It’s all about flow at historic Greenwood Gardens in Short Hills, New Jersey: specifically, the stream of tumbling water splashing and sparkling down seven tiers of the garden’s newly restored Cascade fountain. Regarded as a rare and exceptional example of an Italianate Baroque-style fountain within the United States, it was inspired by a 1620s fountain created by renowned Baroque architect Carlo Maderno, who designed the water feature to adorn a villa in Frascati, Italy.

The Cascade at Greenwood Gardens was crafted by William Whetten Renwick (1864–1933), nephew of the celebrated Gothic Revival architect James Renwick, Jr., the individual responsible for the design of multiple distinguished New York City landmarks including St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Smithsonian Institution and Grace Church.

Cascade circa 1918 © Greenwood Gardens

The Cascade was treasured by Joseph P. Day, the original owner of the property, and also by later owners, the Blanchard family. In 2003, the family set about creating a public garden to be enjoyed by all. Restoration of the Cascade was undertaken by a skilled design team led by Allan Summers, principal, Robinson Anderson Summers Landscape Architects and general contractor Hobbs Incorporated. The $2.7 million project was funded by private donors.

“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 stroll through the terraced gardens and enjoy a multitude of spring blooms, statues, grottos, pathways and woodlands. Meander across the green lawns and make your way to a hillside area below the East Terrace to marvel at the Cascade and enjoy views of 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, Greenwood Gardens. Visitors can also appreciate the new plantings; twin horseshoe staircases; and Arts and Craft-era Rookwood ceramics crafted in shell, leaf and masque designs that decorate and enhance the restored structure.

Throughout the season, visitors can also enjoy musical performances, workshops, lectures and guided tours. During 2026, numerous events include Birder’s Walks, Spring Tea Tastings, Book Groups, En Plein Painting, Meditation Walks and the Holistic Garden Experience. In November, Peter P. Blanchard III Lecture Series will include Gardens of the Gilded Age: Lavish Landscapes from America’s Golden Era. Visit the website for details on weekly events.

Greenwood Gardens is located at 274 Old Short Hills Road in Short Hills, New Jersey. Hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last entry at 3 in the afternoon. Advance registration online is strongly recommended, as entry without advance ticket purchase cannot be guaranteed.