Graceland Cemetery's Revitalized Entry Plaza Welcomes Graceland West Residents This Winter

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Graceland West · December 30, 2025

Graceland West residents have a beautiful new gateway to one of the neighborhood's most cherished green spaces this winter season. The "beautiful" and "peaceful" Graceland Cemetery, which borders the neighborhood, has transformed its entrance into a welcoming community gathering spot with a completely redesigned pedestrian-friendly plaza.

The historic 121-acre cemetery, long appreciated by locals who live in the area, now features new plantings and an iron gateway arch that officially embraces its role as a public park for neighboring residents. "It was cars first, not people. Now it's more like a college campus," explains Doug Hoerr, whose firm designed the new entrance. The redesign creates a "portal" where visitors can "take a deep breath coming out of the city," providing Graceland West neighbors with a tranquil winter retreat. As Jensen Allen, Graceland's executive director notes, the cemetery is returning to its Victorian roots when these spaces were designed for both the living and the dead.

Residents interested in exploring this neighborhood treasure can visit during daylight hours throughout the winter months. The Graceland West Community Association will also host a special Q1 community meeting on Thursday, March 13th at Quantum LEEP Academy (1447 W. Montrose Ave) featuring Jensen Allen who will share insights on Graceland Cemetery's history and future plans. The meeting will include updates from other local leaders including Seth Boustead from Access Contemporary Music and Alderwoman Clay from the 46th Ward. Whether you're a longtime resident or new to the area, this is your chance to stay informed and help shape the future of Graceland West.

Sources:
1. https://nextdoor.com/neighborhood/gracelandwest--chicago--il/
2. https://gracelandwest.org/category/events-announcements/