aventuro Back to map A
Places of interest

Inglewood Park Cemetery

4.7 · 910 reviews
A quiet place for contemplation
Inglewood Park Cemetery, 720 E Florence Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301, United States
Interesting facts
1

The cemetery is the final resting place of jazz icon Ray Charles, whose crypt is located in a private area.

2

Ella Fitzgerald, the renowned 'First Lady of Song,' is interred within the cemetery grounds.

3

The site houses the burial locations of several members of the Beach Boys, including founders Brian, Dennis, and Carl Wilson.

4

It features a dedicated memorial area for the victims of the 1920s tragedy known as the 'Inglewood Park Cemetery explosion'.

5

The cemetery contains an extensive collection of stained glass windows within its mausoleum complexes.

6

It was one of the first cemeteries in the region to move away from traditional upright headstones toward a 'memorial park' design with flush-to-the-ground markers.

7

Chet Baker, the influential West Coast jazz trumpeter, is interred here.

8

The cemetery grounds have been used as filming locations for various television productions due to their expansive, well-maintained aesthetic.

Overview

Inglewood Park Cemetery is a historic 300-acre non-denominational burial ground founded in 1905, notable for its significant collection of mausoleums and park-like landscaping. It serves as the final resting place for numerous notable figures in American music, film, and sports history. The grounds feature a diverse range of architectural styles in its memorial structures, including the iconic Faithful Central Bible Church and various ornate private mausoleums. The cemetery is organized into distinct sections, such as the Terrace of the Sacred Heart and the Park of Memories. It functions as both an active burial site and a space for local historical reflection within the Inglewood community. The landscape design incorporates mature trees, expansive lawns, and structured garden areas that contrast with the dense urban surroundings of the Los Angeles basin.

Photo spot

The central fountain area and the exterior architecture of the main historical mausoleum buildings.

Insider tips

Use the main office map to locate specific high-profile graves, as the property is vast and difficult to navigate on foot.

Respect ongoing funeral services by keeping a significant distance from active gathering areas.

Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes, as the terrain is expansive and involves walking across uneven grass sections.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to enter locked private mausoleums or restricted memorial gardens.

Good to know

Open daily for visitors, though access to specific interior mausoleum sections may be restricted based on private event schedules.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet, respectful tone; photography should be discreet and avoid intruding upon mourning families or ceremonies.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Early morning in the spring or fall to avoid extreme heat and ensure quiet conditions.
Address
Inglewood Park Cemetery, 720 E Florence Ave, Inglewood, CA 90301, United States
33.969, -118.342
Get directions
Details
Notable IntermentsRay Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, Chet Baker, Etta James, The Beach Boys members
Architectural FeaturesExtensive mausoleum complexes, ornate stained glass, and park-style landscape design

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Early morning in the spring or fall to avoid extreme heat and ensure quiet conditions..

The central fountain area and the exterior architecture of the main historical mausoleum buildings.

Close by you'll find Edward Vincent Jr. Park, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, California Science Center.