Who Needs Europe? This Lovely Garden in New Jersey Brings Old-World Beauty Stateside

When it comes to the perfect summer escape, Europe often comes to mind—famous for its iconic gardens, winding paths, and old-world charm. But what if you didn’t have to cross the ocean to find that same beauty? The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands in Ringwood brings all that elegance close to home, with gardens that echo the grandeur of places like Versailles, Kew Gardens, or Villa d’Este.

Nestled inside Ringwood State Park, this 96-acre garden surrounds Skylands Manor, a Tudor-style mansion designed by American architect John Russell Pope and built in the 1920s. It feels like something straight out of a period drama and makes the perfect backdrop for gardens as lovely as any you’d find abroad.

What I love most about the New Jersey Botanical Garden is how it blends formal European-style gardens with natural American landscapes. You’ll find whimsical statues tucked among vibrant flower beds, woodland trails, and water lilies in the reflecting pool—where, if you’re lucky, you might spot dragonflies hovering just above the water. The Annual Garden features seasonal plantings that bring fresh color all year long. And when the Peony Garden blooms, it’s a real showstopper, with layers of pink, red, and white from hundreds of flowering trees and shrubs.

The Azalea Garden is another highlight, bursting with color as the seasons change. Take a stroll along stone paths lined with hydrangeas, or stop by the Lilac Garden in spring when the air is filled with their sweet fragrance. Don’t miss the Octagonal Garden, either. It’s small but packed with plants arranged in patterns that catch your eye from every angle.

There’s plenty more to explore beyond the gardens. On select Sundays, guided tours of Skylands Manor let you step inside its stately rooms and admire the detailed woodwork. Several trails also lead from the gardens into Ringwood State Park and the Ramapo Mountains, so you can easily extend your visit.

The Botanical Garden hosts events throughout the year, from outdoor concerts on the manor’s lawn to seasonal plant sales where you can bring home a piece of the garden. It’s stunning any time of year—spring brings fresh blooms, summer offers lush greenery, fall lights up with brilliant orange and red leaves, and winter covers the grounds in snow.

Planning your visit? Here’s what you need to know before you go:

• About an hour from northern and central New Jersey, and just over an hour from New York City
• Easily accessible via major highways, making it a perfect day trip
• Open daily with free admission year-round
• A small parking fee applies during busy summer weekends and holidays (Memorial Day through Labor Day)
• Guided tours of Skylands Manor are available for a modest fee—a perfect way to complete your visit
• Located at 5 Morris Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456
• For the latest on events, tours, and seasonal highlights, visit the New Jersey Botanical Garden website

You don’t need a passport for this kind of getaway. Whether it’s a romantic daytime date, a family outing, or some quiet time outdoors, the New Jersey Botanical Garden has you covered. Pack a picnic, grab your walking shoes, and go soak up all that timeless beauty—no transatlantic flight required.

If you are looking for even more travel inspiration, check out some of our favorite hidden gems in New Jersey, and take a look at our list featuring several of our favorite things to do in summer in our beautiful state.