Memorial Benches, Trees, and Memorial Gardens
Reviewed by Everendium Editorial Team · Last reviewed August 18, 2026
Quick answer
Beyond a traditional headstone, many cemeteries and public spaces allow dedicating a bench, planting a memorial tree, or contributing to a memorial garden — often for a fee that includes a small plaque. These are popular ways to create a living or visitable tribute beyond the gravesite itself.
For families looking beyond a traditional headstone, there are several living and visitable ways to create a lasting tribute.
Memorial benches
Many cemeteries, parks, and public spaces offer a bench dedication program — typically for a fee that includes a small memorial plaque. This creates a place where people can sit and remember, often somewhere meaningful to the person beyond just their gravesite.
Memorial trees
Planting a tree in someone’s memory is a way of creating a living tribute that grows over time. Depending on the location and program, this might happen:
- At the cemetery itself, in a designated memorial area
- At a park, botanical garden, or other meaningful public space
- On private family property
Memorial gardens
A memorial garden is a landscaped space specifically dedicated to remembrance — sometimes at a cemetery, sometimes at a place of worship, park, or other institution. These often include individual plaques, benches, or plantings, and can serve as a shared space for a community rather than just one family.
Beyond the cemetery
None of these options require a connection to a cemetery at all — many families choose a location that was personally meaningful to their loved one instead, like a favorite park or a place with special memories.
Availability, costs, and specific programs vary by location — check with the specific cemetery, park, or institution you’re considering.
Frequently asked questions
Can I dedicate a memorial bench somewhere other than a cemetery?+
Yes — many public parks, botanical gardens, and other meaningful locations offer memorial bench or tree programs, often for a dedication fee that includes a small plaque.
Are memorial trees planted at the actual gravesite?+
Sometimes, if the cemetery allows it, but often memorial trees are planted in a separate designated area of the cemetery, or at an entirely different meaningful location the family chooses.
What is a memorial garden?+
A landscaped area — sometimes at a cemetery, sometimes at a place of worship, park, or other institution — specifically dedicated to remembrance, sometimes including individual plaques, benches, or plantings.
How much do these options typically cost?+
This varies enormously by location and program — a bench or tree dedication is often less expensive than a full headstone, but costs depend heavily on the specific program and location.
Sources
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