Here Are The 12 Most Beautiful Gardens You'll Ever See In New Jersey
By Kristen|Updated on March 08, 2024(Originally published December 22, 2022)
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Kristen
Author
Kristen is a writer, editor, and social media maven who loves her state. Born and raised in New Jersey, sharing all it has to offer is her passion. After attending Montclair State University, she continued her education online, obtaining certifications in social media management.
This is the Garden State, so you can expect some incredible gardens in New Jersey. Big and small, we’ve got them all! From north to south, there are so many beautiful gardens, it is impossible to put together an exhaustive list; however, we’ve attempted the impossible. Below, you’ll find a list of some of the best gardens in New Jersey that we have discovered. And though just a small portion of the state’s gardens are featured, the list below provides a peek into some of the state’s most stunning gardens and the most beautiful places in New Jersey.
1. Deep Cut Gardens, Middletown
152 Red Hill Rd, Middletown Township, NJ 07748, USA
As stated on the Monmouth County Parks System website, the 54 acres that make up Deep Cut Gardens are comprised of gardens and greenhouses, which "are planned as a living catalog of cultivated and native plant materials to be observed through the seasons." To put it simply, Deep Cut Gardens is a beautiful place, all year long. It's also often touted as one of the best - and most elusive - of all New Jersey gardens.
The collection at Presby Memorial Iris Gardens includes approximately 1,500 varieties, 10,000 plants, and 100,000 blooms each season. Admission is free, but donations are accepted and encouraged. Learn more by visiting the Essex County Parks website.
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3. Greenwood Gardens, Short Hills
Greenwood Gardens, 274 Old Short Hills Rd, Short Hills, NJ 07078, USA
The 28-acre garden at Greenwood Gardens is home to ponds, meadows, woodlands and, of course, flowers. In other words, it's one of the most picturesque gardens in New Jersey.
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4. Sister Mary Grace Burns Arboretum, Lakewood
Georgian Court University, 900 Lakewood Ave, Lakewood, NJ 08701, USA
On the campus of Georgian Court University, this arboretum contains several gardens including a classic European-style garden, a Japanese garden, and a sunken garden. It's no doubt one of the most beautiful places in New Jersey.
This energy-efficient tropical Orchid display at Duke Farms is open year-round for the public to enjoy. The greenhouse utilizes solar heating and focuses on water conservation. One of the best hidden gems in New Jersey, it's worth seeking out, as it's quite the sight.
6. New Jersey State Botanical Garden At Skylands, Ringwood
The beautiful Skylands Manor and Botanical Gardens are open to the public all year long. The nearly 4,000-acre site includes 96 acres of gardens. Enjoy the Lilac Garden, Magnolia Walk, and Crab Apple Vista, among others. Ready to pay a visit? First, check out our full article on the New Jersey State Botanical Garden At Skylands.
Among the best hidden gems in New Jersey, Rutgers Garden boasts a collection of gardens on the Rutgers Cook Campus includes a water terrace, Bamboo forest, and the largest collection of American Hollies in the world.
8. Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit
Reeves-Reed Arboretum, 165 Hobart Ave, Summit, NJ 07901, USA
This 13.5-acre arboretum is home to several gardens filled with colorful blooms. It is open to the public daily, free of charge, which means it's not just one of the most beautiful gardens in New Jersey, but it's one of the most affordable, too.
9. Willowwood Arboretum, Chester
Willowwood Arboretum, 300 Longview Rd, Chester Township, NJ 07931, USA
Willowwood was the very first park in the Morris County Parks System, and it is very well maintained. Visitors can explore a variety of native and exotic plants, many of which are rare. For more information, check out the Willowwood Arboretum website.
These small gardens replicate estate landscaping in the early 20th century. Neatly manicured, the Smithville Mansion Courtyard Gardens serve as an elaborate entryway for the equally as stunning Smithville Mansion.
11. Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Gardens, North Wildwood
These Victorian-style gardens offer 200 plant varieties and incredible opportunities for bird and butterfly watchers. The gardens have won numerous awards including the Suburban Greening Award and Cape May County Beautification Award. Learn more about the garden, including its many accolades, by visiting the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Gardens website.
This whimsical property is home to both sculpture and plant gardens. It also hosts several dining options and makes for a perfect picnic spot. Learn more about the garden and its many amazing amenities by taking a peek at our full article on Grounds For Sculpture.
When perusing this list of gardens in New Jersey, one fact becomes undeniably clear: It is too difficult to choose just one! Though we must say, each of the New Jersey gardens featured above is a must-see. We’re personally drawn to the vibrant colors of the Rutgers and Skylands Gardens and adore the atmosphere at Grounds For Sculpture. However, more subdued hues may be for you – each of these spots offers an incredible outdoor experience. Of course, we can’t forget about all the other amazing gardens throughout the state, share your favorite Japanese garden in New Jersey with us! We would love to check them all out!
Exploring gardens in New Jersey is just one way to soak in the state’s beauty. There are lots of great destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of our favorite places to enjoy the outdoors are in New Jersey state parks – each offers a wealth of recreational opportunities that are sure to please outdoor lovers of all kinds. Pick up some maps from AllTrails+ and find a few new hiking trails in New Jersey.
