Couch Tomb, Chicagoland Travel Guide

Explore Chicago's history at the Couch Tomb, the last remnant of Lincoln Park's days as a city cemetery.

The Couch Tomb, located in Lincoln Park, is the last above-ground reminder of the area's past as the Chicago City Cemetery. Built in 1858 for businessman Ira Couch, the tomb stands as a curious monument amidst the park's greenery, offering a glimpse into Chicago's early history.

A brief summary to Couch Tomb

Chicago, Lincoln Park, Illinois, 60614, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Couch Tomb.

Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tomb's architecture and surroundings.
Combine your visit with a stroll through Lincoln Park and a visit to the nearby Chicago History Museum.
Take a walking tour to learn more about the history of Lincoln Park and the Couch family.

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Getting There

Walking

The Couch Tomb is located in the southern part of Lincoln Park, near the Chicago History Museum. From the museum, walk south into the park; the tomb will be visible on your left.
Public Transport

Several CTA bus routes stop near Lincoln Park, including routes #22, #36, #74, #8, #37, #134, #143, #151 and #156. The Armitage station on the Brown and Purple Lines is also within walking distance. From any of these stops, follow the park's pathways towards the Chicago History Museum; the Couch Tomb is a short walk south of the museum. CTA bus fare is $2.25, and 'L' train fare is $2.50.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Ask your driver to take you to the Chicago History Museum in Lincoln Park. The Couch Tomb is a short walk south of the museum within the park. A taxi or ride-share from downtown Chicago will typically cost $13-$16.

Discover more about Couch Tomb

The Couch Tomb, a stoic structure in Chicago's Lincoln Park, marks the final vestige of what was once the Chicago City Cemetery. Established in the 1840s, the cemetery was transformed into Lincoln Park in 1869, with most remains moved to other cemeteries. However, the Couch Tomb remained, largely because moving the 50-ton structure proved too expensive.Ira Couch, a prominent hotelier who died in 1857, commissioned the tomb. He and several family members are interred within. The tomb's architect was John M. Van Osdel, who also designed Chicago's first City Hall and the Tremont House, one of the hotels operated by the Couch brothers. The Tremont House was a popular hotel where Abraham Lincoln stayed.Over the years, the Couch Tomb has become a source of local legends, with some claiming ghostly apparitions appear at midnight. The tomb has undergone renovations, including cleaning, masonry work, and the addition of ornamental fencing and lighting. Today, the Couch Tomb offers visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on Chicago's past.