New Jersey is widely known for being the Garden State for many reasons, and this stunning public property in Montclair exemplifies that. Home to blooming flowers and lush foliage, taking a stroll through these gardens will surely bring delight to any visitor while offering plenty of photo opps as well. Open from dawn to dusk every day of the year free of charge!
The Arboretum was initially established by three generations of the Van Vleck family as a private estate in 1916. The house reflects classic Mediterranean villa architecture while over time they developed its grounds, featuring beautiful collections of rhododendrons and azaleas.
Today, the garden is owned and managed by The Montclair Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to community, education and horticultural excellence. With an enviable tradition that continues through staff members at Van Vleck House & Gardens as well as members of its volunteer pool as well as from within its local community.
The gardens boast an impressive collection of plants, such as one of the oldest and largest Chinese wisteria in America planted in 1939 to shade upper bedrooms of a house – it has since outlived expectations and stands as an impressive focal point of the gardens. Furthermore, other exotic trees and shrubs as well as native New Jersey woodland species abound here as well.
Apart from gardens, this property also includes an historic greenhouse and various farm buildings. Operated by a volunteer group, these facilities serve multiple activities ranging from classes to summer concerts in their historic barn. Furthermore, weddings and special events frequently take place here too!
Howard Van Vleck Arboretum in Montclair, New Jersey should be on everyone’s must-see list when visiting. Perfect for gardening enthusiasts and city dwellers alike, it offers visitors a tranquil oasis from which they can escape. Open from dawn until dusk every day of the year for free entrance!
Linda Sionas is a professional landscape designer and horticulturist residing in Citrus Heights, CA with her husband and two children. She has over two decades of experience working as a landscaper, belonging to various industry associations as well as contributing to multiple online and print publications regarding landscaping, water conservation and green building practices.
For more information about Montclair Gardens, please visit their website at montclairgardens.org.
Are you interested in volunteering or hosting an event at our garden? Email us!
We extend our heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the generous contributions from our sponsors and supporters who allow us to continue fulfilling our mission of promoting horticultural excellence and community engagement through the preservation, management and improvement of public gardens.
