beautiful place, the opposite of what you think of a cemetery, it almost feels like a playground. It is also very well kept and trimmed, very green and inviting. A good hour here will change the way you think about resting places. read more

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It's another wonderful National Historic Landmark. It's a cemetery and arboretum that is all rolled up into one fantastically landscaped park. I think it's even a bird sanctuary. We saw lots of wildlife during our visit. I had my very first wild turkey sighting as we drove up the hill to the Washington Tower. You must go all the way up the hill if you want to see the beautiful view of the city. There were people sitting along the steps to the tower just soaking in the view in front of them. This is a must see place to go to if you're into nature and historical sites. They even have weddings at this cemetery. It's that beautiful! It's a great place to walk through and should be on anyone's top 10 list of places to visit when visiting the Boston area. Don't miss it. read more

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Beautiful, hilly and lush historic resting place with wide paths to explore. Don't miss a stop at Sofia bakery down the street. Both are highlights of a lazy day around town. read more

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Great scenery paths with signs a church best cumetery ever a mountain ponds everything Statistics Good for kids - yes Good for groups - yes Location - Cambridge Watertown line Health stat - very healthy Company - the friends of the mount Auburn cemetery Price - free read more

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I decided where I want to get buried ( if it matters)..... Mt. Auburn Cemetery. I arrived at 8:15 in the morning. I wish it opened earlier but I am just a morning person. I parked and walked around the cemetery which has plenty of roads to which makes it easy to access the grounds. There is a labyrinth of paths leading off the roads to access the different burials sites but I stuck to the roads. I just scratched the surface with many more roads to explore. I am sure I will return. At the starting location near the administration building, there is a chapel with a hallway explaining the architecture within the grounds. I found this to be worth the time to check it out. If you are every looking for a place to take a walk, select Mt Auburn Cemetery. If you happen to be there at the right time, you may even see some bird watchers. It is a hot spot within the city to see wildlife. read more

I don't know much about cemeteries, but I do know this one is amazing! Beautiful landscape, lots of history, wild birds, and a "Repunzel Tower" that my daughters absolutely loved. This is a great, fun, free activity while sight seeing around Boston. Take some time and walk the grounds, sit and enjoy the trees. Nothing (too) spooky about this place. We really loved it and it was a great way to enjoy an afternoon. read more

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When visiting Boston I was skeptical when my boyfriend wanted to bring me to the cemetery, but WOW this place was peaceful and gorgeous. We went in November, so got to enjoy some of the last bits of fall foliage. There were massive trees and incredible buildings with stained glass. The tower was gorgeous and I loved the stone spiral staircase to climb to the top (I did not notice an elevator - so must be able to climb up/down stairs in order to go to top). The views were gorgeous!!! But being so high it can get windy so hold onto your hats! I recommend going on a clear day so you can see out to the city skyline and see things like Harvard, TD Garden and the Prudential Center read more

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It's very strange to review a cemetery, but Mount Auburn Cemetery is much more than that. It is such a nice walk with lots of different trails (paved and unpacked). It is beautifully landscaped and has many interesting sculptures and monuments. The Washington tower area has breathtaking views (unfortunately the tower itself is closed due to covid). The entrance has a washroom open to public. I would definitely recommend taking a peaceful walk and maybe even try their audio tours. read more

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Fantastic - I wish we had more time to visit. So much to see and explore. I think I would take an official tour next time to really get into the details. This cemetery is not just about the interesting history, people, and memorials but the wonderful landscaping. Summer is a good time to see everything in bloom but be warned the mosquitoes were out in force especially in the areas with ponds. We were wishing we had bug spray. We will return! read more

Some of my beloved family lie in this prestigious place. I am honored by the care and attention paid to the graves.

I know I know I get weird looks when I tell people to come visit this cemetery but hear me out-- Mount Auburn Cemetery is a beautiful and peaceful place that is worth a visit. You can easily spend hours here just roaming around, exploring the grounds, and soaking in the peace and quiet away from the hustle and bustle of the city. My friend and I saw a surprising number of wildlife here and all the plants and trees are labeled (just like the arnold arboretum), which I thought was pretty cool! I'm really glad I went here because I think it is such a truly special place that more people need to know about. Make sure to add this to your list of things to do in Boston ppl!! I promise you'll enjoy it :) read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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An absolute treasure! A must see! There is nothing mundane or shabby about this cemetery. Rich with historical value, beautiful sculptures and gardens and amazing panoramic view make this place a top 10 favorite of mine in the Boston area. Don't sit on the grass, no matter how appealing and serene in looks. The groundskeeper was none to happy about me resting my legs. This being said, this place is worth every bit of 5 stars! Generous hours, open until 7PM. Also, take note that if you wish to go up in the tower, this doesn't open until Memorial day weekend. read more

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Well-maintained, beautiful property with so much history to see. This is one of our top five places we bring out of town visitors to when they're with us. Every time we tell them we're taking them to a cemetery, they look at us like we're crazy but they always leave in awe. It's the first rural/garden style cemetery in the US! Right in the city! In the spring and summer the gardens are meticulously manicured and the flowers are amazing, in the fall the foliage is breathtaking, and in the winter it is so serene to walk through the paths in the quiet. There are so many styles of garden paths here - some are wilder and rambling, there are little enclaves and hobbit holes of doors and monuments, there's even a few ponds and bridges to walk around. Don't make the mistake of missing the little info booth at the front entrance; there are info booklets, activity guidebooks for kids to use, and sometimes tour guides. Bathrooms are near the outside of the visitor center as well. All in all, this is just the best place to explore on a Sunday afternoon when you need to take a walk and enjoy looking around for little families of wild turkeys and rabbits. read more

Slap me, slap me good! It's embarrassing I'm going on year 13 of living in the Boston area and have never toured the hallowed grounds of MAC. I'm not sure what I was thinking or why I lacked the desire but now that I'm getting more into photography, this was an absolute dream to shoot on a sunny spring day. Parking is easy because you can do so on the roadways throughout the grounds as long as there isn't a blue line. The gate is huge and easy to find on the GPS. The lady at the counter in the visitor center was super helpful and gave me some good, free tips. In fact, I didn't drop a dollar even though I felt guilty I brought no cash seeing the donation places around the grounds. Bring a few dollars, still....this is an incredible activity, especially in spring bloom. I like cemeteries. I've stopped at random and very rural ones in Vermont that date back 300 years. I have one I frequent in Medford Square that has some people buried who were born with a 16xx next to their name, it's a fascinating way to see history right in front of your eyes and we are blessed with a ton of it up here. Mount Auburn is no different......although not going back to the 1700's, there are many people buried here from the mid 1850's on. Rich Bostonians who could afford a luxurious and ornate headstones lay here. Famous people, including BF Skinner, Charles Bulfinch, Fannie Farmer and the founder of Simmons College. I could go on but that should be left up to you to locate. I'll tell you that it's not super easy finding people who are famous without a map and there are plenty of those plus a little audio tour (I didn't use this) that are at your fingertips for a nominal fee. A few places have maps online as well. This should get 5 stars just for being "America's first garden cemetery". It's not only famous for that but well taken care of by countless workers, I saw no less than 10 of them on my few hours walk. It's peaceful, you'll get lots of exercise....and the gem is in the middle so sit your vehicle on the outer edges and walk into the tower about a 1/2 mile or so into the park. Some of the best views of Boston anyone could ask for after hoofing it up 50 or so steps, the dead live large here! I saw a family pack a lunch and eat next to the tower since there are few people buried up there....so it could even be a macabre date. Get there like tomorrow, you won't regret it, I swear over my dead body. read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - A small sample of what you'll see on the grounds... - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I have been going here since I was a little kid. We actually used to picnic here, which they don't let you do anymore - but is seriously one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in the area. Taking a walk here is a real good workout because - go get a map from the main office. Also, get on their mailing list because they have interesting events, too (like book readings). Now that my parents are buried here, I come and find peace with them. I know this is a weird thing to review, but worth the trip (also good for birding). read more

Stop by Mt. Auburn Cemetery and commune with the soul of Frederick Law Olmsted, the genius landscape architect who designed this beautiful and noble place. Too bad about all the dead people. I don't blame them--I wouldn't mind spending eternity here. It's so elegant and immaculate, it must cost a fortune to be interred here. You just know that it's one of those things that if have to ask how much it costs, you can't afford it. Fortunately, it's free for the living! A visit in the spring--when specimen trees are in bloom--is an unforgettable experience. read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - Fruit trees in bloom - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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The landscaping and wildlife in this cemetery / park are excellent, as are the towers and landmarks within. I highly recommend this area! I'm docking 2 stars though, since the "guidelines" for visitors are oppressive. It seems strange that 15 y/o and below must be accompanied by a parent or guardian in an effectively public park. One could argue this is in place to protect them from "stranger danger", but the more likely reality is that they don't want "hooligans" in the park, since they don't even allow groups of young people (buddy-systems) unless they are being accompanied by parent/guardians. In short, this is a silly rule. Also, why are loud combustion cars and rambunctious golf carts allowed in the park but electric bikes are not? I get that they don't want people exercising or looking like they are having too much fun or something, which might be considered disrespectful to the dead, but leisurely bike riding is quite peaceful I think, and it much more quiet, environmentally friendly, and compact than driving a large combustion car. It was weird when I was quietly cruising though on my electric power when a large loud gas car pulled me over and chided me on being disrespectful to the surrounding area and asked me to leave. Seems hypocritical, honestly. I hope management makes this area more accessible to younger people, because right now, It's a bit hard to traverse without a car since the park is large and practically anything else that rolls is not allowed. Not to mention needing your parents to accompany you if you are 15 or younger. read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery is probably the most interesting cemetery I have ever been to. I went last summer because someone told me there were some great photo opportunities - they were right. Very relaxing setting with tons of cool stuff to take photos of. I wasn't quite sure of the driving/parking educate but it would appear it is like other cemeteries in that you just drive around the small roads and pull off to the side when you want to get out and walk around. The place is well landscaped, with lots of flowers, insects, statues, and graves to photograph. Definitely a cool place to visit, check it out you won't be disappointed. read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - Bigelow Chapel - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Americas First Landscaped Cemetery. I have to admit, I was a little weirded out at first...walking around a cemetery, but it really is a beautiful serene place. The view from the tower is pretty spectacular although not for people afraid of heights! Standing up there with 5 other people made me nervous! The ponds are beautifully landscaped and picture worthy! read more

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I have to say, despite a really long walk to get there from Harvard Square, this is worth going to visit on a cool spring, summer or fall day. The paths, foliage, and history here cannot be matched in many locations, and despite the fact that this is a place of final rest, this is also a place for a person to gather one's thoughts and refresh one's acquaintance with the paths, ponds, and history of the people who are surrounding you. Beautiful tombstones and stories await. As for the kids comment - I think it'd be a good landscape to see, but they'd probably not enjoy it for more than 10-20 minutes at a time. read more

I just remember driving by this place while I was a little girl and I had just seen labrynth..... The main cemetery gates could have been in that movie....I pictured a fantasy world behind the big green perfectly shaped bushes and rot iron gates.........than when I finally entered there one day I had to laugh because there was no castle, no monster, no princess....Yet it was a spectacle............gorgeous grounds.......ponds, statues...,,,,,gorgeous foliage during the fall.....little foot bridges.......if you take photos or just like peaceful places........come here.....it is safe to walk around and, for a cemetery, the people you will meet are pretty damn friendly........I am always greeted with friendly smiles when my friend and I would speed walk through the roads........I am happy to know such a lovely place exists P.S.:"Speed" as in talk fast while walking normal ........... read more

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Mt. Auburn is heaven on earth. It is full of beauty, nature and wonderful views from atop Washington Tower. Spring and fall are particularly gorgeous, but really anytime is a great time to visit. The monuments and graves are very interesting to look at. Some are very simple but others are quite elaborate. For a nice, peaceful walk, consider Mt. Auburn. You will be amazed by it's beauty. I also hear it's a haven for bird watchers. I guess you can see many different types of birds all over the cemetery. I know they also do a number of special events at the cemetery. I will have to check some of those out. read more

Absolutely gorgeous place. I came here looking for something to do with an out of town friend. If I'd had any idea it would be so nice, I'd have come here before on my own. I recommend going to Sofra's, a middle-eastern restaurant two blocks away, either before or after. There is a great view of the Boston skyline from a tower in the cemetery. This is definitely one of the more fun things to do in Boston with out of town guests. read more

Mount Auburn Cemetery - sunlight on tree at Mt Auburn cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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As the first landscaped cemetery in the United States, Mount Auburn cemetery offers many things to explore including stunning fall foliage, ponds, interesting cemetery tombstone architecture, wildlife (wild turkeys, anyone?), a gorgeous chapel and breathtaking views of Cambridge and Boston, courtesy of the Washington tower. This is the perfect place for reflection too, as the arboretum was created to help people overcome their fear of death and instead accept it as part of life. Parking is plentiful since you're allowed to drive and stop throughout the cemetery, but I do recommend mainly walking to fully take in the beautiful sights. Do come here if you're looking for a place to get lost in your thoughts or to spend quality time with a friend. read more

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Admittedly, it's a bit odd to be a "fan" of a cemetery, but this place is beautiful. I live around the corner from Mt. Auburn Cemetery and I've gone over there for walks multiple times. One thing I like is that they've got two paths around the cemetery marked by a solid green line and a dashed line in the middle of the road. They could use a repainting, but they're strong enough for you to follow. One is a longer walk and the other is shorter. They both loop around the cemetery. I like the shorter walk because you can take an easy short detour and visit the Washington Monument. There are some great views from the hill at the base as well as the top of the monument. Really, there's nothing like taking a walk through Mt. Auburn Cemetery on a beautiful fall day. The colors are breathtaking and the walk is a great workout!! read more

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