Things To Do
in Short Hills

Short Hills is an affluent community located in Essex County, New Jersey, known for its picturesque landscapes and luxurious homes. The area features a blend of suburban charm and urban convenience, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors. With its proximity to New York City, Short Hills offers easy access to cultural attractions while maintaining a tranquil atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy stunning parks, upscale shopping, and fine dining experiences throughout the town.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Short Hills
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at The Maplewood Diner, where you can enjoy classic American breakfast options. Afterward, take a stroll in the scenic Short Hills Park.

afternoon
:

Visit the Mall at Short Hills for some upscale shopping and explore the unique boutiques in the area. Grab lunch at The Cheesecake Factory located within the mall.

evening
:

Dine at the acclaimed restaurant, The Frog and The Peach, known for its innovative American cuisine. Wrap up the day with a relaxing walk around the local parks.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural and Recreational Activities
morning
:

Begin at the Short Hills Hilton for a hearty breakfast. Then head to the historic Short Hills Train Station for a brief photo opportunity.

afternoon
:

Enjoy some leisure time at the South Mountain Reservation, which offers a variety of walking trails and beautiful natural scenery. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park.

evening
:

Conclude your visit with dinner at the award-winning restaurant, Jockey Hollow Bar & Kitchen, featuring locally sourced ingredients and a vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Fast Food Meal$10
Coffee$4
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🍽️Mid-range Restaurant Meal$30
🛍️Shopping at the Mall$100+

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful suburban environment with parks and green spaces.
  • Proximity to New York City for easy access to cultural events.
  • High-quality dining and shopping options.
  • Less vibrant nightlife compared to urban areas.
  • Higher cost of living when compared to other regions.
  • Limited public transportation options.

Places to Visit in Short Hills

Visit one of these nice places.

Short Hills Park

This beautiful park offers lush greenery and serene surroundings, perfect for capturing nature photography.

The Mall at Short Hills

A modern shopping center with striking architecture and vibrant storefronts, ideal for urban photography.

South Mountain Reservation

A stunning natural area with scenic overlooks, great for landscape photography and capturing the beauty of the outdoors.

Culinary Guide

Food in Short Hills

Short Hills offers a delightful culinary scene that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. From upscale dining to casual eateries, food lovers will find plenty of options to satisfy their cravings.

Short Hills Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pork Roll Sandwich

A New Jersey classic, this sandwich features flavorful pork roll on a toasted bun, often served with egg and cheese.

Must-Try!

Italian Hoagie

A popular local sandwich filled with meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables, typically served on a sub roll.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Short Hills Farmers Market

Open seasonally, this market features local produce, artisanal goods, and homemade treats, providing a taste of the region.

Climate Guide

Weather

Short Hills experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot with average highs around 85°F (29°C) and occasional humidity. Winters are cold, with average lows around 25°F (-4°C) and occasional snowfall. Spring and fall bring mild temperatures, with spring blooms and autumn foliage enhancing the area's beauty.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Residents appreciate polite greetings and friendly conversations. A simple 'hello' or 'thank you' goes a long way.

Dress Code

While the area is generally casual, upscale restaurants may require smart casual attire. Always check dress codes before dining.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in both social and business settings, so plan accordingly to show respect for others' time.

Safety Guide

Safety

Short Hills is generally considered a safe community with a low crime rate. However, standard safety precautions should be observed, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings. Local law enforcement is responsive and regularly patrols the area.

Tipping in Short Hills

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the total bill. Tipping is also appreciated for taxi drivers and hotel staff.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are widely used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a beautiful time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Warm weather brings plenty of outdoor events and activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Fall

Enjoy stunning fall foliage, with cooler temperatures ideal for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.

Winter

Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall create a picturesque winter landscape, perfect for cozy indoor dining and holiday shopping.

Nightlife Guide

Short Hills at Night

Short Hills has a relatively subdued nightlife scene, with a focus on relaxed lounges and upscale bars rather than nightclubs. Nearby areas such as Millburn offer a few options for evening entertainment, including wine bars and cozy pubs. Dining out is a popular evening activity, often followed by a stroll in the parks or attending local events.

Hiking in Short Hills

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hemlock Falls Trail

A scenic trail offering a moderate hike with views of the Hemlock Falls, perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.

Watchung Reservation

This expansive reservation features numerous trails for hiking, running, and biking, with beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Short Hills by plane.

Newark Liberty International Airport

Located approximately 15 miles from Short Hills, Newark Liberty is a major international airport offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Short Hills is a suburban community, making it less walkable than urban areas. While some neighborhoods are pedestrian-friendly, many residents rely on cars for transportation. Sidewalks are available in most areas, but distances between amenities can be significant.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Affluent Families

Short Hills is home to many affluent families, attracted by the quality of schools and community amenities.

Young Professionals

With its proximity to New York City, Short Hills also attracts young professionals who commute to the city for work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

High school football is a popular sport in the area, with local teams having strong community support.

Golf

Golf is widely enjoyed, with several country clubs and golf courses available for residents and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Short Hills can vary, especially during peak commuting hours as residents travel to and from New York City. Public transportation options include NJ Transit trains and buses, providing access to nearby cities. Local roads are generally well-maintained, but congestion can occur near the mall and during school drop-off and pickup times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Short Hills.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Short Hills cater to vegetarians, offering creative dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying.

Gluten-Free Choices

Several eateries provide gluten-free options, ensuring that those with dietary restrictions can enjoy meals without worry.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Short Hills is robust, with several medical facilities and hospitals located nearby. Residents can find specialists and general practitioners within a short drive. Emergency services are also readily available, ensuring prompt medical attention when needed.

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