Explore
Bonaventure Cemetery features over 100 acres of historic monuments, military graves, and coastal views.
Beyond the famous figures buried here, the cemetery grounds offer a distinct Southern Gothic landscape. You will find elaborate Victorian funerary art, ancient live oak trees, and pathways covered in Spanish moss.
Walking these sections takes you to the edge of the Wilmington River and through dedicated military burial grounds. Remember to stay on the paved and unpaved pathways, as walking on private grave plots is strictly prohibited.
15 minutesLandscape photography
The eastern edge of the cemetery provides open views of the water, salt marshes, and Spanish moss. This area is a great place to catch the coastal breeze on a hot day and photograph the landscape. Stop here to rest and take in the natural layout of the grounds.
10 minutesVictorian funerary art
This family plot features elaborate marble statues, including a prominent figure of Corinne Elliott Lawton sitting by a cross. It is one of the most photographed monuments in the cemetery. Always stay on the path to take your photos, as visitors cannot cross onto the plot.
10 minutesMilitary history
This military burial area holds the nation's second-largest section for those killed in the Spanish-American War. You will see more than 500 grave marker crosses for Confederate and veteran soldiers. Keep noise to a minimum while walking through this historic site.
