The Presby Iris Gardens are an iconic garden that welcomes visitors and offers them a breathtaking view of hundreds of thousands of stunning Irises. It’s one of Montclair, New Jersey’s top attractions during Springtime.
The Presby Memorial Iris Gardens are owned and operated by a non-profit Citizens Committee comprised of local residents and businesses. While there are no admission fees, donations help cover operational expenses while aiding in maintenance efforts.
At Presby Iris Gardens, you’ll find over 14,000 varieties of iris. The main bloom period runs from mid-May to June and it’s known as “rainbow on the hill”, providing visitors with an unforgettable sight.
Visitors to the gardens are not only treated to breathtaking Irises, but they can enjoy a range of activities as well. They can picnic, take pictures, paint or simply sit back and take in nature at its most beautiful.
This garden should not be missed! It truly is one of the world’s greatest treasures! They have a lovely gift shop where visitors can purchase unique iris-themed items and artwork. Open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am-3pm during peak bloom season.
Irises are planted in an artful pattern that invites visitors to stroll along the beds and get a unique perspective of the flowers. There are multiple bridges and sprinklers installed for moisture maintenance – making for an enchanting experience!
Many of the gardens staff hold degrees in botany, and they dedicate themselves to maintaining and improving the grounds. If you ever have any queries or problems, they are more than happy to help out!
At the gardens, they host educational events to teach about iris care and hybridization. Plus, their “Bloom Room” gift store features dishtowels, windbells, gardening tools, napkins, note cards – you name it!
This garden is a treasure that attracts visitors from far and wide. It’s stunningly beautiful, well maintained, making it the ideal place to visit during the summer when its stunning irises are in full bloom!
In 1927, The Gardens were established as a tribute to Frank Presby, an eminent Montclair citizen who had created an iris hybridizer and collected beautiful irises to be given as a gift to his hometown. Tragically, Frank passed away in 1924 and the Gardens were established to remember his love for irises and to honor his memory.
