It’s all about flow at historic Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills, New Jersey—especially the tumbling water that cascades down seven restored tiers of the garden’s Cascade fountain. Considered a rare and notable example of an Italianate Baroque-style fountain in the United States, the design draws inspiration from a 1620s water feature by Baroque architect Carlo Maderno, originally created for a villa in Frascati, Italy.
The Cascade at Greenwood Gardens was designed by William Whetten Renwick (1864–1933), nephew of the prominent Gothic Revival architect James Renwick, Jr., who shaped several New York City landmarks including St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Grace Church.
Cascade circa 1918 © Greenwood Gardens
Originally prized by Joseph P. Day, the property’s first owner, and later cared for by the Blanchard family, the estate was transformed into a public garden in 2003. The Cascade’s recent restoration was led by Allan Summers of Robinson Anderson Summers Landscape Architects with Hobbs Incorporated as general contractor. Completed at a cost of $2.7 million, the project was made possible by private philanthropy.
“This project was three years in the making and represents the completion of the last of the site’s major water features,” said Louise Moos, chair of the Board of Trustees. “We are grateful to the members of our extended community for their generous support.”
Beginning May 1, visitors can walk the terraced gardens to enjoy spring blooms, sculptures, grottos, winding paths and woodland areas. From the green lawns, follow the paths to the hillside below the East Terrace to see the Cascade and take in views across 1,200 acres of South Mountain Reservation.
Restored cascade rendering © Greenwood Gardens
“We believe our visitors will derive peace and relaxation from this stately structure,” said Abby O’Neill, executive director of Greenwood Gardens. The restoration also features new plantings, twin horseshoe staircases and Arts and Crafts–era Rookwood ceramics in shell, leaf and masque motifs that enhance the fountain’s architectural details.
Throughout the season, the gardens host musical performances, workshops, lectures and guided tours. The 2026 lineup includes Birder’s Walks, Spring Tea Tastings, Book Groups, En Plein Painting sessions, Meditation Walks and a Holistic Garden Experience. In November, the Peter P. Blanchard III Lecture Series will present Gardens of the Gilded Age: Lavish Landscapes from America’s Golden Era. Check Greenwood Gardens’ event calendar for weekly program details.
Greenwood Gardens is located at 274 Old Short Hills Road in Short Hills, New Jersey. The grounds are open Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 3 p.m. Advance online registration is strongly recommended, as entry without a pre-purchased ticket cannot be guaranteed.