The Carter Gardens & Burial Site

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Duration:
1 minute, 46 seconds

Jimmy Carter National Historical Park provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the lasting impact of President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, including their final resting place.

 

“What are the things that you can't see that are important? I would say justice, truth, humility, service, compassion, love. They're the guiding lights of a life.” – Jimmy Carter

Jimmy Carter National Historical Park provides visitors with an opportunity to explore the lasting impact of President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter, including their final resting place. Despite their extensive global travels and influence, the Carters' always returned to their beloved hometown. They chose Plains, where their lives began and where their most important relationships were built, as their final resting place.

Rosalynn Carter was interred on November 28, 2023, after passing on November 19, 2023. Jimmy Carter was interred on January 9, 2025, following his passing on December 29, 2024.

 
Two simple headstones in the center of a garden.
The Carters' graves are situated within a memorial garden, designed by Rosalynn Carter.

NPS / Laura Kuyat

The Memorial Garden

The Carters’ graves are located in the central memorial garden, designed by Rosalynn Carter herself. It offers a quiet, contemplative space for visitors to reflect on the couple’s lifelong dedication to peace, service, and community.

The garden overlooks a pond the Carters built together, where you may spot wildlife such as foxes, herons, or butterflies fluttering among the native blooms. The property features several butterfly gardens, planted to support pollinators and reflect the couple’s environmental values.

Their simple granite headstones, modeled after those of President and Mrs. Nixon, reflect the Carter family's humility.

A Thoughtful Visit

This area is more than a gravesite, it's a space for remembrance and appreciation, where you can walk quietly, pause at a bench, listen to birdsong, and consider the legacy of two remarkable lives.

Visitors are also welcome to enjoy a recreational area nearby. This portion of the property offers space to relax, journal, or enjoy a picnic while remaining respectful of the solemnity of the burial area.

Visitor Information and Safety

Please note that there are no public restrooms at the Carter Gardens. Be sure to plan accordingly before your visit.

This area is outdoors and can become extremely hot, especially during Georgia summers. Visitors are encouraged to check the weather before arriving and take necessary safety precautions during periods of high heat. Wear sunscreen, bring water, and consider visiting during the cooler parts of the day. If a heat advisory is in effect, limit your time outside, seek shade when needed, and listen to your body.

 

Know Before You Go

The Carter Gardens are located on mostly flat, open terrain with a wheelchair accessible paved walkway leading to the central memorial garden where President and Mrs. Carter are laid to rest. Benches are available for rest and reflection near the gravesite.

 

Last updated: July 17, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

300 North Bond Street
Plains, GA 31780

Phone:

(229) 824 - 4104
The visitor information desk is staffed from 10 am until 5 pm Eastern Time daily, except for New Year's Day (January 1), Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day (December 25).

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