Abandoned Summit Greenhouse

missingfilm (Atlas Obscura User)

Not much is known about this abandoned greenhouse that spans almost half a football field, hidden by the overgrowth in Summit, New Jersey.

The shattered remains of the giant structure can be found across a tiny brook by a local park. Shards of glass litter the ground. The greenhouse is embellished with incredible amounts of graffiti, abandoned furniture, irrigation systems, terracotta planters, and a mystical charm that denotes a sense of otherworldliness.

Old boards have been found inside with the name “Carl’s Greenhouse” written on them, but the history of the place remains a mystery. Some believe the structure dates back to the 1920s, based on the date found on a brick from the area. Judging from the artifacts and machinery inside the greenhouse, it appears to have been abandoned in the 1970s. It has been slowly being taken over by nature ever since.

Update September 2018: this Greenhouse was torn down due to disrepair.

Know Before You Go

Caution is advised when visiting. Many of the glass panes from the ceiling have fallen causing the shattered glass to be prevalent in all areas. Glass still continues to fall occasionally and can be extremely hazardous. In addition to the glass, there are several irrigation systems that run across the flooring and walls of the greenhouse. Sturdy closed-toed shoes and jeans are recommended. There is a small building outside the back entrance of the greenhouse and it is advised that visitors do not enter. The top wooden floors are severely rotted, and the basement is flooded.