Millburn-Short Hills is home to numerous points of interest sure to entice everyone from nature enthusiasts to die-hard shoppers and dedicated patrons of the arts.
One of the most prominent places to enjoy the outdoors is in the South Mountain Reservation (the largest parkland in Essex County), which extends through Millburn Township, as well as many of the surrounding municipalities. The more than 2,000 acres of reservation include hiking trails, waterfalls, creeks and ponds, as well as magnificent vistas from 550 feet above Millburn.
Short Hills is also home to the 16.5-acre Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary, a nonprofit organization that serves as a cultural and educational center. The arboretum was established more than 50 years ago to promote an understanding of the relationship between people and the environment. There are more than three miles of trails open to the public. The Stone House has numerous animal exhibits for viewing, all part of the tract of woodlands donated to the township by Miss Cora Hartshorn in 1958.
Greenwood Gardens is a 28-acre public historic garden in Short Hills. Its terraced gardens, meadows, woodlands, grottoes and teahouses were designed in the early 20th century by William W. Renwick. A time capsule of New Jersey’s gracious past and a haven of tranquility in the busy New York metropolitan area, the site’s original sweeping vistas have been preserved and extended on all sides by designated parkland.
The Millburn Free Public Library houses an outstanding collection of more than 90,000 books, as well as substantial holdings of other circulating materials. Cardholders in good standing have access to more than 10 million books, CDs, DVDs and other materials, as part of a network of more than 150 libraries throughout the state. A library card also gives users access to free e-books, music streams and online databases listed on the library’s website.
The Millburn-Short Hills Historical Society oversees a museum that features exhibits, research materials and formal lectures. The Historical Society seeks to accumulate and preserve memorabilia, photographs, maps and postcards to encourage interest in local history.
A great sense of history and community spirit is evident in every aspect of the township, particularly with numerous annual town-wide events and activities. Hundreds of people celebrate Independence Day with festivities, fireworks and a fishing derby, organized by an independent, volunteer Fourth of July Committee. The Winter Walk, organized by the Millburn Short Hills Chamber of Commerce, is a celebration of the winter season. Taylor Park is decorated with beautiful winter lights and decor. This event is celebrated each year with a lighting kickoff ceremony that brings the whole town together with music and a “snowflake stroll” through the park. Throughout the year, there are celebrations in town such as street fairs, farmers market and an annual 5K Road Race.