Monarch Butterfly
ParkIowa, US
Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens
Discover a tranquil oasis in Iowa at Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
About
Discover a tranquil oasis in Iowa at Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. This stunning 56-acre community haven, home to over 60 unique gardens and 13,000 individual plants from 700 varieties, stands as one of the largest volunteer-operated botanical gardens in the United States. Admission is always free, welcoming visitors to immerse themselves in natural beauty and horticultural diversity year-round.
Wander through a rich tapestry of themed landscapes, from the serene Japanese Garden with its picturesque Koi pond, to the fragrant Formal Rose Garden showcasing 450 plants across 80 varieties. Explore the extensive Hosta Shade Garden, boasting over 1,200 varieties, and the vibrant Perennial Gardens featuring peonies, irises, and coneflowers. The Garden of Eat'n offers edible delights, while the Sensory Garden engages all five senses with touch, sight, sound, and scent.
Whether you seek a peaceful stroll, gardening inspiration, or a family-friendly outing, the Dubuque Arboretum delivers. Its meticulously maintained grounds offer diverse plant displays that transform with the seasons, making each visit a unique experience. With scenic trails, engaging exhibits, and special events like "Music in the Gardens," it's a memorable destination for nature lovers of all ages. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.
The Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens was officially established in 1980, though its roots stretch back a few years earlier. In 1975, Jackson "Mac" Marshall generously donated 51 acres of land to the City of Dubuque, stipulating it be used as a park. The following year, Jim Schwarz formed the Tri-State Garden Club with the vision of creating a botanical garden, a goal that aligned with Frank Hardie's interest in establishing an arboretum. This shared passion ignited a volunteer movement. Seven members of the Tri-State Garden Club leased 16 acres of Marshall Park and, entirely through volunteer efforts, began transforming the land by planting trees, bushes, and plants, and erecting initial structures. Early development included the creation of key features, and by 1982, the Jodi Bausman Memorial Garden was established. The dedication of countless volunteers has allowed the arboretum to flourish, with the original barn eventually becoming the Heinemann Visitor Center.
What to do here
Stroll through the numerous themed gardens, walk the scenic trails (including the Legacy Tree Trail and Conifer Trail), have a picnic, and attend summer "Music in the Gardens" concerts. Don't forget to visit the gift shop.
Seasonal info
Spring: Witness a burst of color with tulips, daffodils, lilacs, and early perennials. Late May is ideal for viewing the peony collection.
Summer: Enjoy vibrant roses, daylilies, and hostas in full bloom, and take advantage of outdoor concerts.
Fall: Experience the changing foliage with chrysanthemums, asters, and rich autumn colors.
Winter: While many plants are dormant, evergreen trees and shrubs provide interest. The grounds remain open, though the Visitor Center closes from early November to late April.
Accessibility
The gardens offer ADA-compliant trails, with new paved paths added in 2024 that create a complete loop through the grounds. A wheelchair is available for complimentary use at the Visitor Center, and volunteers may provide golf cart assistance upon request. Accessible restrooms with changing tables are also available.
Don't miss
1
Japanese Garden & Koi Pond
A serene retreat perfect for reflection, where visitors can feed the Koi fish.
2
Formal Rose Garden
A fragrant spectacle featuring hundreds of rose varieties.
3
Hosta Shade Garden
One of the nation's largest collections, boasting over 1,200 varieties.
4
Perennial Gardens & Peony Collection
Showcasing a vast array of perennial flowers, with the peony collection being particularly recognized by the American Peony Society.
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
Bring $1 for fish food to enjoy feeding the Koi in the Japanese Garden pond.
Consider visiting during late May for the breathtaking display of spring blooms, including the renowned peonies.
Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully explore the 56 acres and various themed gardens.
Pack a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy amidst the beautiful scenery, as picnic areas are available.
Check the arboretum's schedule for "Music in the Gardens" concerts held on Sunday evenings during summer months.
Stop by the gift shop for garden-inspired merchandise and to purchase local honey.
Frequently asked questions
- Yes, admission to the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is always free for all visitors.
- For the safety and well-being of both visitors and plants, pets are generally not allowed, consistent with Dubuque city park rules. Service animals are an exception.
- Most areas of the Dubuque Arboretum are wheelchair accessible, featuring ADA-compliant paved paths, including a new full-loop trail. A wheelchair can be borrowed from the Visitor Center, and volunteer-driven golf cart assistance may be available.
Recent snaps at this place
May 17, 2026
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May 10, 2026
Nov 2, 2025
Oct 13, 2025
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