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Short Hills

Short Hills, New Jersey, United States

Short Hills is a charming and upscale community located in New Jersey, United States, known for its picturesque beauty, affluent neighborhoods, and a serene atmosphere. This quaint town is a perfect destination for touri…

#Affluent#Suburban#High-end shopping#Top-rated schools#Luxury homes

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Short Hills.

Top Hotels in Short Hills

Top Flights to Short Hills

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Short Hills.

Tours

Greenwood Gardens Visit

Relax and unwind while exploring historic formal gardens featuring Italianate gardens, meadows, woods, and charming ponds.

Reeves-Reed Arboretum

Visit a historic estate featuring seasonal gardens, woodland trails, and a range of educational programs.

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary

Explore woodland trails and discover a variety of bird species in this sanctuary and nature center.

Turtle Back Zoo Adventure

Enjoy an array of animals and interactive exhibits with the family at Turtle Back Zoo.

Shopping

Explore Short Hills Mall

Visit one of the largest malls in New Jersey featuring a range of luxury brands and eateries.

Outdoor

South Mountain Reservation Hike

Enjoy a refreshing hike in the sprawling reserve filled with trails, waterfalls, and beautiful viewpoints.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Short Hills.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

13.5 thousand

Languages

English, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi

Average weather

Short Hills

Jan

3°-6°

Feb

5°-5°

Mar

10°-1°

Apr

16°4°

May

22°10°

Jun

27°15°

Jul

30°19°

Aug

29°18°

Sep

25°14°

Oct

18°8°

Nov

12°3°

Dec

6°-3°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Short Hills.

What people love

Short Hills, New Jersey is a charming and affluent suburb located about 25 miles west of New York City. Traveling to Short Hills offers several pros, including:

Shopping: Short Hills is home to The Mall at Short Hills, an upscale shopping destination featuring a wide range of high-end stores and boutiques. Fashion enthusiasts and shoppers will enjoy exploring the luxury brands and designer stores available at the mall.
Dining: Short Hills boasts a variety of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual cafes and eateries. Visitors can indulge in delicious cuisine ranging from international flavors to classic American dishes.
Outdoor Recreation: The area surrounding Short Hills offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and exploring nature. Nearby parks and green spaces provide a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Cultural Attractions: Short Hills is located near cultural attractions such as museums, art galleries, and historic sites. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts and culture scene by exploring these venues.
Proximity to New York City: Short Hills is conveniently located near New York City, making it easy for visitors to access the bustling metropolis for additional entertainment, shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Overall, traveling to Short Hills offers a mix of luxury shopping, dining experiences, outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and easy access to nearby cities, making it a desirable destination for visitors looking for a blend of relaxation and entertainment.

What to know

Short Hills, New Jersey is a beautiful and affluent area with many advantages for tourists. However, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider when traveling to Short Hills:

Cost of Living: Short Hills is known for being an upscale and affluent community, which means that the cost of living, including accommodation, dining, and shopping, can be quite high compared to other areas. This could make it a more expensive destination for travelers on a budget.
Limited Public Transportation: Short Hills is primarily a residential area with limited public transportation options. While there are some bus routes and train stations nearby, having a car or relying on rideshare services may be necessary for getting around and exploring the surrounding areas.
Limited Nightlife and Entertainment Options: Short Hills is more known for its upscale shopping and dining scene rather than a vibrant nightlife or entertainment options. If you are looking for a destination with a bustling nightlife or a wide range of entertainment choices, Short Hills may not be the best fit.
Lack of Cultural Attractions: While Short Hills is a charming and picturesque town, it may not offer as many cultural attractions or historical sites compared to other destinations. If you are seeking a destination rich in history, museums, and cultural experiences, you may find Short Hills lacking in this aspect.

Overall, while Short Hills offers a luxurious and peaceful retreat for travelers looking to relax and enjoy shopping and dining, it may not be the ideal destination for those seeking a more diverse range of activities or budget-friendly options.

Short Hills, New Jersey, is an unincorporated community within Millburn Township in Essex County. Known for its affluent residential areas and historical significance, Short Hills has a rich history that dates back to its founding in the 19th century.

Founding and Early History

Short Hills was founded as a planned community by Stewart Hartshorn in the 1870s. Hartshorn was an inventor and businessman who wanted to create a harmonious residential area that blended with the natural environment. He purchased approximately 1,552 acres in the area and began developing it with a vision of creating a commuter suburb that offered both tranquility and accessibility to New York City via the newly expanded rail lines.

Significant Historical Figures

Stewart Hartshorn: As the founder of Short Hills, Hartshorn played a crucial role in shaping the community. He meticulously planned the layout of the roads and lots to preserve the natural landscape and built homes that complemented the environment. His efforts created a unique suburb that attracted wealthy families.

Development and Growth

The establishment of the Short Hills Train Station in 1879 was pivotal in the community's growth, making commuting to New York City convenient and attracting affluent residents. This accessibility led to the development of large estates and luxurious homes, many of which still stand today.

Important Landmarks

Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary: This 16.5-acre preserve was established in 1923 by Stewart Hartshorn’s daughter, Cora Hartshorn. It serves as a nature preserve and educational facility, offering trails and programs for the community.
Paper Mill Playhouse: Located nearby in Millburn, this regional theater has historical significance as one of the nation’s first theaters to produce plays outside of a major city. It opened in 1938 in a building that was originally a paper mill built in the late 18th century.
Mall at Short Hills: Known as The Shops at Short Hills, this upscale shopping center opened in 1961 and is recognized as a major shopping destination in the region, featuring high-end retailers and attracting visitors from surrounding areas.

Modern Short Hills

Today, Short Hills is known for its high property values, excellent schools, and community amenities. It has maintained much of its original character, with tree-lined streets and a suburban feel, while continuing to be a desirable place to live for those working in New York City due to its proximity and commuter options.

In summary, Short Hills has a storied past, beginning as a visionary project by Stewart Hartshorn and evolving into one of New Jersey’s most prestigious communities. Its historical landmarks and ongoing commitment to preserving its natural beauty continue to make it a unique and attractive place to reside.