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General Grant National Memorial

The final resting place of President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia, this neo-classical monument stands as the largest mausoleum in North America.

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What is the General Grant National Memorial known for?

Commonly called Grant's Tomb, it is the final resting place of President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia, and is the largest mausoleum in North America.

What are the hours?

The interior of the mausoleum is open Wednesday through Sunday and selected federal holidays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The visitor center and restrooms are open during those same days from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Where is it located?

The memorial is located in Upper Manhattan at 122nd Street and Riverside Drive, situated in the median of Riverside Drive just east of Riverside Park.

What is the architectural style of the memorial?

It is a neo-classical structure of the Doric order, designed by New York architect John H. Duncan and inspired by the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

Is it dog friendly?

Service animals are welcome at the memorial.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The General Grant National Memorial, widely known as Grant's Tomb, is a massive neo-classical structure of the Doric order. Designed by New York architect John H. Duncan, the monument was inspired by the ancient Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. Construction began in 1891 and concluded on April 17, 1897, when the remains of the President were placed within a red granite sarcophagus. The site was officially dedicated on April 27, 1897. This landmark serves as the final resting place for President Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia Dent Grant. It is recognized as the largest mausoleum in North America and has been designated as a national memorial since 1958. Its facade and interior are also recognized as New York City designated landmarks and are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The memorial honors Grant's dual legacy as the Commanding General of the Union Army who ended the bloodiest conflict in American history and as the President who worked to heal the nation. The site emphasizes themes of peace and equality for all citizens. To support this education, the visitor center features exhibits interpreting Grant's Civil War leadership and his postwar presidency. Operations of the site were transferred to the National Park Service on May 1, 1959. Today, the memorial remains a significant point of reflection on the American Civil War and the subsequent era of reconstruction. Visitors can explore both the imposing exterior and the solemn interior to appreciate the scale of this architectural tribute.

Visitor tips

  • The interior of the mausoleum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Plan your visit around the visitor center hours, which are Wednesday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
  • Avoid visiting on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, or New Year's Day, as the entire site is closed.
  • Service animals are welcome throughout the memorial.

Nearby context

The memorial is situated in the median of Riverside Drive at 122nd Street in Upper Manhattan, positioned just east of the scenic Riverside Park.

Sources

Evidence and links