General Grant National Memorial image

General Grant National Memorial

Tourist attraction Historic site National park History museum Memorial

Elaborate granite & marble tomb (North America’s largest) for President Ulysses S. Grant & his wife. People often mention Grant, memorial, history, tomb, beautiful, area, visit, mausoleum, General, Riverside,


Address

W 122nd St &, Riverside Dr, New York, 10027

Website

www.nps.gov

Contact

(646) 670-7251

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (1.1K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 4 PM
  • Monday: Closed

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Grant (13) memorial (12) history (8) tomb (8) beautiful (7) area (7) visit (7) mausoleum (6) General (6) Riverside (6)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Gourmand 1 year ago on Google
    Don’t pass this up when you come to NYC. The incredible history alone of former President Grant is worth coming here. This is an enormous memorial created for Grant and his wife, Julia. It’s such a beautiful area and very quiet as well from the usual noise of the city. The best part is that the park ranger that works inside is incredible! He was so knowledgeable about American history and gave great anecdotes and stories about Grant’s life and the significance of the building. I would come here again in a heartbeat for the stories alone!
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 WV Almost Heaven (Montani Semper L. 3 years ago on Google
    What a wonderful tribute to the other half of the team that literally saved the union. Without both Lincoln and Grant the survival of the USA may not have been. The grandeur and solemnity of the tomb are a perfect balance. We feel better for having experienced it. Not seen it, for the Grant monument is experienced. Thanks and praise to our gracious Heavenly FATHER for having used this man and President Lincoln to preserve the United States of America. Surely Lincoln and Grant are equals as men, as leaders as well as Presidents. His tomb is fitting tribute.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Nils P. 2 years ago on Google
    Once one of the most famous landmarks of NYC, this mausoleum for General (and President Grant) and his wife is now almost a secret and a hidden gem. The visit is definitely worth it with the inside finally reopened after a Covid-induced break.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Dejan B. 1 year ago on Google
    This was my third visit to NYC, but the very first time I've visited this memorial. We did it after our Harlem tour, as the memorial is at the western Harlem, by the Hudson river. It is set in a beautiful park, with a calm atmosphere. The tree arched walkway made a spectacular site while approaching it. However, we were disappointed finding it closed due to Covid ??!!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Spencer O. 10 months ago on Google • 117 reviews
    This tomb is even more impressive when one knows just how decayed this structure was in recent memory prior to its restoration in the later 90s. This is a beautiful marble structure as while it may not have the most to see it is a great, and free, site to visit for a little while if you are in the neighborhood. The surrounding area is very pretty and you can definitely make a good little day trip to the area and then explore the neighborhood, Columbia university is a short walk from here as well.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dylan S. 8 months ago on Google • 32 reviews
    The General Grant National Memorial left an indelible mark on me. This towering tribute to Ulysses S. Grant is a testament to his significance in American history. The majestic mausoleum that is larger than any presidential gravesite that I have been to, surrounded by Riverside Park's peaceful setting, creates a reflective and contemplative atmosphere. The interior's intricate design and solemnity pay fitting homage to Grant's role as a military leader and president. Exploring the exhibits and learning about his life provided a deeper understanding of his impact on the nation. If you're interested in history, leadership, or simply seeking a place of quiet reverence, the General Grant National Memorial is a moving experience that offers insight and perspective.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Richard M. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful location. Always wanted to visit. Make sure to check the hours in advance. Hours listed here were different than the sign posted on the building.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Steven S. 1 year ago on Google
    One of my favorite places in all of Manhattan, perhaps because it is quiet and forgotten, or it is across the street from Riverside Church (beautiful in its own right), or maybe because the leading plaza is so peaceful. Or that it is an easily accessible National Monument from the 1 train subway one block away. Orrrr, it lies along Riverside Drive, a beautifully lined arterial with beautiful architecture that is quieter than the adjacent Riverside Park (noisy because the highway lines it to the immediate west). It’s ALL of those things! And Grant wanted to be buried (interred, not underground) in NYC bc his wife Julia lived in NYC and he wanted to be with wife...and if he was buried in Arlington, Julia could not be with him bc she wasn’t a veteran. The mausoleum‘s design is inspired by the ancient Greek Mausoleum of Halicarnassus and Napoleon’s tomb at Les Invalides in Paris.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tere G. 2 years ago on Google • 502 reviews
    I went during a weekday during the late afternoon and it was quiet. The area is pretty serene, lots of space and hardly anyone around. The memorial itself is fenced off, but you still see structure even. I would give it a full 5 star had I gone inside, but I would still recommend strolling by if you’re in the area. It’s worth checking out the exterior.

  • 3/5 BINBIN G. 9 months ago on Google • 73 reviews
    The overall natural environment is very good, but parking in the surrounding area is very difficult. There are very few parking spaces, and a large number of vehicles occupy them. There is a strong, sour smell in the small park behind the memorial hall, and I'm not sure what the situation is. The memorial hall is magnificent and solemn, but upon entering, there is a strong musty smell that is very irritating to my throat. I coughed intensely for more than ten minutes before finally recovering.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Tr1sh 7 months ago on Google • 131 reviews
    I went on a Friday morning early, before the tomb itself was open. The outside is deeply shaded by huge old trees, which in the heat of summer is divine, providing a cooler spot to sit and just enjoy a green spot in the city. I believe the outside could be maintained a bit better, especially with the upkeep of the beautiful mosaic tile seating around the tomb itself. I did see many people out walking their dogs around the grounds and the adjacent intermingled paths of Riverside Park.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alyssa P. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a great national Park site. So much history about Julia and Ulysses. The mausoleum is incredible! In the summertime, there’s usually special events like concerts- Great day in Harlem, and jazz Mobile.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ford T. 8 months ago on Google • 158 reviews
    After reading a Grant biography I finally decided to visit after 60 years of living in and around NYC. It really is a beautiful memorial. If you go on a Sunday there is ample local free parking. Take some time and pay your respects to the man who helped save the republic.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jane K. 6 months ago on Google • 133 reviews
    Beautiful memorial. Thoughtfully designed. Doesn’t take a long time to look around. Worth a visit if you’re roaming around in upper west side.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Davis D. J. 2 years ago on Google
    Once one of New York’s must-see monuments, this grand mausoleum is now often overlooked by tourists. The area is full of interesting things to see. Be sure to cross the street for the partially hidden gift shop and visitor center w/its short film and artifacts on display. Just a few hundred yards N of it is the Amiable Child’s grave and monument (see photo).
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Diana A. 7 months ago on Google • 11 reviews
    Great visit for history buffs. Recommend using public transit so that you can see view of the city. Bus stops across the site.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Andy N. 5 months ago on Google • 38 reviews
    Beautiful memorial. Grounds are well kept and the lighting is very cool at night. Interesting outdoor artwork display.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zack 3 months ago on Google • 65 reviews New
    The trees along the walkway leading to the main entrance are large and make up a pleasant moment. The memorial itself i composed of abundance of well-designed marble. All in all, it makes for a pleasant if brief detour from the surrounding neighborhood and Columbia University nearby.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Henry M. 2 years ago on Google
    The monument itself was impressive. However, it was closed. The website said it was open, but it’s closed when you get there :(
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 swith m. 2 years ago on Google
    It’s serene,and a must see place .It’s well preserved and the place is well looked after by the staff.The staff is very welcoming and helpful.one actually gets the feeling that they are welcome here .The architecture is really interesting
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mahima S. 2 years ago on Google
    Only mausoleum in US and we came here on a weekend to explore. Could not go inside due to covid situation but a nice walk there.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jose O. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing. This place is huge. I was not expecting that it would be. Make sure that you go inside.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Donald H. 1 year ago on Google
    It upholds the dignity and status of this past U.S. General & President. The history of this era is really tragic and there are numerous documents that will enlighten you as to the struggles Americans had to overcome during that era. The memorial itself is a work-of-art and is sure to invoke sympathy, respect, & admiration geared towards General Grant, his wife & their trials and tribulations.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tirzah H. 1 year ago on Google
    It was Harlem Week and crowded! Filled with all nationalities young & old. Dancing, eating singing more line dancing, drinks and mucho merchandise to choose from. Got a chance to see Kenny Lattimore & Ray Chew...Excitement til the end

  • 5/5 Sandor F. 1 year ago on Google
    What is better than this impressive neoclassical monument was the incredible park staff who had so many interesting stories and and insights to share. One ranger in particular really communicated his passion for history, research, and the site he had the privilege to guard and share with visitors. Thank you!

  • 5/5 Ira G. 1 year ago on Google
    Was inside once. Very cool. Spent much time outside learning to ride a unicycle. Pass by several times each week. Wonderful setting for large gatherings. At night, color changing lights illuminate the top.

  • 5/5 Allen W. 1 year ago on Google
    wonderful time I go every year to Harlem week and going this weekend to 135 st old lady controlling people sitting behind her so funny .

  • 5/5 Dona Elena H. 2 years ago on Google
    A very scenic, peaceful, clean park. Covid caused the memorial monument to still be gated off limits.

  • 4/5 Sid C. 2 years ago on Google
    There is a nice building in the traditional architecture, similar to other nearby Columbia University main campus that houses General Grant's tomb. The inside of the tomb is closed due to the pandemic, as is the visitor center. This is in the middle of Riverside Park, which is a nice oasis on the west side of Manhattan. The grounds are serene and uncrowded. Can't give it five stars without going inside but the outside is very nice.

  • 5/5 Marion S. 2 years ago on Google
    ...bus north, bus east, wow...Morningside hghts. higher than murray hill...river is BELOW there! 125th street sights to behold...that excursion was something...said ty to gentleman there, saw him opening shop...

  • 5/5 Izzy C. 3 years ago on Google
    Eventythough I've seen and been here a gazillion times 😂😷🏙️ I never get tired of the 360 architectural view surrounded by historically natural land we call earth and the new yorkers who continue to cultivate it's beauty that we admire so much.

  • 1/5 Bob B. 2 years ago on Google
    As of May 2nd, 2021 when we visited, it is fenced off due to covid. Very disappointed that Google has it as open but it's been closed since early 2020.


Call (646) 670-7251 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✗ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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