Red Tailed Hawk
ParkIowa, US
Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens
The Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is a 40-acre oasis connecting visitors with nature in Waterloo, Iowa.
About
The Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is a 40-acre oasis connecting visitors with nature in Waterloo, Iowa. This expansive green space offers a captivating journey through diverse plant collections, serene themed gardens, and tranquil walking paths, all designed to inspire and educate. More than just a beautiful park, it serves as a living plant museum, dedicated to enriching lives through horticulture, environmental stewardship, and a vibrant showcase of Iowa's rich agricultural heritage.
The gardens boast a variety of captivating features, including an award-winning Children's Garden complete with a whimsical Hobbit House and a koi-filled fish pond, making it a delight for younger explorers. Discover the vibrant hues of the four-acre Butterfly Meadow, stroll through the fragrant Rose Garden, and marvel at unique Mosaicultures, plant sculptures believed to be the first of their kind in Iowa, such as the impressive peacock display. Plant enthusiasts will appreciate the extensive Stout Daylily Collection with over 70 varieties, the tranquil Shade Garden featuring a diverse Hosta collection, and the Master Gardener's Orchard, bursting with blossoms in spring.
Visiting the Cedar Valley Arboretum & Botanic Gardens offers a memorable escape, providing a peaceful retreat and a rich educational experience. Whether you're seeking a quiet stroll, a family adventure, or horticultural inspiration, the ever-changing seasonal displays, engaging exhibits, and welcoming atmosphere make it a perfect destination to reconnect with the natural world. It’s a place where every visit reveals new discoveries, fostering an appreciation for the beauty and diversity of plants. Eager to name that creature? Identify any animal you find during your visit using the Snappit app.
The Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens was founded in 1996 by a dedicated group of community members who envisioned a significant green space for the Waterloo-Cedar Falls metropolitan area. The initiative for its creation was sparked after some founding members were inspired by a visit to the Dubuque Botanical Gardens, prompting the question of why a similar institution didn't exist in the Cedar Valley. Work on the Arboretum's first master plan commenced the same year, supported by local hotel/motel tax funds, private donors, and various fundraising efforts. The project gained momentum with the selection of Buettner and Associates, Inc., in collaboration with local architect Craig Ritland, to complete the original master plan. The very first trees, forming the "Sesquicentennial Forest," were planted on Arbor Day in the spring of 1996, commemorating Iowa's 150th anniversary. Built largely by volunteers and community support, the Arboretum opened its Welcome/Visitor Center (initially called the Head House) in 1997. A notable milestone in its development was the introduction of the first mosaiculture in Iowa in 2014, showcasing living plant sculptures like the peacock.
What to do here
Wander through diverse gardens, participate in educational programs, enjoy a gnome scavenger hunt, and attend seasonal events. Guided walking tours are offered on Friday mornings from May through September.
Seasonal info
Spring: Witness the bursting colors of daffodils, tulips, and fruit tree blossoms.
Summer: Enjoy peak blooms of roses, daylilies, and perennials, along with increased butterfly activity. Storytime in the Children's Garden is offered weekly.
Fall: Experience the vibrant autumn foliage and attend the annual Fall Harvest Festival.
Winter: The grounds are closed for general visitation from December to March, but the "Illuminate the Gardens" event offers a festive lighted display from late November through December.
Accessibility
The Arboretum adheres to ADA guidelines. While some walking paths are paved, others are unpaved gravel. Scooters for advanced users are available, and the venue is generally considered stroller-friendly. Pets on leashes are welcome, and owners are expected to clean up after them.
Don't miss
1
Children's Garden
Features a Hobbit House, a koi fish pond, and interactive learning opportunities for young visitors.
2
Butterfly Meadow
A four-acre habitat designed to attract and support butterflies.
3
Rose Garden
Home to hardy shrub roses, including the Buck Rose Garden.
4
Mosaicultures
Living plant sculptures, including an iconic peacock.
Wildlife you might spot
12Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.
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Good to know before you go
Check the website for events
Before your visit, review the Arboretum's official website for current hours, admission details, and a calendar of events, classes, and seasonal programs.
Dress for comfort
Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water, especially on warmer days, as you'll be exploring 40 acres of grounds.
Plan for seasonality
The gardens change dramatically with the seasons; consider visiting in spring for blossoms, summer for vibrant blooms, and fall for autumn colors and harvest festivities.
Explore the Children's Garden
If visiting with kids, dedicate ample time to the award-winning Children's Garden, home to a Hobbit House and koi pond, and look for gnomes throughout the grounds.
Follow garden etiquette
Help preserve the beauty of the gardens by staying on designated paths, refraining from picking flowers or climbing trees, and respecting the mosaicultures by not touching them.
Utilize free parking
Ample free parking is available on-site in the Welcome Center parking lot.
Frequently asked questions
- Admission for non-member adults (18+) is $10, youth (5-17) is $5, and ages 4 and under are free. Members, Hawkeye Community College students/staff (with ID), and AHS Reciprocal Members receive free admission. The Arboretum also participates in the Museums for All program, offering $2 admission with a SNAP, EBT, or WIC card and a valid photo ID.
- Yes, the Arboretum is a pet-friendly destination. All pets must be kept on a leash, and owners are responsible for cleaning up after their animals. Pets must be well-behaved and not disturb other visitors or wildlife. Service animals are also welcome.
- The Arboretum hosts a variety of seasonal events and educational programs throughout the year. Highlights include weekly Storytime in the Children's Garden during summer, the annual Fall Harvest Festival, and the "Illuminate the Gardens" lighted display during the winter holidays. They also offer classes, workshops, and guided walking tours.
Recent snaps at this place
Apr 18, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) evangrimes, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
Apr 18, 2026
i
Photo attribution
(c) evangrimes, some rights reserved (CC BY)
License: CC BY 4.0 ↗
Image may be shown cropped inside the card frame.
May 31, 2026
May 10, 2026
May 10, 2026
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