St Adalbert Cemetery & Mausoleums

I’m the weirdo that loves walking through cemeteries.
There, I said it.
Moving on…
My love for graveyard wanderings was sparked long before I became a ‘regular’ here, but this is the place where I was able to indulge in it on a regular basis. I lived across the street from this cemetery for about a year and a half after college (in my grandmother’s house, so I grew up coming near here anyway) and was convinced ghosts would walk over and visit me. Despite the [lack of] friendly spirits, I’d visit often by walking in through an open gate in the fence (the house was across the street from the ‘back’ of the cemetery) or riding my bike around to the front entrance. I often took photos there.
So why do I love this place?
— The mausoleum is peaceful and has a lovely walkway.
— Some uniquely carved stones.
— Lots of history. I love learning about people.
— One creepy, partially open (!?) grave.
— It’s very large.
— It’s a nice, quiet cemetery in a quiet part of town.
— This is very sad actually, but there is a section reserved for babies and children. There’s always a lot of stuffed animals and toys there. I think it’s sweet they have a separate section.
— I’m usually not the only one walking around for pleasure. I’ve seen people bike, jog, and walk their dogs on the paths and streets within the cemetery.
Nostalgia is the reason I am writing this review. I miss walking through it.

There’s a little road that cuts right through the middle of this cemetery that’s perfect for walking your dog or taking a stroll with your lady friend. It’s quiet, it’s pretty, and it’s secluded. You can enter on the Chicago side on foot, but not through car, anytime. Even when the cemetery is closed the road is accessible. On the Niles side, the road runs into the back of some condos, and eventually, the Niles Veteran’s Memorial Waterfall (
).
Cool place to hang out at night, and during the day, when the cemetery is open, there are some pretty neat old grave markers and tombstones.
PS George Halas’ mausoleum is here. Check out the photo.