Tucked away in Almonesson, New Jersey, lies a charmingly eccentric spot that has been drawing curious glances and double-takes from drivers for nearly 80 years. This isn’t your typical roadside stop like a giant ball of twine or some quirky UFO-shaped diner—no, this is a “Backyard Fairy Garden.” And while it might be slowly crumbling with time, its whimsical vibe and peculiar history make it a must-see for any roadside adventurer.
So, what exactly is this enchanted little garden all about? It all started back in the 1940s when Joseph Laux, a local carpenter, decided to transform his backyard into a mini fantasy land. Laux claimed his inspiration came straight from Walt Disney cartoons. You can totally imagine him watching Snow White or Fantasia, thinking, “Yeah, I can recreate this magic with a bunch of rocks, shells, and random junk!” And he did, crafting a quirky little wonderland between 1945 and 1954.
The garden quickly became a local sensation, and Laux even gave tours of his creation until 1987. Visitors would flock to his house to marvel at the tiny fairy-like structures, whimsical art pieces, and delicate sculptures that popped up amidst the greenery. Over the years, it became one of those “blink and you’ll miss it” hidden gems that only the locals really knew about.
Located at 1493 Hurffville Road, just past an Italian restaurant and not far from the Deptford Plaza shopping mall, this fairy garden is on private property, but you can spot it from the road. Though time hasn’t been kind to the garden, with weeds creeping in and some of the art pieces falling apart, it still exudes an undeniable old-school charm.
Laux passed away in 1991, and since then, the garden hasn’t seen the same level of care it once did. But that only adds to its allure—there’s something both magical and melancholic about seeing this hand-made fairyland slowly surrendering to the elements. It’s like a Disney movie in slow motion, where nature is taking back the kingdom.
So, if you’re ever cruising through Almonesson, take the exit off Highway 42, slow down, and let yourself be transported for a moment. Just don’t forget to look carefully—you might miss this hidden treasure as you pass by!