Forest Lawn Memorial Park
Glendale’s world-renowned memorial park, fine art sanctuary, and architectural landmark
The History of Forest Lawn Glendale
Established in 1906 as a traditional cemetery, Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale was completely transformed beginning in 1917 under the visionary management of Hubert Eaton. Driven by his revolutionary "Builder’s Creed," Eaton set out to dismantle the somber, dark aesthetic of traditional 19th-century graveyards. Instead, he pioneered the "memorial park" concept: a tranquil, uplifting garden sanctuary where flat bronze markers replaced upright headstones, rolling green hills mirrored classical European countrysides, and world-class architecture and fine art provided solace to visitors and grieving families alike.
Eaton believed that cemeteries should celebrate life, spirituality, and artistic beauty. To achieve this, Forest Lawn commissioned full-scale architectural replicas of famous European places of worship, including the Church of the Recessional (modeled after Rudyard Kipling's parish in Rottingdean, England), the Wee Kirk o’ the Heather, and the Little Church of the Flowers. Beyond architecture, Eaton systematically acquired and commissioned masterworks of European art, culminating in the construction of the Great Mausoleum and the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, built specifically to house Jan Styka’s mammoth painting The Crucifixion (measuring 195 feet by 45 feet) and Robert Clark’s companion canvas The Resurrection.
Throughout the 20th century, Forest Lawn Glendale became closely intertwined with Hollywood history, serving as the final resting place for legendary cultural icons, entertainment pioneers, and historical figures including Walt Disney, Clark Gable, Jean Harlow, Carole Lombard, and Nat King Cole. Spanning over 300 acres of meticulously manicured grounds, Forest Lawn stands today as a unique cultural museum, architectural showcase, and active memorial park attracting visitors from around the globe.
1906 — Founding Year
Establishes as a modest, traditional cemetery before being revitalized into a modern memorial park concept.
1917 — Eaton’s "Builder’s Creed"
Hubert Eaton takes management, introducing ground-level markers, manicured lawns, and fine art collections.
1951 — Hall of Crucifixion Dedicated
Unveils Jan Styka’s massive, world-famous painting The Crucifixion in a custom-built auditorium.
Present — Cultural & Artistic Sanctuary
Operates as a world-renowned memorial park, hosting public art exhibitions, museum displays, and historical tours.
Things to Do at Forest Lawn
Spanning hundreds of acres in the San Fernando Foothills, Forest Lawn offers a serene blend of fine art appreciation, historical exploration, and landscape viewing:
- Visit the Forest Lawn Museum: Explore rotating art exhibitions, permanent collections of rare stained glass, historical artifacts, and world-class bronze sculptures housed in the hilltop museum.
- View The Crucifixion & Resurrection Paintings: Experience the dramatic audiovisual presentation in the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection, highlighting Jan Styka’s colossal panoramic masterpiece.
- Tour the Replicated European Chapels: Admire the historic architecture, stained glass windows, and gardens surrounding the Wee Kirk o’ the Heather and the Church of the Recessional.
- Marvel at Renaissance Marble Replicas: View exact, full-scale marble reproductions of Michelangelo's David, Pieta, and Moses positioned throughout the grounds.
- Experience Panoramic Glendale Views: Drive or walk to the upper hills of the park for sweeping vistas overlooking Downtown Glendale, Griffith Park, and the San Gabriel Mountains.
Tips Before You Visit
Because Forest Lawn is an active memorial park as well as a public art sanctuary, visitors should keep these respectful guidelines and logistics in mind:
- Maintain Memorial Park Etiquette: Remember that funeral services are regularly held on the grounds; maintain low noise levels and dress respectfully during your visit.
- Check Museum & Show Schedules: Admission to the Forest Lawn Museum and the Hall of Crucifixion-Resurrection is free, but theater presentation times run on specific hourly schedules.
- Understand Privacy Policies: While general photography of outdoor scenery and architecture is permitted, photographing private memorial services or private grave locations is strictly restricted.
- Obtain a Grounds Map at the Gate: Stop by the main security kiosk upon entry to pick up a detailed driving map to easily navigate the extensive winding hill roads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning a trip to explore the art, architecture, or history of Forest Lawn Glendale? Find quick answers to common visitor questions below.
Where is Forest Lawn Memorial Park Glendale located?
The main entrance is located at 1712 South Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205, situated near the intersection of Glendale Avenue and San Fernando Road.
Is admission to the park and museum free?
Yes. Access to the park grounds, the Forest Lawn Museum, parking facilities, and the art presentations in the Hall of Crucifixion are completely free to the public.
Where are famous celebrities buried in the park?
While many famous figures are interred across the grounds, several high-profile locations (such as the Great Mausoleum’s private court areas) are restricted to family members to maintain privacy.
What are the visiting hours for the park and museum?
Park grounds are generally open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (or 6:00 PM during daylight saving time). Museum hours typically run Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.