News, Tours & Events
See the beauty of Forest Lawn for yourself
Forest Lawn offers Sunday tours from June through September, as described below. Please note that tickets are required for these tours. 2010 Sunday Tour Schedule.
Please note that no refunds will be given on tickets unless the cemetery cancels the tour. Ticket holders can call our tour hotline at (716) 885-1606 Ext. 302 to see if a tour has been cancelled. Cancellation will be posted at 8:00 a.m. on the day of the tour.
If you are interested in pre-arrangements for yourself or a loved one, and you would prefer a private tour of Forest Lawn based on your individual needs, please call (716) 885-1600, or email flc@forest-lawn.com
Docent tours start on Saturday June 26th
This year, Forest Lawn is pleased to also offer one-hour walking tours every Saturday beginning at 2:00 p.m. at the Main Street gate. No reservations required; $10 per person.
History Tours
In its 160 years, Forest Lawn Cemetery has become an enduring chronicle of local history and a cultural landmark that celebrates local accomplishments. Considering the impact of these achievements on America and the world, the cemetery is a national asset that fully deserves its designation in the New York State and National Registers of Historic Places.
On this journey through time and Buffalo’s history, you will travel through Forest Lawn’s historic grounds to hear stories about some of the 155,000 people buried here.
In traveling through the natural landscape that is part of one of Western New York’s largest arboretums, you will see many highlights – including views of the magnificent architecture, memorials and works of art by notable local and international artists. You may also encounter a few of Forest Lawn’s residents, who will gladly give you some insight into their contributions to Buffalo (and, in many cases, our nation).
Length: One and a half hours
Transportation: Air-conditioned motor coach
Location: Tours start at the Delaware and Delavan gates of Forest Lawn, and end approximately 100 yards away at the famous Blocher Memorial.
Dates: Our tours run from June through September. Please check back to see our 2010 schedule.
Nature Tours
Forest Lawn is a picturesque rural cemetery, with rolling hills, charming valleys, spring-fed lakes and a meandering creek. There are thousands of trees in Forest Lawn, representing 200 different species and varieties that make the cemetery an important arboretum in our region. In addition, more than 240 kinds of birds have been spotted in Forest Lawn. They are encouraged to be year-round residents here, thanks to the no-rent housing provided in the countless birdhouses placed throughout the cemetery. Of course, other plant life and wildlife also enhances the beauty of this special place, located right in the heart of the City of Buffalo.
Join our resident nature expert, Kim Alexander-Thomson, as she takes you on a walking tour for an up-close and personal look at the many natural wonders that lie within the cemetery gates.
Length: One and a half hours
Transportation: This is a walking tour
Location: Tours start and end at the Delaware and Delavan gates of Forest Lawn
Dates: Tours run from June through September. Please check back to see our 2010 schedule.
African-American Tour
Learn about the notable African-Americans buried in Forest Lawn who made significant contributions to the City of Buffalo and to the nation (for example - Mary Burnett Talbert, who served terms as president, vice president and director of the NAACP). This tour is a collaborative event with The Afro-American Historical Association of the Niagara Frontier, Inc.
Length: One and a half hours
Transportation: Air-conditioned motor coach
Location: Tours start and end at the Delaware and Delavan gates of Forest Lawn
Dates: Our tours run June through September. Please check back to see our 2010 schedule.
The Trees of Forest Lawn – An Overview and Walking Tour
Forest Lawn is one of Western New York's largest Arboretae. There are more than 3,700 trees in Forest Lawn, representing 200 different species and varieties.
Join William Snyder, Consulting Arborist for Forest Lawn Cemetery, as he takes you on a walking journey to view and discuss the many rare and beautiful tree specimens that are a part of the manicured landscape of the cemetery.
A brief discussion in the historic E.B. Green-designed Chapel at Forest Lawn will precede the walk. The event is limited to 30 guests.
Cost: $7 per person.
Date: Friday - June 25
Time: 2pm.
Tickets may be purchased at the Forest Lawn office or by calling 885-1600.
click here for printable PDF flyer of tour