Oakland Cemetery

Trip ideas while visiting Atlanta in Georgia

Oakland Cemetery

Just a short distance southeast of downtown Atlanta lies Oakland Cemetery, covering 48 acres of land. This historic cemetery holds great significance in the city’s history, as it connects to both the Civil War and the civil rights movement. As you wander along its meandering paths, passing by trees and flower shrubs, you’ll come across magnificent mausoleums, intricate statues, and an impressive collection of art and architecture. Among the approximately 70,000 graves, you’ll find the resting places of notable Atlantans such as golfer Bobby Jones, author Margaret Mitchell, and musician Kenny Rogers. The Confederate burial grounds serve as the final resting place for around 7,000 Confederate soldiers, while Potter’s Field accommodates about 7,500 individuals who couldn’t afford a burial. Interestingly, many buried in Potter’s Field remain unknown and represent diverse races and religious backgrounds.