(Sold Out) Scandals, Scalawags, and Murder Most Foul Trolley Tour
Green-Wood is the final resting place of many famous and heroic figures in American history, but some of its deceased denizens have a more blemished reputation. Veteran tour guide Ruth Edebohls leads a thrilling exploration featuring the lives of murderers and the murdered, sullied adulteress Elizabeth Tilton and famed courtesan Lola Montez, as well as gangsters (Albert Anastasia and Joe Gallo), con men and schemers that count among Green-Wood’s most notorious permanent residents.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Brooklyn’s Brewing History Trolley Tour
From the colonial period to Prohibition to today's craft beer renaissance, Brooklyn has played a major role in brewing this most famous of beverages. Board the trolley and step back in time to discover the borough’s brewing roots with beer historian Chris Heuberger and Green-Wood historian Jeff Richman. Along the way, they’ll showcase Green-Wood's many beer-related points of interest, revealing the borough’s storied brewing prominence. We'll cover beer’s close connection with baseball, immigration, and industry, including Joseph Fallert, Jacob Ruppert, and Charles Feltman.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
(Sold Out) Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk – and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and ambience. Arm yourself with a flashlight to explore the cemetery’s stunning landscape as the sun sets over the horizon. On this walking tour, you’ll visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American culture, ending at our famous catacombs, which are normally closed to the public. Please bring a flashlight to light your way. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk – and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and ambience. Arm yourself with a flashlight to explore the cemetery’s stunning landscape as the sun sets over the horizon. On this walking tour, you’ll visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American culture, ending at our famous catacombs, which are normally closed to the public. Please bring a flashlight to light your way. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Green-Wood in an Hour
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesDon’t have a lot of time? These new tours are perfect for you. Because Green-Wood is an immense place, and a visit to our grounds can sometimes be overwhelming. What to see? Where to walk? That’s why we’ve created these short but power packed tours that give you a fascinating look at a single aspect of Green-Wood. On the third Friday of every month, one of our expert staff members will take you behind the scenes for rare insights into this historic cemetery. And after sixty minutes, you’re on your way!
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Gardens of Stone: Book Talk and Panel
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesNew York City is famous for many things - hot dogs, the Empire State Building, pigeons. And add to that list cemeteries. Author and funeral director Alexandra Kathryn Mosca leads us on an armchair tour of cemeteries both large and small (and we are talking really small) throughout the five boroughs. Her new book, Gardens of Stone, explores how memorials and monuments help to tell the tale of New York City, from its humble beginnings to its emergence as a world capital. She will be joined by John Rousmaniere, who has compiled an illustrated history of Evergreens Cemetery (which straddles Brooklyn and Queens), titled Green Oasis in Brooklyn, and Richard L. Simpson, who recently published a book on Staten Island's Moravian Cemetery.
Over There! Green-Wood and World War I Trolley Tour
April marks the 100th anniversary of United States' entry into World War I. Our trolley tour pays homage to the many laid to rest at Green-Wood who served in this war intended to end all wars. We will visit the graves of wealthy heiresses Dorothy and Gladys Cromwell whose dramatic double suicide captured the attention of the nation; reconnaissance pilot Lieutenant Kenneth Culbert shot down over enemy lines; and ace bomber pilot First Lieutenant John Cowperthwaite Tyler, amongst others. Along the way, we will read from letters these men and women detailing their heroic exploits, as well as discuss how our dedicated team of volunteers have identified these individuals and where they are interred.
(Sold Out) Dead Distillers Trolley Tour
Green-Wood is teaming with our friends at Kings County Distillery to delve into the past and present of distilling, Brooklyn style. The afternoon kicks off with a trolley tour of the cemetery's permanent residents with whiskey connections, including the only casualty in the contentious Whiskey Wars of the mid-1800s. Afterward, the trolley will head to Kings County Distillery in the Brooklyn Navy Yard to explore how whiskey is made and enjoy a tasting of four of their of their delectable products (which they have been producing since 2010).
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
The Future of the Funeral
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesFunerals may be as old as mankind, but they are continually evolving to meet the needs and demands of a changing world. Join Amy Cunningham, funeral director and death educator, to explore everything from home funeral options to simple cremation services to "green" burials. The most modern and recent technologies will also be presented. She will provide her insights and answer common questions like, "What if my deceased partner/spouse is of a different faith tradition or cultural background?", "How much direction can I give to celebrants and clergy or to friends and family?", "Is it possible to host my own funeral before I go?" In the course of this friendly hour, you'll get a glimpse of what a funeral can be - and you'll leave with comforting ideas and inspiration for yourself or someone you love.
Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesGreen-Wood and Creative Time partner to present Sophie Calle's site-specific installation "Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery". Visitors are invited to transcribe their most intimate secrets onto paper and lay them to rest in a grave designed by the artist.
During the debut weekend, visitors are encouraged to spend the day exploring the sculptures and monuments throughout Green-Wood, a tradition that dates back to the early 1800s. Free maps of the cemetery, specially made to accompany Calle's installation, will be available. Also guided walking tours, with an emphasis on symbols and iconography, will be offered at no cost.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesGreen-Wood and Creative Time partner to present Sophie Calle's site-specific installation "Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery". Visitors are invited to transcribe their most intimate secrets onto paper and lay them to rest in a grave designed by the artist.
During the debut weekend, visitors are encouraged to spend the day exploring the sculptures and monuments throughout Green-Wood, a tradition that dates back to the early 1800s. Free maps of the cemetery, specially made to accompany Calle's installation, will be available. Also guided walking tours, with an emphasis on symbols and iconography, will be offered at no cost.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Tree ID Workshop
As home to over 9,000 trees, Green-Wood’s collection of maples, oaks, beeches, and gingkoes is one of the best in New York City. But how can you possibly tell them apart? Arborist Bill Logan leads an intensive five hour workshop that begins with a close study of an array of twigs and leaves, and learning how to classify those using dichotomous keys.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
(Sold Out) Moonlight Tour
Arm yourself with a flashlight and join other fearless trekkers to explore Green-Wood’s intriguing tombstones and unforgettable catacombs. Historian Jeff Richman leads this walking tour that is also accompanied by the ethereal and atmospheric sounds of live accordion music. Keep an eye out for the spirits of illustrious cemetery residents like Boss Tweed, Louis Comfort Tiffany, Leonard Bernstein and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Skeptical strollers can simply enjoy the brilliance of the full moon. Please bring a flashlight to light your way. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Death Café
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesThe Death Café is a simple concept. It was inspired by the centuries-old European salon (or café) where people gathered informally to discuss philosophical, political or scientific ideas. In 2011, British entrepreneur Jon Underwood brought the concept to discussions of the most universal topic of all: death. Underwood's intention was to provide an opportunity to "increase awareness of death with a view to helping people make the most of their lives." Today, there are over 1,500 death cafes in 26 countries around the world.
Beginning in January 2017, Green-Wood is proud to host monthly gatherings of the Death Café here in our beautiful, modern chapel. Amy Cunningham, death educator and creator of the Brooklyn-based blog TheInspiredFuneral.com, invites participants to share their thoughts and feelings on death. It's an opportunity for safe and open exchanges, without an agenda. Coffee and light snacks are provided.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Twilight Tour
There are few places more atmospheric than a cemetery at dusk – and Green-Wood is top notch when it comes to beauty and ambience. Arm yourself with a flashlight to explore the cemetery’s stunning landscape as the sun sets over the horizon. On this walking tour, you’ll visit the graves of fascinating figures in New York and American culture, ending at our famous catacombs, which are normally closed to the public. Please bring a flashlight to light your way. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Hamilton: The Trolley Tour
An encore performance! History has its eyes on Green-Wood for this Hamilton filled trolley tour. Although Alexander himself rests elsewhere, many family members and those who crossed his path are interred here. Led by historian Jeff Richman, you’ll visit Robert Troup, Hamilton's college roommate; William Peter Van Ness, who was Burr's “second” during the fateful duel; Hamilton's son, John Hamilton, who spent years studying his father’s history; Hamilton's grandchildren, Elizabeth and Schuyler, and many others. You’ll also discuss the Battle of Brooklyn – fought on land that is now part of Green-Wood – and Hamilton's role in that battle, the largest of the American Revolution.
War Comes to Brooklyn Trolley Tour
This special two-part trolley tour will examine the connections between the residents of Green-Wood and the iconic Brooklyn Army Terminal. Our afternoon starts with a visit to the graves of those who built, worked, and served at the Army Terminal, as well as other important figures in the development of Brooklyn's military and industrial waterfront over the past century. Then we head to the Army Terminal, designed by renowned architect Cass Gilbert and completed in 1919, to discover its past as an important transportation and logistics hub through World War II until the mid-1960's and its future as home to over 100 companies in a wide range of industries. This tour last 2.5 hours, and it does require some walking and climbing stairs. The tour will begin and end at the Green-Wood Cemetery.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Cremation: History and Modern Process
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesWhat is cremation? How long have we been doing it, and how does it work? Amy Cunningham, death educator, leads this presentation of cremation's history and its impact on present-day and future funerals. This engaging and sometimes even light-hearted exploration will also touch on how to choose an end-of-life mode of disposition that expresses your own beliefs and values. Afterward, you will have the opportunity to visit the crematory with Gema LaBoccetta, Green-Wood's Crematory Manager, then chat with Amy and other attendees at a short reception.
Green-Wood in an Hour
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesDon’t have a lot of time? These new tours are perfect for you. Because Green-Wood is an immense place, and a visit to our grounds can sometimes be overwhelming. What to see? Where to walk? That’s why we’ve created these short but power packed tours that give you a fascinating look at a single aspect of Green-Wood. On the third Friday of every month, one of our expert staff members will take you behind the scenes for rare insights into this historic cemetery. And after sixty minutes, you’re on your way!
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
(Sold Out) Nocturnal Critters
Biologist and ecologist Mike McGraw will lead visitors in an afterhours exploration of Green-Wood’s nocturnal animals. As part of a multi-year survey, Mike will set up bait stations and light lures to attract moths, butterflies, and various winged invertebrates for documentation. Territorial owls and breeding frogs will also be potentially active during this event, so be ready to listen for and learn more about Green-Wood’s unique ecology. Mike will answer any and all you have while discussing his findings.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Pouring Green-Wood
When Joy Doumis and Jeremy Hammond approached Green-Wood in fall 2015 to ask if they could harvest the apples here, of course we had to know why. To make hard cider of course! Spread across 478 acres, our urban orchard has over 150 Malus (aka apple) trees! Using giant tarps to gather apples varieties that include Baldwin, Granny Smith, various crab apples, and a yet-to-be-identified apple variety, they set about turning their harvest into a delicious fermentation of homemade hard cider. In keeping with the sustainable farming movement and a love for all things Green-Wood, join Joy and Jeremy for the story of how they produced over 100 bottles of hard cider (which they call Proper Cider) in their own back yard literally. Naturally, a tasting of the final product is included.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Architecture at Green-Wood
Green-Wood is home to a spectacular collection of 19th-century architectural gems by some of the most famed architects in American history. Designing works to immortalize their patrons, many –including James Renwick, Jacob Wrey Mould, and Gamaliel King, among others – have also established their own permanent residences here. This walking tour explores the critical role architects have played in transforming the landscapes of not only Green-Wood, but New York City. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
Birding in Peace
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesBefore our gates open to the general public, birding expert Rob Jett leads these peaceful Sunday morning walking tours to discover the many birds that call Green-Wood home. Copies of our new Bird Checklist will be available to all tour participants. Comfortable footwear is recommended.
(Sold Out) Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Memorial Day Concert
Green-Wood Cemetery 500 25th Street, Brooklyn, NY, United StatesIt’s a NYC favorite, now in its nineteenth year! Bring a blanket and enjoy this free early summer performance. The concert features the ISO Symphonic Band, founded in 1995 to sponsor talented students throughout New York City and led by the band’s inimitable founder and conductor Brian P. Worsdale. Each year we feature the works of Green-Wood’s permanent residents Fred Ebb, Louis Moreau Gottschalk, Leonard Bernstein, and many others. Enjoy the beautiful landscape with your fellow New Yorkers, as well local vendors selling food and drink throughout the day.
Memorial Day Walking and Trolley Tours
Two special tours, one walking and one trolley, begin immediately after the Memorial Day concert, featuring monuments and memorials with veteran connections.
Historic Trolley Tour
Experience the most magnificent and historic 478 acres in New York City. Join our expert tour guides to hear fascinating stories of Green-Wood’s permanent residents, see breathtaking views of Manhattan, tread where George Washington and his troops fought the Battle of Brooklyn, and much more.
Each tour boasts great views, beautiful monuments throughout, rolling hills, century-old trees and stories of the fascinating persons interred at Green-Wood. Please note: all tours include a visit to Green-Wood's Historic Chapel and to Battle Hill.
Green-Wood’s public programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature, as well as the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs.
