Fort McPherson National Cemetery Memorial Day Visiting Hours

Just south of I-80 near Maxwell, Fort McPherson National Cemetery offers a meaningful stop during Memorial Day weekend as you travel the Platte River country. The grounds reflect Nebraska’s military and frontier history, and the setting invites a slower pace as you pay respects. On Memorial Day, the cemetery office is open to help you locate specific headstones or monuments, which is especially helpful if you are visiting family members or researching an ancestor.

Plan for a quiet walk across rolling lawns lined with markers, where small American flags at each grave create a striking, orderly vista. This is a place for remembrance, not entertainment, so you will want to keep voices low and follow posted regulations. Pets are generally not permitted except for service animals, and staying on designated paths helps protect the burial areas.

For the most comfortable visit, arrive in the morning to avoid the strongest sun and enjoy lighter foot traffic. Admission is free, and the office is typically staffed from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM on the holiday. Wear comfortable shoes for grass and gravel, and bring water and sunscreen since shade can be limited. Most main paths are accessible, though some sections require walking on uneven turf.

If you are extending your time in central Nebraska, base yourself near North Platte or elsewhere in the Platte River valley and use Lake.com to compare vacation rentals and local stays. If you are looking for a formal Memorial Day ceremony, times can vary by year, so check with the office when you arrive. The grounds remain open in rainy weather, and the office provides a dry place for information and assistance.