Step back in time and explore Sleepy Hollow Cemetery by kerosene lantern light. This two-hour evening walk is the perfect introduction to why these storied grounds are so famous—an atmospheric journey through history under the glow of flickering flame.

Your guide leads you past the resting places of titans of industry like Andrew Carnegie and William Rockefeller, and you’ll meet Washington Irving, whose famous short story gave our village its very name. Along the way, you’ll visit two-term Chicago Mayor Walter Gurnee, hear about the figures vital to the success of Wells Fargo and American Express, and take in the cemetery’s beautiful art, architecture, and fascinating symbolism—all illuminated by lantern light.

It’s a memorable way to experience Sleepy Hollow after dark, steeped in the atmosphere that has made this cemetery legendary.

Location: Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, North Gate — 540 North Broadway
Parking: Free parking is available inside the gate. Gates open approximately 30 minutes before start time.
What to expect: This is a two-hour walk covering more than a mile over unpaved roads, hills, and stairs—some visitors find the pace challenging, especially in the dark. Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended. Please note the tour begins at the North Gate, not the South Gate that map apps often show as the main entrance. Tours run rain or shine.

Note: The Classic Daytime Tour follows this same route with the same content—it simply starts in a different location. Advance tickets required. All proceeds support the preservation of the cemetery grounds through the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery Historic Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Other Ways to Explore Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

Prefer daylight, or looking for a different angle on these historic grounds? Consider these companion experiences:

• Classic Daytime Tour — The very same route and stories as the Lantern Tour, walked by daylight—ideal if you’d like to see more of the landscape.
• The Original Knickerbocker Tour — A one-hour daytime walk focused on Washington Irving, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” and why he’s called the Original Knickerbocker.
• September & October Special Events — Seasonal tours and programs that lean into Sleepy Hollow’s legendary autumn spirit.

See all Sleepy Hollow Cemetery tours →