What Is a Memorial Park?
A memorial park, also known as a memorial garden, is a type of cemetery thoughtfully designed to blend natural beauty with a tranquil atmosphere. These spaces often feature:
- Leafy trees and manicured grounds
- Blooming flowers and peaceful gardens
- Benches for quiet reflection
- Pathways ideal for meditative walks
The result is an inviting, serene environment where family and friends can visit, reflect and remember their loved ones in a setting that feels peaceful and organic.
Why are memorial parks gaining popularity?
Many people today are drawn to the idea of a more natural and modern approach to cemeteries. Memorial parks prioritize beauty, calm and comfort, creating a space that feels connected to nature rather than formal or traditional.
We offer beautiful memorial parks across the United States and Canada, and our compassionate providers are here to help you find the location that best meets your needs, preferences and location.
Memorial parks vs. traditional cemeteries: what's the difference?
Memorial parks and cemeteries serve the same fundamental purpose: providing a respectful final resting place for a loved one. However, they differ in design and feel.
Traditional cemeteries:
- Feature rows of headstones and grave markers
- Often have a formal, orderly layout
- May offer sections dedicated to particular religious groups
Memorial parks:
- Emphasize natural beauty with gardens, wooded paths and water features
- Often use more subtle grave markers to maintain an organic aesthetic
- Provide tranquil spaces for visitors to reflect and remember
If religious traditions or more traditional features are a priority, a cemetery might feel like the best fit. If you prefer a setting with a more natural and peaceful feel, a memorial park could be the ideal choice.
Memorial parks and memorial gardens: Are they the same?
The terms memorial park and memorial garden are often used interchangeably, and for good reason. Both focus on creating welcoming spaces that emphasize nature while offering loved ones a beautiful place to visit. However, each may have unique features, so it’s worth exploring different options to find the property right for you.
Property options in memorial parks
Both traditional cemeteries and memorial parks offer property options, such as:
- Individual burial plots
- Cremation niches and benches
- Scattering gardens
- Community mausoleums
Visiting a few locations can help you understand what's available and find a place that feels meaningful for you and your family.
Let us help you plan ahead
End-of-life planning is a deeply personal process. Dignity Memorial® providers are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re choosing a memorial park for yourself or a loved one, we’ll help you explore your options and find the perfect resting place to honor a life well-lived.